Booking Requirements and Practical Guide for the National Museum of China
1. Is booking necessary? Yes, as a top cultural venue that offers free admission, the National Museum of China requires advance real-name booking to enter. This policy aims to control the flow of visitors, ensure a good visiting experience, and guarantee the safety of cultural relics.
2. Detailed Booking Process - Booking Platform: Book through official channels, including: - Official Website: https://ticket.chnmuseum.cn - WeChat Official Account: "National Museum" (supports Chinese and English interfaces) - Official APP (name: National Museum of China) - Booking Time: - Booking opens: 1-7 days in advance (for example, if planning to visit on October 10th, booking can start as early as October 3rd). - Daily ticket release time: Tickets for the 7th day are released at 17:00 PM (Beijing Time). - ID Requirements: - Foreign tourists must use their passport numbers for booking and carry their original passports for verification upon entry. - Booking Limitations: - Each account can book up to 5 people per day, requiring personal information for each visitor to be filled out.
3. Special Notes - Same-day Booking: If not booked in advance, you can try checking for remaining slots on the same day via the official WeChat account or app (usually after 9:00 AM, some canceled bookings may become available). - Timed Entry: When booking, choose a specific time slot (such as 9:00-11:00, 11:00-13:30), and strictly adhere to the selected time slot; being late may result in refusal of entry. - Children Policy: Children under 6 years old can enter without booking when accompanied by an adult, but must be noted in the adult’s booking information.
4. Entry Requirements - Security Check: A strict security check is required. Items such as lighters, large luggage (storage service available for a fee), selfie sticks, and tripods are prohibited. - Guided Services: - Free Guided Tours: Fixed-time Chinese language guided tours are available daily (consult the front desk). - Rental Devices: Chinese and English audio guides are available for rent (rental fee of 30-50 RMB). - QR Code Guided Tours: Some exhibits offer QR code scanning for Chinese and English introductions.
5. Alternative Options (if booking fails) If unsuccessful in booking the National Museum of China, consider these other free Beijing attractions (all require booking): - Capital Museum: Displays Beijing history and culture, easier to book. - Chinese People's Revolution Military Museum: Suitable for visitors interested in military history. - National Art Museum of China: Exhibits modern art masterpieces.
6. Booking Tips for Other Free Attractions - Tiananmen Square: Requires booking 1-9 days in advance through the "Tiananmen Square Reservation Visit" mini-program. - Mao Zedong Memorial Hall: Requires separate booking (high difficulty, it is recommended to book tickets 7 days in advance).
7. Visiting Suggestions - Time Planning: Reserve at least 3-4 hours for visiting the National Museum of China. The "Ancient China" permanent exhibition (located on the basement level) is highly recommended. - Avoiding Peak Times: The number of visitors is very high during weekends and holidays; it is suggested to visit during weekday mornings. - Dress Recommendations: The museum maintains a constant temperature (about 22°C), so a light jacket may be useful during summer visits.
