[2025 Hangzhou Attraction] Travel Guide for China Umbrella Museum (Updated Mar)

#hangzhoutrip My visit to the China Umbrella Museum was an unexpectedly delightful experience in the heart of the historic city of Hangzhou. This museum is dedicated to the craft and history of umbrella-making, and it's a hidden gem that sheds light on this fascinating art. Inside, the museum's exhibits showcase a wide range of umbrellas, from traditional to contemporary designs. It's captivating to see the craftsmanship and innovation that go into creating these functional works of art. The interactive displays and demonstrations allowed me to learn about the intricate process of umbrella-making. The museum's tranquil garden provided a serene setting to appreciate the beauty of these everyday objects. The China Umbrella Museum is a unique and charming place, offering an enriching perspective on Chinese culture and craftsmanship. It left me with a newfound appreciation for the humble umbrella and its role in daily life. #ukcreator #hangzhou #China

China Hangzhou Umbrella Museum shares the culture of the materials used and the beautifully painted umbrella. Our tour guide managed to book an umbrella painting session for us and we brought home the umbrella we painted.

📍Visit the China Umbrella Museum in Hangzhou ❤Imagine a gentle rain tapping on the window. The origins of the umbrella unfold before your eyes: bronze chariots carrying mobile pavilions, ancient ingenuity hidden beneath bamboo hats, royal canopies in ancient paintings, and elegant ladies shielding themselves from the light summer rain with lotus leaves. 📝The oil-paper umbrellas of Wuyuan, with their bamboo frames, still exude the fragrance of tung oil. The coarse cloth umbrellas of Luzhou, soaked in tung oil, embody the misty rain of the Shu Road. And the silk umbrellas of the West Lake have transformed into flowing moonlight. The ribs of these umbrellas conceal more than just protection from the sun and rain; they reveal a vibrant tapestry of Chinese civilization. 👍Those researching "guochao" trends will surely find inspiration at the China Umbrella Museum.

China Umbrella Museum -- Located in the Gongchen Bridge West Historical and Cultural District With Gongchen Bridge as the landmark, the museum forms a historical and cultural museum complex together with the China Scissors Museum, China Fan Museum, and others. The museum is divided into six sections: 1. The origin of the Chinese umbrella This is a question that cannot be clearly explained at present. In ancient China, there were many legends and documents about the invention of umbrellas. Although these materials cannot give an accurate answer, speculative views are displayed here. Perhaps one day, your view will solve the mystery of the origin of the Chinese umbrella and become a recognized conclusion. 2. Oil-paper umbrellas and oil-cloth umbrellas Before the Han Dynasty, umbrellas were large in size, and the umbrella surface may have been woven from silk and bird feathers. Due to their high price, they were mainly popular in high society. In the Han Dynasty, with the invention of paper, umbrellas underwent fundamental changes. When paper was used as the umbrella surface, umbrellas became a consumable item. A layer of tung oil was applied to the surface of the paper umbrella to enhance its water resistance, and it was called an oil-paper umbrella. After the rise of the cotton textile industry, oil-cloth umbrellas made of cotton cloth as the umbrella surface material also appeared. They were more durable and expensive, and were very popular. In modern times, craft umbrellas with clear aesthetic functions have developed, bringing people the enjoyment of beauty, while also carrying a touch of nostalgia. 3. Beautiful West Lake silk umbrellas After the mid-Tang Dynasty, with the popularity of silk, silk umbrellas became more popular. In modern times, Hangzhou West Lake silk umbrellas emerged as the most beautiful branch of the silk umbrella family, becoming a prominent representative of Chinese silk umbrellas. 4. Umbrella culture The cultural connotation of umbrellas formed in historical accumulation is extensive, profound, and complex. Its system, form, and color have all aroused people's infinite imagination. It is both part of the ceremonial system that distinguishes people and a medium that connects people with common wishes. It brings people joy and good luck, but it also becomes an unspeakable taboo in folk mentality. It is in this diverse emotion that rich and diverse umbrella cultures have formed in various places. 5. Umbrellas going global In some areas outside China, umbrellas appeared very early. In ancient Egypt, umbrellas were part of the pharaoh's ceremonial system, and in ancient Greece, umbrellas were special tools for noble women to shield themselves from the sun. It is generally believed that umbrellas, as real life tools, originated in China, both in the East and the West. In the Tang Dynasty, Chinese umbrellas were introduced to Korea and Japan, and were further developed in Japan. From the mid-16th century, Chinese umbrellas began to enter Europe sporadically, but it was not until the mid-17th century that umbrellas began to enter the lives of Europeans. Umbrellas going global not only brought convenience to people in various countries, but also enriched local cultures. Today, many regions around the world have formed their own unique umbrella cultures. 6. Modern umbrellas Until the second half of the 17th century, European umbrellas were still heavy, and their use was more about showing status than shielding from the sun and rain. This situation underwent fundamental changes with the successful development of curved steel rib umbrella frames in the 19th century. With the advent of umbrellas that could be opened and closed freely, umbrellas began to truly enter people's daily lives. In the process of modernization in China, modern metal umbrellas quickly replaced traditional oil-paper umbrellas and became the mainstream. Although big red oil-paper umbrellas are still beautiful and vivid, they have finally entered the list of intangible cultural heritage and are gradually moving away from people's lives.

