Home to the world's largest, and arguably the finest, collection of Chinese art, this museum has a vast hoard covering treasures in painting, calligraphy, statuary, bronzes, lacquerware, ceramics, jade and religious objects. Some of the most popular items, such as the famous Jadeite Cabbage, are always on display – although check first that it's not on loan to the Southern Branch of the National Palace Museum in the city of Chiayi. Most of the pieces were shipped off to Taiwan in the late 1940s when the KMT realized they were losing the Chinese Civil War to the communists.
The historical range at this museum is truly outstanding. Even within a single category, such as ceramics, pieces cover multiple dynasties, and even back to Neolithic times. The three floors of exhibits are expertly presented, with clever use of atmospheric lighting, scrolls that span an entire room, animation, lighting, shadow and sounds. The collection also seems to go on forever, as when you come to the end of one room, there’s another just beyond it. Budget for at least half a day to get the most out of this marvelous place.
You have two choices when you arrive to the museum: either climb the steps, or enter through the beautiful Zhishan Park, just to the right. Walking through this Song and Ming dynasty-style park is a lovely way to evoke an emperor-like mood before seeing the imperial treasures.
Level 1 includes rare books, special exhibits, Qing and Ming dynasty furniture, religious sculptures, and a great orientation gallery to give you an overview of dynasties.
Level 2 includes painting, calligraphy, a history of Chinese ceramics with abundant examples, and an interactive area with videos and a virtual tour of 20 famous paintings.
Level 3 contains bronzes, weapons, ritual vessels, and Ming and Qing dynasty carvings. There is also the stunning jade collection, covering weapons, teapots, jewelry, ritual objects and the renowned Jadeite Cabbage.
Level 4 was closed at the time of writing. Previously a teahouse, there are plans to convert it into more exhibition space.
The classy Silks Palace restaurant is in the building to the left of the main hall. Also on the left is the second Exhibition Hall that occasionally hosts special shows.
The museum offers free guided tours in English (book online or register in person about 20 minutes before, limited to 30 people). If you prefer to move about at your own pace, try an English headphone guide.
Taking Home a Treasure
The museum shop is located in the basement and offers gifts for all price ranges, based on its massive collection. The Jadeite Cabbage is top choice: you can get ear picks, purses, paper weights, notebooks, pens, key chains, pendants and much more made in its image. Next door is a post office, handy if you want to mail anything back home or just send a postcard or two.