Museum
Xi'an Calligraphy Museum
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The Xi'an Calligraphy Museum, located on Youyi West Road in the Beilin District, is a treasure trove for lovers of Chinese calligraphy and stone inscriptions. It is part of the larger Xi'an Beilin Museum complex, which is famous for its Forest of Steles, a collection of over 3,000 stone steles dating from the Han to Qing dynasties. The calligraphy museum focuses specifically on the art of writing, displaying exquisite examples of scripts, rubbings, and calligraphy tools. Visitors can see works by masters like Wang Xizhi and Yan Zhenqing, and learn about the evolution of Chinese characters. The museum's serene courtyard and traditional architecture provide a peaceful setting for contemplation. Interactive exhibits allow visitors to try their hand at calligraphy, making it an engaging experience for all ages.
Don't miss
- See the famous 'Stele of the Nestorian Stele' with Chinese and Syriac inscriptions
- Admire the calligraphy of Wang Xizhi's 'Preface to the Orchid Pavilion'
- Try your hand at brush calligraphy in the interactive area
- Explore the tranquil courtyard and traditional architecture
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Xi'an Calligraphy Museum
You can visit on your own (Paid entry, check official site for prices. Combines with Beilin Museum ticket). A tour adds transport and a guide, or combines nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inXi'an Airport Transfer5★ · 13 travelers~1 hourFree cancellationFrom$18 per personSee dates →
Best full dayMini Group Xian Day Tour to Terracotta Army, City Wall, Pagoda and Muslim Bazaar4.9★ · 1,545 travelers9-10 hoursFree cancellationFrom$24 per personSee dates →
Private & flexiblePrivate Xi'an Tour: Terracotta Warriors, Hanyangling Museum, Cave Homes5★ · 102 travelers~8 hoursFree cancellationFrom$175 per personSee dates →Good for
How travelers rate it
Getting there
Know before you go
- Bring a notebook to jot down characters you like; no flash photography on steles.
- Audio guides are available in English and Chinese.
- There is a small tea house on site for a break.
- Closed on Mondays (except public holidays).
A bit of history
The museum is housed in a former Confucian temple built in 1087 during the Northern Song dynasty. The steles were originally collected for educational purposes and have been preserved for centuries. The calligraphy museum opened as a dedicated space within the Beilin complex in the 1990s.
Common questions
Is the calligraphy museum the same as the Beilin Museum?
It's part of the Beilin Museum complex, but focuses specifically on calligraphy.
Can I buy calligraphy supplies there?
Yes, there is a gift shop selling brushes, ink, and paper.
Are there English descriptions?
Many exhibits have English labels; audio guides provide more detail.
How long does it take to see everything?
About 1-2 hours for the calligraphy museum alone; add 2-3 hours for the entire Beilin complex.
Is photography allowed?
Yes, but no flash or tripods to protect the steles.
What is the best way to get there from Xi'an city center?
Take metro Line 2 to Yongningmen, then walk south; it's about 15 minutes from the Bell Tower.
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