Hubei Provincial Museum (湖北省博物馆)

The Hubei Provincial Museum (湖北省博物馆, Húběi Shěng Bówùguǎn) is one of China's most important museums — home to archaeological treasures that rewrite the history of Chinese civilization.

What to See

The Bronze Bells — A set of 65 bronze bells from the tomb of Marquis Yi of Zeng — 2,400 years old and still in perfect tuning. The bells can play any modern scale.

The Sword of Goujian — A bronze sword that's 2,400 years old but shows no sign of rust. The sword is sharper than modern steel — a mystery that baffles scientists.

The Tomb Art — Intricate lacquerware, jade, and bronze from the tomb of Marquis Yi — showing a level of craftsmanship that shouldn't have existed 2,400 years ago.

Bell Concerts — The museum performs concerts on replica bells twice daily. Hearing ancient music played on 2,400-year-old instruments is unforgettable.

Practical Tips

• Free admission but booking required
• The bell concerts happen twice daily — check the schedule
• The museum is closed on Mondays
• Allow at least 2 hours
• The museum is on the east side of East Lake