How do I visit the China Railway Museum in Beijing?

If you're a railway enthusiast or simply interested in Chinese history, visiting the China Railway Museum in Beijing is a must-do. Here's what you need to know to plan your visit:

Location and Hours

The China Railway Museum is located in Chaoyang District, about 10 miles (16 kilometers) northeast of the city center. The address is No. 1, Guanjia Tuan, Haidian District, Beijing. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tickets and Admission

Admission to the museum is free. However, tickets are required, and you'll need to show your passport or Chinese ID card to get them. Tickets are available at the entrance gate on a first-come, first-served basis, and they can run out quickly on busy days.

Getting There

The easiest way to get to the China Railway Museum is by taking a taxi. You can also take the subway to the Huixinxijie Nankou station (Line 5) and then walk about 20 minutes to the museum. Another option is to take public bus No. 379, 380, 656, 670, 697, 852, 913, or 915 to the Guanzhuang station and then walk for about 15 minutes.

What to See

The China Railway Museum has a large collection of locomotives, railway cars, and other railway-related artifacts. The museum is divided into two parts: the old museum and the new museum. The old museum showcases the history of Chinese railways, including the construction of the first railway in China, while the new museum displays modern railway technology and achievements. Some of the highlights of the museum include the steam locomotive that pulled Mao Zedong's funeral train, the first Chinese-made diesel locomotive, and the fastest train in China.