Nestled on the shores of Tangdao Bay, the Qingdao Shell Museum (青岛贝壳博物馆) is a unique private institution dedicated to the study, collection, and public education of shells. Spanning an area of approximately 2,600 square meters, the museum is a multifaceted establishment that combines scientific research, cultural tourism, and educational outreach. It consists of six main sections: the Shell Specimen Exhibition Area, the Shell Viewing Area, the Children’s Interactive Zone, the Science Popularization Zone, the Shell Commodity Display Area, and the Shell Biology Research Institute. One of its notable features is the largest beach T-stage in China.
The museum boasts an impressive collection of over 12,000 shell specimens, 5,000 shell fossils, and 800 shell-related artifacts and artworks. These exhibits include specimens from the Pacific, Atlantic, Indian, and Arctic Oceans, as well as shells from over 60 countries across five continents. Visitors can marvel at the diversity of shell species, which span five classes, 262 families, and over 4,260 species. Highlights include the massive giant clam, known as the “King of Shells,” which measures a meter in diameter, tiny sand shells that require a magnifying glass to be seen, and fossilized nautilus from the Ordovician period, dating back 450 million years.
The Qingdao Shell Museum operates under the principle of “harmonious coexistence between humans and nature.” It aims to not only showcase its extensive collection but also to educate the public about marine life and environmental conservation. By exploring the museum, visitors gain a deeper understanding of marine mollusks and the importance of protecting marine ecosystems. This dual focus on education and conservation is designed to raise awareness and encourage a proactive approach to environmental stewardship.
The establishment of the Qingdao Shell Museum has garnered attention and support from experts, scholars, and various organizations. Prominent Chinese malacologist He Jing, China Ocean University, China Ocean University Press, and Wan Xiaojun, president of the China South Sea Marine Protection Association, have all contributed to the museum’s development. Their support has been instrumental in the successful founding of the museum, ensuring that it meets high standards of scientific and educational excellence.
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 – 2 hours |
| Ticket Price | 70 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 9.00 – 17.00; Last admission: 16.30 (1st November – 30th April) 9.00 – 17.30; Last admission: 17.00 (1st May – 31st October) |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0532-80982120 |
Location and Transportation
The Qingdao Shell Museum is located at 680 Lijiangxi Road, West Coast New Area, Qingdao, Shandong Province. To get there, you can take bus L3, Huangdao 31, or Huangdao 50 and get off at Citizen Square Stop (市民广场站).
