Things to Do at Three Gorges Museum

Complete Guide to Three Gorges Museum in Chongqing

About Three Gorges Museum

The Three Gorges Museum (Chongqing China Three Gorges Museum) is a magnificent cultural institution located in the heart of Chongqing's Yuzhong District. Opened in 2005, this world-class museum serves as a comprehensive showcase of the Three Gorges region's rich history, culture, and the monumental Three Gorges Dam project. The museum's striking modern architecture, designed to resemble ancient Chinese bronze vessels, houses over 170,000 cultural relics and artifacts spanning thousands of years of Chinese civilization. As one of China's most important regional museums, the Three Gorges Museum offers visitors an immersive journey through the cultural heritage of the Yangtze River region. The museum particularly focuses on the historical significance of the Three Gorges area, documenting both the ancient civilizations that flourished along the river and the modern transformation brought about by the Three Gorges Dam construction. With its state-of-the-art exhibitions, multimedia displays, and carefully curated collections, the museum provides invaluable insights into Chinese history, archaeology, and the delicate balance between progress and preservation.

What to See & Do

Three Gorges Cultural Relics Exhibition

Explore thousands of artifacts rescued from the flooded areas during the Three Gorges Dam construction, including ancient pottery, bronze vessels, and stone carvings that tell the story of civilizations along the Yangtze River

Chongqing Historical Exhibition

Discover the rich history of Chongqing from ancient times to modern day, featuring exhibits on the city's role as China's wartime capital and its development as a major inland port

Han Dynasty Sculpture Gallery

Marvel at exquisite Han Dynasty stone sculptures and tomb artifacts, showcasing the artistic achievements and burial customs of ancient Chinese civilization

Three Gorges Dam Project Exhibition

Learn about the engineering marvel of the Three Gorges Dam through interactive displays, scale models, and multimedia presentations detailing this massive hydroelectric project

Bayu Culture Hall

Immerse yourself in the unique Bayu culture of the Sichuan Basin and Chongqing region, featuring traditional costumes, folk art, and cultural practices specific to this area

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Tuesday to Sunday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM). Closed on Mondays except public holidays

Tickets & Pricing

Free admission with valid ID or passport. Advance online reservation recommended, especially during peak seasons and holidays

Best Time to Visit

Tuesday to Friday mornings for fewer crowds, or weekends for special exhibitions and cultural activities

Suggested Duration

3-4 hours for a comprehensive visit, 2 hours for highlights only

Getting There

The Three Gorges Museum is conveniently located in Chongqing's Yuzhong District, directly opposite the People's Square and adjacent to the Great Hall of the People. Take Metro Line 2 or 3 to Niujiaotuo Station (Exit 1A) for a 5-minute walk, or Line 1 to Xiaoshizi Station (Exit 9) for a 10-minute walk. Multiple bus routes (103, 104, 105, 111, 112, 181, 215) stop at Renmin Square station. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available, and the museum is easily accessible from major hotels in the city center. The museum provides underground parking for those driving.

Things to Do Nearby

Great Hall of the People
Impressive Soviet-style architecture building directly across from the museum, serving as Chongqing's municipal government headquarters with guided tours available
People's Square
Large public plaza perfect for evening strolls and people-watching, often hosting cultural events and providing great views of the city's architecture
Hongya Cave
Iconic riverside complex built into cliffsides featuring traditional stilted buildings, shopping, dining, and spectacular nighttime illumination, 15 minutes walk away
Chaotianmen Square
Historic confluence point where the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers meet, offering river cruises and panoramic city views, 20 minutes by taxi
Liberation Monument (Jiefangbei)
Central business district and shopping area with the famous Liberation Monument at its heart, surrounded by modern skyscrapers, restaurants, and entertainment venues

Tips & Advice

Bring valid ID or passport for free entry and consider making online reservations in advance, especially during Chinese holidays
Download the museum's mobile app or rent an audio guide for detailed explanations of exhibits in multiple languages
Visit on weekday mornings for a more peaceful experience with fewer tour groups and better photo opportunities
Allow extra time to explore the museum shop for unique Three Gorges-themed souvenirs and cultural books not available elsewhere

Tours & Activities at Three Gorges Museum