Macau Lifestyle
  • What's On

    Categories

    • Giveaways
    • Entertainment

    Recent Stories

    Macau Lifestyle Wynn Macau Croiffle and Cruffin afternoon tea outdoors2
    Win an Exquisite Afternoon Tea Set at Café Esplanada
    Giveaways
    Macau Lifestyle Media - The St. Regis Macao - The St. Regis Bar - Jack's Club poster
    The Macallan Jack’s Club Jazz Experience at The St. Regis Bar
    Events & Promotions
    MGM Food Chinese New Year 2022
    Weekender: Welcome the Year of the Tiger, Visit Exhibitions & Much More
    Macau Weekend
  • Dining

    Categories

    • Restaurants
    • Local Eats
    • Cafes
    • Bars
    • Chef Spotlight

    Recent Stories

    Baked Pork Chop Rice rossio mgm macau copy
    Eight Must-Try Dishes at MGM MACAU You Don’t Want to Miss
    Dining
    cafe esplanada wynn macau croiffle
    The Variations Of French Croissant At Wynn Macau
    Dining
    st regis bar macao Tastemaker
    Where to Find Delicious Whiskey-Based Cocktails in Macau
    Bars
  • Lifestyle

    Categories

    • Wellness
    • Weddings
    • Family
    • People

    Recent Stories

    hac-sa-reservoir-park
    Top 10 Things to Do With Kids in Macau
    Family
    Macau Lifestyle Macallan 12 MAC_2018_DC12_NEAT_Lifestyle_Photo_RGB
    Whisky Review: The Macallan Single Malt Whisky Double Cask Range
    Lifestyle
    steve-mccurry
    The Best of Two Worlds: The Macallan Single Malt Whisky Double Cask Range
    Lifestyle
  • Culture

    Categories

    • Arts
    • Heritage & History
    • Architecture
    • Artist Spotlight
    • Local Knowledge

    Recent Stories

    hac-sa-reservoir-park
    Top 10 Things to Do With Kids in Macau
    Family
    st regis bar macao Tastemaker
    Where to Find Delicious Whiskey-Based Cocktails in Macau
    Bars
    Old Postcard circa 1900 from Macau Antique Postcards by Joao Loureiro
    Bela Vista Hotel: From Lavish Hotel to Wartime Refuge
    Culture
  • Style

    Categories

    • Fashion
    • Jewelry & Watches
    • Beauty
    • Home

    Recent Stories

    Wayuu Bag Macau
    Businesses in Macau: Taking Ideas to the Next Level
    Culture
    Longines Master Collection Now Shines in Macau
    Longines Master Moonphase Now Shines in Macau
    Jewelry & Watches
    Clara Brito on a Fashion Shoot
    Clara Brito: Taking Action Through Fashion
    Fashion
  • Travel

    Categories

    • Macau
    • China
    • Asia
    • Oceania
    • Europe

    Recent Stories

    hac-sa-reservoir-park
    Top 10 Things to Do With Kids in Macau
    Family
    Macau city
    A Stopover Guide: 24 Hours in Macau
    Travel
    Kenji Rukkit Gus graffiti street art outloud festival praca ponte e horta art one day macau
    One Day in Macau: Art Itinerary
    Arts
  • Hong Kong

    Categories

    • What's On
    • Dining
    • Things to Do
    • Hotels

    Recent Stories

    Grand Hyatt HK_French GourMay Staycation (3)
    French GourMay at Grand Hyatt Hong Kong Offers a Bespoke Culinary Trip to France
    Dining
    The Upper House Salisterra Main Dining Room
    Salisterra Showcases Exquisite Mediterranean Cuisine at The Upper House Hong Kong
    Dining
    Artist Wu Yi – Tang Contemporary gallery- Macau Lifestyle WY1
    Wu Yi: A Painter’s Painter
    Artist Spotlight
  • City Guide
  • 繁中
Arts
by Ksenia Kuzmina

Macau’s Quirkiest Museums

sound-of-century-vintage-sound-machines-museum

As a city with a rich history and diverse cultural background, Macau has plenty of museums to explore and dive deeper into the city’s secrets. When art and history collections are inspected through and through, and your inner nerd is craving more peculiarities and incredible artifacts, it is time to visit lesser-known cool museums of Macau and learn things that even the locals might not know. Read on to plan a visit to Macau’s quirkiest museums!

Sound of the Century – The Museum of Vintage Sound Machines

(See featured image above)

Hands down, the Museum of Vintage Sound Machines has one of Macau’s most remarkable private collections. It is also the hardest to find and the most complicated to visit. Located on the second floor of Tai Peng Electronics & Appliances, a household appliances store, it is like a speakeasy of the city’s museum scene–you do need to know where it is and how to get inside. Visitors can’t walk in, as a prior appointment is a must. When you schedule one and pass by washing machines and microwaves to go up the stairs towards the museum entrance, get ready to be amused. For MOP $50 you will get a guided tour to the most extensive gramophone collection in Asia. 

