Shaanxi Qinqiang Museum in Xian

Shaanxi Qinqiang Museum in Xian
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 Basic Information

Located at No. 28 Xianning West Road, Beilin District, Xi’an, Shaanxi Province, within the campus of Xi’an Jiaotong University, the Shaanxi Qinqiang Opera Museum was jointly established by the Shaanxi Provincial Department of Culture and Xi’an Jiaotong University. Officially opened on September 26, 2009, it stands as China’s first museum dedicated to Qinqiang Opera, a profound cultural heritage.

Architectural Style

The museum’s architecture harmoniously blends traditional and modern elements. Its exterior features classic Chinese architectural aesthetics with upturned eaves, brackets, and elaborate carvings, exuding a rich historical charm. Inside, modern exhibition facilities complement the spatial design, creating a comfortable and culturally immersive environment for visitors.

Origins and Development of Qinqiang Opera

With a history spanning over 800 years, Qinqiang Opera is one of China’s oldest opera genres and is revered as a “living fossil of Chinese opera.” It originated from folk songs and dances in ancient Shaanxi and Gansu regions, initially performed during rituals, festivals, and celebrations.
Throughout history, Qinqiang evolved significantly. From its embryonic form in primitive folk music and dance during the Pre-Qin period, it drew inspiration from Tang Dynasty court music and reached maturity in the Ming and Qing dynasties. By then, Qinqiang troupes thrived across Shaanxi and neighboring areas. Renowned social organizations like the “Yishe Society” (易俗社) and “Sanyi Society” (三意社) played pivotal roles in its inheritance, nurturing countless talents and producing iconic repertoires that shaped the art form’s legacy.

Precious Collections

The museum houses over 500 artifacts, each narrating the glorious history of Qinqiang Opera:

Rare Script Manuscripts

The hand-copied script of Hui Fu Ci Zi (回府刺字) from the 3rd year of the Qianlong reign (1738) in the Qing Dynasty is a prized possession. Though the paper has yellowed with age.The characters remain clear, offering invaluable insights into the evolution of Qinqiang scripts. The story within embodies loyalty and righteousness, reflecting the social values and aesthetics of its era.

Exquisite Stage Costumes and Props

A collection of Qinqiang stage costumes dazzles with intricate craftsmanship—from magnificent mang pao (蟒袍，imperial robes) to elegant pei (帔，formal outerwear), phoenix crowns, and cloud-patterned shoes. For example, a mang pao embroidered with vivid dragon motifs showcases complex stitching and vibrant, enduring colors, epitomizing the visual splendor of Qinqiang attire.

Unique Facial Makeup Masks

Qinqiang facial makeup is characterized by bold colors and symbolic patterns: red for loyalty (e.g., Guan Yu), black for integrity (e.g., Bao Zheng), and white for treachery (e.g., Cao Cao). These masks are not only tools for character portrayal but also iconic symbols of Qinqiang culture, laden with deep cultural meanings.

Traditional Musical Instruments

Instruments like the banhu (板胡，a spike fiddle), bangzi (梆子，wooden clappers), gongs, and drums are displayed with detailed explanations. The banhu’s piercing, passionate tone is the soul of Qinqiang music, while the bangzi provides its distinctive rhythmic backbone, highlighting the genre’s unique musical style.

Interactive Experience Zones

Multimedia Audio-Visual Experience

Put on headphones to immerse yourself in classic Qinqiang melodies—their high-pitched, soul-stirring tunes transport you to the heart of the opera. The video area loops classic performances and rare historical footage, showcasing legendary artists’ masterpieces and key milestones in Qinqiang’s development.

Hands-On Performance Trials

In the interactive demonstration zone, professional actors guide visitors through basic Qinqiang gestures and singing techniques. Don traditional costumes, hold props, and try your hand at performing—whether a novice or enthusiast, experience the thrill of stepping into a Qinqiang artist’s shoes.

Regular Stage Shows

The central stage hosts frequent live Qinqiang performances, where actors’ virtuosic skills, elaborate costumes, and dynamic martial arts scenes unfold up close. Audience interaction 环节 (segments) invite visitors to join onstage, offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the art of performance.

Special Events

Thematic Exhibitions

Periodic exhibitions, such as “Qinqiang and Shaanxi Folklore” or “Inheritance and Innovation of Qinqiang Art,” explore the deep bond between Qinqiang and Shaanxi’s regional culture. Through artifacts, photos, and documents, they highlight the opera’s role in local traditions and its modern-day evolution.

Cultural Lectures

Renowned Qinqiang artists and scholars are invited to deliver talks on the opera’s history, artistic features, and preservation. These sessions offer rare opportunities for face-to-face exchanges, deepening understanding of Qinqiang’s cultural connotations.

Family-Friendly Activities

Specially designed for families, events like the “Little Qinqiang Artist Workshop” let children learn Qinqiang facial makeup painting, craft stage props, and sing simple melodies. These interactive experiences spark young minds’ interest in traditional culture through fun and creativity.

Visitor Information

Opening Hours

Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM (open on public holidays)

Ticket Prices

  • Adult: 10 RMB
  • Discounts: 50% off for students (with valid ID) and seniors aged 60–69 (with senior ID). Free admission for seniors over 70, disabled visitors, and military personnel (with valid credentials).

Transportation

  • By Bus: Take bus routes 33, 252, 313, 401, 508, 612, 700, or 702 and get off at the “Jiaoda South Gate” stop. Walk for about 4 minutes to reach the museum.

  • By Metro: Currently, there is no direct metro line to the museum. However, you can take the metro to nearby stations and then transfer to a bus or walk.

    For example:Take Metro Line 2 or 3 to “Xiaozhai Station,” then transfer to a bus or walk to the museum.
The Shaanxi Qinqiang Opera Museum is more than a showcase of artifacts; it is a bridge connecting the past and present of Qinqiang culture. Here, traverse time to embrace the opera’s unique charm and the profoundness of traditional Chinese art. We welcome you to embark on this extraordinary cultural journey!