Today Art Museum

Complete Guide to Visiting the Today Art Museum: Hours, Tickets, and Attractions in Beijing

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Situated in Beijing’s dynamic Chaoyang District, the Today Art Museum (TAM) is a pioneering private, non-profit institution dedicated exclusively to contemporary art. Since its founding in 2002, TAM has played a transformative role in China’s art landscape by showcasing leading-edge Chinese and international works, blending innovative architecture with the city’s industrial heritage, and fostering cross-cultural and academic exchange. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a student, or a curious traveler, this comprehensive guide provides everything you need to plan your visit—from opening hours and ticketing details to exhibition highlights, accessibility, and nearby attractions (Sotheby’s; Google Arts & Culture; Beijing Government; Artlinkart).

Introduction
Historical Background
Visiting Information
Architectural Transformation
Exhibition Highlights
Educational and Social Programs
International Collaboration and Digital Presence
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion and Summary
References and Official Links

Historical Background

Founding and Early Development

Established in 2002 by Zhang Baoquan, TAM broke new ground as China’s first private, non-governmental art museum (Sotheby’s). The museum is housed in a repurposed industrial boiler house on Baiziwan Road, with a transformation led by architect Wang Hui. This adaptive reuse not only preserves a piece of Beijing’s industrial legacy but also introduces a flexible “white cube” environment ideal for contemporary exhibitions (Hisour; Artlinkart).

Mission and Vision

TAM’s mission is to champion Chinese contemporary art within a global context, fostering innovation, academic research, and dialogue. Its guiding principle, “based on today, looking forward to the future,” reflects its commitment to promoting both established and emerging artists while encouraging international cooperation (Google Arts & Culture; Artlinkart).

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

Tuesday–Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Closed Mondays (except on public holidays)
Free Admission: First Saturday of each month (The Beijinger)

Tickets

General Admission: Usually free; special exhibitions may require tickets (30–80 RMB)
Discounts: Available for students, seniors, and groups
Purchasing: Buy at the entrance or online through the official website

Location and Directions

Address: 32 Baiziwan Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing
Subway: Line 7 to Baiziwan Station, then a short walk
Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible with ramps and elevators
Facilities: Museum shop, café, restrooms, and cloakroom

Visitor Tips

Guided Tours: Available in Mandarin and occasionally in English; book in advance online
Photography: Permitted without flash unless otherwise indicated
Best Times to Visit: Weekday mornings for fewer crowds; check the website for special event schedules

Architectural Transformation and Symbolism

TAM’s architecture exemplifies innovative adaptive reuse. The building maintains elements of its industrial origins—such as metal stairways and a trapezium form—while offering over 2,500 square meters of versatile exhibition space. The all-white galleries, movable walls, and customizable lighting offer flexibility for diverse media, from large-scale installations to multimedia works. The rooftop installation “Viewing the Exhibition” by Wang Jianwei further reinforces the museum’s identity as a site for both art and reflection (visitbeijing.com.cn; Artlinkart).

Exhibition Highlights and Cultural Impact

TAM features a permanent collection of nearly 1,000 works, covering painting, sculpture, photography, and new media by influential artists such as Fang Lijun, Yue Minjun, Liu Xiaodong, and Zhang Xiaogang. It has hosted landmark exhibitions including “Seasons of Cezanne: The Immersive Art Experience” and “Miyazaki Hayao & Ghibli’s World,” as well as international collaborations with artists like James Jean and Bob Dylan (Beijing Government; Sotheby’s).

TAM’s “Future of Today Biennial” and thematic exhibitions often address topics like urbanization, technology, gender, and digital revolutions, inviting guest curators and fostering global dialogue (Sotheby’s).

Education is central to TAM’s mission. The museum provides:

Guided Tours and Lectures: In-depth tours and artist talks
Workshops: Hands-on activities for children, students, and adults
School Outreach: Programs connecting students with contemporary art
Art Salons and Panels: Forums for discussion and critical engagement
Digital Resources: Virtual tours, online exhibitions, and digital archives (Artlinkart; chinawiki.net)

International Collaboration and Digital Presence

TAM is active in fostering international exchange through partnerships with foreign artists and institutions, enhancing the diversity of Beijing’s art scene. Its digital initiatives—including collaborations with Google Arts & Culture—offer global audiences access to virtual exhibitions and educational content.

Nearby Attractions

Make the most of your visit by exploring:

798 Art District: Renowned for contemporary galleries, boutiques, and cafés
Chaoyang Park: A relaxing urban park nearby
Red Brick Art Museum: Another independent contemporary art destination
Central Beijing Sites: The Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square, accessible by public transport

(Chinadiscovery)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the opening hours?
A: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM. Closed Mondays, except holidays.

Q: How much are tickets?
A: General admission is usually free; special exhibitions may require tickets (30–80 RMB).

Q: Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, TAM is fully accessible with ramps and elevators.

Q: Are guided tours available in English?
A: Tours are primarily in Mandarin, with occasional English options. Check the website for availability.

Q: Can I take photos inside?
A: Non-flash photography is permitted unless otherwise posted.

Q: What is the best way to reach the museum?
A: By subway (Line 7 to Baiziwan Station) or taxis/ride-hailing.

Q: Are there educational programs for children?
A: Yes, TAM offers workshops and outreach for all ages.

Conclusion and Summary

The Today Art Museum stands as a beacon of contemporary Chinese art, uniting historical context, innovative architecture, and diverse programming. Its commitment to education, inclusivity, and cross-cultural dialogue makes it a cornerstone of Beijing’s vibrant cultural scene. Visitors enjoy accessible facilities, rich exhibitions, and proximity to other major attractions. For the latest information on visiting hours, tickets, and events, consult the official website or digital platforms. Whether you are seeking a deep dive into Chinese contemporary art or a memorable cultural day in Beijing, TAM provides a rewarding and enriching experience (Today Art Museum; Sotheby’s; chinawiki.net).

References and Official Links

Call to Action:
For the most current updates, download the Audiala app for real-time exhibition information, curated guides, and exclusive content about Beijing’s top cultural destinations. Follow us on social media and explore related articles to enrich your visit.