Orient Museum (MUSEU DO ORIENTE)

The Museu do Oriente in Lisbon is a treasure trove of Asian art and culture, offering visitors a captivating journey through the history and artistic achievements of the Far East. This world-renowned museum houses an extensive collection of over 13,000 pieces, including exquisite paintings, sculptures, textiles, and artefacts from countries such as China, Japan, India, and Indonesia. Its exhibits offer a fascinating glimpse into the rich and diverse traditions of Asian civilizations, showcasing their influence on the world.

Visitors are drawn to the museum's engaging displays that cover various themes such as trade, religion, and cultural exchange. The museum's striking architecture, located in a beautifully restored waterfront warehouse, adds to the allure of the experience.

Museu do Oriente appeals to both art enthusiasts and history buffs, providing an immersive and educational experience for all ages. Interactive exhibits and multimedia presentations bring the stories of the East to life, making it an ideal destination for families, couples, and solo travellers. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the wonders of the Orient at this must-visit destination in Lisbon The museum opened its doors for the first time in 2008 after a €30 million investment programme to convert this fine former warehouse into a world-class venue. The Oriente Museum is organised around two collections:

Traditional Japanese Costume – Orient Museum

Portuguese Presence in Asia

The first floor is dedicated to the history of Portugal's trade routes to the far east and its relationship with the countries of the Orient and former colonies. Celebrating the time when Portugal had a global empire and a great trading nation. Portugal was the first European country to reach the Far East and over centuries it played a pioneering role in the globalisation that began with the discoveries. See how cultures and ideas crossed over. The array of valuable exhibits includes 17th and 18th-century Chinese and Japanese screens, Namban art, ceramics bearing the coat of arms of the Companhia das Índias and a collection dedicated to Timor culture. There's an interesting collection of ancient maps and charts used by Portuguese navigators.

Gods of Asia

On the second floor, the Gods of Asia collection offers an unparalleled record of the popular performing arts and major mythologies and religions of Asia - from Turkey to Japan. The collection is one of the most important of its type in Europe and contains over 13,000 items. Items on display include puppets, masks, paintings, ritual objects, lanterns, dragons, games and statues.

The Kwok On Collection was created by French sinologist Jacques Pimpaneau from an ensemble of about 600 objects given to him in 1971 by Kwok On, a Chinese banker he met in Hong Kong while teaching at the Chinese University. Kwok On was passionate about the various aspects of Chinese theatre.

The Oriente Museum also has temporary exhibitions areas and a multiuse space that will host a diversified range of cultural activities, including music, dance, theatre performances, films and puppet shows. If you have worked up a healthy appitite head for the restaurant on the top floor that serves great asian food. On the ground level is the museum shop.

Tuesday – Sunday: 10h00 – 18h00, Monday: CLOSED

Adult: €6.00, Concessionary: 2.50, Child under 12: FREE

Lisbon Card: -20%

Getting to the Orient Museum

712, 714, 728, 732, 738
15E, 18E
Linha Cascais trains stop at the Belém Train Station from Cais do Sodré

Contact Details
Avenida Brasília, Doca de Alcântara Norte, 1350-362 Lisbon, Portugal.
38° 42' 11.4" N | 09° 10' 16.4" W | +351 213 585 200
info@museudooriente.pt | Website