Beijing Museum of Natural History Beijing
Explore Earth's wonders, from ancient dinosaurs to diverse ecosystems, at this captivating natural history museum.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better viewing
Beijing Museum of Natural History Beijing
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Earth's wonders, from ancient dinosaurs to diverse ecosystems, at this captivating natural history museum.
"A must-visit for dinosaur lovers and anyone curious about the natural world!"
🎟️ Book tickets via WeChat
Secure your entry by booking tickets through the official WeChat account or Meituan app up to 7 days in advance.
🚶♀️ Arrive early to beat crowds
Beat the rush by arriving shortly after opening. Weekday mornings are generally less crowded.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dinosaur Hall
Main Exhibition Hall
Marvel at impressive dinosaur skeletons, including a life-sized Triceratops. A must-see for paleontology enthusiasts!
Ancient Vertebrates
Fossil Exhibition Area
Explore a vast collection of ancient vertebrate fossils, showcasing the evolution of life on Earth.
Human Body Exhibition
Human Body Hall
Gain fascinating insights into human anatomy and physiology with detailed exhibits.
Biodiversity Hall
Biodiversity Hall
Discover the rich tapestry of plant and animal life from China and around the world.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Navigating Beijing's Scale
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book tickets via WeChat
Secure your entry by booking tickets through the official WeChat account or Meituan app up to 7 days in advance.
🚶♀️ Arrive early to beat crowds
Beat the rush by arriving shortly after opening. Weekday mornings are generally less crowded.
📱 Use Meituan for tickets
If WeChat is difficult, the Meituan app is another reliable option for booking museum tickets.
🗺️ Plan your route
Beijing is huge; group nearby attractions to save travel time and energy.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book tickets via WeChat
Secure your entry by booking tickets through the official WeChat account or Meituan app up to 7 days in advance.
🚶♀️ Arrive early to beat crowds
Beat the rush by arriving shortly after opening. Weekday mornings are generally less crowded.
📱 Use Meituan for tickets
If WeChat is difficult, the Meituan app is another reliable option for booking museum tickets.
🗺️ Plan your route
Beijing is huge; group nearby attractions to save travel time and energy.
📸 Capture the exhibits
The museum offers many visually stunning displays, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Beijing Museum of Natural History for its impressive dinosaur exhibits and comprehensive collections on biodiversity and ancient life. It's considered a highly educational and engaging experience for all ages. However, the mandatory advance booking system, often requiring specific Chinese apps, can be a significant hurdle for international tourists.
"As someone who really loves nature and finds science fascinating, this museum was such a peaceful and inspiring stop during my time in Beijing. I didn’t know exactly what to expect, but once I walked in, I was completely drawn in. Giant dinosaur skeletons welcomed me right at the entrance, and from there it just kept getting better.
The museum takes you on a journey through the history of life—from prehistoric ocean creatures all the way to mammals and early humans. There was something about seeing those massive fossils and carefully arranged dioramas that just made you pause and think about how far life has come. It wasn’t just about looking at bones—it was about imagining what the Earth used to be like.
One of my favorite parts was the ancient mammals section. Seeing things like saber-toothed cats and mammoths up close was surreal. I also loved the plant life exhibit—it sounds simple, but they did a really good job showing how even plants evolved and adapted over time.
It’s a bit quieter than some of the big tourist spots, which I actually liked—it gave me space to take my time, walk through slowly, and just be present. A few exhibits didn’t have full English translations, but it honestly didn’t matter too much. The visuals and overall vibe of the place carried it.
Tips if you go:
– It’s free, but you need to book a time slot online in advance.
– Definitely take your time—it’s not a huge museum, but there’s a lot to take in.
– It’s a great break if you want something more calm and reflective during your trip.
– Right by the Temple of Heaven, so it’s easy to add to your day.
This museum reminded me why I love learning about the natural world—it connects you to something bigger. I left feeling more grounded and more curious, which to me is the best kind of museum experience."
Benjamin Helwa
"Note google map is NOT accurate in China. You can easily buy tickets at the counter. Elderly above 60 is free. 2 level museum that seems very basic. Not wow standard. Place to just explore for a short time. Toilets available."
Mervyn Phea
"Exciting in some ways, and disappointing in other ways! Admission is free, and the building is pretty easy to find. It's about a ten minute walk from 珠市口 subway station (line 7). There is very little English signage, but I used my google translate app's camera function to get a rough translation. The aquarium is amazingly pathetic and sad, don't bother going downstairs to see it unless you want to feel pity for some fish. However, the other exhibits, particularly the human origins exhibit, were really cool!!!"
