Western Xia (Xixia) Museum, YInchuan – Home to Over 10,000 Relics

The Western Xia Museum (Xixia Museum, 西夏博物馆), located at the eastern foothills of Helan Mountain within the Western Xia Imperial Tombs area, is the first museum in China dedicated to showcasing the history of the Western Xia Dynasty. Officially opened on September 23, 1998, the museum covers an area of 9,000 square meters, with 5,400 square meters of exhibition space spread over two levels. The museum’s architectural style is inspired by Western Xia pagodas with dense eaves, creating a unique design that blends modern grandeur with the historical atmosphere of the tomb area, embodying a rich ethnic architectural style.

The museum houses more than 10,000 cultural relics across 16 categories, including architectural components, stone carvings, ceramics, coins, bronze and iron artifacts, paintings, and sculptures. Among these, 509 items are classified as precious relics, with 23 of them listed as national first-class cultural artifacts. Notable treasures include stone sculptures such as the guardian pedestals, dragon-carved columns, a small stone horse, and headpieces of civil officials. Other prized items include silk paintings, clay Buddha heads, gilt wooden statues of Guanyin, and wooden musician figurines excavated from the Hongfo Pagoda in Helan County.

The museum features two primary exhibitions: “The History and Culture of Western Xia” and “Research Achievements of Western Xia Studies.” The former is divided into six sections, covering the migration and rise of the Tangut people, Western Xia’s politics, laws, military, economy, culture, religion, and the imperial tombs. Over 700 historical artifacts are on display, alongside 500 research publications. Highlights include Tangut and Han language inscriptions, Buddhist scriptures, ceramics, official seals, coins, and architectural materials. The exhibits are enhanced by scale models, statues, murals, and photographs, offering visitors a comprehensive view of Western Xia’s rich history and artistic legacy.

Basic Information

Location and Transportation

The Western Xia Museum is located in the Western Xia Imperial Tombs scenic area at the eastern foothills of the Helan Mountains, on Ninghua Road, Xixia District, Yinchuan City, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, China. To get there, you can take bus 708 or Tourist Line 1 and get off at Western Xia Mausoleum Stop (西夏陵站).