Ceramics and Glass Museum

What are the most recommended things to do in Ceramics and Glass Museum?

Explore the vast collection of ceramics and colored-glass works spanning 10,000 years, participate in hands-on ceramic/glass craft workshops in the experience zone, admire modern glass-art installations and detailed ancient pottery, and browse the cultural-creative product shop for unique souvenirs.


Introducing Ceramics and Glass Museum

The Zibo Ceramics and Colored Glaze Museum, located at 320 Huaguang Road, Zhangdian District, Zibo City, Shandong Province, is a national first-class museum, a national 4A-level tourist attraction, and a national science education base. With a floor area of ​​50,000 square meters and an exhibition area of ​​20,000 square meters, the museum features 25 exhibition halls covering two major themes: ceramics and colored glaze. The museum comprehensively showcases the development of ceramics and colored glaze from the Neolithic Houli Culture to the present day. The museum houses over 16,000 treasures, including a Northern Dynasty "Green Glaze Lotus Zun" (a Chinese figurine), a treasure of unparalleled historical value and artistic achievement.

The museum building integrates modern technology and traditional culture. The "Vision Walk Immersive VR Theater" newly added in 2025 uses AI+3D technology to create an immersive experience, becoming the first AI+3D immersive museum theater in Shandong Province and winning the "Most Beautiful Public Cultural Space Award."

Climate and best time to travel

Spring and Autumn (April-May, September-November): The climate is mild, suitable for combining outdoor and indoor activities, especially in mid-to-late April when you can participate in the Weifang International Kite Festival.

Winter (December-February): Fewer visitors, allowing you to enjoy the immersive experience of the exhibition hall and VR theater.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Exploring the core exhibition area

Ancient Porcelain Hall and Colored Glaze Hall:

The Ancient Porcelain Hall displays ceramic artifacts from various dynasties, from Han Dynasty green-glazed pottery to Ming and Qing Dynasty blue-and-white porcelain, showcasing the evolution of Chinese ceramic craftsmanship.
The Glass Hall showcases glassware from the Western Zhou Dynasty to the Republic of China, including imperial glassware and folk crafts.
The museum's treasure, the "Green Glaze Lotus Zun," is a treasure from the Northern Dynasties period and the only one in the country with a confirmed kiln. Its verdant glaze and majestic form are evident.

Technological interaction and VR immersive experience

Vision Walk Immersive VR Theater:

"Journey to the Moon": A 25-minute "moon landing" experience, passing through the lunar cave base and feeling the shock of a solar storm.
"Dreaming of Glass: Nuwa Repairing the Sky" (to be released): A customized play, based on the culture of glass, and protecting the glass world with Nuwa.
Other plays: including "Journey to the Center of the Earth", "Alice in Wonderland" and "One Thousand and One Nights", covering themes of science and technology, fantasy and fairy tales

Tickets

Free and open

Attraction opening hours

April 15th - October 15th: 09:00-18:00 (last admission at 16:30);
October 16th - April 14th of the following year: 09:00-17:00;
closed on Mondays (except statutory holidays).


Most Popular FAQs for Ceramics and Glass Museum

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

This museum in Zibo, Shandong Province, showcases China’s ceramic and glass heritage—Zibo being a major center for glazes and ceramic production. It’s regarded as the largest and most complete modern ceramics & colored-glaze museum in China.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Address: No. 320 Huaguang Road, Zhangdian District, Zibo City, Shandong Province. From Zibo Railway Station you can take a taxi or local bus to Huaguang Road; no metro line mentioned.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Typical hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry around 4:30 PM). Closed on Mondays (except national holidays). Best time: weekday mornings to avoid crowds, off-holiday periods.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

General admission is free, though registration/reservation via the museum app or site may be required.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Advance reservation is recommended (via the museum’s online platform or QR code) particularly during peak times; exact advance-time not specified but booking ahead is wise.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Allow about 2-3 hours for a thorough visit. If you plan to engage in craft workshops or explore in detail, half a day is appropriate.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

  • Ancient ceramics hall: pottery from 10,000 years ago through early dynasties.
  • Colored-glaze and glass art section: modern glass works and historic glass beads.
  • Experience/interactive zone: craft making and educational displays.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

English signage is available; guided tours in Chinese and potentially English are noted but not widely detailed—on-site enquiry suggested.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • The museum exterior (distinct architecture) makes a strong photo background.
  • The central spiral staircase connecting floors is visually appealing.
  • The colored-glass art installations and ancient large ceramic vases display.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

  • Enter → 1st floor (ancient pottery) → 2nd floor (porcelain & glaze evolution) → 3rd/4th floor (glass art + modern ceramic) → interactive zone → gift shop → exit.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

No regular night visits or light shows are mentioned in sources; the museum operates during standard daytime hours.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

  • Less crowded: Weekdays (Tuesday-Thursday) morning sessions.
  • Busier: Weekends and public holidays, or during special exhibitions. Booking recommended.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

  • Restrooms, lockers/storage and an on-site restaurant or café are available.
  • Gift/cultural-creative product shop selling ceramics & glass souvenirs.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The museum is modern, with elevators and flat access areas; children and elderly can enjoy it. Some areas may involve stairs; check accessibility details on-site.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Admission is free (with reservation); gift shop and cafés likely accept mobile payments (Alipay/WeChat) and cards. Having some cash is still advisable.

What restaurants or cafés are available inside or nearby?

Restaurants and cafés are located nearby in Zhangdian District; the museum restaurant serves meals and light snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

While specific vegan/halal options aren’t detailed, vegetarian-friendly dishes should be available in nearby dining venues; halal may require checking in advance.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Yes — hotels in central Zibo (Zhangdian District) provide convenient access to the museum. Staying nearby allows easy museum visit on foot or short taxi.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

  • Boshan Ceramic & Glaze Art Museum in Boshan District – for more glaze history.
  • Linzi Ancient Qi City ruins – historic state of Qi capital, near Zibo.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes — the museum gift shop sells ceramic/colored-glass miniatures, decorative pottery, glass ornaments, cultural-creative items. Great for unique keepsakes.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

  • Taxi or ride-hailing to Zibo Railway Station or other district attractions.
  • Bus to other parts of Zibo (e.g., Boshan District) for further ceramic/glaze exploration.