Address: No.500 Tianshengqiao Avenue, Lishui District
Located inside the Tianshengqiao & Yanzhi River Scenic Area, Lishui District Museum is a national third-class comprehensive local history museum, and the only officially graded museum in Lishui. First founded in 1986, the museum relocated to the current venue in 2016. Its unique architectural design draws inspiration from the natural arch of Tianshengqiao, echoing the grand legacy of the Ming-dynasty Yanzhi River water conservancy project.
The museum houses more than 4,500 cultural relics, including 4 national first-class cultural relics, 25 second-class and 194 third-class relics, covering a time span from the Neolithic Age to modern times. Four permanent exhibition halls unfold the story of Lishui:
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Dreams of Yanzhi River: Recounts the excavation of Yanzhi River and ancient canal transportation history;
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Gathering of Talents: Features historical literati and celebrities who once lived and worked in Lishui;
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Ancient Treasures: Displays unearthed bronzes, porcelain, stone carvings and other artefacts;
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Local Customs: Showcases intangible heritage such as Luoshan Grand Dragon, Mingjue iron painting and traditional folk rituals.
The star exhibits include the Yuan Dynasty Longquan Kiln celadon lotus-leaf covered jar, Yuan blue-and-white porcelain box and antique Ge ware vases. There is also the Zhao Songquan Art Gallery and a multi-purpose temporary exhibition zone.
Admission is free. Opening hours: 09:00–17:00, Tuesday to Sunday; last entry is at 16:30. Closed every Monday (adjusted for public holidays). A complete visit takes roughly 1–1.5 hours.
Ideal for: history enthusiasts, cultural travellers and study tour groups. Visiting this museum helps visitors fully understand Lishui’s water conservancy history, Wu-Yue regional culture and folk customs before exploring surrounding scenic spots.
