National Museum of China

The National Museum of China is China's official keeper of national-level treasures, formed in 2003 by merging the previous National Museum of Chinese History and the Museum of the Chinese Revolution. With 200,000+ square meters and 1.4 million objects, it's one of the largest museums in the world — and the second-most-visited globally after the Louvre. Free entry with a passport (reserve a slot up to 7 days in advance through the museum's WeChat mini-program; same-day walk-ins almost never get in). The 'Ancient China' permanent exhibit on the basement level walks through 5,000 years from Paleolithic stone tools to Qing imperial porcelain — the must-see for first-timers. The 'Road of Rejuvenation' exhibit on the upper floors covers modern Chinese history with state-narrative framing. Allow at least 3 hours; the building is enormous and you will get lost. Closed Mondays.