The Guiyang Guanghua Coin Museum is a fascinating place for history enthusiasts. Explore its extensive collection of ancient coins, learn about the evolution of currency, and admire rare and valuable artifacts. Interactive exhibits and displays offer insight into the history and culture of coinage in China and around the world.

The Guiyang Guanghua Coin Museum, located in Dajue Jingshe (Hua Family Pavilion), is the first coin museum in Guizhou Province. It houses the coin collection of collectors Wang Yaguang and his son, Wang Zihua.
In the 1980s, Mr. Wang Yaguang, driven by his love for coin collecting, met Mr. Ma Dingxiang, a veteran in the Chinese coin industry. With his guidance and encouragement, he embarked on a journey of coin collecting. Since 2000 , Wang Zihua has supplemented, refined, and organized his father's coin collection, ultimately creating this museum showcasing coins from various periods and categories throughout Chinese history.
The museum covers approximately 2,000 square meters and comprises four exhibition halls: Hall 1 displays Chinese coins from the pre-Qin period to the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period; Hall 2 showcases coins from the Song to the Qing dynasties; Hall 3 displays machine-made coins from the late Qing and Republican periods; and Hall 4 showcases ancient banknotes from the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties, as well as sample banknotes from the Republic of China. The museum boasts a rich collection of items, including the " Six Quan Shi Bu " coin, minted during the Wang Mang era , a rare treasure among ancient coin collectors, and the " National Treasure Golden Casket , " minted during this period, a world-class coin , with fewer than 10 known intact examples in China .
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 1-2 hours
free
Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00-17:00, closed on Mondays
The Guiyang Guanghua Coin Museum is one of the most comprehensive museums dedicated to the study of coins in China. It houses a vast collection of coins dating from the ancient Chinese dynasties to modern times, showcasing the development of monetary systems and the cultural significance of currency throughout history.
The museum is located in Guiyang, Guizhou. The best way to get there is by taxi or private car. Public transportation options like buses may also be available, but it's best to check the local routes for the most direct path. It is not within walking distance from the central areas of the city.
The museum is open from 9 AM to 5 PM, with the best times to visit being early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid peak crowds, especially on weekends and public holidays.
The entrance fee typically ranges from ¥20 to ¥40, depending on the exhibit. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the museum entrance, and it is advisable to check for any special online ticketing options before your visit.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for most visitors. However, during peak times such as national holidays or special exhibitions, it is recommended to book tickets a few days in advance to secure your entry and avoid long lines.
Most visitors can explore the museum in about 1.5 to 2 hours. This allows ample time to view the exhibits, read about the history of coinage, and take photographs of the artifacts on display.
The most notable sections of the museum include the Ancient Chinese Coins Collection, the International Coins Display, and the Coin Minting Process exhibit. These provide a detailed view of the history and craftsmanship of coin production.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides are offered in Chinese and possibly English. It's a good idea to ask for the availability of the audio guide upon arrival if you need assistance in other languages.
Photography is allowed in most parts of the museum, with the best spots being in the main exhibit halls where the ancient coins are displayed in well-lit cases. The rare and intricate coins make for fascinating photography subjects.
Start by visiting the Ancient Chinese Coins Collection to understand the history of Chinese currency. Next, explore the International Coins Display for a global perspective, followed by the Coin Minting Process exhibit for insights into how coins are made. Conclude with the temporary exhibits or interactive sections, if available.
Currently, there are no night visits, light shows, or special tours available at the museum. It's best to visit during daytime hours to make the most of the exhibits and museum guides.
The museum can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are usually early in the morning on weekdays, particularly Tuesday through Thursday.
Basic facilities like toilets and rest areas are available in the museum. There is a small shop that sells souvenirs related to coins and other memorabilia. For food and water, you may need to visit nearby restaurants or cafes, as the museum does not have significant dining options.
The museum is generally accessible for elderly and children, with elevators and ramps available for ease of movement. However, some of the narrow corridors may be slightly difficult for people with mobility impairments, so it's best to check accessibility options beforehand if needed.
Both cash and mobile payments (like WeChat Pay and Alipay) are accepted. It's recommended to have some cash on hand in case of any issues with mobile payment systems.
While the museum itself doesn't have dining options, nearby restaurants in Guiyang offer local Guizhou cuisine, such as spicy hotpot and rice noodles. For a quick snack, local food stalls around the area are a good option.
Vegetarian food options are commonly available in Guiyang's restaurants, and there are some halal options in the city. It’s advisable to check restaurant menus in advance to ensure your dietary preferences are accommodated.
There are a range of hotels near the museum, including budget hotels and mid-range accommodations. Popular options include hotels in downtown Guiyang, which offer easy access to local attractions and public transport.
Nearby attractions include Jiaxiu Tower, Qianling Park, and the Guizhou Provincial Museum. These are easy to visit within a day, offering a mix of historical, cultural, and natural experiences.
The museum has a small souvenir shop offering items like coins, currency-related memorabilia, and postcards. Typical souvenirs from the region include ethnic handicrafts, local teas, and textiles.
After visiting the museum, taxis and private rides are the most convenient transportation options to continue your trip. Public buses are available, but taxis provide faster and more comfortable service for sightseeing in Guiyang.