“Did you bring your ID?” I ask. Because to enter the Chengdu Museum, you will need it even though admission is free.
The Chengdu Museum is more than just a repository of artifacts. It is a vibrant cultural hub in the heart of Chengdu. Established in 1958, the Chengdu Museum has grown into the largest comprehensive city museum in Southwest China. The new hall was completed in 2016. Nearly 16 million visitors have already passed through its doors.
Inside the Chengdu Museum, almost 200000 pieces are on display. The Chengdu Museum collections span from the Neolithic period to the Republic of China. Bronze ware and shadow puppets fill its halls. Glimmering gold and silver catches the light.
Take a journey through time as you explore the seven floors of the Chengdu Museum. Start in the basement. There are two temporary exhibition halls. The first floor welcomes you with the entrance lobby and another special exhibition hall. The regular exhibitions are from the 2nd to 5th floors. The sixth floor has a viewing gallery.
On the second floor, discover Chengdu before the Northern and Southern Dynasties. Cultural relics reveal the Baodun culture. The Sanxingdui and Jinsha sites are represented.
Ascend to the third floor to witness Chengdu from the Sui to Qing Dynasties. Over 600 relics are displayed. Porcelain and pottery tell the story of Chengdu.
The fourth floor captures recent history and Chengdu customs. Photos and documents recreate daily life in 20th-century Chengdu. It will make you feel as though you actually go back to Chengdu at that time.
Do not miss the fifth floor. Here you will find Puppetry and Shadow Plays of China. This exhibition showcases China’s folk drama. Admire the exquisite puppets.
One of the treasures of the Chengdu Museum is the Stone Rhinoceros. Unearthed east of Tianfu Square in 2013, its history dates back to the Late Warring States Period and Han Dynasty. It is believed to have played a role in protecting people from floods. It is 3.31 meters long and weighs about 8.5 tons. Locals affectionately call it “Meng Niuniu” meaning “so cute rhinoceros”.
Another highlight is Liu Xiang’s Saber. Liu Xiang was the governor of Sichuan Province in 1937. He led the army against the invaders in the War of Resistance against Japan. The saber reminds us of the contributions of the Sichuan armies.
As you leave the Chengdu Museum, remember the stories you have encountered. The Chengdu Museum is a window into the soul of Chengdu. It preserves the past. It inspires the future. It connects us to the rich tapestry of Chinese culture.