Meike Cave Art Museum Beijing: Explore Cave Art & Silk Road Culture
In the bustling Chaoyangmen district of Beijing stands a striking white building, stacked like giant books or resembling a soaring white dove. This is Meike Cave Art Museum, a unique retail-art space blending cave culture, Silk Road heritage, and modern home artistry. More than a showroom, it’s a place where visitors experience the harmony of life aesthetics and artistic charm.
1. Why You Should Make a Special Visit
Meike Cave Art Museum began its journey in 2019, following the transformation of the former Bainaohui Computer City building, and officially opened in 2021. Designed by Meike founder Feng Dongming, a painter, architect, and entrepreneur, the museum embodies extreme design excellence and has become a fashionable landmark in Beijing’s urban renewal.
Its uniqueness lies in integrating human cave-dwelling civilization and Silk Road cultural context into contemporary design. It is not a traditional museum or mall, but a multi-functional space combining home art, cultural exhibitions, and leisure experiences. Since opening, it has welcomed hundreds of thousands of visitors, affectionately dubbed by netizens as “Little Sydney of Beijing” for its pure white cave-inspired architecture.
Here, you experience seamless fusion of art and life. From the visual impact of the building to the aesthetic narrative conveyed by the exhibits, Meike Cave Art Museum offers a rare escape that sparks inspiration.
2. What You’ll See
Entering the museum is like stepping into a time-traveling art adventure.
Architecture and Art in Perfect Harmony:
- Kucha Cave Heaven: Above the main entrance, this skylight is a signature feature inspired by Kucha culture on the Silk Road. Natural light shifts throughout the day, creating a dreamlike interplay of shadows and illumination.
- Stone Cave Ribbon Staircase: The museum’s pure white spiral staircase winds like a ribbon, making it a favorite spot for photos.
- Kucha Murals: Walls and beams are adorned with exquisite murals painted by Xinjiang artists using traditional methods and natural mineral pigments. Some mural bases even include materials from Kizil Caves, evoking the mysterious atmosphere of the ancient Western Regions.
Diverse Interior Spaces:
The museum spans around 23,000 square meters and offers multifunctional zones:
- Home Art Exhibitions: Showcases artfully designed home furnishings and curated interior displays.
- Cultural & Leisure Areas:
- Book Dome: A tranquil “urban reading haven” with over 2,500 books on art, literature, and more, available for free borrowing.
- SKY Space: Hosts rotating art exhibitions and tasting salons.
- Dining Experiences: Options include “Taste of Silk Road” restaurant (Xinjiang cuisine) and Light Jazz restaurant (Western cuisine), letting visitors enjoy both visual and culinary delights.
3. How to Explore Efficiently
Recommended Route:
Start on Level 1:
- Admire Kucha Cave Heaven and the related mural art at the entrance.
- Walk upward along the Stone Cave Ribbon Staircase, enjoying the architectural curves.
- Explore home exhibition areas and art displays floor by floor.
- Pause at Book Dome or dine at one of the restaurants to relax.
Time Tips:
- Quick Visit: About 1 hour for the main highlights.
- In-Depth Experience: Reserve 2–3 hours or more to fully appreciate architectural details, exhibitions, or reading.
Practical Tips:
- Photography:
- Pure white interiors and unique structural lines photograph beautifully; wear solid colors (especially black or white) for the best effect.
- Visit during sunny daytime to take advantage of natural skylight shadows.
- Rules: Professional cameras are prohibited; smartphones are allowed. Tripods and selfie sticks are not permitted. Special permits required for professional/commercial photography.
- Accessibility: Fully wheelchair- and stroller-friendly.
- Other Notes: Do not touch exhibits in home areas and maintain a quiet environment.
4. How to Get There & Nearby Attractions
Location: 99 Chaoyangmen Outer Street, Chaoyang District, Beijing.
Public Transport (Recommended):
- Subway: Line 6 to Dongdaqiao Station, Exit A or D2, 5–10 minutes walk.
- Bus: Routes 110, 615, 75, 139 to “Shenlu Street” stop.
Driving:
Search “Meike Cave Art Museum”; underground parking is available. Due to heavy traffic, public transport is recommended.
Nearby Attractions:
Close to THE BOX (youth cultural center) and Dongyue Temple (Beijing Folk Museum), allowing for convenient one-day itineraries.
5. Tickets & Opening Hours
Tickets:
- Free admission to Meike Cave Art Museum.
- No reservation needed.
- Occasional special exhibitions may require separate tickets; check official announcements.
Opening Hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 10:00 – 21:00
With its unique architectural language and rich artistic content, Meike Cave Art Museum offers visitors a feast for the eyes and soul. Whether you are an art enthusiast, architecture lover, or simply seeking a cozy urban corner, this is a place to slow down and savor every detail.
