Guanghan Sanxingdui Museum

Introducing Guanghan Sanxingdui Museum

Guanghan Sanxingdui Museum usually refers to Sanxingdui Museum. It was completed and opened in October 1997. It is located in the northeast corner of the Sanxingdui Ruins, a national key cultural relic protection unit, and on the banks of the Yazi River west of Guanghan City. It is a modern thematic site museum in China.

The Sanxingdui Museum is the largest, longest-lasting, and most culturally rich ancient city, ancient kingdom, and ancient Shu cultural site discovered in Southwest China. It boasts the most complete preserved eastern, western, and southern city walls, as well as the inner wall of Moon Bay. The Sanxingdui ruins are considered one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of the 20th century, demonstrating that the Yangtze River basin, like the Yellow River basin, is the mother of Chinese civilization, earning it the nickname "the source of Yangtze River civilization."

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon humid climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Tickets

Pass 82 yuan (including postage)

Attraction opening hours

Ticket sales hours: 8:30~17:00;

Exhibition Hall Opening Hours: 8:30-18:00, Exhibition Hall 1; 8:30-18:30, Exhibition Hall 2

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Most Popular FAQs for Guanghan Sanxingdui Museum

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

The Guanghan Sanxingdui Museum is located in the city of Guanghan, Sichuan. It is dedicated to the ancient Sanxingdui culture, a Bronze Age civilization that existed over 3,000 years ago. The discovery of the Sanxingdui site has provided invaluable insights into ancient Chinese history, showcasing remarkable artifacts such as bronze masks, statues, and gold relics, many of which have never been seen before.

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

The Sanxingdui Museum is located in Guanghan, Deyang, Sichuan, about 40 kilometers from Chengdu. You can take a bus from Chengdu to Guanghan, or take a taxi directly to the museum. Public transportation options are available, but for convenience, a taxi or private car may be the best option.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last entry at 4:30 PM. The best time to visit is during weekdays or in the early morning to avoid crowds. The museum is particularly busy during Chinese holidays, such as Chinese New Year and National Day.

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

The entrance fee for the Sanxingdui Museum is around ¥80 for adults. Tickets can be purchased at the museum’s entrance, or in advance through online platforms or local travel agencies.

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

While tickets are available on-site, it is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons (spring and fall). Booking 1-2 days in advance should be sufficient to secure your entry.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to the Sanxingdui Museum typically takes about 2-3 hours. If you plan to visit the open-air excavation site or attend any special exhibitions, you may want to allocate 4-5 hours.

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

• The Hall of Bronze Treasures, showcasing the famous bronze masks, statues, and ritual objects.
• The Gold and Jade Exhibits, displaying exquisite gold items and jade artifacts from the Sanxingdui civilization.
• The archaeological dig site, where visitors can see the remains of past excavations.

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

Guided tours in Mandarin are available at the museum. Audio guides in English and Chinese are also available, and these can be rented at the entrance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The museum’s open-air excavation site offers great views of the historical site, with opportunities to capture the excavation process and the surrounding natural landscape.
• Inside the museum, the exhibits of bronze artifacts provide excellent opportunities for detailed photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with the main exhibition hall to get an overview of the Sanxingdui civilization, followed by the gold and jade exhibits. End your visit with the open-air excavation site, where you can see ongoing archaeological work.

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

Currently, there are no night visits or light shows at the Sanxingdui Museum. However, special exhibitions and events may be available during certain times of the year, so it’s worth checking the museum's website or asking at the entrance for updates.

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

The museum can be crowded during weekends and holidays, particularly in the summer months. The least crowded times are during weekdays, especially in the morning hours right after opening.

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

• There are clean toilet facilities and rest areas available throughout the museum.
• A small shop at the museum entrance sells souvenirs and snacks.
• There is a café offering drinks and light snacks near the museum’s exit.

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

The museum is generally accessible for elderly visitors and children, with ramps and elevators for easy access. However, some of the outdoor areas and archaeological sites may be difficult for visitors with limited mobility.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are accepted at the museum. Credit cards may also be accepted in the museum shop.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• There are small cafés inside the museum offering basic snacks and drinks.
• For more options, you can visit nearby restaurants in Guanghan or Chengdu, which offer a variety of local Sichuan cuisine.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are commonly available in local Sichuan restaurants, but vegan and halal food may be limited. It is advisable to check the restaurant menu in advance or ask for specific dietary needs.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are hotels in Guanghan city offering mid-range accommodations, such as the Sanxingdui Hotel.
• Chengdu offers a wide range of hotels, and it’s only a short drive away if you prefer to stay there and commute to the museum.

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

• The Jianchuan Museum Cluster, located about 20 minutes from the Sanxingdui Museum, offers a wide range of exhibits on Chinese culture.
• Chengdu, with attractions like Wuhou Shrine, Jinli Ancient Street, and the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, is a great addition to your itinerary.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops at the museum. Popular items include replica bronze artifacts, jade carvings, and traditional Chinese crafts like silk scarves and calligraphy items.

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

After visiting, you can take a taxi or bus to Chengdu, where there are more attractions. For further travel, buses and high-speed trains from Chengdu offer convenient access to other parts of Sichuan province.