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 one of China's premier museums, showcasing the rich cultural heritage and natural history of the Yangtze River's Three Gorges region. Located in Chongqing's Yuzhong District, this magnificent institution opened in 2005 and serves as both a cultural landmark and educational center, preserving the history and artifacts of the areas affected by the Three Gorges Dam project. The museum's striking modern architecture spans over 42,000 square meters and houses an impressive collection of over 170,000 artifacts, ranging from ancient Ba-Shu cultural relics to contemporary exhibits about the Yangtze River ecosystem. As a national first-class museum, it offers visitors a complete journey through southwestern China's history, from prehistoric times to the modern era, with particular emphasis on the unique cultural heritage of the Three Gorges region that was transformed by the world's largest hydroelectric dam project.

What to See & Do

Ancient Ba-Shu Culture Exhibition

Explore artifacts from the ancient Ba and Shu kingdoms, including bronze weapons, ceremonial vessels, and intricate jade ornaments that showcase the sophisticated civilizations that once flourished in this region.

Three Gorges Cultural Relics Hall

View precious artifacts rescued from the Three Gorges area before the dam's construction, including Han Dynasty stone carvings, Ming and Qing dynasty porcelain, and traditional folk art pieces.

Yangtze River Ecosystem Display

Learn about the diverse flora and fauna of the Yangtze River through interactive exhibits, fossil displays, and detailed ecological models showing the river's environmental significance.

Anti-Japanese War Exhibition

Discover Chongqing's crucial role as China's wartime capital during WWII through historical photographs, documents, and personal accounts of the city's resilience during the war years.

Chongqing Historical Development Gallery

Trace the evolution of Chongqing from ancient settlement to modern metropolis through multimedia presentations, scale models, and historical artifacts spanning thousands of years.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

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

Tickets & Pricing

Free admission with valid ID (passport for international visitors). Advanced online reservation recommended, especially during peak seasons and holidays.

Best Time to Visit

October to April offers the most comfortable weather. Weekday mornings are less crowded. Avoid Chinese national holidays for a more peaceful experience.

Suggested Duration

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

Getting There

The Three Gorges Museum is conveniently located in People's Square (Renmin Square) in Yuzhong District, directly opposite the Great Hall of the People. Take Metro Line 2 or 3 to Niujiaotuo Station (Exit 4A) for a 5-minute walk, or take Metro Line 1 to Xiaoshizi Station (Exit 6) for a 10-minute walk. Numerous city buses stop at People's Square, including routes 181, 215, 261, and 829. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available, and the museum is easily recognizable by its distinctive modern architecture facing the iconic Great Hall of the People.

Things to Do Nearby

Great Hall of the People
Chongqing's iconic government building with impressive architecture, located directly across from the museum in People's Square.
People's Liberation Monument (Jiefangbei)
The city's most famous landmark and central business district, just a 10-minute walk away, perfect for shopping and dining.
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A spectacular traditional stilted building complex along the Jialing River, offering dining, shopping, and impressive night views, 15 minutes away by foot.
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Experience impressive aerial views of Chongqing's skyline and rivers on this historic cable car system, about 20 minutes away.
Chaotianmen Square
The confluence point of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers, offering panoramic city views and river cruise departures, 25 minutes by foot.

Tips & Advice

Bring your passport or Chinese ID for free entry and consider booking online in advance during peak tourist seasons
Audio guides are available in multiple languages including English - ask at the information desk upon arrival
Photography is allowed in most areas but flash photography is prohibited near sensitive artifacts
The museum can be quite large and involves significant walking, so wear comfortable shoes and allow plenty of time for your visit

Tours & Activities at Three Gorges Museum