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Visit the exhibitions on the history of printing, explore the different printing techniques and machines, and learn about the development of Chinese calligraphy. Don’t miss the interactive displays and activities for visitors to try traditional printing methods.
The China Printing Museum, established in 1996, is located at 25 Xinghua North Road, Daxing District. It's easily accessible from the exit of Qingyuan Road on Metro Line 4. The museum is divided into the "Ancient Period" section, the "Modern and Contemporary Period" section, the "Printing Equipment" section, and the "General Period" section. It also features special exhibitions on "Printing in Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan," "Coin Printing," "Stamp Printing," "Early European Printing," and "Printing Masterpieces." It is currently the world's largest museum dedicated to printing. The museum also features an interactive experience area where visitors can experience the ancient papermaking techniques and the woodblock printing process.
Temperate continental monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons
It is recommended to visit for about 1 hour
free
09:00-17:00; Closed on Mondays
The China Printing Museum, established in 2006, is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the evolution of printing in China. It highlights traditional methods like woodblock printing and the printing revolution through the ages. The museum is one of the most significant institutions of its kind in China.
The museum is located in the Xicheng District of Beijing. You can reach it by taking Metro Line 4 and getting off at the "Xisi" station. From there, it's a short walk. Alternatively, taxis and buses are readily available to the museum's entrance.
The China Printing Museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It is generally less crowded during weekdays, especially in the morning, so that’s the best time to visit for a more peaceful experience.
Admission is free, making it a great option for budget travelers. You can simply walk in without needing to purchase tickets in advance, although group visits may require prior arrangement.
No advance booking is required for general visitors, as entry is free. However, for larger groups or special events, it is recommended to contact the museum ahead of time.
Typically, you will need 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the exhibits, depending on how much time you spend at each display. You can spend additional time if you want to try out interactive activities.
Key highlights include the historical printing presses, the evolution of paper-making, and the various calligraphy exhibits. The museum’s interactive zone where you can try traditional printing is also a must-visit.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, but the museum does not typically offer audio guides. Visitors who prefer self-guided tours can make use of the informative signage in both Chinese and English.
Photography is allowed inside the museum. The best spots include the large historical printing press displays and the interactive zones, where visitors can try out printing techniques and capture their own printed materials.
Start with the historical printing presses, move to the evolution of Chinese printmaking, and finish with the interactive printing activities. Don’t forget to stop by the section that explains the art of Chinese calligraphy and ink-making.
The museum does not offer night visits or light shows. It operates as a daytime museum, offering educational exhibits and hands-on experiences during regular hours.
The museum is generally not very crowded, but it can get busier on weekends. The best time to visit is on weekdays, particularly in the morning, when it is quieter.
The museum has clean toilet facilities and a small rest area. There are no food stalls inside, but there are cafes and restaurants nearby where you can grab a bite before or after your visit.
Yes, the museum is accessible for elderly visitors, children, and those with disabilities. There are ramps and elevators available for easy access to all areas of the museum.
As the museum offers free entry, no cash is needed for admission. If you decide to buy souvenirs or books from the museum shop, mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are accepted, along with cards.
While there is no cafe inside the museum, several restaurants and cafes are located within walking distance. Popular options include local Chinese eateries and cafes offering light meals and snacks.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in the nearby restaurants. Some places also offer halal food options, especially in the multicultural areas of Beijing.
There are several hotels near the museum, including budget options like Ibis Beijing and mid-range choices such as Park Plaza Beijing. Luxury hotels are also available a short distance away.
Nearby attractions include the Forbidden City, Jingshan Park, and Tiananmen Square, all of which are within a short taxi ride from the China Printing Museum.
The museum has a small souvenir shop offering books, prints, and paper-based crafts. These make for great souvenirs, especially for those interested in Chinese culture and printing history.
After your visit, you can take the Beijing Subway Line 4 from the nearby "Xisi" station or opt for a taxi to reach other tourist spots like Wangfujing Street or the Summer Palace.
