Introducing Sichuan Fine Arts Institute (Huxi Campus)
Sichuan Fine Arts Institute, also known as "Chuanmei," is located in the centrally administered municipality of Chongqing. It is a provincial undergraduate institution with the authority to award master's degrees. It is one of China's 31 independent art colleges and universities and one of the eight major art academies in the country.
The school is like a miniature version of Beijing's 798, with many interesting sculptures and an artistic atmosphere everywhere. The campus is small, sparsely populated, quiet, and shaded by green trees.
Thanks to its artistic campus design, Sichuan Fine Arts Institute has become a popular photo spot for young artists. The most famous spot is the graffiti street outside the school, where the walls of buildings are covered in a variety of graffiti, making it one of the largest graffiti complexes in China and perhaps even the world.
Recommended number of days and locations for visiting
1-2 hours
Tickets
free
Attraction opening hours
All day
Most Popular FAQs for Sichuan Fine Arts Institute (Huxi Campus)
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
Sichuan Fine Arts Institute (Huxi Campus) is a prominent art education institution in Chongqing, known for nurturing talented artists and promoting contemporary Chinese art. The campus reflects both educational and artistic significance, blending academic and creative environments.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
- Located in Qijiang District, Chongqing.
- Accessible by local buses connecting Qijiang town and the campus.
- Taxi or private car from Chongqing city center is convenient.
- Walking is feasible within the campus for exploration.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- Campus is generally open during daylight hours, roughly 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- Best visiting months are spring and autumn for pleasant weather.
- Avoid exam periods or holidays when student activity may be limited.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
Entrance is generally free for public areas; access to exhibitions or special events may require a small ticket, usually purchased onsite.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
For general campus visits, no advance booking is needed. For workshops or special exhibitions, booking a few days ahead may be recommended.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
- 1–2 hours for a casual stroll through the campus and outdoor art.
- 2–3 hours if attending exhibitions or workshops.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- Campus gardens and open-air sculptures.
- Main galleries and student exhibition spaces.
- Architectural highlights blending traditional and modern design.
- Outdoor creative installations.
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
Guided tours may be available in Chinese; English-speaking guides are rare and need special arrangements. Audio guides are generally not offered.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- Open courtyards with sculpture installations.
- Art galleries and exhibition halls.
- Campus gardens during spring and autumn.
- Architectural corners showcasing unique design elements.
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
- Start at the main entrance and explore outdoor art areas.
- Visit galleries and exhibition halls sequentially.
- Finish with a stroll through landscaped gardens or creative workshops.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
Night visits are not generally available. Special tours may be arranged for groups or events with prior booking.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
- Weekdays are less crowded than weekends.
- Visiting during academic breaks may see fewer students.
- Mornings offer a quieter experience and better photography conditions.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
- Basic restrooms on campus.
- Cafeteria and small cafes for snacks and drinks.
- Benches and outdoor rest areas.
- Campus bookstore or small gift shops in some buildings.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
- Most paths are accessible, though some outdoor areas may have stairs or uneven terrain.
- Children are welcome under adult supervision.
- Wheelchair access is limited to main campus roads and some buildings.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
- Cash is accepted in cafes and small shops.
- Mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly accepted on campus.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- Campus cafeteria and small snack shops.
- Local restaurants in Qijiang town serving regional cuisine.
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Some campus cafeterias and local restaurants may provide vegetarian or vegan options; halal options may be limited.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- Guesthouses and small hotels in Qijiang town.
- Mid-range hotels in the district center for convenience.
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Qijiang local scenic spots and cultural villages.
- Nearby mountains and rivers for nature walks.
- Local markets or temples in Qijiang town.
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- Campus bookstore with art supplies and student artworks.
- Local handicrafts and regional snacks available in nearby town shops.
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- Taxi or private car to other attractions in Qijiang District.
- Local buses connecting to Chongqing city center or nearby towns.
- Organized tours may provide onward transport to other scenic spots.