Poster for the exhibition on Sanxingdui, Jinsha ruins, and Bashu Culture. [Photo provided to en.nantong.gov.cn]

The "Explore Grand Exhibitions, Enjoy Nantong" themed event, part of the 2026 Jianghai International Cultural Tourism Festival, has prepared a spectacular lineup of exhibitions for the upcoming May Day holiday, which runs from May 1 to 5.

Exhibition on Sanxingdui, Jinsha ruins, and Bashu Culture

This exhibition features about 140 exquisite artifacts from the ancient Shu civilization, including 53 core pieces from the Sanxingdui No 2 sacrificial pit, Chengdu Jinsha ruins and Sichuan Museum. The collection includes bronze masks, gold artifacts, jade, pottery and weapons, each a masterpiece in its own kind.

Dates: April 2 – Aug 25

Venue: Nantong Museum

Illustrated art exhibition of Dream of the Red Chamber

The illustrated version of Dream of the Red Chamber was painted over 50 years by Sun Wen (1818—1891) and Sun Yunmo (1853—1937), now revitalized with digital technology. As light and shadow play, classic scenes from the work vividly reappear, allowing viewers to feel as though they are stepping into the enchanting world of this timeless masterpiece, fully experiencing its unique charm and enduring cultural legacy.

Dates: Feb 11 – Aug 5

Venue: Jiangsu Jianghai Museum

Exhibition of artifacts from the Qingdun ruins

This exhibition showcases 138 representative artifacts unearthed from the Qingdun ruins, treasured by the Nanjing Museum, Nantong Museum, and Hai'an Museum, collectively tracing the imprints of Qingdun's prehistoric civilization.

Dates: Feb 7 – May 7

Venue: Hai'an Museum

Longevity lock culture exhibition

Originating in the Han Dynasty (206 BC-220) and flourishing during the Ming and Qing dynasties (1368-1911), the longevity lock has evolved into a symbol of good fortune. This exhibition features over 100 longevity locks and other artifacts from the Foshan Museum's collection. The locks exhibit a variety of decorative themes, including folk sayings and auspicious patterns, with shapes ranging from traditional ruyi (curved scepter) and ingot shapes to animals and flowers.

Dates: Feb 12 – May 12

Venue: Qidong Museum