Why You Should Visit Hong Kong Palace Museum
Hong Kong, a dazzling metropolis known for its neon lights and thriving economy, holds a hidden gem for lovers of culture and history — the Hong Kong Palace Museum! Opened in 2022, this architectural marvel houses treasures from the renowned Palace Museum in Beijing, many unveiled for the first time in Hong Kong.
But beyond the sheer number of priceless artefacts, the museum offers a captivating odyssey through Chinese art, history, and design, making it a must-visit in Hong Kong. Here's why you should visit!
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1. Discover the Stories of Ming Dynasty Portraits at "The Hong Kong Jockey Club Series: Stories Untold" exhibition
This exhibition is running from now till November 2024 in the museum’s Gallery 4, showcasing 81 sets of Ming dynasty figure paintings, plus 14 grade-one national treasures!
It is divided into three sections, each representing different themes and eras of the Ming dynasty. From the early, middle, and late periods, you can explore the artistic pursuits and achievements of court painters, literati painters, and professional painters. The use of multimedia elements and digital technologies enhances the visitor experience, offering a unique perspective on these exquisite works of art.
Let’s step into the captivating world of Ming Dynasty court life through these key highlights:
Amusements in the Xuande Emperor's Palace
Unidentified court artist, Amusements in the Xuande Emperor’s Palace, Ming Dynasty, mid- to late 15th century Handscroll, ink and color on silk, © Palace Museum
Immerse yourself in a day of imperial leisure with this exquisite handscroll from the mid-to-late 15th century Ming dynasty. Unfold the silk canvas and step into the vibrant world of the Imperial Garden, where the emperor himself indulges in a playful array of sports and leisure activities. Some activities include archery, cuju (ancient Chinese football), and polo. Apart from those activities, there’s also chuiwan (a game resembling golf), and touhu, a game where you aim to throw targets into a vessel.
Song Emperor Taizu Calling on Zhao Pu on a Snowy Night
Liu Jun (active mid- to late 15th century), Emperor Taizu Calling on Zhao Pu on a Snowy Night, Ming Dynasty, mid- to late 15th century, Hanging scroll, ink and color on silk, © Palace Museum
Contrast the imperial splendor of the Xuande Emperor is the quiet intimacy of this painting. Depicting a historical meeting between Emperor Taizu of the Song Dynasty and his trusted advisor Zhao Pu, the scene unfolds amidst a thick blanket of snow. Huddled around a warming brazier, the two figures converse in muted tones, their expressions revealing respect and camaraderie.
The Hong Kong Palace Museum stands as a treasure trove of Ming Dynasty artworks and historical artefacts, providing visitors with a captivating journey through Chinese history. This is just one of the many reasons it is a must-visit in Hong Kong. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to explore the artistic pursuits and achievements of this remarkable era!
Important Reminder:
The exhibition runs in four rotations:
Rotation 1: 13 December 2023 to 10 March 2024
Rotation 2: 13 March 2024 to 2 June 2024
Rotation 3: 5 June 2024 to 1 September 2024
Rotation 4: 4 September 2024 to 30 November 2024
2. Witness the East-West Masterpiece Dialogue at the "Botticelli to Van Gogh: Masterpieces from the National Gallery, London” exhibition
This collaboration between the Hong Kong Palace Museum and the National Gallery, London is a testament to the museum’s commitment to showcasing the finest artworks. You will have the chance to admire 52 masterpieces by influential artists spanning over 400 years of Western art history. You can visit the exhibition in the museum’s Gallery 9 from 22 November 2023 to 11 April 2024.
Here are some of the key highlights of the exhibition that you shouldn’t miss:
Portrait of Charles William Lambton by Sir Thomas Lawrence
Sir Thomas Lawrence (1769-1830), 1825, Oil on canvas, NG 6692, © The National Gallery, London
The painting depicts a young boy, Charles William Lambton, sitting on a rocky seat and gazing into the distance, contemplating the wonders of nature. Lawrence's masterful brushstrokes capture Lambton's youthful confidence, his aristocratic lineage evident in the rich velvets and lace adorning his attire.
This painting was commissioned by his father and embodies the ideals of the Romantic era, celebrating individual personality and the grandeur of high society.
