Foreign Treasures in China: Which Global Masterpieces Are Housed Here?

China, as an ancient civilization with a long history, not only has rich local cultural heritage, but also collects many top-level cultural relics from all over the world. These cultural relics have witnessed the glorious history of cultural exchange between China and foreign countries, becoming an unmissable highlight in Beijing tourism. This article will take you to explore the top foreign cultural relics hidden in China and experience the diversity and inclusiveness of Beijing culture. 

If you have any questions or would like to customize your trip, please contact us! 

{tour-id-1813811695057334273,1811694421114576897}

1. National Museum of China: Treasures of Ancient Egyptian Civilization

Painted coffin

In the exhibition hall of The National Museum of China, a painted coffin from ancient Egypt stands out. This coffin belongs to a priestess of the 19th Dynasty of ancient Egypt, and the lid is painted with exquisite patterns, showcasing the artistic style and religious beliefs of the ancient Egyptians. During their visit, tourists can appreciate this ancient cultural relic that spans thousands of years up close and experience the mystery and glory of ancient Egyptian civilization.

Travel suggestion: The National Museum of China is located on the east side of Tiananmen Square, with convenient Transportation. It is recommended to book tickets online in advance, plan the tour route, and focus on visiting the exhibition area of ancient Egyptian civilization.

2. Palace Museum: A Precious Gift from the British Royal Family

Copper gold-plated writing clock

The Palace Museum houses a top of the line cultural relic from the UK - a bronze gilded clock with a human hand. This clock was gifted to the Qing court by the King of England, with a unique design and exquisite craftsmanship. On the first level of the clock, there are two small figures holding banners in a dance like manner, with the words "Endless Longevity" written on them. Below them is a puppet playing music on a bell bowl, and another puppet writing couplets with a brush dipped in ink. This cultural relic not only showcases the superb skills of the British watch manufacturing industry, but also witnesses the friendly exchanges between China and Britain in history.

Suggestion: The Palace Museum is one of the most well preserved and largest wooden ancient architectural complexes in the world. When visiting, it is recommended to enter through the Meridian Gate and sequentially visit palaces such as the Hall of Supreme Harmony, the Hall of Central Harmony, and the Hall of Preserving Harmony, as well as the Treasure Museum and the Clock Museum, to appreciate the charm of Chinese and foreign cultural relics.

3. Military Museum of the Chinese People's Revolution: sword worn by Japanese admiral

Wu He Qijiro wears a sword

In the Military Museum of the Chinese People's Revolution, a sword worn by Japanese Navy Lieutenant General Kijiro Wohe lies quietly in the display cabinet. This sword is exquisitely crafted with exquisite patterns and text engraved on its body, making it one of the top famous swords of ancient Japan. It witnessed the historical vicissitudes during the Anti Japanese War, and also became a witness for the Chinese and Japanese people to remember history and cherish peace together.

Suggestion: The Military Museum of the Chinese People's Revolution is located at No. 9, Fuxing Road, Haidian District, Beijing. It is an important place to display the history of the Chinese revolution. During their visit, tourists can gain a deeper understanding of the historical background and significance of China's revolutionary war, while also appreciating numerous precious cultural relics, including the Japanese Navy Rear Admiral's sword.

4. Other collection locations: Integration of diverse cultures

In addition to the National Museum of China, the Palace Museum and the Military Museum of the Chinese People's Revolution, Beijing has many other places to collect top foreign cultural relics. For example, the Sackler Museum of Archaeology and Art at Peking University houses collections of ancient Egyptian artifacts, Mesopotamian art pieces, and more; The art museum in Beijing showcases artworks from around the world, including European oil paintings, sculptures, and more.

Suggestion: When planning a Beijing tourism itinerary, it is recommended to include these locations that collect top foreign cultural relics, and experience the integration and collision of diverse cultures.