A once-in-a-lifetime cultural experience awaits in Perth
After decades of anticipation, one of the world’s most extraordinary archaeological discoveries has arrived in Western Australia. The Terracotta Warriors: Legacy of the First Emperor exhibition at WA Museum Boola Bardip offers an unprecedented journey into ancient China, bringing together over 225 remarkable artefacts—many never before seen outside China.
An Emperor’s Vision Brought to Life
Step into the world of Qin Shihuang, China’s first emperor, who unified a fractured nation over 2,000 years ago. At just 13, he began construction of the most ambitious tomb ever built, employing over 700,000 workers across four decades to create an underground empire that would sustain his rule in the afterlife.
This groundbreaking exhibition, created exclusively by the WA Museum in collaboration with Chinese cultural institutions, uses cutting-edge multimedia technology to immerse visitors in this remarkable chapter of human history. Unlike previous Terracotta Warriors exhibitions, this display features an almost entirely new collection of artefacts, with three-quarters never before seen in Australia.
Seven Fascinating Galleries to Explore
Ancient China: Place & Time
Experience the political upheaval that transformed seven warring kingdoms into a unified empire through striking digital presentations that set the stage for the emperor’s extraordinary story.
Birth of an Empire
Discover how military innovation, strategic infrastructure, and sweeping reforms in writing, currency, and law created the foundation for an empire that endured for centuries. Marvel at ancient bronze vessels, palace tiles, and coins that tell the story of this transformation.
Life in Ancient China
Explore the sophisticated daily life of the Qin and Han dynasties through exquisite jade objects, musical instruments, and ceremonial items that reveal the artistry and cultural traditions of both elite and ordinary citizens.
Afterlife Beliefs
Learn how ancient Chinese beliefs about death as a continuation of life led to the creation of elaborate tombs filled with possessions for eternity. Encounter painted cavalry figures, miniature models, and rare golden artefacts that trace the evolution of funeral traditions.
The Qin Mausoleum
Stand before replica bronze chariots and discover the secrets of this UNESCO World Heritage site—the largest archaeological reserve in the world, where ongoing excavations continue to reveal remarkable treasures including bronze waterbirds and terracotta musicians.
The Terracotta Army
Come face-to-face with ten life-sized terracotta figures, including eight warriors, a seated stable attendant, and a cavalry horse. Each figure displays unique facial features, hairstyles, and body types, reflecting the sophisticated military structure that allowed men to rise through service and skill.
Enduring Mystery
Experience a breathtaking digital immersion into the emperor’s sealed tomb chamber, where ancient records describe flowing rivers of mercury, constellation ceilings, and crossbow traps—mysteries that remain buried beneath the earth.
Interactive Elements for All Ages
The exhibition features hands-on experiences throughout, including magnets that reveal hidden objects and touchscreen monitors offering different perspectives of the mausoleum site. Visitors can even watch their own coloured warrior drawings come to life through projection technology.
During school holidays, families can enjoy the complimentary Ancient China Activity Zone with games and sensory play areas located outside the main exhibition.
Planning Your Visit
When: June 28, 2025 – February 22, 2026
Where: WA Museum Boola Bardip, Perth Cultural Centre
Duration: Allow at least 1.5 hours for the full experience
Tickets: From $15 for children (5-15),$30 for adults
Special Offers: Season passes available for unlimited visits
Important Notes:
- Timed entry tickets are required and should be booked in advance
- No restrooms within the exhibition space
- Prams must be parked outside the exhibition
- Photography permitted (no flash or tripods)
Beyond the Exhibition
Enhance your visit with special events including:
- Jade Nights: Friday evening experiences with talks and performances
- Illuminate: Nightly projections on the museum exterior
- Oo-long Conversations: Thursday morning discussions over tea
- Art Tea: Saturday workshops combining ancient traditions with creative activities
A Cultural Journey Worth Taking
This exhibition represents the boldest museum display ever mounted in Western Australia, offering visitors the rare opportunity to witness artefacts that have remained hidden for over two millennia. From the sophisticated craftsmanship of ancient artisans to the ambitious vision of an emperor who changed the course of history, the Terracotta Warriors exhibition provides an unforgettable window into one of humanity’s greatest civilisations.
Whether you’re fascinated by ancient history, appreciate fine craftsmanship, or simply enjoy immersive cultural experiences, this extraordinary exhibition offers something truly special. Book your tickets early—this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to witness these remarkable treasures in Perth.
For tickets and more information, visit visit.museum.wa.gov.au
