National Animal Museum

National Animal Museum

In accordance with the knowledge innovation project of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the national need to promote “ecological civilization” construction and strengthen environmental awareness and education, in 1999, under the advocacy and care of then Vice Premier –, the state allocated funding. After nearly a decade of effort, the National Animal Museum, affiliated with the Institute of Zoology of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, was completed. The museum integrates animal specimen collection and exhibition, science popularization and education, as well as biodiversity description and cataloging. It is a professional museum representing the national level.

The National Animal Museum Exhibition Hall embodies the dedication and collective wisdom of several generations of Chinese zoological scientists. With a total construction area of 7,300 square meters, including 5,500 square meters of exhibition space spread across three floors, its architectural design is modeled after the Muséum national d'Histoire naturelle in France. It serves to popularize zoological knowledge and promote themes of environmental protection and harmony between humans and nature.

Backed by the strong scientific research foundation of the Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, the Exhibition Hall systematically and comprehensively combines scientific knowledge with exquisitely displayed animal specimens. It utilizes various exhibition methods and techniques to guide visitors of all levels in progressively learning and understanding zoological knowledge.

The Exhibition Hall officially opened to the public on May 17, 2009, becoming a window for the Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences to serve society, a base for ecological civilization education and science popularization, and a platform that brings scientists closer to the general public.

The Exhibition Hall consists of ten independent exhibition zones: Animal Diversity and Evolution, Invertebrates, Birds, Endangered Animals, Butterflies, Insects, Animals and Humans, History of the Institute of Zoology, Featured Exhibits, and Exchange. Additionally, there is a café and a 4D dynamic cinema for visitors’ leisure, as well as an animal science-themed bookstore and open lecture hall where visitors can gain specialized knowledge.

After opening, the museum plans to be open six days a week, closed on Mondays, receiving 300 general visitors per day and operating 300 days per year. In addition to permanent exhibits, short-term thematic exhibitions will be held based on societal needs, along with a series of special lectures. These activities aim to engage the general public, especially young people, through hands-on participation to further enhance awareness of nature conservation.

The National Animal Museum Exhibition Hall is set to become an important science education base in China, the largest professional museum dedicated to promoting zoological knowledge, advocating for environmental protection, and spreading the message of harmony between humans and nature.

Attraction Location

No. 5, Courtyard 1, Beichen West Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ditan Road (near the Olympic Park)

Source: Beijing Municipal Commission of Tourism Development