Chinese Imperial Post

The Chinese Imperial Post museum is a niche attraction housed in a traditional courtyard building on Yandai By Street, a historic hutong in Beijing's Xicheng District. The museum chronicles the development of China's postal service from ancient times through the Qing dynasty, with exhibits featuring original stamps, postal uniforms, mailboxes, and delivery vehicles. Visitors can see rare artifacts such as the 'dragon stamp' from the late 19th century and learn about the courier systems used by emperors. The museum is small but well-curated, offering a quiet escape from the bustling street outside. The staff are knowledgeable and may provide guided explanations in Chinese or English. The location on Yandai By Street, known for its souvenir shops and snack stalls, makes it easy to combine with a stroll through the historic area.

Don't miss

• Rare Qing dynasty stamps and postal artifacts
• Traditional courtyard architecture on a historic hutong street
• Exhibits on ancient courier routes and the 'dragon stamp'
• Quiet, uncrowded atmosphere ideal for history buffs

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Chinese Imperial Post

Cheapest way inBeijing Forbidden City Ticket Booking (Optional: guide service)4.8★ · 1,470 travelers3–4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$9 per personSee dates →Most bookedBeijing Private Hutong Food Walking Tour5★ · 352 travelers~4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$74 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleChinese Kung Fu Experience Class in Beijing5★ · 14 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$65 per personSee dates →

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Know before you go

• Photography is allowed inside, but flash may be prohibited near delicate stamps.
• English descriptions are limited; consider bringing a translation app or guide.
• Combine your visit with shopping for souvenirs and snacks on Yandai By Street.
• Wear comfortable shoes; the hutong streets are cobblestone and uneven.

A bit of history

China's imperial postal system dates back over 2,000 years to the Qin dynasty, but the modern postal service began in the late Qing dynasty. The museum is located in a building that once served as a post office during the Qing era, preserving the architectural heritage of the hutong.