Gansu Provincial Museum - Lanzhou Travel Guide

Have you ever heard of Matafeiyan (马踏飞燕)? If you ask any child in China, they will immediately tell you about the famous lifelike bronze horse statue at the Gansu Provincial Museum. Matafeiyan is an incredible exhibit that showcases a galloping horse resembling a flying swallow. This masterpiece of ancient craftsmanship was discovered in the ancient town of Weiwu during the Han Dynasty. If you're planning a sightseeing tour in Gansu, be sure to include a visit to witness this must-see masterpiece!

Located on No. 3 West Xijin Road in Lanzhou, Gansu, the Gansu Provincial Museum is a comprehensive museum that houses a vast collection of over 350,000 pieces. The exhibits span various periods, offering a glimpse into the rich history of China. From bronzewares in the Shang and Zhou Dynasties to porcelain, silk fabrics, paintings, and wood carvings from later ancient dynasties, the museum offers a diverse range of artifacts.
 

Originally completed in 1956, the museum has undergone several restoration works and officially opened its doors to the public in 2006. Covering a total area of 28,000 square meters, the museum provides ample space for storage and exhibition. With 7,600 square meters dedicated to storage and 9,000 square meters for exhibitions, the museum ensures that visitors have the opportunity to explore the vast collection. Additionally, as a modern digital museum, it provides easy access to internet resources, enhancing visitors' understanding of the cultural relics on display.
 

While the Matafeiyan bronze horse statue is a major highlight, the Gansu Provincial Museum is home to other notable exhibits that captivate visitors. One such exhibit is the Huanghe Elephant Fossil (黄河古象化石), an impressive display standing at four meters tall and measuring eight meters in length. This fossil, with tusks reaching two meters long, represents the largest of its kind in China and showcases the most complete skeleton of a stegodon found worldwide.
 

Another remarkable exhibit is the mamenchisaurus, the largest fossil specimen of prehistoric life in Asia. Resembling a dragon, this dinosaur was discovered in Hechuan (合川) County, Sichuan Province, and adds to the museum's diverse collection of ancient relics.

The Gansu Provincial Museum features three major exhibition halls, each with its own unique theme. Visitors can explore the colored pottery exhibition hall, which offers insights into the artistry of ancient pottery. The hall dedicated to civilization on the Silk Road provides a fascinating journey through the historical and cultural significance of this renowned trade route. Finally, the fossil specimen hall takes visitors on a prehistoric adventure, showcasing ancient life forms through captivating fossil displays.

Plan your visit to the Gansu Provincial Museum between 9:00-17:00 from Tuesday to Sunday to fully immerse yourself in its treasures. Professional guides provide free commentaries at 9:30 in the morning and 15:00 in the afternoon, enriching your understanding of the exhibits and enhancing your experience.
 

To enter the museum, ensure that you obtain a permission ticket with valid identification, such as an ID card. The museum distributes 2,000 tickets per day, with 1,200 allocated for morning visits and 800 for afternoon visitors, ensuring a comfortable and engaging experience for all.
 

Located across from the Friendship Hotel, the museum is easily accessible by public transportation. Buses such as No. 1, No. 18, and No. 31 provide convenient transportation to reach the museum.

A visit to Gansu Provincial Museum can be easily added into your Gansu Tour or China Silk Road Tour.