The Capital Museum, located in the Confucius Temple, was prepared in 1953 and formally opened in 1981.

As a major cultural construction project in Beijing in the "10th Five-Year Plan", the new complex of the Capital Museum, approved by the Beijing Municipal Government in 1999, further approved by the State Council after being submitted by the National Development and Reform Commission in 2001, commenced its construction in December 2001.

The new Capital Museum had the trial operation in December 2005 and was officially opened on May 18, 2006. With its magnificent architecture, abundant exhibitions, advanced technology and complete functions, the Capital Museum contributes to Beijing's standing as a famous historical and cultural city, a cultural centre and an international metropolis and ranks among the first class museums both at home and abroad and is regarded as one of the first "State First-class Museums" in 2008.

Here is the Visitor Guidelines in 2018 of the museum:

01  All exhibitions in the museum are free.                

02  The museum opens from Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 - 17:00 (no admission after 16:00), but is closed on Mondays (except for holidays).      

03  Please make ticket reservations at least one day before the desired visit and obtain your free ticket with your reservation number. 

04  Please keep your valid ID (passport) available for inspection.  

05 Inebriated and improperly-dressed persons will be refused entry.             

06 Inflammable and explosive materials, knives subject to control and dangerous articles cannot be brought into the museum.         

07  Photography is permitted, but flash and tripod is not allowed.       

08  In case of an emergency, please follow the directions of our museum staff.