For history enthusiasts, China’s museums are treasure troves brimming with stories of ancient dynasties, revolutionary movements, and cultural traditions. Here are ten must-visit museums across the country.

1. The Palace Museum, Beijing

Located in the Forbidden City, this museum is a masterpiece of Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture, housing relics from imperial China, including rare manuscripts and ceremonial items.

2. The Qin Shi Huang Mausoleum Museum, Xi’an

This museum is home to the awe-inspiring Terracotta Army, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of China’s first emperor.

3. The Hunan Provincial Museum, Changsha

This museum is renowned for its well-preserved Mawangdui Han Dynasty tomb relics, including silk paintings and ancient manuscripts.

4. The Chongqing China Three Gorges Museum, Chongqing

Highlighting the history and culture of the Yangtze River region, this museum features exhibits on the Three Gorges Dam project and the area’s archaeological findings.

5. The Shaanxi History Museum, Xi’an

Often referred to as the “treasure house of China,” this museum offers an extensive collection of relics, from prehistoric pottery to Tang Dynasty murals.

6. The Hong Kong Museum of History, Hong Kong

Focusing on the region’s unique past, this museum presents exhibits ranging from prehistoric Hong Kong to its transformation into a modern metropolis.

7. The Anhui Museum, Hefei

This museum houses relics from the region’s rich Huizhou culture, including ancient seals, paintings, and Ming Dynasty architectural pieces.

8. The Dunhuang Academy, Dunhuang

Focused on preserving the Mogao Caves’ cultural heritage, the academy features exhibits on Buddhist art, ancient manuscripts, and Silk Road history.

9. The Tibet Museum, Lhasa

Dedicated to the unique culture of Tibet, the museum features Thangka paintings, ancient scriptures, and relics from Tibetan monasteries.

10. The Maritime Museum, Ningbo

This museum highlights China’s maritime history, including exhibits on ancient shipbuilding, navigation tools, and maritime trade during the Ming Dynasty.