Inventory of China's three major museums

The three major museums in China—Taipei’s National Palace Museum, Beijing’s Palace Museum, and Nanjing Museum—are not only architectural masterpieces but also cultural treasures that reflect the rich history and artistic heritage of the nation. Each museum has its own unique story, shaped by historical events, political changes, and the dedication of generations of curators and historians.

Taipei’s National Palace Museum, located in Shuangxi, near Shihlin town on the northern coast of Keelung, is a symbol of Chinese art and culture. Established in 1962 and completed in 1965, it features a traditional Chinese palace-style design with four levels, white walls, green tiles, and an elegant courtyard. The building stands as a proud representation of classical Chinese architecture, blending both grandeur and cultural identity. With over 20 exhibition halls, it houses thousands of precious artifacts, including calligraphy, paintings, ceramics, and ancient relics. Covering approximately 16 hectares, the museum is surrounded by natural beauty and reflects the traditional aesthetics of imperial China.

Beijing’s Palace Museum, situated within the Forbidden City, was founded on October 10, 1925, and serves as the largest ancient cultural and art museum in China. It was built upon the legacy of the Ming and Qing dynasties, housing vast collections from imperial palaces. Although some artifacts were moved to Taipei during the late 1940s, the museum continued to grow through private donations, archaeological discoveries, and the return of items once owned by the last emperor, Puyi. Today, it holds over 1.8 million cultural relics, spanning almost every period of Chinese civilization. Its collection includes rare scrolls, jade carvings, and royal artifacts, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in China’s imperial past.

Nanjing Museum, originally known as the National Central Museum, was established in 1933 and is one of the oldest museums in China. Designed by renowned architect Xu Jingzhi and later modified by Liang Sicheng, the museum’s main hall is modeled after the Liao Dynasty Palace. The structure follows the principles of traditional Chinese architecture while incorporating elements from the Tang and Song dynasties. Known for its majestic and elegant design, it is considered a masterpiece of modern Chinese architecture. After recent expansion, the museum now operates under a “one-hospital six-hall” layout, featuring dedicated spaces for history, special exhibitions, digital displays, art, and more. As the second-largest museum in China, it plays a vital role in preserving and showcasing the country’s rich historical and artistic heritage.