What Makes It Special

Unlike general history museums that treat technology as a footnote, the Xidian University Museum places electronics front and center. It documents both the global arc of electronic science and China's specific journey in military electronics—from wartime radio operators to the engineers who built the nation's radar networks, meteor-trail communication systems, and digital infrastructure. The museum is divided into eight zones: a Preface Hall, Communications Hall, Radar Hall, Computer Hall, Electronic Components Hall, Electronic Measurement Instruments Hall, a Future Hall, and an outdoor exhibition area, together forming a chronological sweep of the field.↗

Since a major renovation completed in 2021, the museum has welcomed more than 160,000 visitors, including over 40,000 primary and secondary school students who come for hands-on science study programs. In late 2025, it was officially designated a Xi'an Municipal Science Education Venue for the 2025–2029 period.↗

Highlights to Look For

Among the most historically significant items is a replica of the "Half Radio"—the damaged receiverset that is credited with launching the Chinese military's radio communications era. Other featured pieces include China's first full-duplex meteor-trail communication system, a 55B-type transceiver telephone set, an optoelectronic analysis platform, and a detailed sandbox model of the 500-meter Aperture Spherical Radio Telescope (FAST), the world's largest single-dish telescope.↗↗

The museum also hosts rotating temporary exhibitions tied to university milestones, such as commemorative shows marking campus relocations and national celebrations.↗

Visiting Practicalities

The museum is free and open Tuesday through Saturday, 9:00–12:00 and 14:30–17:00 (Saturday continues through the afternoon without a midday closure). Individual visitors need no reservation—simply arrive during opening hours, register personal information, and enter. Groups of ten or more should book at least two working days in advance via the "Xidian Memory" (西电记忆) WeChat public account or by phone at 029-81892118. Outside visitors are advised to call ahead for confirmation. Holiday and summer-winter break schedules vary by university arrangement.↗↗

For independent visitors, a self-guided audio tour is available through the WeChat account. Guided tours are offered free of charge for official and group visits when arranged in advance.↗

Getting There

The museum sits on the south campus of Xidian University at 266 Xifeng Road, Xinglong Section, Chang'an District. The most convenient public-transport option is Metro Line 6 to the Xidian South Campus station (also signed as "Future of the Eye"), then walk into the west gate. Alternatively, buses 333, 728, 738, or Gaoxin 7 stop at the university's Chang'an Campus station near the southeast gate.↗

Once inside campus, the museum is located beside the Far Vision Valley Gymnasium—nicknamed the "Big Golden Bowl" for its radar-dish-inspired architecture—making it easy to spot from the main road network. The venue is wheelchair-accessible with both entrance and restroom accommodations.↗↗

Good to Know

Children under 12 must be accompanied by a guardian. Luggage storage is available free of charge inside. Pets, smoking, and touching exhibits are not permitted. The adjacent Xidian University History Museum, which opened in 2011 and traces the university's ninety-year story, makes a natural companion visit.↗↗