China's Museums Ride a Wave of Horse-Themed Cultural Frenzy in 2026
China's museums have seen a record surge in visitors during the 2026 Spring Festival, as the Year of the Horse sparks widespread interest in horse-themed cultural relics. One standout attraction is the Bronze Galloping Horse Treading on a Flying Swallow, an Eastern Han Dynasty treasure celebrated for its dynamic balance. The iconic piece has even inspired a plush toy mascot, the 'Green Horse,' which has become a must-have souvenir for tourists.
The Gansu Provincial Museum's Bronze Galloping Horse Treading on a Flying Swallow has drawn huge crowds. Visitors like Huang, a tourist from Shenyang, queued for 20 minutes just to purchase a limited-edition 'Red Luck' plush version of the statue. Meanwhile, museums nationwide have rolled out special activities, from AI treasure hunts to rubbing workshops featuring horse relics.
Henan Province reported a record 6.8 million museum visitors over the holidays—an 80% jump from last year. In Anhui, over 50 horse-themed artefacts, including a Han Dynasty bronze lamp and a Qing Dynasty jade ornament, are on display. Shaanxi's Xi'an Museum has assembled more than 400 horse-related relics, with highlights like a Tang Dynasty glazed galloping horse and a Western Han painted mirror.
Beijing's Natural History Museum also joined the trend, launching the Galloping into the Spring—Global Joint Exhibition of Zodiac Culture for 2026 Year of the Horse on February 13. While the Terracotta Warriors Museum in Xi'an maintains permanent horse exhibits, no additional 2026 specials have been confirmed there.
The Year of the Horse has driven a cultural travel boom, with museums across China expanding exhibits and interactive events. From plush toys to ancient artefacts, the celebration has brought renewed attention to the country's rich equestrian heritage. The trend reflects growing public engagement with traditional culture during major festivals.
