Getting to know the world doesn't always require traveling far; museums and science centers offer a wealth of wonders right within reach. Here, one can delve into science, revel in nature, and ignite a passion for uncovering the mysteries of natural science.

Beijing Aquarium

Situated on the northern bank of the Chang River within the Beijing Zoo premises, the Beijing Aquarium spans 120,000 square meters with a built-up area of 42,000 square meters. It seamlessly blends entertainment, educational outreach, and leisure pursuits, establishing itself as one of China's premier inland aquariums.

With its distinctive and grandiose architectural design resembling a colossal blue sea snail reclining on a beach surrounded by lush greenery and blooming flowers, the Beijing Aquarium is a sight to behold. Equipped with state-of-the-art life support systems and utilizing artificial seawater, it boasts a total water volume of 20,000 tons. Guided by the motto "Enlighten the Public, Educate the Students, Sustain the Ecology," the aquarium artfully orchestrates seven themed exhibition areas such as the Rainforest Wonder, Shark Town, Underwater Odyssey, Bering Strait, Chinese Sturgeon Pavilion, Whale and Dolphin Bay, and the Marine Theater. Housing over a thousand species and tens of thousands of marine fish and organisms, the aquarium offers an immersive experience like no other.

At night, the Beijing Aquarium transforms into a spectacle of dazzling light shows, vibrant tropical fish, and the captivating presence of both fierce and endearing sharks. With nearly a thousand species of fish creating an underwater world, it's an ideal destination for family outings, gatherings with friends, or weekend relaxation for the working populace.

Address: No. 18, Yi, Gaoliangqiao Xiejie (St) (No. 6 Qixiang Lu (Rd)), Haidian District, Beijing

Paleozoological Museum of China

Located on West Outer Street of Xizhimen in Beijing's Xicheng District, adjacent to the Beijing Planetarium and facing the Beijing Zoo across the street, the Paleozoological Museum of China stands as a testament to ancient history. Its exterior resembles an ancient fortress with a turquoise hue. Spanning a total area of 3,000 square meters, the museum boasts  nearly 2,000 square meters dedicated to exhibition space, making it a treasure trove of paleontological wonders.

The origins of the Paleozoological Museum of China trace back to the Fossil Exhibition Hall of the Geological Survey Institute of the Ministry of Agriculture and Mining, established in 1929 in the Hutong of Bingmasi, Xicheng District, Beijing. On April 1, 1953, the Vertebrate Paleontology Research Room of the Chinese Academy of Sciences was formally established at Erdao Bridge, Di'anmen, Xicheng District, Beijing. Its exhibition hall sporadically opened to the public, marking the precursor to the Paleozoological Museum of China.

The museum is divided into two galleries—the Paleozoological Museum and the Shuhua Ancient Human Museum.It encompasses five exhibition halls: the Hall of Ancient Fishes and Amphibians, the Hall of Reptiles and Ancient Birds, the Hall of Ancient Mammals, the Hall of Ancient Humans and Old Stone Age, and the Special Exhibition Hall. Leveraging over a century's worth of collection comprising more than 200,000 specimens, the museum showcases over 900 representative pieces. From fossils and artifacts dating back over 500 million years to the prehistoric era approximately 10,000 years ago, including jawless fish, fishes, amphibians, reptiles, birds, mammals, ancient human fossils, and Old Stone Age artifacts, the museum provides a comprehensive insight into the natural remnants and traces of prehistoric animals and humans, showcasing the magnificent evolutionary journey of life.

Address: No. 142 XizhimenwaiDajie (St), Xicheng District, Beijing

Beijing Planetarium

Beijing Planetarium, located at No. 138 XizhimenwaiDajie (St), Xicheng District, Beijing,  officially opened to the public in 1957, marking it as China's first large-scale planetarium and the first of its kind on the Asian continent at that time. For over t six decades, the Beijing Planetarium has captivated audiences of all generations with its unique demonstration techniques.

Comprising two sections—Halls A and B—housing a total of four science theaters, the planetarium offers an immersive experience like no other. The 4D theater not only presents vivid stereoscopic images but also incorporates a variety of special effects such as water sprays, wind bursts, and leg tapping, synchronized with the narrative of the science programs. The 3D theater, features a metallic silver screen that spans 12 meters wide and 9 meters high, complemented by 45-degree polarized 3D glasses, delivering scientific knowledge with vivid and spectacular three-dimensional effects, effectively blending education with entertainment.

Address: No. 138 XizhimenwaiDajie (St), Xicheng District, Beijing