Exploring Chengdu Jinsha Site Museum: Unlocking the Ancient Shu Civilization
Chengdu, a city where history blends seamlessly with modern life, is home to a remarkable site that lets visitors travel through time: the Chengdu Jinsha Site Museum. For international travelers, this museum is not just a window into the ancient civilizations along the upper Yangtze River—it is a cultural journey spanning over 3,000 years.
I. Historical Background of Jinsha Site Museum: Discover Ancient Shu Civilization in Chengdu
The Jinsha Site was discovered in February 2001 during construction in downtown Chengdu. Covering approximately 5 square kilometers, it was the capital of the Ancient Shu Kingdom from the 12th to the 7th century BC. Though related to the Sanxingdui civilization, Jinsha has its own unique characteristics.
The excavation revealed thousands of artifacts in gold, bronze, jade, stone, and ivory, offering a rare glimpse into the material and spiritual life of the ancient Shu people. Among these treasures, the “Sun and Immortal Bird” gold ornament has become an iconic emblem of Chinese culture, symbolizing the Shu people’s reverence for the sun and pursuit of light.
II. Top Attractions at Chengdu Jinsha Site Museum: Must-See Exhibits and Cultural Highlights
1. Relic Hall (Yíjì Guǎn) – Experience Ancient Shu Civilization at Jinsha Museum
The Relic Hall preserves the original large-scale sacrificial area of the Jinsha Site. Walking above the excavation, visitors can see archaeologists at work and view artifacts as they were uncovered. This immersive experience brings history to life, making it tangible rather than just words in a book.
2. Exhibition Hall (Chénliè Guǎn) – Learn About Ancient Shu Kingdom and Daily Life
The Exhibition Hall, themed “Entering Jinsha,” is divided into five sections:
- Ancient Homeland
- Kingdom Silhouette
- Heaven and Earth Endure
- Treasures of a Thousand Years
- Interpreting Jinsha
Using modern technology, it showcases the Shu people’s daily life, architecture, hunting, farming, pottery, bronze smelting, and jade crafting. Visitors can appreciate both the superb craftsmanship and unique aesthetics of these ancient artifacts.
3. Phoebe Zhennan Forest (Wūmù Lín) – Explore Millennia of Transformation
The Phoebe Zhennan Forest contains over sixty ancient submerged wood logs unearthed locally. Over thousands of years, these trees developed a texture that is neither quite stone nor wood. Strolling through the forest, visitors can feel the passage of millennia and the artistry of ancient Shu wood carving.
4. Deer Park (Lù Yuàn) – Connect with Ancient Shu Nature
In the Deer Park, sika deer roam freely among lush bamboo and trees. This peaceful environment reflects the Shu people’s vision of harmony with nature, providing visitors with a serene and memorable experience.
5. Monument to Chinese Cultural Heritage (Jìniàn Diāosù) – Symbol of Legacy
Along the main path from the South Gate to the Exhibition Hall, the Memorial Sculpture is modeled after the “Sun and Immortal Bird” gold ornament. It represents the achievements of ancient gold craftsmanship and embodies the spirit of light, unity, progress, and cultural harmony.
III. Visitor Tips for Chengdu Jinsha Site Museum: Tickets, Transportation, and Opening Hours
Getting to Chengdu Jinsha Site Museum – Metro, Bus, and Taxi Options：
- Metro: Take Line 7 to Jinsha Museum Station , Exit C, then walk to the museum.
- Bus: Routes 5, 7, and 83 stop nearby.
- Taxi/Car: Parking is available but limited during peak season.
Tickets:
- Price: ¥70 per person
- Discounts: Half-price for students aged 6–18; free entry for seniors over 60, retired officials, military personnel, and disabled visitors with valid ID.
Opening Hours:
- Daily: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (ticket sales until 5:00 PM)
- Note: The museum is currently closed for renovations, reopening projected on May 1, 2027. Check the latest status before visiting.
IV. Conclusion: A Cross-Time Cultural Feast
The Chengdu Jinsha Site Museum is more than a collection of artifacts; it is a bridge connecting past and future. Visitors can travel through time, witness the vibrant life of the ancient Shu people, and experience the enduring charm of Chinese culture. With modern technology and immersive exhibits, history becomes an unforgettable journey. Furthermore, to explore more highlights of a Sichuan journey, don’t miss our page on Chengdu Tourist Attractions!
