The world of Ancient China comes to Budapest with a tightly curated museum tour series spotlighting the legendary Terracotta Army and the age of the first Chinese emperor, Qin Shi Huang. Running at the Museum of Fine Arts – Hungarian National Gallery (Szépművészeti Múzeum – Magyar Nemzeti Galéria), the program opens a door into more than half a millennium of customs, religion, and daily life, all anchored by one of the 20th century’s greatest archaeological discoveries: thousands of life-sized clay soldiers guarding the emperor’s tomb. Venue: 1146 Budapest, District 14 – Zugló, Dózsa György út 41.
Core Dates and Format
The guided tours run February 12–15, 2026, with additional dates on February 17, 19–22, 24, and February 26–March 1; plus March 3, 5–8, 10, 12–15, and 17. Each tour lasts 60 minutes and is capped at 18 guests. Price: 1500 HUF (about 4.10 USD) per person, plus a valid exhibition ticket. Arrive at least 20 minutes early at the Museum of Fine Arts. Tours use tour guide devices; pick up receivers and headsets in the Marble Hall. Headsets are disinfected after each use. If you prefer your own earphones, tell the staff on site.
The Exhibition: Guardians of Eternity
Under the banner Guardians of Eternity, the show centers on Qin Shi Huang’s era and the uniquely modeled soldiers of his Terracotta Army. Beyond imperial power and warfare, the galleries trace material culture across dynasties, bringing visitors face to face with ritual, technology, and everyday life. It’s an intimate close-up of a civilization that shaped East Asia for millennia.
Curator-Led Deep Dives
Special curator tours delve into imperial statecraft, weaponry, the building of the empire, and the secrets of Qin and Han dynasty tombs. Dates and hosts: February 18 (4:15–5:15 p.m.) with Dr. Györgyi Fajcsák; March 11, Dr. Györgyi Fajcsák; March 18, Judit Bagi; March 25, Dr. Györgyi Fajcsák; April 1, Judit Bagi. Tickets for these sessions: 8300 HUF (about 22.70 USD), including exhibition entry and tour; discounted ticket 4900 HUF (about 13.40 USD) for visitors eligible for at least 50% off standard exhibition admission. Arrive 20 minutes early; audio equipment pickup and sanitation as above, with the option to use your own earphones upon request.
All Budapest Dates at a Glance
February 12–15; 17; 18; 19–22; 24; 26–March 1; March 3; 5–8; 10; 11; 12–15; 17; 18; 25; April 1 — all in Budapest.
