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Qinghai Tibetan Culture Museum
No. 2 of Best Things to Do in Qinghai

Qinghai Tibetan Culture Museum

8.2
4.8/5
10.2k reviews
Qinghai Tibetan Culture MuseumIt is a comprehensive museum themed on Tibetan medicine culture and featuring Tibetan culture.Qinghai Tibetan Culture Museum(also known as Qinghai Tibetan Culture Museum) is located in Xining, the capital of Qinghai Province in the eastern part of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. It officially opened in September 2006. The museum has basically formed a "one museum with two halls" layout, featuring 16 exhibition halls including the Silk Road and Tibetan civilization, the grand view of Chinese Tibetan art painting, and the history of Tibetan medicine.Qinghai Tibetan Culture MuseumThe collection is rich, historic, and diverse, possessing high historical, scientific, and artistic value. The museum houses the Guinness World Record-holding thangka masterpiece, "The Grand Thangka of Tibetan Culture and Art," which is 618 m long. It was planned by renowned thangka master Zongzhe Lajie and completed by 400 painters over four years. Its content encompasses the Tibetan understanding of the universe, the formation of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, history, religion, medicine, culture, art, and folklore. With its intricate details and brilliant colors, it is a magnificent sight and can be called an encyclopedia of Tibetan culture, hailed as a "contemporary national treasure." Through four major series—ancient books and documents, Tibetan medical thangkas, ancient Tibetan medical instruments, and Tibetan material specimens—the museum comprehensively displays the long history, profound theoretical system, clinical practice, and unique preparation techniques of Tibetan medicine, with four ancient books included in the National Catalogue of Precious Ancient Books. The Silk Road and Qinghai-Tibet Civilization exhibition hall uses history as its temporal dimension and the vast plateau landscape as its geographical dimension. Through thousands of precious cultural relics such as silk, gold and silver ware, and coffin paintings, it highlights Tibetan cultural elements and showcases the origin, inheritance, rise, and prosperity of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau civilization throughout the long river of history. The Tibetan carpet exhibition hall is one of the largest exhibitions of ancient carpets in China, displaying more than 400 Tibetan carpet artifacts from different periods and eras, featuring magnificent patterns, intense colors, and unique ethnic styles and local characteristics. At the same time, there are also Tibetan-style architectural exhibition halls, Tibetan calligraphy art exhibition halls, as well as temporary exhibition halls, multimedia screening rooms, academic lecture halls, and cultural relic storage rooms, providing strong capabilities for inheritance, protection, and research, as well as conditions for cultural exchange.Qinghai Tibetan Culture MuseumIt will continuously improve the level of cultural relic preservation, exhibition design, scientific research, and management operations, becoming a platform for promoting ethnic unity and social development, a broad stage for cultural dissemination and academic exchange, a research center for cultural relic protection and Tibetan studies, and an exhibition center for treasured literature and collections, showcasing the splendid civilization and culture of the Tibetan Plateau to the world.Xining · 8.4 km from downtown
Kumbum Monastery
No. 3 of Best Things to Do in Qinghai

