Museum Hopping for Free? Yes, It's Possible in Shenyang!

#freemuseumdays
Shenyang, the historic capital of Liaoning Province, offers a wealth of cultural experiences through its museums—many of which have free admission days for budget-conscious travelers. From imperial palaces to modern art, here’s your complete guide to exploring Shenyang’s museums without spending a dime.

1. Liaoning Provincial Museum (辽宁省博物馆) – Always Free

As one of China’s oldest and largest museums, this treasure trove showcases over 120,000 artifacts, including ancient calligraphy, ceramics, and Liao Dynasty relics.

Free Admission: Yes (permanent exhibitions)
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (closed Mondays)
Must-See Exhibits:
Qing Dynasty imperial collections
Liao Dynasty murals and gold artifacts
Ancient Chinese coins and jade carvings

Tip: Arrive early—lines can get long on weekends.

2. Shenyang Imperial Palace (沈阳故宫) – Free on "Cultural Heritage Day" (June 8, 2025)

A UNESCO-listed mini-Forbidden City, this was the Qing Dynasty’s first imperial palace before they moved to Beijing.

Normal Ticket Price: ¥50
Free Admission Day: Cultural Heritage Day (June 8, 2025)
Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Highlights:
Dazheng Hall (used by Emperor Nurhaci)
Qing Dynasty weaponry and royal costumes

Note: Free tickets are limited—book online in advance.

3. September 18th History Museum (九一八历史博物馆) – Always Free

A sobering but essential visit, this museum documents the 1931 Mukden Incident, which triggered Japan’s invasion of Manchuria.

Free Admission: Yes
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM (closed Mondays)
Powerful Exhibits:
War relics and photographs
Underground bunker replica

Visitor Tip: Audio guides available for ¥20.

4. Shenyang Science Palace (沈阳科学宫) – Free on "Science Day" (March 23, 2025)

A hands-on museum perfect for families, featuring interactive tech and space exhibits.

Normal Ticket Price: ¥20
Free Admission Day: National Science Day (March 23, 2025)
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM (closed Mondays)
Fun Features:
VR experiences
Robot demonstrations

5. Zhang Xueliang’s Former Residence (张学良故居) – Free on "Museum Day" (May 18, 2025)

This historic mansion belonged to Zhang Xueliang, the "Young Marshal" who helped unify China in the 1920s.

Normal Ticket Price: ¥30
Free Admission Day: International Museum Day (May 18, 2025)
Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Key Attractions:
1920s-era furnishings
Underground escape tunnel

Other Museums with Occasional Free Entry

Shenyang Art Museum – Free during cultural festivals
Manchu Folklore Museum – Free on select holidays

Budget Traveler Tips

✔ Book Ahead – Free-day tickets often require online reservations (WeChat/website).
✔ Bring ID – Foreigners may need passports for entry.
✔ Avoid Weekends – Less crowded on weekdays.
✔ Combine Visits – The Imperial Palace and Zhongshan Square are walking distance apart.

Sample Itinerary for Free Museum Hopping

Morning: Liaoning Provincial Museum (always free)
Afternoon: September 18th Museum (always free)
Evening: Stroll Zhongshan Square’s colonial architecture

Total Cost: ¥0 (plus transport/food).

Shenyang proves that history doesn’t have to cost a fortune. By timing your visits right, you can explore Manchuria’s imperial past, wartime legacy, and scientific innovations—all for free.

Looking for cheap eats nearby? Try Shenyang’s famous "Laobian Dumplings" (from ¥15) or Korean BBQ in Xita Street!