The Sanxingdui Museum is located in Guanghan City, Sichuan Province, China. It is one of the most important archaeological site museums in China, showcasing a large number of precious artifacts unearthed from the Sanxingdui site, revealing the brilliance and mystery of the ancient Shu civilization.
History and Culture
Historical Origins
The history of the Sanxingdui site dates back to the ancient Shu period, approximately 3,000 to 5,000 years ago. The discovery of the site shocked the world and is hailed as "one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of the 20th century."
Cultural Features
Sanxingdui culture represents the ancient Shu civilization, with its unique bronze, gold, and jade artifacts showcasing the advanced craftsmanship and rich imagination of the ancient Shu people. The mysterious masks and sacred trees among the Sanxingdui artifacts have become symbols of ancient Shu culture.
Exhibitions and Artifacts
Main Exhibition Halls
- Comprehensive Hall: Displays the historical background and archaeological discoveries of the Sanxingdui site.
- Bronze Hall: Exhibits a large number of exquisite bronze artifacts, including the famous bronze masks and bronze sacred trees.
- Gold Artifact Hall: Showcases gold artifacts unearthed from Sanxingdui, such as gold scepters and gold masks.
Precious Artifacts
- Bronze Masks: One of the most representative artifacts of Sanxingdui, featuring mysterious designs and exquisite craftsmanship.
- Bronze Sacred Trees: A 3.95-meter-tall bronze tree symbolizing the ancient Shu people's cosmology.
- Gold Scepter: A gold artifact symbolizing power and divinity, with intricate craftsmanship.
Travel Experience
Must-See Exhibits
- Bronze Masks: Experience the mystery and brilliance of the ancient Shu civilization.
- Bronze Sacred Trees: Admire the ancient Shu people's cosmology and artistic creativity.
- Gold Scepter: Learn about the power structure and religious beliefs of ancient Shu society.
Activities
- Artifact Tour: Gain an in-depth understanding of the history and cultural background of Sanxingdui artifacts.
- Archaeological Experience: Participate in simulated archaeological activities and experience the fun of archaeological work.
- Cultural Lectures: Attend cultural lectures hosted by the museum to learn about the latest research on the ancient Shu civilization.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Open year-round, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM).
Ticket Information
Admission fee is 80 RMB per person, with discounts available for students and seniors.
Transportation
- By Car: About 1 hour drive from Chengdu.
- Public Transport: Take a bus from Chengdu Xinnanmen Station or Chadianzi Station to Guanghan City, then transfer to local buses or taxis.
Tips
- Do not touch the exhibits and keep quiet.
- Follow the rules in no-photography zones within the museum.
- Protect the artifacts and avoid littering.