The world of ancient China arrives in Budapest with a deep dive into one of archaeology’s most jaw-dropping finds: the Terracotta Army and the age of China’s first emperor. More than a millennium of history unfolds through objects, rituals, and everyday life, anchored by Guardians of Eternity (Az öröklét őrei), a show spotlighting the individually modeled clay soldiers who guarded the emperor’s tomb. Visitors wander galleries that weave the legacy of Qin Shi Huang with the customs, religious traditions, and daily realities that spanned over half a millennium in early Chinese civilization. The photo material is under the copyright of the Museum of Fine Arts – Hungarian National Gallery.
Guided tours run January 30 to February 1, 2026, at the Museum of Fine Arts, 1146 Budapest, Dózsa György út 41. Join to get closer to the mysteries of ancient China and explore the craftsmanship, imperial ambition, and spiritual beliefs that defined an era.
Tickets, timing, and access
Program fee: $4.15 per person plus a valid exhibition ticket. Capacity: 18 people per tour. Duration: 60 minutes. Arrive at least 20 minutes before the start. Tours use tour-guide devices; receivers and headsets can be picked up in the Marble Hall and are disinfected after use. Prefer your own earphones? Let staff know.
Additional dates: February 3; February 5–8; February 10; February 12–15; February 17; February 19–22; February 24; February 26–March 1, all in Budapest.
Curator-led deep dives
For an expert lens on one of the world’s most spectacular archaeological collections, curator-led tours of Guardians of Eternity (Az öröklét őrei) run on February 4 from 16:15 to 17:15, with further sessions through April. Dr. Györgyi Fajcsák and co-curator Judit Bagi unpack daily life under the first emperor, the structure of his empire, weaponry, and the singular Terracotta Warriors. Expect the sealed stories of imperial tombs from the Qin and Han dynasties to unfold in detail.
Dates: February 4 (Dr. Fajcsák), February 18 (Dr. Fajcsák), March 11 (Dr. Fajcsák), March 18 (Bagi), March 25 (Dr. Fajcsák), April 1 (Bagi).
Curator tour prices and logistics
Full-price ticket: $22.95, including exhibition entry and guided tour. Discounted ticket: $13.55 for visitors eligible for at least 50% exhibition discounts. Arrive 20 minutes early at the Museum of Fine Arts. Tours use audio devices; pick up headsets in the Marble Hall. Headsets are disinfected after each use; your own earphones are welcome—just let staff know.
All dates: Budapest.
