Introduction to Taiwan National Palace Museum
The Taiwan National Palace Museum is one of the most significant cultural institutions in Asia and the world.
The Taiwan National Palace Museum is home to one of the largest and most exquisite collections of Chinese imperial art and artifacts in the world. With more than 700,000 treasures spanning over 8,000 years of Chinese history, the museum offers a rare and captivating glimpse into the legacy of emperors, dynasties, and master artisans.
For first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike, knowing what to look for can make your trip much more rewarding. In this guide, we highlight the must-see exhibits and masterpieces that you shouldn’t miss during your visit to the National Palace Museum.
Whether you’re a scholar of Chinese history, an art lover, or a first-time traveler to Taiwan, this museum promises an awe-inspiring experience that reveals the depth and elegance of Chinese civilization.
History of the National Palace Museum
The origins of the Taiwan National Palace Museum trace back to Beijing’s Forbidden City. After the fall of the Qing Dynasty in 1911, efforts began to preserve the vast imperial collections accumulated over centuries.
During the Chinese Civil War, thousands of the most precious items were relocated to Taiwan by the Nationalist government to protect them from destruction.
In 1965, the museum was officially established in Taipei, becoming a permanent guardian of this invaluable heritage. Today, it is recognized globally for housing one of the largest and finest collections of Chinese art and artifacts.
Rotating Exhibitions: Always Something New
Because the museum holds over 700,000 artifacts, only a portion is on display at any one time. Exhibits rotate regularly, ensuring there’s always something new to discover, even for return visitors.
Special exhibitions also include international loans and themed showcases that highlight connections between Chinese culture and other world traditions.
Why the National Palace Museum Should Be on Your Taiwan Itinerary
Visiting the Taiwan National Palace Museum is not just a sightseeing activity—it’s a cultural immersion. It’s where you can stand face-to-face with relics that once belonged to emperors and scholars. It’s a place where thousands of years of innovation, spirituality, and artistic brilliance converge in a modern, accessible setting.
Unlike many museums that focus on isolated periods or themes, this institution offers a comprehensive narrative of Chinese civilization. Whether you’re spending a day in Taipei or exploring Taiwan for weeks, this museum is a top-tier cultural destination that you won’t want to miss.
Languages and Accessibility
- Exhibition info available in English, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean
- Audio guides and guided tours are available
- Museum is wheelchair accessible
A Trio of National Treasures
The three national treasures of the Palace Museum are
● Travelers Among Mountains and Streams by Fan Kuan (Approx. 950-1032)
● Early Spring by Guo Xi (dated 1072)
● Whispering Pines in Myriad Valleys by Li Tang (dated 1124)
As the preservation of calligraphy and painting materials is extremely difficult, the Palace Museum strictly limits the exhibition cycle. It takes at least three or four years to display them in special exhibitions for a maximum of 42 days. The three treasures of the Palace Museum have become limited edition calligraphy and paintings that are difficult for ordinary audiences to see.
Three treasures that are not often exhibited
The last time the three national treasures were exhibited together was in 2011 and 2021.
Travelers Among Mountains and Streams by Fan Kuan
Period: Northern Song Dynasty (Approx. 950-1032)
Medium: Ink on silk
Significance: This grand landscape painting is considered a pinnacle of Chinese landscape art. It depicts travelers dwarfed by towering cliffs and majestic mountains, highlighting the relationship between humans and nature in classical Chinese aesthetics. Fan Kuan’s meticulous brushwork and deep spatial composition defined the monumental style of the Song Dynasty.
Early Spring by Guo Xi
Period: Northern Song Dynasty (dated 1072)
Medium: Ink on silk
Significance: Commissioned by Emperor Shenzong, this masterpiece captures the subtle transformation of nature at the start of spring. Guo Xi pioneered the use of spatial techniques such as “high distance,” “deep distance,” and “level distance,” giving the viewer a poetic and immersive sense of landscape.
Whispering Pines in Myriad Valleys by Li Tang
Period: Southern Song Dynasty (dated 1124)
Medium: Ink and color on silk
Significance: Li Tang’s powerful brushstrokes and bold composition mark a turning point in Chinese landscape painting. The piece portrays pine trees swaying among deep gorges, combining dynamic structure with refined detail. It laid the groundwork for the Southern Song court painting style.
