Beijing Auto Museum: A Century of Cars in One Journey

On the edge of Beijing’s South Fourth Ring Road, a giant “eye” gazes into the future. This isn’t just heaven for car lovers—it’s also one of the best windows into the history of human mobility.

The Beijing Auto Museum, located at No. 126 South Fourth Ring West Road in Fengtai District, is China’s first government-led automobile museum. Opened in 2011, its striking “eye-shaped” building symbolizes “looking at the world and facing the future.” As a National First-Class Museum and 4A Tourist Attraction, it combines the functions of a museum, science center, and exhibition hall. Through immersive interactive experiences, it takes visitors on an exciting journey through the past, present, and future of cars.

1. Why This Museum Deserves a Pit Stop

What makes this museum special is its perfect mix of history and high-tech fun. Built on the site of a former factory, its sleek design breathes new life into industrial heritage. Inside, over 50,000 square meters of exhibition space not only trace the global and Chinese automotive journey but also bring car technology to life with hands-on experiences.

It’s China’s most influential auto-themed museum, with more than 10,000 exhibits, including legendary models from around the world. The museum isn’t just a guardian of car history—it’s also a hub for education, with programs like “Car Carnival” summer and winter camps that blend learning with fun.

Compared to other Beijing museums, the Auto Museum stands out for its interactive and playful vibe. From ancient carriages to futuristic concept cars, from engines to driving simulators, the exhibits show how cars have transformed human life.

2. What You’ll Find Inside

The museum spans five themed floors, each with its own highlights:

• 5th Floor – Birth & Development: Trace the origins of cars, from horse-drawn carriages to modern vehicles. Don’t miss the replica of the Benz Patent Motor Car No.1, the world’s first gasoline car. The floor also showcases milestones of China’s auto industry, including the first sedan of New China—the Dongfeng CA71, the iconic Hongqi CA72, and the historic Minsheng Type 75 from 1931, China’s earliest attempt at car manufacturing.
• 4th Floor – Engineering & Technology: Peek under the hood! Learn how engines work, design your own car with computer simulations, and hop into the F1 racing simulator for a thrilling ride.
• 3rd Floor – Future Vision: This zone looks ahead at how cars will shape human life. Explore futuristic concept cars, solutions for congestion and pollution, and the creative Car Recycling Wall, made entirely from discarded car parts.
• 2nd Floor – Food & Fun: Take a break at the on-site restaurant and browse the souvenir shop, where car models and themed gifts make perfect keepsakes.

Star Exhibits include the world’s first women’s car—the 1925 Citroën 5HP Torpedo Convertible, as well as a 1927 Ford Model T and a 1929 Ford Model A, both of which are still drivable today.

3. How to Make the Most of Your Visit

Suggested Route: Start at the 5th floor and work your way down, following the timeline from past to future—it makes the story of car evolution easy to follow.

Time Needed: Plan for 2–3 hours. If you want to try every simulator and interactive game, budget more time. Weekday mornings are quieter, while weekends and holidays draw larger crowds.

Don’t Miss the Interactives: Popular choices include the kids’ driving school, car design simulation, and engine demo models. Some premium activities like “Extreme Driving” require an extra ticket.

Accessibility: The museum has excellent barrier-free facilities for wheelchairs and strollers. Accessible services can also be reserved in advance.

Amenities: Lockers are available on the first floor (bags larger than 30 cm must be stored). Each floor has rest areas, and free Wi-Fi is provided.

4. Getting There & What’s Around

Address: No. 126 South Fourth Ring West Road, Fengtai District, Beijing.

• Subway: Take Line 9 to Keyilu Station (Exit C), then walk about 300 meters east.
• Bus: Routes 740, Te9, and YunTong 115 stop at “Yihai Garden South Gate,” right by the museum.
• Car: The museum is near Kefu Bridge on the South Fourth Ring Road and has parking. However, traffic can get heavy—public transit is the smarter choice.

The surrounding area offers plenty of food and shopping options, perfect for rounding out your day.

5. Tickets & Opening Hours

• Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00–17:00 (last ticket at 16:00, last entry at 16:30). Closed on Mondays, except holidays.
• Tickets: Adults 30 RMB, students 20 RMB. Foreign visitors can buy tickets with a valid passport.
• How to Buy: Tickets are sold on-site and through official online platforms. ID is required for entry.
• Free Days: May 19 (China Tourism Day) and September 27 (World Tourism Day) are free admission days—advance reservations are required.
• Crowd Control: During peak times, visitor numbers may be capped for a smoother experience.

The Beijing Auto Museum is more than a showcase of cars—it’s a time machine into the past and a telescope into the future of mobility. Whether you’re a die-hard car fan or just curious about how vehicles shape our lives, this museum is guaranteed to spark excitement.