Sichuan Art Museum

Introducing Sichuan Art Museum

The Sichuan Art Museum (New Building), home to the Sichuan Artists Association, is located at the intersection of Dongchenggen Street and Renmin West Road in Chengdu's Qingyang District, northwest of Tianfu Square. Resembling a horizontal "Ruyi" (a Chinese character for "wish-fulfilling rite"), the building comprises a polygonal main building and a rectangular annex. The sloping roof of the annex creates a striking, modern aesthetic, resembling an open curtain when viewed from the main entrance. Surrounding the area are other cultural venues, including the Sichuan Science and Technology Museum, Sichuan Provincial Library, Chengdu Museum, Jincheng Art Palace, and Tianfu Grand Theater, forming a "cultural hub."

The museum features a gallery, a Shishu bookstore, an art supply counter, a canteen, a café, a teahouse, and other shopping and leisure areas. The east building also houses a six-story dedicated office area, housing various museum departments, conference rooms, a reference room, and a collection of paintings, totaling 2,400 square meters. The top floor offers seven standard rooms of 24 square meters each and a spacious rooftop garden.

In addition to holding several provincial art exhibitions every year, the Sichuan Art Museum has also hosted Xu Beihong's painting exhibition, Pan Tianshou's painting exhibition, the National Print Exhibition, the National Landscape Exhibition, the Chinese Western Land Love Chinese Painting Exhibition, as well as various exhibitions in Taiwan, South Korea, Japan, Denmark, France and other regions and countries. It has a high reputation and influence at home and abroad.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon humid climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

9:00~17:00, closed on Mondays

---

Most Popular FAQs for Sichuan Art Museum

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

The Sichuan Art Museum, established in 1954, is one of the oldest and most prestigious art institutions in Southwest China. It plays a vital role in preserving and showcasing Sichuan’s rich cultural and artistic heritage, from traditional Tibetan art to modern Chinese painting.

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

The Sichuan Art Museum is located in the heart of Chengdu, Sichuan Province. It can be accessed easily via public transportation. The closest metro station is "Culture Park Station" (Line 2), and several buses also pass near the museum. Taxis are widely available throughout Chengdu.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, except for Mondays when it is closed. The best times to visit are weekdays in the morning when it’s less crowded.

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

Entrance to the Sichuan Art Museum is free, but special exhibitions may require a ticket, typically costing around 20-30 RMB. Tickets can be bought onsite at the museum’s ticket counter.

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

Generally, tickets do not need to be booked in advance unless for special exhibitions or events. It’s recommended to check online for specific exhibitions and book tickets a few days in advance if necessary.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A typical visit to the Sichuan Art Museum takes about 2-3 hours, depending on your interest in the exhibitions. If attending a special event or guided tour, you might want to plan for additional time.

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

The museum's permanent collections of traditional Chinese art and contemporary Sichuanese art are the highlights. Be sure to check out the calligraphy exhibitions and modern art pieces that showcase the evolution of Chinese visual culture.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin and can be arranged at the museum. Audio guides are also offered in Mandarin and English, allowing for a more in-depth understanding of the exhibits.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best spots for photography are the museum’s large open galleries, particularly those featuring traditional Chinese landscape paintings. The museum’s exterior and surrounding park also offer good photo opportunities, especially during sunset.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the permanent exhibition halls, then move on to any temporary exhibits. If you're interested in modern art, visit the contemporary galleries toward the end of your visit. Be sure to check the museum's schedule for any special events or exhibitions.

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

The museum does not offer night visits or light shows. Special tours may be available for groups, but these must be arranged in advance.

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

The museum can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, it's best to visit on weekdays, especially in the mornings when the museum opens.

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

The museum offers basic facilities, including clean toilets, a small café, and a rest area. There is also a souvenir shop where visitors can purchase art-related items and books.

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

The Sichuan Art Museum is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators for easy access. It is also child-friendly, with educational programs and exhibitions suitable for younger visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are accepted for purchases at the museum. It's advisable to carry cash if you plan to purchase souvenirs, although mobile payments are widely accepted.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There is a small café inside the museum offering refreshments. For more dining options, you can explore nearby areas like Chunxi Road, which is home to many restaurants and cafes serving local Sichuan cuisine.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at the nearby restaurants. However, halal food options may be limited and are best found in specialized restaurants in the city center.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels near the museum, including luxury options like the Sichuan Hotel Chengdu and budget accommodations like Ibis Chengdu, both within a short drive from the museum.

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

Nearby attractions include the Wuhou Shrine, Jinli Ancient Street, and the Sichuan Opera House. These are all within a short distance and can easily be combined for a day trip in Chengdu.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

The museum has a souvenir shop where you can purchase art-related items, such as prints, books, and local handicrafts. Typical souvenirs include paintings, calligraphy sets, and pottery representing Sichuan’s artistic heritage.

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

After visiting the museum, you can take a taxi or metro from the nearby Culture Park Station to other attractions in Chengdu. Public buses are also available, but taxis or ride-sharing services like Didi are the most convenient options.