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At the Anhui Provincial Geological Museum, visitors can explore various geological exhibits including minerals, fossils, and rocks. The museum also offers interactive exhibits and educational displays about the geological history of Anhui and China. It's a great spot for anyone interested in Earth sciences and natural history.
The Anhui Provincial Geological Museum, located in the Anhui Provincial Cultural Museum Park on the beautiful Swan Lake in Hefei City, is a comprehensive venue integrating specimen collection, scientific research, exhibition experience, science popularization education, cultural exchange, and intellectual leisure.
The entire exhibition hall focuses on paleontological fossils, while also taking into account other geological knowledge, highlighting local Anhui characteristics, and taking into account relevant domestic and international content. The current collection of specimens exceeds 50,000 , including various fossils from different geological periods, various minerals, rocks, gemstones, etc.
The main collections include domestically renowned fossil series of biota, such as the " Guizhou Marine Reptile Fauna " , the " Liaoning Jehol Biota " , the " Shandong Shanwang Fauna " , etc., Anhui characteristic fossil group specimens, such as the " Huainan Biota " , the " Chaohu Ichthyosaur Fauna " , the " Southern Anhui Dinosaur Fauna " , etc., as well as mineral crystals of various sizes, shaped stones, ornamental stones, meteorites, etc.
Suitable for all seasons
The museum has a total floor area of 26,495 square meters , of which 16,902 square meters are for exhibition, making it the largest museum of its kind in China. Centered around the theme of " Harmony with Nature, Scientific Development , " and focusing on " Universe, Earth, Biology, Humanity, and Resources ," it features six permanent exhibition halls: the Preface Hall, the Earth Hall, the Evolution of Life Hall, the Dinosaur Hall, the Mineral and Rock Hall, and the Resources and Environment Hall.
Recommended play time: 3-4 hours
Free admission with valid ID
9:00-17:00 ( Ticket collection ends at 16:00 )
Closed on Mondays, open on holidays, and closed on Mondays
The Anhui Provincial Geological Museum was established to preserve and display the geological history of Anhui province and China. It plays an important role in educating the public about geology, earth sciences, and environmental conservation.
The museum is located in Hefei, Anhui. It can be easily reached by public transportation, including buses and taxis. The Hefei Metro Line 1 also has a nearby station for convenient access. Walking from nearby areas is also an option.
The museum is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are during weekdays, early mornings or late afternoons, when it is less crowded.
Entry to the Anhui Provincial Geological Museum is typically free, though special exhibits or events may have a small fee. Tickets can be obtained on-site, and there are no current online ticketing services.
Booking tickets in advance is not required as the museum generally has free entry. However, for special exhibitions or large groups, it may be a good idea to confirm availability in advance.
It usually takes about 1 to 2 hours to explore the museum, depending on your level of interest in geological sciences and the exhibits on display.
The main highlights include the fossil and mineral exhibitions, interactive geological displays, and the detailed information about Anhui’s geological history. The museum also showcases a collection of ancient rocks and minerals from the region.
Guided tours may be available in Chinese. Audio guides are typically available in Chinese, and it is recommended to check for availability before your visit.
The best photography spots are near the larger displays of fossils and the geological rock samples. However, photography may be restricted in some areas, so it is advised to check museum rules before taking photos.
Start with the mineral and fossil exhibits to get an understanding of the region’s geological past, followed by the interactive displays. The museum is well-organized, and you can follow the signage to make your way through.
Night visits and light shows are not available at this museum. Special tours may be arranged for groups or educational purposes upon request.
The museum tends to be less crowded on weekdays, especially in the early morning or later in the afternoon. Weekends can be busier, particularly during holidays and school vacation periods.
The museum has basic facilities, including restrooms, a small café, and rest areas. There are no major shops inside, but you can find a few items related to the exhibits.
The museum is wheelchair accessible and provides facilities for elderly and disabled visitors. It is also a family-friendly destination with exhibits that appeal to children.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and credit cards are more commonly used for transactions in the museum.
There is a small café within the museum. Nearby, you can find various local restaurants offering Anhui cuisine and international options for lunch or dinner.
Vegetarian options are available at many nearby restaurants, though vegan and halal food may be less common. It’s recommended to check restaurant menus beforehand for specific dietary requirements.
There are several hotels within a short distance from the Anhui Provincial Geological Museum, ranging from budget to mid-range accommodations. Popular options include local business hotels and international chains.
Nearby attractions include the Anhui Museum, Swan Lake Sports Park, and Hefei’s historic sites, which can easily be combined for a day trip.
There are no major souvenir shops inside the museum, but you can find a few geological-themed items, such as rocks and fossils, at local shops nearby.
Taxis, buses, and the metro are convenient options for continuing your trip after visiting the museum. The Hefei metro system provides easy access to other parts of the city, and taxis are readily available outside the museum.