Kumbum Monastery

8.2
4.7/5
18.7k reviews
Kumbum Monastery is one of the important monasteries of the Gelug (Yellow Hat) sect of Tibetan Buddhism and the birthplace of Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Yellow Hat sect. The monastery features magnificent architecture, abundant treasures, and a strong religious atmosphere, making it one of the more popular travel destinations in Xining. Overview of the visit It has distinct differences in architectural layout compared to Han Chinese Buddhist temples in inland China: the complex here is not symmetrically arranged along a central axis. The monastery is an ancient architectural complex composed of numerous halls, scripture halls, stupas, and colleges, with each sutra hall, main hall, and stupa irregularly distributed on a small hill. Travelers can explore the site in a relatively free manner rather than following a straight path along a central axis. The Great Golden Roof Hall of Kumbum Monastery is the center of the entire architectural complex. It is said that Master Tsongkhapa was born here, and when he was born, his umbilical cord blood dripped on this spot, from which a bodhi tree grew. Later, a stupa was built around the tree, and a monastery was constructed, hence the name. Believers hold that this tree and stupa are the embodiment of the master. The three unique features of the attraction: butter sculptures, murals, and appliqué embroidery. Butter sculptures are made by mixing butter with various pigments to mold and carve into figures of Buddhas, people, flowers, birds, animals, and pavilions. Travelers can admire exquisite butter sculptures at the butter sculpture hall inside the temple (located far from the main gate). Vibrant centuries-old murals can be appreciated in the main halls, corridors, and front galleries of the temple. Appliqué embroidery involves cutting colored satin into desired shapes, such as Buddha figures or animals, stuffing them with wool or cotton, and embroidering them onto cloth hangings. In the temple's great sutra hall, two rare large appliqué embroidery pieces—"Sixteen Arhats Displaying Divine Powers" and "Eight Immortals Crossing the Sea"—hang on either side. The four major religious festivals (based on the lunar calendar): 1. Cham dance (14th day of the first month) and butter sculpture exhibition (15th day of the first month); 2. Cham dance (14th day of the fourth month), Buddha unveiling, and Cham dance (15th day of the fourth month); 3. Buddha unveiling, Cham dance (6th day of the sixth month), and golden Buddha procession (8th day of the sixth month); 4. Full-day Buddha unveiling (22nd day of the ninth month) and Cham dance (23rd day of the ninth month). During these festivals, activities like Buddha unveiling and ritual dances take place, attracting large crowds of devotees and travelers, creating a lively atmosphere.Xining · 23.7 km from downtown
Qinghai Province Museum
No. 17 of Best Things to Do in Qinghai

Qinghai Province Museum

6
4.4/5
514 reviews
Qinghai Provincial Museum is located at Xinning Square in Xining City. Although it is not large among provincial museums, it is also a good place to learn about Qinghai's history and cultures of various ethnic groups. In addition, there are exhibitions and explanations of Tibetan Buddhism and Islamic cultural systems in the museum, which are very helpful for later tours in Qinghai. Visit Overview The museum mainly has two floors, but the first floor is now rented by some units, and there are also some shops selling handicrafts and other souvenirs. Occasionally there will be temporary exhibitions on the first floor, if you encounter them, you can visit them. The permanent exhibition area is located on the second floor and is mainly divided into two parts, the Qinghai Historical Relics Exhibition and the Qinghai Intangible Cultural Heritage Exhibition. It takes about an hour and a half to browse the two exhibition halls. Historical and Cultural Relics Exhibition Qinghai Historical and Cultural Relics Exhibition is an exhibition of the history of Qinghai in a chronological manner. Follow the indicated passages to visit, and you can watch the Qinghai cultural relics from ancient times to the present. The exhibition is divided into two parts: prehistoric civilization and historical relics. The Zasak silver seal of the Qing Dynasty, the largest bronze weapon unearthed in China - the large bronze spear, etc. are all treasures in the collection. There are also many quiet and beautiful pottery from the Majiayao culture in the northwest region. You can follow the instructions to find out the stories behind them. Intangible Cultural Heritage Exhibition Qinghai Intangible Cultural Heritage Exhibition showcases the culture and customs of many ethnic groups in Qinghai. There are many models and sand tables showing Qinghai's many festivals, etiquette, singing and dancing and other artistic cultures. In addition, there are many cultural relics of Tibetan Buddhism in the museum, such as thangkas, mandala, etc. Among them, the bronze gilt-gold Guanyin statue bestowed by Emperor Yongle in the Ming Dynasty is the treasure of the whole museum, you can take a good look at it. Learn about the connotation and art of Tibetan Buddhism here, and you can also provide help for your later travel to religious attractions. Interpretation service The museum now provides interpretive services, but most of the interpreters read the text under the exhibition, and do not have a deeper introduction. The level of manual explanation is also mostly limited. Generally, the explanation words are memorized by rote. The questions about the extended knowledge of tourists are often unable to be answered, and it is not recommended.Xining · 2.5 km from downtown

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Featured Culture & history in Xining

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Xining Laji Mountain + Kumbum Monastery + Zongkala Tse Half-Day Tour - Visit Three Iconic Landmarks in Half a Day
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Duration: 5.5 hrs
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Xining Tibetan culture, wildlife and food tour
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Private Charter | Hotel Pickup & Drop-off | Ta'er Monastery + Ashigong National Geopark
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· 1 review
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Xining Laji Mountain & Kumbum Monastery & Zongkharaze Half-Day Tour: Private Car Service
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Depart from Xining: Kumbum Monastery Half-Day Tour with Private Car Service & Tickets Included
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Xining Kumbum Monastery Half-Day Tour: Private Car Transfer [Flexible Departure!]
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Xining Laji Mountain & Kumbum Monastery & Zongka Laze Private Half-Day Tour
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Featured Day tours in Xining

