Top Eight Must-See Treasures at the Changsha Bamboo Slips Museum

Changsha really has some hidden gem museums. Last month, I hit up the popular 【IFS International Finance Square】, and then my friend suggested I check out the nearby Changsha Bamboo Slip Museum. Just looked it up on the map and found out it's only a seven-minute drive away—super convenient! This museum trip definitely didn’t disappoint. Not only did I see the legendary bamboo slips, but I also discovered quite a few unexpected "cultural stories." If you're interested in history like I am, don’t miss it!

Transportation Guide to Changsha Bamboo Slip Museum

Public transport, either bus or subway, is the way to go—super easy!
The closest subway station is Line 1 "Nanmenkou Station"; after getting off, it’s just about a 900-meter walk.
If you’re taking the bus, just search for “Changsha Bamboo Slip Museum Station,” and you’ll see it right when you get off.

Opening Hours Reminder:

• Closed on Tuesdays (not Mondays, so don’t show up empty-handed 💔)
• Morning Session: 10:00-12:30
• Afternoon Session: 14:00-16:30 (make sure to enter before 16:30)
• Online booking is super convenient—you can book tickets anytime within three days, even for the same day!

Helpful Tip: There are free guided tours for each session starting at 10:30 and 14:30—I highly recommend joining!

Must-See Treasures｜Don’t Miss These Eight Gems

Once you step into the museum, you’re immediately blown away by all the bamboo slip exhibits! Did you know that over 300,000 bamboo slips have been unearthed nationwide? Almost 200,000 of those are from Hunan, and the artifacts here span from the Warring States period all the way through the Qin, Han, and into the Western Jin—it’s an epic timeline!
I’ve picked out eight amazing pieces to recommend—make sure you snap some pics in front of these display cases!

1. Bamboo Slip on Taxes from Zhaoma Building

Can you believe that during the Wu Kingdom period, taxes were as high as 40%? This bamboo slip clearly records the related tax situation, making you reflect on how hard life must have been for the ancient laborers.

2. Judicial Wooden Slip of the Xudi Case

This wooden slip details a pretty embarrassing case from over a thousand years ago—the theft of salt and rice was recorded in detail, becoming vital historical material for understanding ancient law. How exactly did they get caught? Definitely catch the evening talk to find out—it’s super interesting!

3. Display Case of Wu Kingdom Bamboo Slips from the Three Kingdoms Period

You don’t want to miss this display case! The large glass cabinet showcases bamboo slips from the Wu Kingdom during the Three Kingdoms period, covering everything from tax records to everyday life. Plus, these are originals—each slip is specially protected, packed with incredible information.

4. Seal Inspection from "Changsha Hufu"

Want to know how ancient people achieved “package tamper-proofing”? Check this out! The seal inspection on this artifact serves the same purpose as today’s tape on packages, complete with identity verification. It’s early protective technology that the Han people already figured out!

5. Wooden Slip "Items Given by Your Majesty"

This wooden slip acts as a public proof of someone being favored in ancient society. Researchers think it’s related to a Princess named Yuyang, suggesting her status was quite significant. If you enjoy historical stories, you’ll be mind-blown by this one!

6. Five-String Lacquered Wood Zither

This museum treasure really amazed me! The story of "Gao Jianli playing the zither" becomes real in front of this item because this is the first archaeological find of a zither-like practical instrument. This five-string lacquered wood zither, unearthed from the tomb of Queen Yuyang, is a rare find—once lost by the Song Dynasty.

7. Painted Cloud Pattern Lacquered Vessel

This is a top-tier luxury item from the Western Han Dynasty. Its level of opulence rivals that of the burial goods for Xin Zhui from Mawangdui, and the discovery of it in the tomb of Queen Yuyang left archaeologists in awe. Just imagine—such an antique today would definitely be a “top luxury brand.”

8. Bamboo Slip of Fuxi and Nuwa from the Western Han Dynasty

The images of Fuxi and Nuwa you might have seen in history textbooks are often flat, but here, the records on the bamboo slip show the evolution of their images. This can be seen as valuable material for studying how ancient people explored the universe and depicted the world.

Special Exhibition Recommendation: Theme Exhibition on Jia Yi

Additionally, the Changsha Bamboo Slip Museum has a free special exhibition themed around "Jia Yi, Grand Preceptor of Changsha during the Western Han Dynasty, and the City He Lived In." If you're into Changsha's history and the culture of the Han Dynasty, I wholeheartedly recommend taking a close look at this exhibition. Plus, special exhibitions don’t pop up often, so don’t miss your chance!

Useful Tips

About the Visiting Experience

• The museum offers several free stamps, perfect for those who love checking off boxes. For detailed info, check out my stamp collection guide!
• Keep an eye on time when making reservations. After your visit, you can head to the nearby pedestrian street to grab a bite and shop—it’s an easy and straightforward plan.

Suggested Visit Duration

At least set aside 1.5-2 hours to take your time exploring. If you have even a slight interest in historical artifacts, you might find yourself getting lost in the experience!

Recommended Tie-ins

If you’ve seen documentaries like “Reading Bamboo Slips in China” or “Exploring Bamboo Slips and Chinese Culture,” the in-person experience will definitely be more immersive. The blend of culture makes it even richer.

Long story short, I was thoroughly impressed by this museum experience. If you're in Changsha, don't forget to add this stop to your itinerary!