Chimei Museum – Tainan – stunning European-style museum with art, violins, weapons, fossils & more

The Chimei Museum in Tainan is an absolute gem and one of the most memorable attractions we visited in Taiwan. From the moment you arrive, the grandeur of the European-style building and the stunning long walkway, complete with an elegant water fountain, immediately captivate you. It genuinely feels like you’ve stepped into a slice of Europe in the heart of Taiwan. It’s easy to reach by train, bus and car.

Highlights	Stunning European-style museum with art, violins, weapons, fossils & more. A must-visit in Tainan for families, art lovers & culture fans. NT$200 entry.
Cost	NT$200
Location	No. 66, Section 2, Wenhua Rd, Rende District, Tainan City, Taiwan 717015
Website	http://www.chimeimuseum.org/

The museum provides lockers, both small and large, which require a coin to unlock, but the coin is returned on return of the locker key.

The museum houses an incredibly diverse and well-curated range of exhibits that cater to all interests—art, history, natural science, and even hyperrealistic Taiwanese art. One of the biggest highlights is the world-renowned violin collection, considered among the best globally. For classical music lovers, seeing instruments crafted by legendary luthiers is awe-inspiring.

The European art section takes you on a journey through centuries of Western artistic development, from the 13th to the 20th century. There’s also an impressive collection of ancient weapons and armor, showcasing the evolution of warfare and craftsmanship across cultures and time periods.

The natural history section, however, was our personal favorite. The animal taxidermy and fossil displays were both educational and fascinating, giving us a window into biodiversity across the globe. We were equally impressed by the Jingwei sieshih (Hyperrealism) exhibit featuring works by CHIMEI Art Award winners—visually stunning and deeply moving pieces.

The ground floor is also home to refreshments including Starbucks and 7 Eleven if you need a break from exploring the wonderful exhibits.

Admission is very reasonable at NT$200 for adults, and while there is an extra charge for the rotating special exhibition, we found the main collection to be more than enough for one visit. The grounds surrounding the museum are beautifully landscaped, offering lush parkland perfect for a picnic, photos, or simply a relaxing stroll.

Located conveniently within Tainan and easy to access, the Chimei Museum combines architectural beauty, cultural richness, and educational value in a way that few museums manage. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a history buff, or visiting with family, this museum is a must-see in Tainan.

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