1. Hangzhou Arts and Crafts Museum Address: No. 334, Xiaohe Road, Gongshu District, Hangzhou 2. China Knife, Scissors and Sword Museum Address: No. 336, Xiaohe Road, Gongshu District, Hangzhou 3. China Umbrella Museum Address: No. 336, Xiaohe Road, Gongshu District, Hangzhou 4. China Fan Museum Address: No. 450, Xiaohe Road, Gongshu District, Hangzhou Transportation: Take Metro Line 5 to Grand Canal Station, Exit D, and walk for about 12 minutes Opening hours: 9:00-16:30 (entry stops at 16:00), closed on Tuesdays, open as usual during holidays Tickets: Free You can make a reservation in advance through the WeChat official account "Hangzhou Arts and Crafts Museum"-"Visit Reservation", and enter the museum with the reservation QR code or ID card The Hangzhou Arts and Crafts Museum (China Knife, Scissors, Sword, Fan, and Umbrella Museum) is located on the west side of Gongchen Bridge in the historical district of Hangzhou, on the banks of the Grand Canal. It is a national first-class museum. The Fan Museum is the only museum in China with a fan theme. Here you can learn about the long history and culture of fans. The tall feather fan in the exhibition hall is impressive. The unique umbrella culture has been derived from the misty and rainy Jiangnan. The Umbrella Museum is the first umbrella-themed museum in China, displaying China's umbrella culture, history and craftsmanship. "An object with one blade is a knife, and an object with two blades is a sword. Two knives intersect to form scissors." Here you can learn about the unique culture of knives, scissors and swords. The Arts and Crafts Museum provides ordinary visitors with a place to understand the history of Hangzhou arts and crafts, appreciate masterpieces, and interpret the connotation of craftsmanship. The second floor provides a window for arts and crafts masters to pass on their skills to society, and also provides a close communication platform for arts and crafts enthusiasts.

#chinatrip My visit to the China Umbrella Museum in Hangzhou was truly captivating. This unique museum beautifully showcases the rich history and artistry of Chinese umbrellas. From the intricate designs of traditional paper and silk umbrellas to the modern interpretations, each exhibit highlighted exquisite craftsmanship. The interactive displays and live demonstrations by skilled artisans offered an educational and engaging experience, providing insight into the meticulous process of umbrella-making. I also appreciated the exploration of umbrellas' cultural significance in Chinese literature, art, and daily life. The museum's serene garden, with its tranquil ponds and lush landscaping, added to the overall charm, offering a peaceful spot for reflection. The China Umbrella Museum is a hidden gem that provides a unique glimpse into China's cultural heritage. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring the artistic and historical significance of this everyday object. I left with a newfound appreciation for umbrellas and their cultural importance.

