Beijing February 2026 Exhibition Guide

By Sherry Fei | February 2026

 

February in Beijing is not just about Lunar New Year festivities — it is also one of the most exciting months for museum lovers. From ancient Roman ruins to the mysterious bronze masks of Sichuan, and from zodiac-themed treasures to contemporary reinterpretations of intangible heritage, the capital is hosting a remarkable lineup of exhibitions.

Here are the shows worth planning for.

Pompeii: Inquiry into Eternity

If you see only one large-scale international exhibition this season, make it this one.

This landmark exhibition traces the evolution of archaeological methods from the 18th century to today, using Pompeii as its central narrative. More than 105 Italian artifacts are on display, 81 of which are being shown in China for the first time. Remarkably, seven pieces have never been exhibited publicly even in Italy.

Three immersive installations — including a 16-meter panoramic screen — reconstruct Pompeii’s streets, daily life, and excavation history. It feels less like a static display and more like walking through layers of time.

China National Museum (South Hall 1 & 2)

February 4 – October 11, 2026 (Closed Mondays)

Ticket: RMB 120 / RMB 60 concession

Source: http://xhslink.com/o/85moFYVpGNS

Two Stars Shining Together: Sanxingdui & Jinsha Civilizations

With the Jinsha Site Museum in Chengdu temporarily closed for renovation, a rare opportunity has emerged: some of the finest treasures of the ancient Shu Kingdom have traveled to Beijing.

Golden crown belts, towering bronze figures, the iconic wide-eyed masks, and bronze heads with gold coverings — these are the “superstars” of early Chinese civilization. Displayed alongside artifacts from Sanxingdui, the exhibition offers a deeper look at a culture that once flourished in southwestern China yet remains partially mysterious today.

For visitors curious about China beyond imperial dynasties, this is essential.

China National Museum (South Hall 8 & 9)

January – August 2026

Ticket: Free (National Museum reservation required)

Source: http://xhslink.com/o/2RTwNDKJAbW

 

Galloping into the Year of the Horse

Each year, the National Museum presents a zodiac-themed exhibition, and 2026 celebrates the Year of the Horse.

More than 120 artifacts related to horses are gathered from institutions across China, including the Gansu Provincial Museum and the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor. The highlight is an exceptionally rare Tang Dynasty sancai (three-color glaze) black-glazed ceramic horse — one of only two known surviving examples in the world.

For those interested in how animals shape symbolism, art, and power in Chinese history, this show offers a focused and elegant exploration.

China National Museum (North Hall 8)

Open to the public from January 30, 2026

Ticket: Free (National Museum reservation required)

Source: http://xhslink.com/o/JgThtVVkow

Order of Patterns · Eternity

A short-lived but significant exhibition, this show presents works by Anan, a leading figure in contemporary Chinese paper art and a researcher of national intangible heritage techniques.

Known internationally for pushing traditional Chinese paper craftsmanship onto global stages — from France to Dubai and Japan — Anan transforms paper into immersive installations and sculptural forms. The exhibition explores rhythm, pattern, and permanence through fragile material, offering a quiet counterpoint to the larger museum blockbusters happening across the city.

If you enjoy contemporary interpretations of traditional craft, this limited exhibition is worth timing carefully.

Baofang Hutong 40, Dongcheng District

February 3 – February 10, 2026 (7 days only)

Ticket: Free

 

Source: http://xhslink.com/o/9MZuqnBcYAG

Myth in Wood: Contemporary Intangible Heritage Woodcarving

For something less formal and more visually striking, head to this large-scale woodcarving exhibition inspired by traditional mythological themes.

A two-meter-tall wooden “Dragon Horse” stands at the center, surrounded by monumental carvings depicting figures such as Nezha, Sun Wukong, and Erlang Shen. Each piece demonstrates extraordinary detail rooted in traditional carving techniques, while presenting them at a scale that feels almost cinematic.

It is less about quiet contemplation and more about stepping directly into myth.

Guan Zhong (21 Doufuchi Hutong, Dongcheng) &Wenyuan 81 (81 Chaoyangmen Inner Street, Dongcheng)

Now – March 15, 2026

Ticket: Free

Source: http://xhslink.com/o/4ENBpWhL7y6 

Planning Tips

• Most National Museum exhibitions require advance reservation even if free.
• February is a busy month due to Lunar New Year holidays — book early.
• Combine exhibitions geographically: the National Museum shows can easily be visited on the same day.

If you would like help reserving tickets, arranging an English-speaking guide, or understanding the deeper historical context behind these exhibitions, Bridge to Locals can connect you with knowledgeable locals who bring these stories to life.

Beijing in February is cold — but culturally, it is at full temperature.