Today Art Museum

The Today Art Museum is a unique cultural space in Beijing, which became the first private non-profit art museum in China. Founded in 2002, it has evolved into one of the most influential centers for contemporary art, where bold ideas from modern creators meet a global vision of cultural development.

The museum is housed in a former boiler house of an old brewery, giving its architecture a distinct character. The avant-garde exterior, designed by Wang Hui, features a famous sculpture by Wang Jianwei on the roof, while the minimalist white interior halls create the perfect atmosphere for experiencing complex art objects.

The museum's mission is reflected in its slogan: "Based on Today, Looking at Tomorrow". It houses a collection of over 1,000 significant works, hosts international seminars and educational programs, and its exhibitions often feature digital and immersive technologies, making art accessible and understandable to a broad audience.

When planning a visit to the Today Art Museum, it is recommended to check the current opening hours and special events in advance. Information about current exhibitions and contact details will help you better prepare for your walk through the world of contemporary art in Beijing.

In the halls of the Today Art Museum, visitors can explore a rich collection of contemporary art, including works by leading Chinese masters. One of the museum's highlights is its temporary immersive exhibitions, where VR technology and Apple Vision Pro bring classic mythological stories to life around the viewer.

Beyond viewing paintings and installations, take note of the complex's architecture: walk up the famous Z-shaped staircase and see how the building's industrial past harmonizes with modern design. Finish your visit at the museum's cozy bookstore, which offers unique art albums, or participate in one of the creative salons regularly held on-site.

The museum is conveniently located in Beijing's Central Business District at 32 Baiziwan Road. The easiest way to get there is by metro. The nearest station, Shuangjing (an interchange for lines 10 and 14), is a 5–10 minute walk from the museum entrance.

If you prefer a taxi or services like Didi, the trip from the city center will take between 20 and 40 minutes, depending on traffic in the Chaoyang District. The museum is easy to recognize by its unusual avant-garde facade, which stands out prominently among the office high-rises of the business district.

The history of the Today Art Museum began in 2002, when it was founded as the first private non-profit contemporary art museum in China. In 2006, the institution underwent a major transformation, fully adopting a non-profit development model, allowing it to focus on supporting young talent and academic research.

The museum building is an outstanding example of industrial renovation. Architect Wang Hui reconstructed the former boiler house of the Beijing Brewery, masterfully preserving industrial elements and integrating them into a modern space. The trapezoidal metal Z-shaped staircase and futuristic facade accents highlight the connection between Beijing's past and future.

Over the years, the museum has amassed an impressive collection of more than 1,000 works and has become a vital platform for international cultural exchange. It serves not only as an exhibition space but also as a research center with its own publishing house and archive, shaping the history of modern Chinese art in real-time.

For a thoughtful exploration of the museum's exhibits, it is recommended to set aside 2 to 3 hours. This is enough time to leisurely browse the main collection, explore temporary exhibitions, and enjoy the architectural features of the former boiler house.

If you plan to visit one of the large-scale immersive exhibitions that use augmented reality technologies, your visit may last up to 4 hours. Don't forget to leave some time to visit the bookstore, which often features rare publications on modern design.

Typically, the museum welcomes visitors from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. On Mondays, the galleries are traditionally closed for the day.

Since operating hours may change depending on current exhibition projects or special events, it is worth checking the information on the official website of the museum or its social media pages before your visit.

The museum's location in the Chaoyang District makes it easy to combine your cultural program with visits to other interesting city landmarks. The majestic Temple of Heaven is just a few kilometers away, and those looking for a colorful shopping experience can stop by the legendary Hongqiao Market.

For those traveling with children or seeking excitement, a visit to the Happy Valley Beijing amusement park is an excellent option. Exploring the surrounding area will help you see different facets of the Chinese capital — from austere ancient temples to bustling shopping streets and ultra-modern districts.