Three treasures that are often exhibited
In recent years, tourism practitioners have described the jadeite cabbage, meat-shaped stone and Maogong Ding, which are regularly exhibited, as the “sour cabbage and pork hot pot” commonly eaten by Taiwanese. Through the promotion of popular tastes, these three cultural relics have become the folk version of the “Three Treasures of the National Palace Museum.”
The 3 most famous pieces in the National Palace Museum in Taiwan:
Jadeite Cabbage
Period: Qing Dynasty
Material: Jadeite
Significance: Carved from a single piece of natural jadeite with green and white hues, this sculpture resembles a Chinese cabbage with a locust and katydid hidden among the leaves. Symbolizing fertility and purity, it’s one of the museum’s most beloved items and a highlight of Qing court craftsmanship.
Meat-Shaped Stone
Period: Qing Dynasty
Material: Banded jasper
Significance: This realistic sculpture mimics the famous Dongpo-style braised pork belly. The layered coloring and glossy finish make it incredibly lifelike. The work showcases the Qing Dynasty’s playful yet technically brilliant approach to decorative arts.
Mao Gong Ding (Mao’s Cauldron)
Period: Late Western Zhou Dynasty
Material: Bronze
Significance: This large ritual bronze vessel features the longest bronze inscription ever discovered (over 500 characters), recording an imperial edict granted to Duke Mao. It is an invaluable artifact for studying ancient Chinese politics, law, and calligraphy.
What to See at the Taiwan National Palace Museum
A Complete Guide to the Must-See Treasures
The Jadeite Cabbage with Insects
Arguably the most famous artifact in the entire museum, the Jadeite Cabbage is a breathtaking sculpture carved from a single piece of natural jadeite. It realistically resembles a Chinese cabbage, complete with finely detailed leaves and a hidden locust and katydid perched among them.
● Dynasty: Qing Dynasty (19th century)
● Symbolism: Fertility, purity, and prosperity
● Why it’s special: The natural coloration of the jade—white at the stalk and green at the leaves—was ingeniously incorporated by the artist.
This small but iconic piece is a national treasure and a must-see for anyone visiting the museum.
Meat-Shaped Stone (Dongpo Pork Stone)
Another fan favorite is the Meat-Shaped Stone, a piece of banded jasper that has been skillfully carved and dyed to look exactly like a slab of Dongpo pork, a classic Chinese braised pork dish.
● Dynasty: Qing Dynasty
● Material: Jasper
● Significance: It represents the whimsical and playful side of Chinese art, showing the artist’s mastery in imitating real-life objects.
This piece is so realistic that many visitors are surprised to learn it’s a stone and not actual food.
Masterpieces of Chinese Calligraphy
The National Palace Museum houses an extraordinary collection of Chinese calligraphy, which is considered one of the highest forms of artistic expression in Chinese culture.
● Highlights: Works by Wang Xizhi (Jin Dynasty), Su Shi (Song Dynasty), and Zhao Mengfu (Yuan Dynasty)
● Types of calligraphy: Regular script, cursive, semi-cursive, and clerical script
● Why it matters: These pieces reflect the elegance, discipline, and personal expression of scholars and officials throughout Chinese history.
Calligraphy lovers will appreciate the skill and rhythm embedded in each brushstroke.
Ancient Chinese Paintings
From detailed landscapes to spiritual portraits and court scenes, the painting collection is one of the most impressive in East Asia.
● Notable works: “Early Spring” by Guo Xi, “Travelers Among Mountains and Streams” by Fan Kuan, and “Along the River During the Qingming Festival”
● Dynasties represented: Tang, Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing
● Artistic features: Ink washes, brushwork, and poetic inscriptions that often accompany the visuals
Many paintings are part of a rotating exhibition schedule, so there’s always something fresh to discover.
Ritual Bronzes from the Shang and Zhou Dynasties
The museum’s collection of bronze vessels used in ancient Chinese rituals is both vast and historically important.
● Era: Mainly Shang (1600–1046 BCE) and Zhou (1046–256 BCE) Dynasties
● Purpose: Used in ancestral worship and state rituals
● Examples: Tripod cauldrons (ding), wine vessels (zun), and bell chimes
The intricate designs and inscriptions on these pieces reflect early Chinese belief systems and political power.
