Ningxia Museum

What are the most recommended things to do in Ningxia Museum?

  • Explore the various exhibitions showcasing Ningxia's history, culture, and natural heritage.
  • Visit the interactive displays and educational sections, which are especially engaging for children.
  • Learn about the ethnic groups of Ningxia, including the Hui people, through detailed artifacts and displays.
  • Check out the extensive collection of ancient relics, including pottery and inscriptions.
  • Enjoy the museum's beautiful architecture and well-curated spaces that reflect the region's culture.

Introducing Ningxia Museum

The Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region Museum (abbreviated as Ningxia Museum) is located on East Street of People's Square, Jinfeng District, Yinchuan City, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, with a total construction area of ​​30,258 square meters. Its predecessor was the Ningxia Geological Museum Preparatory Office established in September 1959. It was officially renamed Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region Museum in 1973. In November 2006, the new Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region Museum with a total investment of 228 million yuan broke ground and was officially put into use in September 2008.

According to the museum's official website in January 2016, the Ningxia Museum has a collection of nearly 40,000 cultural relics, including 159 national first-class cultural relics and more than 4,000 precious cultural relics of level three or above. Among them, the Hu Xuanwu stone-carved tomb door, the gilded bronze bull, and the Hercules inscription support have been identified as national treasures.

In October 2018, it was named the 2018 "National Research and Practice Education Base for Primary and Secondary School Students".

Climate and best time to travel

subtropical monsoon and non-monsoon climates;

The entire exhibition hall fully demonstrates the elegant, simple, balanced and calm personality of the entire building; the images of architectural components such as the Kalavinka and the Lishi Zhiwen supports used in the exterior wall decoration, as well as the decorative patterns used on the four gates. The climate here is relatively dry, and it is suitable for travel in all seasons to experience the historical and cultural relics of Ningxia.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

The Ningxia Museum has four floors. The underground floor area is 8,456 square meters, which is divided into cultural relics storage, equipment rooms and office areas. The above-ground floor area is 21,802 square meters. The first floor is the central hall, VIP reception room, temporary exhibition hall and visitor service hall. The second and third floors are various exhibition halls, library and book storage, multimedia classrooms and visitor service areas.

It is recommended to play for 2 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Closed on Mondays;

Tuesday-Sunday: 9:00-16:50


Most Popular FAQs for Ningxia Museum

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

The Ningxia Museum is an important cultural institution in Yinchuan, dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history, culture, and traditions of the Ningxia region. It holds a vast collection of artifacts, including archaeological relics, ethnic art, and natural history specimens, offering visitors insight into the local history and the ethnic diversity of the region, particularly the Hui people. The museum is also a center for research and cultural education in Ningxia.

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

The Ningxia Museum is located in the heart of Yinchuan, Ningxia. It is easily accessible by taxi or public bus from most parts of the city. There are no direct metro lines to the museum, but it is a short taxi ride from major hotels and transportation hubs. Walking is also possible if you are staying nearby.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The museum is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Tuesday to Sunday. It is closed on Mondays for maintenance. The best time to visit is during weekdays, as weekends tend to be busier with local visitors and school groups. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for a more comfortable experience.

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

The entrance fee is typically free, although some special exhibits may require a small fee. Tickets can be obtained at the entrance on-site. For certain exhibitions, it may be possible to buy tickets in advance, but this is not required for general admission.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not required for general admission, but it is recommended for special exhibitions or during peak tourist seasons. You can book tickets a few days in advance if you're visiting for a specific event or exhibition.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You will need about 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the museum, including the permanent exhibits and any temporary exhibitions. If you're interested in reading all the descriptions and details, you may want to allow a little more time.

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

  • The extensive display on the Hui ethnic group and their cultural contributions to Ningxia.
  • The ancient relics section, showcasing pottery, jade, and other artifacts from early civilizations in the region.
  • The natural history exhibits, which highlight the diverse wildlife and natural landscape of Ningxia.
  • The interactive exhibits aimed at educating children and visitors about local history.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides are also offered, but availability in English may vary. It's recommended to inquire at the information desk upon arrival for availability and language options.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The museum itself has a beautifully designed exterior, which makes for excellent photography, especially during the golden hours in the morning or late afternoon. Inside, the best photo opportunities include the main exhibits and the intricately designed displays of ancient artifacts.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

  • Start with the exhibitions on the Hui ethnic group to get a sense of the region's cultural history.
  • Next, explore the natural history section, followed by the ancient relics and archaeological artifacts.
  • Finish your visit with any temporary exhibitions or interactive sections that may be of interest.

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

The museum does not offer night visits or light shows. However, special tours may be available for group bookings, and special events or exhibitions are sometimes hosted throughout the year.

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

The museum is busiest on weekends and public holidays, especially with school groups. For a more relaxed experience, it's best to visit on weekdays, particularly in the mornings.

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

The museum has clean restrooms, drinking water stations, and a few seating areas for visitors to relax. There is a small gift shop selling local souvenirs and educational materials. Food options are limited inside, but there are many restaurants nearby in Yinchuan.

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

The museum is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators available for ease of movement. It is also suitable for children, with interactive exhibits and educational displays. Elderly visitors should find the museum easy to navigate, but it may be a good idea to inquire about specific accessibility needs in advance.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but most major credit cards and mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are also accepted, making it convenient for visitors.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few cafes and snack shops inside the museum for light refreshments. For more dining options, there are numerous restaurants within walking distance, offering a range of Chinese and Hui-style cuisine.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Nearby restaurants offer various vegetarian and halal food options, particularly those serving Hui cuisine. Some of the cafes inside the museum may also have vegetarian options.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels in the vicinity of the museum, ranging from budget options to more luxurious choices. Some popular options include the Ningxia Hotel, which is just a short drive away, and other local accommodations offering convenient access to the museum and surrounding attractions.

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

  • The Yinchuan Nanmen Mosque, a significant Islamic architectural site.
  • The Western Xia Imperial Tombs, an important historical site just outside of Yinchuan.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops inside the museum selling items such as local handicrafts, books, traditional artwork, and small trinkets. Typical souvenirs include Hui-style calligraphy, pottery, and ethnic jewelry.

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

The best transportation options are taxis or rental cars to continue your trip around Yinchuan and its surroundings. Public buses are also available, but taxis offer more flexibility for visiting nearby attractions.