Umbrella, also known as San, is a mobile pavilion, a hat with a long handle. Tracing back to the origin of the umbrella, some say it was the canopy of the Yellow Emperor's chariot, some say it was King Wu of Zhou who used lotus leaves as a prototype to avoid rain, and some say it was Lu Ban in the Spring and Autumn period. The closest to the modern umbrella is the car umbrella in the Warring States period, that is, the canopy on the chariot. China is the first country in the world to invent umbrellas. After the invention of paper in the Han Dynasty, it began to replace silk. During the Wei, Jin, and Northern and Southern Dynasties, paper coated with tung oil became the material for umbrella surfaces, marking the birth of oil-paper umbrellas. After the mid-Tang Dynasty, silk umbrellas became popular. During the Five Dynasties, there were umbrella-making workshops, jokingly called 'Gao Mi Hou'. During the Song Dynasty, green oil-paper umbrellas were widely used. They were often used for climbing, riding horses in rainy and snowy days, and setting up stalls. The umbrella ribs are made of 'Mengzong bamboo' grown in winter, which is cut after soaking in water. Then, the fan-shaped cotton paper is glued to the frame piece by piece with cottonseed oil. After drying, it is coated with waterproof tung oil. The craft of making oil-paper umbrellas is still preserved in Meinong, Taiwan. Among the treasures are Yuhang oil-paper umbrellas and Jiulu oil-paper umbrellas in Wuyuan. In the Qing Dynasty, black cloth umbrellas were also made in Guangdong, Fujian and other places, and sold abroad. Hangzhou Du Jinsheng Silk Weaving Scenery Factory pioneered the West Lake silk umbrella, using light bamboo to make umbrella ribs. Brushing flowers, painting flowers and embroidering flowers on the umbrella surface, commonly known as the 'three flowers' in the silk umbrella craft. In ancient China, the use of umbrellas had a strong hierarchy. The emperor used a canopy when he went out; the Song Dynasty stipulated that the people and officials should use green umbrellas, and the emperor used red and yellow; the Ming Dynasty stipulated that the common people could only use paper umbrellas, and they were not allowed to use Luojuan cool umbrellas. From the Later Wei period, umbrellas were officially used in official ceremonies and became a part of royal ceremonies. In ancient Egypt and Babylon, as well as in the East in Japan, Myanmar and Thailand, umbrellas were also a symbol of social status. The ancient Egyptians gave religious meanings to papyrus umbrellas and peacock feather umbrellas, and umbrellas were regarded as the incarnation of the goddess Nut. Two thousand years ago, Greek women used umbrellas to shade the sun. In the Roman Curia, the Pope used the umbrella as part of the ceremonial guard. Paper umbrellas were introduced to Japan from China via the Korean Peninsula during the Asuka period, and were originally used as Buddhist instruments in Buddhist ceremonies. He and the umbrella began to be widely used among the people from the Edo period. Kabuki uses pink umbrellas, geisha hold purple umbrellas, and Kabuki men hold black or tea brown umbrellas. At every grand celebration, someone always holds a red silk umbrella with a diameter of 2 meters for the emperor, which is a symbol of the emperor's absolute authority. The 'Flower Umbrella Festival' held in Chiang Mai every January or February, holds a 'Bosang Miss' beauty contest. Louis XIII of France, who changed his exquisite umbrella every day, was called 'Umbrella Maniac'. Britain is known as the 'Kingdom of Umbrellas'. Under the promotion of businessman John Hanway, holding an umbrella is a symbol of prudent virtue. In the mid-17th century, umbrellas began to enter the lives of Europeans. In the 19th century, with the successful development of the curved steel umbrella frame, umbrellas truly entered people's daily lives.