Exquisite Chinese Ceramics
Ceramics are one of China’s most renowned artistic achievements, and the museum’s collection is a testament to this legacy.
● Notable pieces: Ru ware (Song Dynasty), blue-and-white porcelain (Ming Dynasty), famille-rose enamelware (Qing Dynasty)
● Styles to note: Celadon, Jun ware, Ding ware, and more
● Why visit: You’ll see how ceramics evolved over time—from utilitarian wares to refined objects for the imperial court.
These elegant, often colorful vessels show off both technical precision and aesthetic refinement.
Jade Artifacts from Ancient to Imperial Times
China’s love affair with jade spans millennia, and the museum contains some of the finest jade carvings ever made.
● Artifacts include: Bi discs, ceremonial blades, imperial seals, belt hooks, and jewelry
● Time period: From Neolithic Liangzhu culture to the Qing Dynasty
● Symbolism: Jade represents virtue, immortality, and divine power in Chinese culture
One highlight is a white jade imperial seal used by emperors to authenticate official documents.
Rare Books, Documents & Historical Manuscripts
The museum is also a hub for researchers, thanks to its vast library of ancient books and documents.
● Content includes: Confucian classics, dynastic histories, Buddhist sutras, and civil service examination papers
● Languages: Mostly Classical Chinese, with annotations and marginalia
● Significance: These texts provide deep insights into the intellectual and administrative traditions of China
While not always on display, facsimiles and digital exhibitions offer access to some of these rare manuscripts.
Bonus: Digital Interactive Exhibits
To make the experience even more engaging, the museum includes interactive screens, multimedia guides, and VR installations to help visitors understand the context and significance of the exhibits.
● Great for children and families
● Available in multiple languages
● Enhances learning through storytelling and animation
Don’t Miss These Highlights
The Taiwan National Palace Museum is more than just a place to view old objects—it’s a living archive of Chinese civilization. From whimsical carvings like the Jadeite Cabbage to scholarly scrolls and awe-inspiring bronzes, each item tells a story about culture, history, politics, and identity.
Make sure you take time to appreciate:
- The craftsmanship of the jade and stone carvings
- The intellectual beauty of Chinese calligraphy and painting
- The historical depth of ritual bronzes and imperial artifacts
Nearby Attractions: Don’t miss the adjacent Zhishan Garden, a beautifully landscaped traditional Chinese garden perfect for a relaxing stroll after your museum visit.
Opening Hours
Exhibition Hall I (Main Building): Tuesday to Sunday 09:00-17:00 (Closed on Mondays)
Children’s Gallery: Tuesday to Sunday 09:00-17:00 (Closed on Mondays)
Located on B1 of the Main Building. Admission is free.
Suitable for adults and children of all ages (children younger than 10 years old must be accompanied by an adult)
Zhishan Garden: Tuesday to Sunday 08:00-17:00 (Closed on Mondays)
Zhide Garden: Admission is free and open all year round.
Ticket Price
General: NT$350
Discount Ticket: NT$150
R.O.C. citizens with a valid identification document (the same rule applies for visitors visiting in groups)
Students with valid international student ID (ISIC,international student identity card)
Free
Visitors (of all nationalities) aged 17 and under
R.O.C. citizens who are seniors aged 65 and above
People with disabilities and one accompanying person
R.O.C. students holding a valid student ID issued by a school registered with the Ministry of Education
National Palace Museum – Audio Guide
Multimedia audio guides can be rented at the audio counter on the first floor for NT$150 per session. The audio systems are available in Mandarin Chinese, Taiwanese, Hakka Chinese, English, Japanese, Korean, Spanish, French, German, Cantonese, Thai, Vietnamese, Indonesian, and Sign Language
National Palace Museum – Gift Shops
The Taiwan National Palace Museum has gift shops located in B1 and 2nd floor of the Main building (Exhibition Hall I). Tax refund service available.
2F Opening Hours: 09:00-17:00.
