Located in Wuhan's scenic East Lake area, the Hubei Provincial Museum stands as one of China's most prestigious cultural institutions—a national first-class museum and AAAA-level tourist attraction that houses some of the country's most significant archaeological discoveries. Established in 1953 and spanning 81,909 square meters with 49,611 square meters of building space, this museum holds over 240,000 artifacts, including nearly 1,000 national first-class relics.
Highlights of Hubei Provincial Museum
1. Unparalleled Bronze Age Treasures
The museum's collection represents the pinnacle of China's Bronze Age (1600-256 BC), particularly from the Zeng and Chu states that flourished in Hubei. Must-see exhibits include:
Zenghouyi Chime Bells:
A 2,500 kg set of 65 bronze bells that can play a complete 12-tone scale
Discovered in 1978 from the Tomb of Marquis Yi of Zeng (5th century BC)
Features 3,730-character inscriptions documenting ancient music theory
Still used in performances (see "Cultural Experiences" below)
Sword of Goujian:
A 2,500-year-old bronze sword that remains untarnished and razor-sharp
Inscribed with "Belonging to Goujian, King of Yue" in ancient script
Legend connects it to the king who "slept on brushwood and tasted gall" to regain his kingdom
Chu State Artifacts:
Tiger Stand Bird Frame Drum—a lacquered wooden drum stand with mythical creatures
Exquisite lacquerware and silk paintings showing Chu's artistic sophistication
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Bronze ritual vessels used in ancestral worship ceremonies
Zenghouyi Chime Bells Sword of Goujian Tiger Stand Bird Frame Drum
2. Architectural Layout & Exhibitions
The museum's South and North Buildings plus two independent exhibition halls contain:
| Section | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Ancient Music Hall | Zenghouyi Chime Bells and replica performances |
| Chu Culture Hall | Bronze, lacquerware, and silk artifacts |
| Zeng State Gallery | Tomb replicas and excavated treasures |
| Temporary Exhibitions | Rotating displays of domestic/international collections |
3. Unique Cultural Experiences
Chime Bell Performances: 30-minute concerts played on replica bells (6 daily shows during holidays)
Interactive Workshops: Try ancient bronze-casting techniques (weekends)
VR Time Travel: Experience life in the Chu capital through virtual reality
Traditional Costume Photography: Dress as ancient nobles among replica artifacts
Best Time to Visit
Ideal Seasons:
Spring (March-May) & Autumn (September-November): Pleasant 15-25°C weather; fewer crowds
Winter (December-February): Quiet atmosphere to appreciate artifacts (indoor heating available)
Daily Timing:
Morning (9:00-11:00): Best for avoiding crowds and seeing the first chime bell performance
Extended Hours During Holidays: Opens at 8:30 with last entry at 16:30 (e.g., Qingming Festival)
Avoid:
Mondays (closed)
Chinese National Day (Oct 1-7) and Spring Festival when visitor numbers triple
Travel Tips
1. Essential Information
Location: 156 Donghu Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan
Hours: 9:00-17:00 (last entry 15:30); closed Mondays
Admission: FREE (requires online reservation via official WeChat/website)
Recommended Duration: 2-3 hours minimum
2. Getting There
Metro: Line 8 to "Provincial Museum Station" (Exit E)
From Airport: Take Metro Line 2 → Transfer to Line 4 → Transfer to Line 8 (90 minutes)
3. Must-Do Checklist
Reserve chime bell performance tickets (¥30) upon arrival
Download the museum's English audio guide app
Visit the Sword of Goujian early (most crowded exhibit)
Explore the Chu Culture Hall for exquisite lacquerware
Check for special exhibitions on the ground floor
4. Accessibility Notes
Wheelchair rentals available at north entrance
Elevators serve all floors
Braille guides for visually impaired visitors
