Sanxingdui Museum
The Sanxingdui Museum, located in Guanghan City, Sichuan Province, is one of China's most important archaeological museums. It showcases the mysterious ancient Shu civilization that flourished over 3,000 years ago, featuring remarkable bronze, gold, and jade artifacts that have revolutionized our understanding of early Chinese civilization.
Planning Your Visit
Opening Hours
- Regular season: 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM (last entry at 5:00 PM)
- Peak seasons (holidays and summer/winter vacations): 8:30 AM - 8:00 PM (last entry at 6:00 PM)
- Conservation Gallery: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Closed on Chinese New Year's Eve
Admission
- Standard ticket: ¥72
- Students (with valid ID): ¥36
- Veterans (with valid ID): ¥65
- Free admission for:
- Military personnel (with valid ID)
- Seniors over 60 (with valid Chinese ID)
- Children under 1.3m (accompanied by guardian)
- Disabled visitors (with valid certificate)
Getting There
- By High-Speed Rail:
- Take the train to Guanghan North Station
- Transfer to Bus Route 13 to the museum (30 minutes)
- Or take a taxi (20 minutes, ¥30-40)
- By Tourist Bus:
- Direct buses from Chengdu's Spring City Road and Wuhou Temple
- First departure at 7:00 AM
- Journey time: 90 minutes
- Ticket: ¥25
Historical Significance
The Sanxingdui site was first discovered in 1929 when a local farmer unearthed jade artifacts while digging a ditch. However, the site's true significance wasn't revealed until 1986, when two sacrificial pits containing thousands of precious artifacts were discovered. These findings revolutionized our understanding of ancient Chinese civilization, proving that the Yangtze River region was also a cradle of Chinese civilization, parallel to the Yellow River culture.
Museum Highlights
The Bronze Standing Figure
This colossal bronze statue stands 2.62 meters tall and weighs 180 kg, making it the largest bronze human figure from the Shang Dynasty period ever discovered. The figure wears a ceremonial robe decorated with dragon patterns and stands in a solemn pose, likely representing a high-ranking priest-king of the ancient Shu kingdom.
The Bronze Tree
Standing at an impressive 3.96 meters, this mystical bronze tree represents the ancient Shu people's understanding of the cosmos. Its three tiers feature intricate decorations of birds, dragons, and fruit, symbolizing the connection between heaven and earth.
The Golden Mask
One of the most iconic finds, this golden mask measures 23cm wide by 28cm high and weighs 280g. Despite being incomplete, it showcases the sophisticated metalworking techniques of the ancient Shu civilization and likely belonged to a person of great importance.
Exhibition Areas
The museum is divided into three main exhibition areas:
- Century of Dreams (First Floor)
- Chronicles the discovery and excavation of Sanxingdui
- Displays the latest archaeological findings
- Shows the site's significance in Chinese archaeology
- The Great City (First Floor)
- Reconstructs the ancient Shu capital
- Showcases craftsmanship in bronze, gold, and jade
- Demonstrates the society's advanced technology
- Heaven and Earth (Second Floor)
- Focuses on religious and ceremonial artifacts
- Displays the iconic bronze masks and figures
- Explores the spiritual world of ancient Shu people
Visitor Tips
- Guided Tours
- Official guides available (¥400 for 1-10 people, 90 minutes)
- Audio guides in multiple languages (¥30)
- Free WeChat guide through the official account
- Photography
- Photography allowed without flash
- Tripods and selfie sticks not permitted
- Best lighting conditions in the morning
- Best Time to Visit
- Early morning to avoid crowds
- Plan for 3-4 hours to see everything
- Weekdays are generally less crowded
- Facilities
- Gift shop with cultural creative products
- Rest areas on each floor
- Wheelchair accessible
Nearby Dining
Several restaurants near the museum offer local Sichuan cuisine:
- Xiaoyue Restaurant (晓月餐厅) - Known for fusion cuisine
- Salt City Dry Pot (盐都干锅王) - Specializes in spicy dry pot dishes
- Local snack streets offering traditional Guanghan specialties
Accommodation
Recommended areas to stay:
- Hotels near Guanghan North Station
- Properties within walking distance of the museum
- City center accommodations with easy transport links
The Sanxingdui Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into an ancient civilization that challenges our understanding of early Chinese history. Its unique artifacts and ongoing discoveries continue to attract visitors from around the world, making it an essential stop for anyone interested in archaeology, history, or Chinese culture.