One of the world's most precious timbers, red sandalwood is famed for its high density, fine grains and enchanting fragrance. The China Red Sandalwood Museum, built in 1999 and opened by Chen Lihua, the founder and chairperson of FuWah International Group, is China's first and largest private museum that focuses on red sandalwood-based artworks and traditional Chinese furniture.

Covering an area of more an 9,000 square meters, the museum showcases fine models of the paragons of ancient Chinese architecture, well-preserved and reproduced traditional furniture, and other exquisite artifacts made out of red sandalwood, Phoebe zhennan and yellow rosewood. Meanwhile, people can also enjoy a traditional carving performance and examine the materials close-up.

The museum was designated a national AAAA scenic spot in 2003, and it receives visitors and political dignitaries from far and wide.

Check out this video to discover the profound culture rooted in this precious timber.

If you go,
Address: 23 Jianguo Road, Chaoyang district, Beijing
Websites: www.redsandalwood.com/ (Cn)
www.redsandalwood.com/en (En)
Hours: 9:00-17:30 (Last admission at 16:30)
Closed Mondays (except for public holidays)
General admission: 50 yuan ($7.7)/person