In the heart of Xining, the vibrant capital city of China’s Qinghai Province, lies a cultural jewel that pays homage to the country’s Tibetan heritage: the Qinghai Tibetan Culture Museum. Tourists and locals, alike, are drawn to this establishment, seeking an authentic window into the Tibetan way of life. For many, like Gao Yong’e, a visit to the museum is a cherished opportunity to reconnect with the roots of Chinese culture.
Hailing from Anhui Province, Gao had a single day to explore Xining during her summer vacation. She meticulously chose the Tibetan Culture Museum as her primary destination, driven by an insatiable desire to delve deep into the rich tapestry of her country’s traditions. As she meandered through the museum, Gao’s camera diligently documented the myriad of treasures on display, capturing everything from intricately designed Tibetan garments to the exquisite glass incense bottles that spoke of rituals past. Not forgetting the ancient coins, which hinted at the bustling trade routes from yesteryears, she enthusiastically immortalized each piece in digital memory.
This repository of Tibetan history and culture boasts an impressive collection. Over 50,000 artifacts are housed within its walls, offering visitors insights into various facets of Tibetan life. These include Tibetan medicinal practices, a treasure trove of literature, captivating calligraphy, insights into folk culture, striking art, and the mystical world of Tibetan astrology. The museum takes pride in many of its exhibits, which hold the esteemed status of national-level cultural relics.
This summer, the museum witnessed an unprecedented surge in footfall. Dorje Gyal, the museum’s deputy director, proudly shared that July saw close to 200,000 culture enthusiasts walking through its corridors. The daily influx of visitors has been steadily surpassing 6,000 since the beginning of August. The soaring popularity has also seen the museum’s audio guides flying off the shelves, often being fully rented within an hour of opening each morning. Additionally, there’s a notable demand for guided tours, with visitors yearning for deeper, narrative-driven experiences.
However, the museum isn’t solely a space of observation. Recognizing the transformative power of experiential learning, it has curated interactive engagements for its guests. Among the favorites are sessions on thangka painting—a traditional Tibetan art form—and opportunities for visitors to adorn themselves in traditional Tibetan attire, making for memorable photo sessions.
For some, like young Sun Xinyi and her mother, the museum visit rounded off their Qinghai trip, which was filled with awe-inspiring encounters with the region’s natural wonders. With the conviction of someone far beyond her nine years, Sun expressed, “The unique Tibetan culture forms a vital segment of our overarching Chinese heritage. It’s imperative for us to cherish, understand, and perpetuate it.”
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