In the 90s, Henry Chen, the electronic shop and museum owner emigrated to Canada, where his fascination with antique sound machines began. Since then, he has accumulated over 300 collectibles purchased on fairs, auctions, and from private sellers. Impressively, most of them, even the oldest ones, are fully functional. 

The first floor is the smaller one, with radios, jukeboxes, cash registers, and old laundry machines. The main exposition on the second floor showcases vintage phonographs, gramophones, and music boxes. Here you will see why self-guided tours here are not allowed. The guide will gladly tell visitors their stories and reveal peculiar facts. You can even listen to the antique sound machines as the museum also stores old cylinders with music, including the records from the beginning of the 20th century. 

How much: MOP $50

Opening hours: Open by appointment, closed on Saturday and Sunday

Museum of Vintage Sound Machines 13-15 Rua das Estalagens, 2.o andar, Macau (Tai Peng Electronics & Appliances), +853 2892 1389, www.tai-peng.com

Also read: Sound of Century, Macau: Asia’s Largest Private Collection of Musical Antiques

Fire Services Museum of Macau fire truck

Fire services museum

Opened in 1999, the Fire Services Museum found its home at the former Fire Services Building, an architectural landmark constructed in 1920. The bright yellow structure used to serve as the Fire Services Operation and Command Centre, the headquarters of the city’s firefighters for almost a century. Today it hosts a 350 square meter exhibition that tells a story of the courageous men confronting the blaze. The numerous historical photos and museum objects describe when, what with, how, and how successful Fire Services did that.

The museum contains over 700 pieces. Among the most monumental ones is the gorgeous red fire track in the middle of the hall. Ancient wooden vats, 19th century Chinese and British manual pumps, and mid-20th century fire engines showcase how the equipment evolved and what it took to save a house from the fire back in the days. A significant part of the collection is a myriad of medals, flags, badges, and other compelling memorabilia. 

Kids would love the installation of firefighters sliding down a pole and mannequins wearing 1940s ceremony uniforms. A retrospective of Fire Services milestones and horrendous fires would help parents teach their little ones why is it important to know fire safety basics.

How much: Free admission

Opening hours: Daily, 10:00am–6:00pm

Fire Services Museum 2-6, Estrada Coelho do Amaral, Macau, www.macaotourism.gov.mo

timepiece-museum-macau-coach-watch

Macau Timepiece museum

Every tourist or a new resident in Macau usually notices the overwhelming amount of watch boutiques all over the city. From shopping malls to main streets, there are all kinds of watch brands. Chinese horological history began in 1582 when Matteo Ricci gifted two chiming clocks to Emperor Wanli. That diplomatic gesture motived the development of the trading relationship between Europe and China. Since then, mechanical timepieces have been in high demand among the emperors, resulting in a prosperous trade. 

Thus, it’s only logical there is also a museum dedicated to a luxurious accessories. Established in 2018, Timepiece Museum stands in the heart of the historic area, right beside The Ruins of St. Paul’s. The collection is privately owned and consists of several types–contemporary wristwatch collection, Panerai exhibition, antique timepieces, and other timepieces. The oldest one is the Ming Dynasty Dragon Fire Timer crafted circa 17th century, during the Ming Dynasty. The most expensive piece is the 18th-century musical mantel clock with a spherical moon phase. 

On the second floor, there is a small workshop where Mr. Huo Feile, an antique watch restorer, works his magic. If you are lucky, you can witness the master at work. 

How much: Free admission

Opening hours: Daily, 10:30am-5:00pm

Macau Timepiece Museum 1 Travessa de S. Paulo, Macau, +853 6291 4732, www.macautimemuseum.com

pawn-shop-museum-macau

Tak Seng On Pawnshop

Crowds of people pass by this historical treasure because of its central location on Almeida Ribeiro. Very few stop by to enter what is one of the most peculiar representations of old Macau. Tak Seng On Pawnshop opened in 1917 and belonged to a wealthy merchant, Mr. Kou Ho Ning. Notably, it was among the first ones to open. Today, it is the last remaining pawnshop of its kind. In 2003 the Macao SAR government restored its original design to present it to the public.

You can’t say there are countless artifacts at the museum. Instead, it is meant to preserve the look of a typical pawnshop in Macau and Mainland China. However, the exhibition does feature some vintage objects that merchants used at the shop, such as an old abacus, measuring instruments, old accounting books, safe wooden boxes. If you visit, go up the staircase to see how the pledged articles were stored at the shop, and don’t forget to take a stamped pawn ticket home as a souvenir.