Boy Bitten by a Lizard by Caravaggio
Caravaggio (1571-1610), Boy Bitten by a Lizard, About 1594-1595, Oil on canvas, NG 6504, © The National Gallery, London
Plunge into the raw realism of Caravaggio's dark art style, where dramatic light and shadow heighten the emotional intensity of the scene. In this art piece, a young boy recoils in pain, his face in shock after a lizard bites him and proceeds to cling to his finger.
This work exemplifies Caravaggio's groundbreaking realism, challenging traditional ideals of beauty and capturing the raw emotions of ordinary life.
Portrait of a Lady (“La Schiavona”) by Titian
Titian (active about 1506; d. 1576), Portrait of a Lady (“La Schiavona”), About 1510-1512, Oil on canvas, NG 5385, © The National Gallery, London
Finally, enter the realm of Venetian sensuality with Titian's iconic portrait of a young woman. This groundbreaking work was painted by Titian in his early twenties when portraits of women were uncommon in Venice.
To further enhance your experience, the exhibition offers a multisensory exploration of the paintings. Additionally, an interactive installation inspired by a Van Gogh masterpiece will invite visitors to delve deeper into the artist’s world.
Complementing each section, a musical journey curated in collaboration with the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra will provide a delightful auditory experience.
3. Venture into a Multi-Sensory Journey at "The Hong Kong Jockey Club Series: Dwelling in Tranquility - Reinventing Traditional Gardens” exhibition
Sky, Water and Land, Generative visual and sound dataset, LED Screen, stainless steel, bronze, four-channel audio installation, Keith Lam
Step into a serene oasis amidst the bustle of Hong Kong with "Dwelling in Tranquility: Reinventing Traditional Gardens" at the Hong Kong Palace Museum. This captivating exhibit isn't your typical stroll through a manicured garden.
Immerse yourself in mesmerizing kinetic sculptures that mimic swaying bamboo and cascading waterfalls, or lose yourself in a mesmerizing sound installation that evokes the chirping of birds and the gentle gurgling of streams.
Moongate, Interactive kinetic installation, Kenny Wong
This exhibition isn't just visually stunning; it's a multi-sensory journey that invites you to contemplate the enduring philosophies of harmony and balance at the heart of traditional gardens, all reinterpreted for the urban soul.
4. Marvel at Architectural Harmony: Where Tradition Meets Modernity
The museum itself is a breathtaking testament to design.
Stroll through serene courtyards adorned with tranquil water features, their reflecting surfaces mirroring the intricate latticework facade above. Light and shadow dance across the building, creating a mesmerizing interplay that echoes the harmony within the art displayed.
Every detail, from the sloping roofs to the patterned stonework, adds to the museum's cultural tapestry, enriching your Hong Kong Palace Museum experience.
5. Take Part in a Cultural Immersion that Goes Beyond Exhibition
Don't let your exploration end with the exhibits! Your Hong Kong itinerary thrives on enriching experiences, and the museum offers a vibrant calendar of cultural programs. Attend lectures by leading scholars, delve into calligraphy or paper-cutting workshops, or enjoy family-friendly storytelling sessions that bring ancient myths and legends to life.
Some events you should catch are movie screenings for “Secret Impressionists,” “Raphael: The Young Prodigy,” “Van Gogh: Of Wheat Fields and Clouded Skies,” “Tintoretto: A Rebel in Venice,” “Water Lilies of Monet — The Magic of Water and Light,” and “Botticelli, Florence and the Medici.”
6. Indulge in a Culinary Adventure for the Senses
No cultural immersion is complete without indulging in the local cuisine. The museum offers a delectable menu inspired by imperial court dishes and traditional recipes.
Savour delicate dim sum platters at King Lung Heen and handcrafted noodles in flavorful broths at Jin Ya Ju Noodle Bar. We recommend having tea and tasting some delicacies like sweet pea cake at Xia, a Chinese teahouse. Each bite is a journey through Chinese culinary heritage, providing a delightful complement to your artistic exploration.
7. Enjoy Family Fun for All Ages!
The Hong Kong Palace Museum caters to travellers of all ages, ensuring your Hong Kong itinerary includes memories for everyone.
Children's activity spaces with interactive games and storytelling sessions ignite their curiosity about Chinese history and culture. From scavenger hunts to creative workshops, the museum offers a dynamic space for intergenerational learning and shared discovery.
Get your tickets on Klook!
Ready to embark on this exciting journey through Chinese art, history, and design? Book your Hong Kong Palace Museum ticket on Klook in advance to secure your entry to this must-visit attraction in Hong Kong!