Lauren Thornberg
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is accessible via public transport. Take subway Line 5 to Tianqiao Station and walk for about 10 minutes, or take subway Line 8 to Zhushikou Station and walk for about 15 minutes. Several bus lines also stop nearby.
Taxis are generally available in Beijing, but during peak hours or after major events, they can be harder to find. Using ride-sharing apps is often more convenient.
Yes, driving is an option, but parking can be challenging and expensive in central Beijing. Public transportation is often recommended for tourists.
The Beijing Museum of Natural History is located south of Tiananmen Square, approximately a 20-30 minute walk or a short taxi/subway ride away.
Yes, the museum is relatively close to Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the Temple of Heaven, making it possible to combine visits if planned efficiently.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets are typically purchased in advance through the museum's official WeChat account or the Meituan app. It's advisable to book at least a few days ahead, especially for weekends or holidays. +1
While it used to be possible, it's now highly recommended to book tickets online in advance as on-site purchases may not be available or can involve long queues.
Admission to the Beijing Museum of Natural History is generally free, but advance reservation is mandatory. Some special exhibitions might have a separate fee.
Yes, all visitors, including children, typically require a pre-booked ticket. Check the specific booking platform for age restrictions or requirements.
The museum is usually open from Tuesday to Sunday, with specific hours that can vary. It's best to check the official website or booking app for the most current opening times.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
A typical visit can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on your interest level and how much time you spend at each exhibit.
While official guided tours might be limited, you can enhance your experience with audio guides or by joining a private tour group if available.
Absolutely! The museum's dinosaur hall and interactive exhibits are particularly engaging for children.
Photography is generally allowed in most areas, but flash photography might be restricted in certain exhibits to protect the artifacts.
Wi-Fi availability can be inconsistent. It's advisable to download any necessary information or maps beforehand or rely on your mobile data.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum may have limited food and beverage options, such as a small cafe or vending machines. It's often recommended to eat before or after your visit.
The area around Tiananmen Square and Qianmen Street offers a wide variety of dining options, from traditional Beijing cuisine to international fast food.
Generally, bringing outside food and drinks into the exhibition halls is discouraged. Check the museum's specific policies upon entry.
📸 📸 Photography
The dinosaur skeletons, particularly the Triceratops, and the detailed dioramas in the biodiversity hall are popular photo opportunities. 
Be mindful of signs indicating areas where photography is prohibited, especially for delicate exhibits. Avoid using flash to protect the displays.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. Consider a lens that can capture both wide shots of the halls and close-ups of exhibits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The museum's exhibits are generally designed to be engaging and educational for younger visitors, sparking curiosity about the natural world. Pro-tip: Book your tickets well in advance, as they are mandatory and can sell out. Consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid the largest crowds and ensure a more relaxed experience for your family.
🤓 Enthusiasts & Learners
The Biodiversity Hall is equally impressive, showcasing the vast array of life forms with detailed displays.To maximize your learning experience, consider downloading a museum guide app or researching specific exhibits beforehand. While official guided tours might be limited, the museum's layout and informative displays allow for self-guided exploration. Remember to book your tickets in advance to ensure entry.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Beijing's Museum Scene
To avoid missing out, it's recommended to secure tickets for popular museums at least a week in advance. Websites like Trip.com are sometimes suggested as alternatives for booking, though their availability can vary. If you find yourself in Beijing without advance reservations for a specific museum, exploring alternatives like the China Archaeology Museum or the Capital Museum might be a good backup plan, as suggested by Reddit users.
When planning your museum visits, consider the sheer scale of Beijing. Attractions are spread out, and travel time between them can be substantial. Grouping museums by geographical location can optimize your itinerary and minimize transit time. For instance, the Beijing Museum of Natural History is south of Tiananmen Square, making it potentially combinable with visits to that area or the Temple of Heaven.
Must-See Exhibits at the Museum
+1 The sheer scale of these ancient creatures is a powerful reminder of Earth's prehistoric past.Beyond the dinosaurs, the museum excels in showcasing the diversity of life. The Ancient Vertebrates section presents a comprehensive collection of fossils, charting the evolutionary path of various species. Complementing this is the Biodiversity Hall, which offers a vibrant exploration of plant and animal life from China and across the globe. These exhibits are meticulously curated to educate and inspire visitors about the planet's rich ecological tapestry.
For those interested in the human element, the Human Body Exhibition provides detailed and accessible insights into anatomy and physiology. It’s an educational space that appeals to all ages. Combined, these exhibits make the Beijing Museum of Natural History a comprehensive and engaging destination for anyone curious about the natural world.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit