Cheng Ho's Cultural Museum
The Cheng Ho Cultural Museum, known in Malay as Muzium Budaya Cheng Ho and in Chinese as 郑和文化馆, is dedicated to the life and voyages of the famed Ming Dynasty Admiral Zheng He. Located in Malacca City, Malaysia, the museum occupies eight old shop houses, some of which date back to before 1786. The building itself, believed to be a restructured ancient structure with Ming architectural influences, sits on the purported original site of Zheng He's warehouse complex, Guan Chang, established around 600 years ago to store goods from his travels. Five Ming-era wells were discovered during the museum's construction.
Founded and opened in 2006 by Tan Ta Sen, the president of the International Zheng He Society, the museum is the largest in Malacca, covering a total floor area of 5,110 square meters and spanning three levels. In front of the museum stand a drum and a bell tower, adding to its historical ambiance. The museum's various sections include the Old Malacca Village, Ship Gallery, Treasure Ship, Antique Gallery, and Garden Courtyard, all illustrating the significant cultural exchange between the local ethnic groups and the Chinese during Zheng He's era.
The museum showcases many artifacts related to Zheng He's voyages, such as treasure ships, tea houses, and navigation instruments. It provides an extensive look at his travels with large pictures and detailed exhibits of Chinese history. Open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., the Cheng Ho Cultural Museum serves as a testament to the historical ties between China and Malacca, highlighting the rich cultural heritage shared by both regions.
Location: Banda Hilir (± 2.9 km from Grand Swiss-Belhotel Melaka or approximately 9 minutes driving)