B1 Opening Hours:
Weekdays (Tuesday-Friday) 09:00-17:15
Holidays (Saturday-Sunday) 09:00-17:30
Southern Branch
Southern Branch of the National Palace Museum
Address: No. 888, Gugong Blvd, Taibao City, Chiayi County, Taiwan 612
Tuesday to Fridayday 09:00-17:00 (Closed on Mondays)
Saturday and Sunday: 09:00-18:00
The Best Time to Visit
While Taiwan National Palace Museum is open year-round, choosing the best time to visit can significantly enhance your experience. Whether you’re looking to avoid crowds, catch special exhibitions, or enjoy ideal weather, this guide breaks down everything you need to know.
Morning (Right When It Opens) — Ideal
Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (closed on select holidays)
Best time to enter: Between 9:00 AM and 10:30 AM
Why: Fewer tour groups and school trips, quieter galleries, and better photo opportunities.
Afternoon (12:00 PM to 3:00 PM) — Busiest
This is the peak time for group tours and tourists.
Be prepared for potentially large crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Expect long lines at the ticket counters, gift shop, and popular exhibits like the Jadeite Cabbage.
Late Afternoon (3:00 PM to 5:00 PM) — Calmer Again
The crowd begins to thin, but you may not have enough time to explore the full museum if you arrive too late.
Ideal for a short visit or a second trip if you’ve already seen the highlights.
Avoid: Weekends & Holidays
How to Get to the Taiwan National Palace Museum:
The Complete Visitor’s Guide
The Taiwan National Palace Museum, located in the Shilin District of Taipei, is one of the most visited cultural landmarks in the country. Getting there is straightforward thanks to Taipei’s efficient public transportation system. Whether you’re coming by MRT, bus, or sightseeing tour, this guide breaks down all your options for a smooth journey to one of the greatest museums in the world.
By MRT (Metro) + Bus — The Most Common Way
Step 1: Take the MRT to Shilin Station (Red Line)
Board the Tamsui-Xinyi (Red) Line and get off at Shilin Station.
Use Exit 1, which leads to Zhongzheng Road.
Step 2: Take a Bus from Shilin Station
Bus Station Google Map: MRT Shilin Station (Zhongzheng)
Just outside Exit 1, you’ll find a nearby bus stop. Look for buses heading toward the museum. You can take: Bus No. R30, 815, 304, 300, 255, S19, S18, M1
R30 (Red 30) – goes directly to the museum
Ride time: 15–20 minutes
Some buses drop you right at the museum, while others may stop a short walk away at the bottom of the hill.
Click image to view full size
| Bus Station | Bus No. | Bus stop |
|---|---|---|
| Bus Station | R30 | NPM Main Building |
| 815 | at the bottom of the hill | |
| 304 | at the bottom of the hill | |
| 300 | at the bottom of the hill | |
| 255 | opposite the NPM | |
| S19 | opposite the NPM | |
| S18 | opposite the NPM | |
| M1 / 市民小巴1 | opposite the NPM |
By Taipei Sightseeing Bus — Great for Tourists
If you want a more relaxed and scenic route, take the Taipei Sightseeing Bus (Blue Route).
Departure point: Taipei Main Station (near Exit M4)
Stop: National Palace Museum is on the Blue Route
Departure times: Around 10:50 AM, 1:10 PM, and 4:30 PM
Features: Multilingual audio guide, Wi-Fi, USB charging ports
This is a great option if you’re sightseeing and want a flexible hop-on-hop-off ticket.
MRT Alternatives: Brown Line + Bus
You can also reach the museum from stops on the Brown Line, such as Dazhi or Jiannan Road:
From Dazhi Station (Exit 3): Take Bus BR13
From Jiannan Road Station (Exit 1): Take Bus BR20 or BL7
Bus ride takes around 10 minutes from either station.
If you’re traveling in a group or want the fastest option, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are widely available in Taipei.
From central Taipei: ~20 minutes
Estimated fare: NT$200–400 depending on traffic
Walking to the Museum from the Bus Stop
If your bus drops you at the base of the museum grounds, you’ll walk a short uphill path to the main entrance. There are signs and plenty of other visitors heading the same way, so it’s easy to find.
Travel Tips
- Visit on weekdays to avoid large crowds.
- Allow 2–4 hours for a proper visit.
- Combine your trip with a walk through Zhishan Garden, right next to the museum.
- Use the Taipei Fun Pass if you’re exploring multiple attractions — it can save you money on transport and entry.