Situated in Wuchang District, Wuhan, the Hubei Provincial Museum is the region’s best known museum.  The museum, which was established in 1953, has a collection of over 200,000 cultural relics originating from the province.

Among the collection of rare and ancient artefacts are 16 national treasures as well as 812 objects rated as first class cultural relics of China.  The museum holds special exhibitions and produces several original publications.

The 40,000-square-metre museum has three sections: the Chime Bells Exhibition Hall, the Chu Culture Exhibition Hall and the Comprehensive Exhibition Hall. The Chime Bells Exhibition Hall contains relics excavated from royal tombs dating back to the Warring States Period (476 BC to 221 BC).  In the hall hangs the famous Chime Bells, the largest musical instrument ever made of bronze.  The Music Hall has ancient Chinese music performances where musicians perform replicas of the Chimes Bell, daily from 11am to 4pm.

The Chu Culture Exhibition Hall features the regional culture of the Chu state.  Among the cultural relics showcased are bronzed vessels, bamboo and lacquer works, silk products and ancient weapons.  There are also restored chariots and models of ancient houses.  The museum also has a collection of invaluable gold and jade ornaments.

With a rich history in the background, Hubei Provincial Museum plays a vital role in preserving China’s cultural heritage.  The location of Shangri-La Hotel, Wuhan makes the museum conveniently accessible.