Chinese Museum

Melbourne's Chinatown has been a vibrant part of our city for many years, with festivities, restaurants and shops luring us in to visit by day and night.

The Chinese Museum sits right in the heart of the precinct and is a great place to visit when you're in the area.

After spending a lot of time in Victoria's Goldfields towns, I was particularly interested in the Finding Gold exhibition, which featured a replica mine camp among the many items on display.

Ancient artefacts and informative displays featured ancient times in Chinese culture, such as the Han Dynasty. 

Exiting via the long ramp down to street level, I tiptoed past the sleeping Dai Loong Dragon, his sequins and mirrors sparkling in the dim light.  He slumbers in between annual parades, where 200 community volunteers help him dance for Chinese New Year, Moomba and other festivals. 

A couple of hours well spent - now, dumpling time. 

Chinese Museum

22 Cohen St

Melbourne

Open daily 10-4