Deng Zhangyu, China explores branch museums to boost quality of exhibitions, China Daily, 17 March 2026
During the Chinese New Year holiday in February, a record 89.5 million visitors flocked to museums across China — a 27.6 percent increase from the previous Spring Festival, according to the National Cultural Heritage Administration. More than 12,000 special exhibitions and about 29,000 educational programs were held nationwide, reflecting a growing enthusiasm for cultural experiences.
The surge in museum attendance mirrors the country’s rapid museum expansion. Over the past five years, the number of museums has grown from 5,788 to 7,046: the equivalent of one new museum opening every two days. Yet, despite this remarkable growth, challenges remain.