Nestled in the heart of Jiezi Ancient Town, a national AAAA scenic area in Chongzhou, Sichuan, the Sichuan Folk Museum occupies a prime spot on 201 North Weijiang Street. This cultural gem is just a 1.5-hour drive from downtown Chengdu, making it a perfect day trip or weekend escape. If you’re traveling by public transport, take a bus to Chongzhou and hop in a taxi—it’s only about 20 minutes from the city center. For those driving, free parking is available near the museum, so no worries about hassle!

Natural Charm: A Town Wrapped in Mountains

Jiezi Ancient Town isn’t just home to the museum—it’s a feast for the eyes. Imagine cobblestone streets flanked by traditional wooden houses, with the misty Qingcheng Mountain (a UNESCO site) as a backdrop. The Weijiang River flows nearby, adding a soothing soundtrack of water and birdsong. Even before entering the museum, wandering through the town feels like stepping back in time. In spring, cherry blossoms line the riverbanks, while autumn paints the hills in fiery reds and oranges. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to snap photos at every corner!

Cultural Treasures: What to Expect Inside

The Sichuan Folk Museum is no ordinary attraction. Founded by Mr. Qiu Xianfu, author of Seventy Years of My Life, this sprawling 12,000㎡ space spans five floors and 28 themed exhibits. Think of it as a “time capsule” of Sichuanese life, from ancient dynasties to modern days. You’ll spot everything from Ming-era pottery to vintage sewing machines, handwritten manuscripts, and even traditional wedding gowns. Each floor dives into a different era or theme—like “Farming Tools of the 1900s” or “Sichuan Opera Costumes.” Bonus: Many exhibits come with QR codes that play audio stories, so you can learn fun facts in your own language!

Interactive Fun & Hidden Gems

Don’t expect stuffy glass cases here—the museum is designed for explorers. Kids (and adults!) can try their hand at traditional weaving or calligraphy in the activity zones. There’s even a replica of a 1980s Sichuan teahouse where you can sip cheap jasmine tea while pretending to chat with locals. Keep an eye out for the “Oddities Room,” filled with quirky items like a 200-year-old toothbrush made from bamboo!

Practical Tips: Plan Your Visit

  • Hours: Open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM (last entry at 5 PM).
  • Tickets: Around 60 RMB (~$8), which feels like a steal for such rich content.
  • Guided Tours: Available in English for an extra 200 RMB if you want deeper insights.
  • Food & Rest: The museum has a small café, but the real treat is Jiezi’s street food. Try spicy hotpot or glutinous rice cakes right outside the entrance.

Why It’s Worth Your Time

What makes the Sichuan Folk Museum special? It’s not just about looking—it’s about feeling. The founder’s passion shines through in every display, and the mix of old and new Sichuan creates a story that’s both intimate and grand. Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or just someone who loves quirky finds, this place will surprise you. Plus, it’s less crowded than Chengdu’s usual tourist spots, so you can soak up the culture without fighting crowds.

In short: If you’re visiting Chengdu and skip Sichuan Folk Museum, you’re missing out on one of the region’s coolest cultural secrets. Trust me—this isn’t your average “tourist trap.” It’s the real deal.