The long-awaited Terracotta Warriors have finally arrived in Perth at the WA Museum Boola Bardip. If you are a fan of China’s history, you will enjoy this exceptional exhibition that takes you back 2000 years, delivering the story of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, using cutting-edge technology and stunning multimedia. Be in awe as you get up close to more than 225 Chinese artefacts (with some recently excavated pieces), including the 10 terracotta army figures that are appearing together globally for the first time!
What we love:
The clever use of cinematography brings the First Emperor’s stories to life at the start of the exhibition.
Discover the First Emperor’s life, his legacy and his vision for the afterlife through the 7 exhibit areas in this ground-breaking exhibition.
Introduction to ancient China- how life was back then, and how the Qin dynasty came into power by conquering the Warring States.
By 221 BCE, Qin Shi Huang had unified China under a single central government and declared himself the First Emperor of Qin. Under his unification, writing, currency, weights and measurements are standardised, which is of significant importance in China’s history.
Visitors can get hands-on and take a closer look at the displayed models throughout each section. We were given magnets at the start of the exhibition, which could be used to reveal hidden objects on display, making it very intriguing for little ones.
Be instantly transported back to the Qin mausoleum. Learnt about how the largest and most ambitious imperial tomb ever built for a single ruler in China was found and how this UNESCO world heritage site remains as one of the world’s most significant archaeological reserves and a site of ongoing discovery.
See the impressive display of replica bronze chariots, and visitors can use the touchscreen monitors to view the Qin mausoleum in different perspectives, located in Xi’an, Shaanxi.
The highlight of the exhibition would be seeing the 10 life-sized terracotta warriors, the cavalryman with his horse. Learn about the techniques used to reconstruct and restore the warriors, and discover how each warrior has unique facial features, hairstyles, and body types.
Children can enjoy colouring their own warriors and see them come to life on projection!
At the end of the exhibition is an immersive experience that showcases the First Emperor’s stunning vision for the afterlife.
During school holidays, families can enjoy the free Ancient China Activity Zone with games and sensory play area located outside of the exhibition.
In total, we spent about 1.5 hours walking through the exhibition. Toilets are not available inside the exhibition and prams are asked to be parked outside the exhibition. Younger children might find the topic of the afterlife and the funeral slightly sensitive, although there is no display of human remains.
Terracotta Warriors: Legacy of The First Emperor
28 Jun 2025 – 22 Feb 2026
WA Museum Boola Bardip
Perth Cultural Centre, Perth WA 6000
https://visit.museum.wa.gov.au/boolabardip/terracotta-warriors-legacy-first-emperor
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Mum of two girls and working as a registered nurse. Originally from Singapore, I have spent the last 17 years in Perth where I raised my beautiful girls. After being a mum, I find passion in exploring new places and doing new activities with my kids. Besides mummy duties, I find joy in pretty dresses and books.
