Where to Find Tongdao Art Museum

Tongdao Art Museum sits in a trendy arts district called Beijing 22 Yard Street, at 32 Baiziwan Road, Chaoyang District. This area is a creative hub near the busy CBD, but with a calmer, artistic vibe. If you’re coming from downtown, it’s about a 20-minute ride by subway. Get off at Dawanglu Station (Line 1) or Jiulongshan Station (Line 7), then walk or grab a bike—it’s easy to miss if you’re not looking for the “22 Yard Street” signs!

How to Get There

  • By Subway: Exit at Dawanglu (Line 1) or Jiulongshan (Line 7), then walk 15–20 minutes.
  • By Taxi: Tell the driver “Beijing er’shi’er Yuan Jie yishiqu” (北京二十二院街艺术区)—most drivers will know it.
  • By Bike: The area is bike-friendly, with plenty of paths and parking.

What’s Inside (and Why It’s Unique)

Tongdao Art Museum isn’t your typical art space. It’s China’s first museum dedicated to metal art and “medal culture”, which means you’ll see everything from giant sculptures to tiny, detailed coins. The best part? They work with world-famous sculptors and organizations like the WildAid art platform (which fights wildlife trafficking through art) and Shanghai Currency Company (the folks who make China’s coins).

Here, artists use metals like bronze, silver, and even recycled materials to create pieces that mix tradition with modern tech. You’ll spot massive installations, intricate medals, and quirky art pieces that shine under the lights.

Must-See Art and Exhibits

  • Metal Sculptures: Life-sized artworks that look like they’re made of liquid metal.
  • Custom Medal Workshops: Make your own souvenir medal—perfect for a unique gift!
  • Wildlife Art Displays: Powerful sculptures raising awareness about endangered species.
  • Interactive Zones: Touch metal textures, try casting demos, and learn how coins are made.

Who Should Visit Tongdao Art Museum?

  • Art lovers: Especially those into sculpture, metalwork, or experimental designs.
  • Culture buffs: People interested in how traditional crafts meet modern tech.
  • Families: Kids love the hands-on activities and shiny exhibits.
  • Photographers: The lighting and metallic art make for striking photos.

Practical Tips

  • Hours: Open daily, but check their website for exact times.
  • Tickets: Around 50–100 RMB (cheaper for students). Book online to skip lines.
  • Guided Tours: Available in English if you ask ahead—they love sharing the stories behind the art!
  • Souvenirs: Buy mini metal art pieces or custom-made medals—they’re way cooler than keychains.

Nearby Food and Drinks

After your visit, head to SKP Mall (10-minute walk) for high-end shopping or cafes. For cheaper eats, try the Haidian District nearby—lots of noodle joints and bubble tea spots. Inside Tongdao Art Museum, there’s a small café with metal-themed drinks (try the copper-hued latte!) and snacks.

Why Tongdao Art Museum Stands Out

Most art museums in Beijing focus on ancient history or paintings, but Tongdao Art Museum is all about modern metal creativity. It’s a chance to see how Chinese artists push boundaries with materials like bronze and steel. Even if you’re not an art expert, the interactive exhibits and shiny sculptures make it fun. Plus, supporting artists through buying their work? That’s a souvenir with meaning!

Final Thoughts

Tongdao Art Museum feels like a secret spot—even locals might not know about it. Whether you’re into art, photography, or just want a cool Instagram backdrop, this place is worth a detour. Pro tip: Visit on a weekday morning to avoid crowds and snap photos of the sculptures in soft light.

Note: Tongdao Art Museum is a hidden gem for anyone curious about metal art, custom medals, or experimental design. Bring your camera and comfy shoes—you’ll want to explore every shimmering corner!