The Chengdu Natural History Museum is one of the best science institutions in western China, which is located in Chengdu University of Technology. Its galleries are permanent, covering geology and mineral resources, prehistoric life and the incredible remains of dinosaur fossils from the Sichuan-Chongqing area. From curious students to families with their young children, or science enthusiasts, this museum offers a dive through the natural world that few things in Chengdu can top.
Operating Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 09:00–17:00; closed every Monday
Estimated Time Required: 3–5 hours
Optimal Visiting Times: Late spring (April–May) and mid-autumn (October–November)
Smart Planning Tips:
1. Book your ticket in advance through the official WeChat public account, the weekend time slots are filled up fast, and there will be a limit of 5,000 visitors a day.
2. At the entrance gate present the original ID card or passport of your national country plus your booking confirmation.
3. Free guided tours leave every day at 10:00 and 14:00 from the information desk located on the 1st floor; there are a limit of 30-50 people per session.
The museum is always seen as one of the most popular tourist attractions in Chengdu and customers are very pleased with it, constantly giving it the top marks in feedback on various travel websites. Its unmissable highlight is the towering dinosaur gallery, which often gets described as ‘breathtaking’ by first time visitors. Families praise the dedicated children's exploration lab, a combination of fun and true science. The curation of exhibits on the mineral hall and on Sichuan-specific biodiversity is also good. One regular tip from the reviewers is to go on the weekday or avoid Chinese public holidays for a more relaxed experience, particularly Saturday afternoons can get busy.
Combine the ideas of visiting the museum with other excellent Chengdu attractions and enjoy a full day out. For personalized tour ideas be sure to our ultimate guide for Chengdu tours.
Yes the tickets are available at the on-site ticket booths with ID. However, the daily capacity is limited and even on weekends or holidays, the slots tend to go fast and may sell out by mid-morning; therefore, it is highly recommended to reserve booking through the official Wechat account in advance.
No. The museum is closed every Monday. It is reopened on national public holidays that are on a Monday, however check official details before travelling as this will change from time-to-time.
Outside food and beverages are not allowed in the exhibition galleries. There is a rest area at the entrance where you can grab snacks and refreshments.
Just show up at any open day at 10:00 or 14:00 at the information desk on the first floor. They are first come, first served and there is no charge for tours.
Non-flash personal picture-taking is allowed in most areas of the museum. There may be restrictions on individual exhibits; observe all displayed signage in galleries.
