Shuijingfang Museum, Chengdu – Ticket, Opening Hours, Highlights, and Tips

The Shuijingfang Museum (水井坊博物馆) in Chengdu stands as a captivating institution that seamlessly weaves together historical preservation, cultural heritage demonstration, a center for immersive liquor experiences, and the birthplace of premium spirits. Nestled within its walls is the authentic portrayal of the nationally significant Shuijing Street Liquor Distillery, a cultural relic with a rich 600-year history. This museum takes visitors on a journey through time, meticulously conserving and showcasing the original essence of the Shuijing Street Liquor Distillery, a key cultural heritage site.

Divided into the main exhibition area and supplementary displays, the primary section is dedicated to Shuijingfang’s specialized cultural exhibits, while the supplementary area explores international and diverse liquor cultures. The main exhibition area unfolds in three distinct segments: the protective showcase of the Shuijing Street Liquor Distillery site, the exhibition on the traditional brewing techniques of Shuijingfang liquor, and the Shuijingfang Liquor Culture Experience Center. Together, they recreate the genuine production scenes, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the traditional brewing techniques that define Shuijingfang’s distinctive liquor culture.

The supplementary exhibition area broadens the cultural horizon by presenting a spectrum of international distilled spirits, including vodka, whiskey, and gin. This expansion adds depth to the visitors’ understanding of global liquor cultures, creating a comprehensive experience within the museum.

The Shuijing Street Liquor Distillery site, with a continuous production history spanning 600 years from the late Yuan Dynasty to the present day, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Chinese liquor craftsmanship. Often hailed as the “First Distillery of Chinese Liquor,” its historical significance rivals that of the Terracotta Army of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, representing an unwritten chronicle in the development of China’s Baijiu industry.

Basic Information

Website	https://www.sjfmuseum.com/
Estimated Length of Tour	1 – 2 hours
Ticket Price	50 RMB
Opening Hours	9.00 – 17.00; Last admission: 17.00
Telephone Number	0086-028-84436999 0086-028-84430666

Location and Transportation

The Shuijingfang Museum is located in Chengdu, the capital city of Sichuan Province in southwestern China. Chengdu is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant cuisine, and as the hometown of the beloved giant pandas. The exact address of the museum is No. 19-25, Shuijing Lane, Jinjiang District, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China. To get there, you can choose the following ways:

Bus: Take bus 56, 82, 112, 343, or 1093, get off at Hejiang Pavilion Stop (合江亭站), and walk about 100 meters to the north to reach the museum.

Metro: The nearest metro station to Huijingfang Museum is East Gate Bridge (Dongmen Daqiao, 东门大桥). After getting out of the station from Exit B, walk about 200 meters along the Xiangxiangzi Road (香巷子路) to the south to reach the museum.

Highlights of Shuijingfang Museum

Heritage and History

The Shuijingfang Museum in Chengdu is steeped in a rich heritage and history. It showcases the legacy of Shuijingfang Baijiu, which dates back to the Qing Dynasty. With royal patronage and centuries of craftsmanship, the museum highlights the traditional techniques and meticulous processes involved in Baijiu production. The museum’s exhibits offer insights into the brand’s origins, its historical significance, and the cultural role of Baijiu in Chinese society. Through its immersive displays, visitors can appreciate the depth of tradition and artistry behind Shuijingfang Baijiu, making it a must-visit destination for those interested in Chinese liquor heritage.

Distillery Experience

At the Shuijingfang Museum in Chengdu, visitors can embark on an extraordinary Distillery Experience. This immersive encounter allows guests to witness the traditional Baijiu production process up close. Within the museum, a reconstructed distillery showcases the meticulous craftsmanship involved in every step, from fermentation and distillation to storage and aging. Visitors can observe the equipment, techniques, and ingredients used in creating Shuijingfang Baijiu, gaining a deeper understanding of this iconic Chinese spirit. This hands-on experience offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the artistry and skill behind Baijiu production, making it a highlight for enthusiasts and curious visitors alike.

Interactive Displays

The Shuijingfang Museum in Chengdu captivates visitors with its array of interactive displays. These exhibits provide an engaging and immersive experience that brings the world of Baijiu to life. Visitors can explore aroma stations, where they can discover and differentiate the scents of Baijiu. Hands-on activities such as bottle labeling and corking allow visitors to participate in the production process. Interactive multimedia presentations offer a deeper understanding of the history, cultural significance, and craftsmanship behind Shuijingfang Baijiu. These interactive displays ensure an educational and enjoyable visit, allowing visitors to actively engage with the exhibits and enhance their appreciation of Chinese liquor culture.

Tasting and Pairing

The Shuijingfang Museum in Chengdu offers an exquisite tasting and pairing experience for visitors. During these sessions, guests have the opportunity to sample a variety of Baijiu flavors, allowing them to explore the nuances and complexities of this traditional Chinese spirit. Expert guides provide insights into the tasting techniques and flavor profiles, enhancing the sensory journey. Additionally, visitors can learn about the art of pairing Baijiu with different cuisines, discovering the harmonious combinations that enhance the flavors of both the liquor and the food.

Cultural Insights

The Shuijingfang Museum in Chengdu offers fascinating cultural insights into the world of Baijiu. Through its exhibits and displays, visitors can delve into the cultural significance of Baijiu in Chinese society. The museum explores how Baijiu is deeply intertwined with Chinese celebrations, rituals, and social gatherings, serving as a symbol of friendship, hospitality, and cultural heritage. Visitors can gain a deeper appreciation for the role of Baijiu in traditional Chinese culture and its enduring presence throughout history.

Vlog about Shuijingfang Museum

Useful Tips from Genuine Reviews

Low Visitor Numbers Enhance Experience: As a less crowded museum, the visitors are much fewer than in other museums, significantly enhancing the overall experience. The reviewer noted that during their visit, there were only seven people, creating a more enjoyable and personalized atmosphere.

Exceptional Staff Service: The staff, including receptionists, guides, wine tasters, and sales personnel, were praised for their elegance, professionalism, and attentiveness. The guide, in particular, received high praise for her outstanding performance.

Surprising Tasting Experience: Beyond the expected museum tour, the unexpected highlight was a professional wine-tasting session. After the overall Baijiu (Chinese white spirit) brewing process tour, a skilled wine taster provided a tasting experience with two samples – a 28-year and a 3-month 70-degree raw Baijiu. This additional and professional tasting session allowed visitors to appreciate the differences in the flavors. Even for non-drinkers, the guidance provided by the wine taster made it possible to discern the nuances of the spirits.