How much: Free admission

Opening hours: 10:30am–7:00pm (Closed on the first Monday of every month)

Tak Seng On Pawnshop 396 Avenida Almeida Ribeiro, Macau, +853 8988 4025, www.macaotourism.gov.mo/heritage-exhibition-of-a-traditional-pawnshop-business

Also read: The Best Free Museums in Macau

handover gifts museum of macau

The Handover Gifts Museum of Macau

In 1999, China’s colonial history came to an end when its last territory, Macau returned to the motherland. The People’s Republic of China flags changed the Portuguese ones, and Macau has become Macao SAR with the “One Country, Two Systems” policy. To commemorate the memorable moment, a celebratory ceremony took place. Five years later, precisely at the ceremony’s location, the government established the Handover Gifts Museum as a part of the Macao Cultural Centre. 

China’s 56 ethnic groups presented the gifts exhibited at the museum to congratulate Macau on the new milestone and welcome it back as a part of China. From Hong Kong’s panoramic tapestry to brass elephants from Yunnan and Quinghai’s jade sculpture, every gift represents a unique culture and style of a region where it came from. Altogether, they symbolize Macau’s prosperity and the immense diversity of China’s culture.  

How much: Free admission

Opening hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00am–7:00pm

Handover Gifts Museum of Macao Avenida Xiang Xin Hai, Macau, +853 8504 1800, www.icm.gov.mo/handovermuseum

Tags

  • macau
  • Macau's quirkiest museums
  • museums
  • museums in Macau

Related Posts

Macau Police Park in front of building old phot
Culture

Polícia de Segurança Pública: Macau Police, an Institution Founded in the 17th Century

Camões Bust in Grotto
Culture

The Camões Phenomena: All the Way From Portugal to Macau

Portuguese Consulate that was a Hospital Right Angle Macao Archives
Culture

Portuguese Heritage: From Catholic Hospital to Diplomatic Institution

Sun Yat Sen Park Macau Panoramic Photo Macau Lifestyle
Culture

Macau’s Best Parks

Trending Posts

Macau, Travel

10 Free Things to Do in Macau

Dom Pedro V Theatre facade
Culture, Heritage, Local Knowledge

Dom Pedro V Theatre: China’s First Western Theater

Culture, Dining, Local Eats, Local Knowledge, People

Marmitas.Come: Home to Authentic Portuguese Takeaway in Macau

Heritage, Local Knowledge

Famous Films Shot in Macau

  • Editor's Picks

    ladies night macau Bars

    Where My Ladies At: The Best Ladies’ Night Offers in Macau

    From free-flow champagne to free Prosecco bottles, check our list of the best ladies’ night offers in Macau.

    Salvador Dali Alice in Wonderland Macau Lifestyle hidden artwork Macau Arts

    Art Masterpieces in Macau You Did Not Know Existed

    Some pieces of art are in the most prominent spots, but there are some artwork that remain hidden in Macau. Here’s where you can find them!

    Cuppa Coffee Macau Dining

    Good Morning Macau: Best Cafes for Breakfast

    As breakfast is the most important meal of the day, here’re our favorite cafes in Macau to head to for a hearty breakfast!

    Coloane hiking trail Culture

    Guide to Coloane’s Hiking Trails

    Coloane is home to most of the hiking trails in town. We walked them all and came up with the most comprehensive Coloane hiking trails guide.

    Wayuu Bag Macau Culture

    Businesses in Macau: Taking Ideas to the Next Level

    Macau is a small city, but it sure has a lot of new businesses popping up. We rounded up a list of cool businesses to check out and support!

    start line photo Lifestyle

    Top Running Routes in Macau

    Make the effort to get up 30 minutes earlier from tomorrow onwards and check out any of these stunning running routes in Macau.

    The Ritz-Carlton Bar & Lounge Gin Collection Bars

    Best Places for Happy Hour in Macau

    After a long day at work, you need a relaxing place to unwind. We have the best places in Macau for happy hour deals on drinks and snacks!

    Flora Garden playground Family

    The Best Playgrounds for Kids in Macau

    Macau is full of parks and leisure areas that feature some amazing play areas. Here’s a list of the best playgrounds in Macau for the tykes!

    Zics Macau Brand Source Facebook page Fashion

    Macau Fashion Brands: Celebrate Local Design

    Discover some Macau fashion brands that are making waves due to the fabulous designers behind each of their fresh and genius creations.

