Discover Southern Song Dynasty Guan Kiln Museum: A Ceramic Treasure in Hangzhou

Location & How to Get There

Southern Song Dynasty Guan Kiln Museum sits at the foot of West Turtle Hill, just south of Yuhuang Mountain, near the southern edge of West Lake Scenic Area. The address is No. 60 Nanfu Road, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. To reach here, take Metro Line 3 to “Wushan Qiancun Station” and walk for about 15 minutes, or bus lines 12, 38, or 487 to “Silk Museum Stop.” Driving? Use “Nansong Guanyao Museum” as your navigation target—free parking is available nearby.

Natural Scenery: Mountains & Lake Views

The museum is nestled between lush green hills, with West Turtle Hill and Yuhuang Mountain forming a peaceful backdrop. A short hike up the trails offers stunning views of West Lake’s shimmering waters. Visit early morning or late afternoon to catch soft sunlight filtering through the trees—perfect for photos!

Cultural Highlights: Ceramics & History

As China’s first ceramic-themed museum built on an ancient kiln site, Southern Song Dynasty Guan Kiln Museum showcases the elegance of official kilns during the Southern Song era (1127–1279). Explore two main areas:

  • Exhibition Halls: Learn how royal kilns produced intricate porcelain for emperors, from glaze techniques to symbolic patterns.
  • Jiatanxia Kiln Site: Walk among preserved ruins of the kiln, including kilns, workshops, and storage pits. Imagine artisans firing delicate ceramics here centuries ago!

Interactive Fun: Make Your Own Pottery

Tired of sightseeing? Roll up your sleeves and play with clay! The museum’s hands-on area lets visitors shape陶泥（pottery clay）into bowls, cups, or vases. Staff offer tips on basic wheel-throwing or hand-building techniques. It’s messy but rewarding—your creation could become a quirky souvenir!

Facilities: Relax & Learn

  • Café: Enjoy tea or coffee in the courtyard, surrounded by traditional architecture.
  • Gift Shop: Buy ceramic replicas, postcards, or DIY tools to continue crafting at home.
  • Event Space: Check their schedule for workshops, lectures, or kiln-firing demonstrations. Past events include calligraphy classes and porcelain-painting sessions.

Why Visit? A Blend of Art & Adventure

Southern Song Dynasty Guan Kiln Museum isn’t just about looking—it’s about doing. Whether you’re a history buff, art lover, or family seeking unique activities, this spot offers:

  • Deep Dives into Culture: Connect ancient craftsmanship to南宋宫廷（Southern Song palace life）through exhibits.
  • Kid-Friendly Fun: Kids love molding clay and running around the open-air kiln site.
  • Hidden Gem Vibes: Fewer tourists than West Lake’s main spots, but equally rich in charm.

Pro tip: Combine your visit with a hike to Yuhuang Mountain’s peak (20-minute walk) for panoramic views, then cool off with a drink at the museum’s café. Perfect day trip!

Come ready to get a little dirty, ask lots of questions, and leave with a new appreciation for China’s ceramic legacy. See you there!