Step into a realm where science, history, and nature converge at the Chongqing Natural History Museum, a treasure trove of Earth’s wonders nestled at the foot of Jinyun Mountain in Beibei District. With roots tracing back to the 1930s, this museum carries a legacy of exploration and education, born from the visionary Science Academy of West China (founded by philanthropist Lu Zuofu in 1930) and the collaborative West Museum of China (established in 1943).
Size: Sprawling across 14.4 hectares, the museum boasts 30,842 m2 of floor space, with 16,252 m2 dedicated to exhibitions.
Mission: To unravel the interconnected stories of Earth’s evolution, biodiversity, and humanity’s relationship with nature, advocating for sustainable harmony.
Dinosaur World: Roam among towering skeletons of Jurassic giants like Mamenchisaurus, unearthed from Sichuan’s fossil-rich grounds.
Landscape Metropolis: Explore how Chongqing’s dramatic topography—carved by the Yangtze River and karst formations—shaped its ecology and culture.
Earth Mystery: Interactive displays on tectonic forces, mineral wealth, and seismic phenomena that molded our planet.
Life Stream: A timeline of evolution, from primordial microbes to Homo sapiens, with rare fossils and DNA exhibits.
Ecological Homeland: Reflect on environmental challenges and solutions through multimedia installations and conservation success stories.
Experience Nature: Wander themed trails like the “Geological Walk” showcasing ancient rock layers.
Learn from Nature: Participate in outdoor workshops on plant identification and ecosystem balance.
Discover Nature: Climb observation decks for panoramic views of Jinyun Mountain’s lush canopy.
Family-Friendly: Hands-on VR dinosaur hunts, fossil-rubbing stations, and kid-centric science labs.
Nature Escape: Seamlessly transition from indoor exhibits to forested trails, blending learning with outdoor adventure.
Pro Tip: Pair your visit with a hike up Jinyun Mountain—its misty peaks and Taoist temples echo the museum’s themes of natural wonder.
“A museum not of dusty relics, but of Earth’s living story—written in stone, bone, and the whispers of the forest.”
Plan your journey to this sanctuary of science and nature, where every exhibit ignites curiosity about our planet’s past, present, and future.
Admission: Free entry; special exhibitions may require tickets.
By Metro: Line 6 to Beibei Station → Bus 520/556 to Museum Stop.
By Car: 40-minute drive from downtown Chongqing (parking available).
Best Time to Visit: Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) for mild weather and vibrant outdoor scenery.
Whether you’re a fossil enthusiast, nature lover, or history buff, the Chongqing Natural History Museum promises an enlightening escape into the heart of our planet’s narrative.