Oil-paper umbrella is one of the representatives of Jiangnan. The origin and development of umbrellas are all in the China Umbrella Museum by the canal. The umbrella was actually invented by Luban! There are many umbrellas of different shapes, materials, and colors, which are exquisitely beautiful and breathtaking. Finally, there is a huge electronic starry sky umbrella! 🌟 Highlights: Unique and ingenious 📍Detailed address: No. 336, Xiaohe Road, Hangzhou City 📝Note tips: It is best to make an appointment one day in advance

The China Umbrella Museum in Hangzhou provides a delightful 🤩 blend of history 📖, art 👨🏻‍🎨, and cultural immersion 🎭. Its enchanting exhibits and immersive ambiance offer visitors a truly memorable experience. When you step through the museum's entrance, you're greeted by a kaleidoscope of vibrant umbrellas ⛱️suspended from the ceiling, casting colorful shadows on the walls🧱. It’s like starting a journey through time 🕖showcasing the evolution of umbrellas in Chinese culture 🎭 Don’t forget to step outside beyond the museum doors 🚪 to the cultural Yun He street or visit the gift 🎁 shop where you can get some beautifully crafted umbrellas for souvenirs ⛱️ 📌 Location: 拱宸桥街道小河路 336号 Xiao He Road 336, Gong Chen Street. 📍Address: 中国雨伞博物馆 CHINA UMBRELLA MUSEUM ⏰ Service: 🕘 08:30- 17:00 🕥 Hours . . . #grandcanal #2023travelwish #本地遊 #urbanexplorer #summervacation #tripblazers #museum #museumquest #hangzhou #hangzhoutravel #mustvisit #historicculture

Jiangnan's oil paper umbrella is a symbol of Jiangnan. China Umbrella Museum, this symbol is extended and enlarged. Entering the Umbrella Museum, you can see the evolution of the dynasties umbrellas, the classic umbrella craft. From graphic and detailed to scene blending, it is especially suitable for bringing children together. Almost no children don't like to have an umbrella in the rain, but ask how the umbrella was invented, and how the umbrella was made, it would be difficult to beat them. Not afraid, after reading this museum, there are counts in the history and production of umbrellas. The umbrella museum also has a corner where children can experience the production together. After signing at the service desk, under the guidance of the staff, follow the production steps on the drawings to make a small paper umbrella of their own. Many of the staff here are volunteers from all walks of life, but even the white-haired old lady will patiently answer the child's questions.

There are many special museums in the city of Hangzhou. The China Umbrella Museum is located on the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal and is free to open. This is the world's first umbrella theme museum. The impression of Jiangnan, always smoke and rain, narrow alleys, the graceful woman holding a paper umbrella. In the Umbrella Museum, a variety of oil paper umbrellas are eye-opening. About the origin of the umbrella, there is no conclusion yet. After thousands of years of evolution, the umbrella has become light, beautiful and more practical. Southern Song Linan is the national umbrella center. There are many kinds of silk umbrellas in the market. There are large and small yellow umbrellas, cool umbrellas, red and green umbrellas and square umbrellas for customers to choose. In the Han Dynasty, with the invention of paper, the situation has undergone fundamental changes. Umbrellas become a tool that people can consume and begin to have a close relationship with daily life. The museum rebuilt the counter of the ancient umbrella shop, and the antique man bought the oil paper umbrella. Hangzhou West Lake Silk Umbrella is the most beautiful one of the silk umbrella family. It stands out as a prominent representative of Chinese silk umbrella. Jiangnan's rain alley, not only a girl, a paper umbrella, but also a literary feeling. It is generally believed that the umbrella that truly serves as a tool for people's lives, whether in the East or in the West, comes from China. In the Tang Dynasty, the Chinese umbrella was passed to North Korea and Japan, and it was carried forward in Japan.