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Xining Qinghai Lake, Chaka Salt Lake, Riyue Mountains (Sun and Moon Mountains) Chinese Group Day Tour (Visit the Mirror of the Sky)
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4.8/5
· 28 reviews· 214 booked
Duration: 7 hrs
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Private group tour | Qinghai Lake + Chaka Salt Lake + Riyue Mountain day trip | Charted transfer/entrance fees included
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3.5/5
· 2 reviews· 26 booked
Duration: 11 hrs
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1-day tour to Chaka salt lake with private charter (departing from Xining)
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5.0/5
· 2 reviews· 27 booked
Duration: 5 hrs
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Exclusive Tour | Kanbula One-Day Trip: Geological Forest Park + Zongka Sacred Lake + Glass Viewing Bridge
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4.0/5
· 1 review
Duration: 9.5 hrs
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One-day tour from Xining to Qinghai Lake and Chaka Salt Lake: Encounter the sapphire of the plateau, stroll on the sky mirror
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Qinghai Lake Chartered tour (Departing from Xining)
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5.0/5
· 2 reviews
Duration: 3 hrs
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Xining: 1-day tour of the Yellow River and Kanbula Park
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Duration: 6 hrs
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What travelers say about Xining

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M33***46October 30, 2026
5.0
The flying apsaras of Purang were truly stunning, their magnificent attire exuding an aura of wealth. The various monks' robes also offered explanations for what I had seen in Qinghai, Gansu, and Tibet, providing clarity. The Thangka exhibit was particularly photogenic; I took pictures along the way, and the extended design of the exhibition booth was also excellent. I didn't have time to delve into the deeper meanings of the Thangka paintings. The display of Thangka pigments was also exceptionally exquisite and not to be missed.

Qinghai Tibetan Culture Museum

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Anonymous userOctober 29, 2026
5.0
Kumbum Monastery is also a monastery with distinctive Tibetan Buddhist characteristics. The Lotus Pagoda was built by Tsongkhapa's mother according to her son's request to "build a stupa at his birthplace," thus marking the origin of Kumbum Monastery. Later, because "the stupa came first, then the monastery," it acquired the Chinese name "Kumbum Monastery." It is one of the six major monasteries of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism and the birthplace of Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelug school. It holds a high position among believers and is an important religious activity and pilgrimage site in Northwest China.

Kumbum Monastery

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Anonymous userOctober 29, 2026
5.0
I stayed an extra day in Xining specifically to visit the zoo. The staff's dedication to rescuing wild animals was evident, and you could feel their love and care for the animals. The ticket price is reasonable, and I highly recommend visiting the zoo when in Xining.

Qinghai-Tibet Plateau Wildlife Park

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cat litter boxesOctober 31, 2026
5.0
Riyue Mountain, formerly known as Chiling, is a significant stop on the Qinghai-Gansu journey, more than just scenic scenery; it's a natural boundary between heaven and history. At an altitude of over 3,500 meters, standing at the mountain pass, one can simultaneously witness two completely different landscapes: to the east, the fertile fields and villages of the Hehuang Valley; to the west, the vast and desolate grasslands and pastoral areas. The Loess Plateau and the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau meet here, creating a truly wondrous sight. Legend has it that Princess Wencheng, passing through this place, shattered the Sun and Moon Mirror, resolutely embarking on her westward journey to marry a Tibetan king, hence the name Riyue Mountain (Sun and Moon Mountain). The Sun Pavilion and Moon Pavilion stand on opposite peaks, their murals and stone tablets silently recounting this story spanning a thousand years. The statue of Princess Wencheng stands solemnly, and prayer flags flutter in the wind, creating a truly atmospheric scene. Be aware that the mountain is windy and cold; a warm coat is essential. If you're traveling the Qinghai-Gansu Grand Loop, I highly recommend making a special stop to feel the wind blowing through the mountain passes and to understand the rich stories hidden in this land.

