Guangdong Guild Hall

This quadrilateral guild hall is in the center of the old city area near Drum Tower. It was built in 1907 and its wooden stage is a unique piece of architecture. It is also known as the Museum of Opera.

As an ancient architectural complex of prominent Lingnan style, its main structure is a classical theatre that has the largest size, and is best preserved in China with wonderful projecting stage and cantilever construction, magnificent plafond, and splendid interior decoration.

The hall covers an area of 2,772 square meters. The main buildings of the Guangdong Guild Hall include a grand hall, side halls, a theatre building, a crossing courtyard, etc. The theatre building was constructed with wonderful workmanship. Its internal space is vast, field of vision wide, while roof beams and pillars are finely carved and well decorated.

In 1922, Dr Sun Yat-sen visited the Guild Hall and delivered an important speech there.

After being rebuilt in 1986, the Guangdong Guildhall was taken as the first national drama museum in China, where the Development History of Chinese Drama, the Development History of Tianjin’s Drama, and the Guangdong Guildhall Rehabilitation are exhibited. It is a national cultural heritage under special protection.

Nowadays, a lot of valuable exhibits reflecting Tianjin history of drama, such as stage photos, costumes, properties and theatrical programs are on display in the Museum of Drama.

Location: No.31 Nanmen Inner Street, Nankai District, Tianjin
Entrance Fee: RMB 5
Opening Hours: 09:00-16:00
Transportation: Take Bus No.161,635,652,855,863 or 865 and get off at the stop of Drum Tower.