Riyue Mountain

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GKC88May 16, 2026
5.0
対華夏文化要更深入瞭解4千年前的演變和西寧的扮演重要角色,這博物院有很多的資料。近年來考古隊伍在西北這塊地域也交出漂亮的成績。信息量高。陳列很條里。值得一游。

Qinghai Province Museum

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M23***49August 2, 2026
5.0
The museum boasts a rich and engaging collection, packed with substantial content that appeals to both adults and children, making it an educational and entertaining experience. The large, clearly labeled sand table, the lifelike plant and animal specimens, and the realistically recreated natural environments, along with its exhibits on geology, hydrology, and mineral resources, are all well worth seeing. A special mention goes to the incredibly kind staff; they noticed my friend wasn't feeling well and offered genuine help and care. The scenery of Qinghai Lake is beautiful, and so are the people!

Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Nature Museum

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Anonymous userJune 12, 2026
5.0
Я побывал на Plateau Pearl Sightseeing Tower и это одно из тех мест, которое лучше всего объясняет сам Синин.Сверху город выглядит совсем иначе, чем с улиц. Синин тянется длинной полосой в долине, а вокруг него поднимаются горы Тибетского плато. И в этот момент особенно понимаешь, почему его называют «воротами в Тибет».Больше всего запомнился момент заката. Днём город кажется обычным современным китайским мегаполисом, но когда начинает темнеть, он превращается в море огней, а горы вокруг уходят в тёмный силуэт. Контраст очень сильный.Стоит ли ехать? Да, если хочется увидеть Синин с высоты и почувствовать масштаб региона. Это не про историю или культуру, а именно про вид и ощущение места.Совет: приезжать ближе к закату и обязательно остаться до полной темноты, тогда картинка раскрывается максимально.

Plateau Pearl Sightseeing Tower

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左右ZzJune 19, 2025
5.0
The Dongguan Grand Mosque in Xining City is a rare and solemn building. The nine gold-plated regular script characters "Xining Budongguan Grand Mosque" are inscribed on the middle door lintel, and the inside and outside of the other door lintels are inscribed with gold-plated Arabic classic quotations. The "Hundred-Character Praise" inscribed by Zhu Yuanzhang, the first emperor of the Ming Dynasty, for mosques across the country is preserved in the temple and is embedded in the wall of the middle door, which is worth seeing.

Dongguan Mosque

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布晓呆July 8, 2023
5.0
Mojia Street is located in the downtown area of ​​Xining. It is an old street. There are not many tourists during the day, but the night market opens at night, attracting countless diners to come and taste. The main feature is barbecue, three or five people per table, accompanied by beer, this is the night life of Xining.

Mojia Street

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MARK MORDOVTSEVJune 12, 2026
5.0
Xining Television Tower is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Xining and a great place to enjoy panoramic views of the city. The tower rises above the surrounding buildings and offers a unique perspective of the capital of Qinghai Province and the nearby mountains of the Tibetan Plateau.The highlight of my visit was the observation area, where I could see how modern Xining is surrounded by dramatic mountain landscapes. The views are especially impressive in the evening when the city lights begin to illuminate the skyline.Travel Tips:• Visit on a clear day for the best views.• Sunset is one of the best times for photography.• Bring a camera or smartphone, as there are many great photo opportunities.• Combine your visit with nearby city attractions and parks.Why I Recommend It:✔ Excellent panoramic views of Xining.✔ One of the city's iconic landmarks.✔ Great location for photography.✔ Beautiful mountain scenery surrounding the city.✔ Perfect place to understand the scale of Xining and the Qinghai-Tibet region.Overall, Xining Television Tower is worth visiting for anyone who enjoys city viewpoints, photography, and discovering a different side of western China.

Xining Television Tower

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Frequently asked questions

When choosing a tour, start with how much time you have and the kind of experience you're looking for. Trending options right now include Xining Qinghai Lake, Chaka Salt Lake, Riyue Mountains (Sun and Moon Mountains) Chinese Group Day Tour (Visit the Mirror of the Sky), Private group tour | Qinghai Lake + Chaka Salt Lake + Riyue Mountain day trip | Charted transfer/entrance fees included, and 1-day tour to Chaka salt lake with private charter (departing from Xining). Check the real-time availability and itinerary before you book.

As of November 1, 2026, the reference price for day tours and activities in Xining is around KRW 52,486 – KRW 171,143. Rates vary by duration, group size, transportation, tickets, meals, and any special admission requirements. Before you book, please confirm the billing currency and whether the price is quoted per person or per group.

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