    Maria do Leste Bloody Mary from St Regis Macao Updated Photo 2020 Bars

    Shaken or Stirred: Macau’s Best Cocktails

    The world of mixology often proves to be as diverse and surprising as the one of gastronomy. Exercising talent and immense creativity, Macau’s bartenders keep creating signature cocktails that impress us with both flavors and presentation. If you are tired and bored with mojitos and negronis and need tips on what else to try, check out our guide to Macau’s best cocktails. 

    sound-of-century-vintage-sound-machines-museum Arts

    Macau’s Quirkiest Museums

    When art and history collections are inspected, it’s time to learn things that even locals might not know. Read on to plan a visit to Macau’s quirkiest museums.

    sw-steakhouse-barcounter-cocktails-macau-wynn-palace Bars

    SW Steakhouse Bar at Wynn Palace: Home of Barrel-Aged Cocktails

    Known as one of the best restaurants for juicy prime cuts, SW Steakhouse at Wynn Palace also features a bar with must-try cocktails.

    Negroni bar patua mgm cotai macau lifestyle Bars

    Where to Have an Unforgettable Negroni in Macau

    Check our list of the best bars in Macau that serve the Italian bitter-sweet cocktail, Negroni, from classic recipes to original twists!

    elysee bakery croissants macau Cafes

    Where to Find the Best Croissants in Macau

    Is there a more popular and beloved French pastry than the almighty croissant? We doubled our fitness hours and tried dozens of pastries to come up with the list of the best croissants in Macau!

    sponge-cake-macau-lifestyle-chinese-pastries Dining

    A Tour of Traditional Chinese Pastries in Macau

    Every tourist coming to Macau can make a fast conclusion that cookies and pastries here are held in high regard. Where do you start, and what do you eat? To get acquainted with a curious word of local sweets, check our guide to the Chinese pastries in Macau.

    The Manor Stories of the Sea Seventh Chapter Sea Urchin, fusilli Gentile red mullet bottarga, arugula ginger emulsion Dining

    Where to Have the Best Pasta in Macau

    If you’re craving for Italian-style pasta, here’re the ones that have tickled our taste buds and discover the varieties in Macau!

    Santa Rosa de Lima Culture

    Santa Rosa de Lima: Convent Turned School

    Santa Rosa de Lima is a well-known school in Macau, but did you know what it was in the 19th century? Discover more about this place here!

    Signature cocktail - Patuá mgm cotai macau Bars

    Bar Patuá at MGM Macau: Language of Mixology

    Whether it is cool cocktails, stunning design, or engaging conversations with a bartender, Bar Patuá has a lot to offer. Learn more in our review!

    girl with dog and cocktail cafe Cafes

    Best Pet Friendly Cafes in Macau

    Unwilling to leave your fur child behind while you stroll the streets of Macau? Here are pet-friendly cafes in Macau for you to bring your furry friend to!

    hac sa beach coloane Picnic spot Macau Family

    Great Picnic Spots in Macau

    Picnics are the best way to enjoy nature, good company and food. Here’re the best picnic spots in Macau for your friends and family to enjoy!

    Jetfoil TurboJET Urzela Culture

    Macau Ferries: Travelling To & From Hong Kong Since the 1950s

    Did you know that Jetfoils were originally for the military? Find out more about these Macau ferries that travel between Hong Kong and Macau!

    Korlouyeah Interview Feature Photo Artist Spotlight

    Korlouyeah: Photographing Macau’s Motions & Emotions

    Korlouyeah is a local web editor who photographs Macau and its people. We sat down with the artist to know more about his creative eye.

    Tsung I Macau Culture

    Jao Tsung-I: Prominent Sinologist & Literature Researcher in Macau

    Jao Tsung-I was a key figure in the study of ancient literature and history, as well as a prolific Chinese calligraphy artist.

    LP World Sketches Luisa People

    Sketching the World Around Her: Luísa Petiz of LP World Sketches

    Find out how Macau charmed Luísa Petiz and inspired her to sketch its beauty along with updates on exhibitions of her works!

    63c4f00b-ca84-4eda-8f54-1fc5b633bee6_l Architecture

    Macau’s Tap Seac Square by Carlos Marreiros

    Have you ever wondered about Tap Seac Square, its history, and what used to be there? Find out more about its history and right here!

    Minchi Marmitas Come Macau Culture

    Marmitas.Come: Home to Authentic Portuguese Takeaway in Macau

    Marmitas.Come is a local shop specializing in authentic Portuguese food for takeaway. Read on and find out their story and future plans!

    Camões Bust in Grotto Culture

    The Camões Phenomena: All the Way From Portugal to Macau

    Portuguese poet Camões is well-known in Macau. But do you know why? We tell you some interesting facts about the author’s life!

    macau tourist guide Local Knowledge

    A Quick Guide for First Timers to Macau

    Is it your first time in Macau? Check out our guide for the essential things to know, planning tips, directions, and places to visit!

    beijing memory li xiao feng mandarin oriental macau art Arts

    Art at Mandarin Oriental, Macau: Porcelain Dresses & Contemporary Glass Installations

    Read on to see how Mandarin Oriental, Macau, highlights its style and identity with art and design masterpieces by different artists.  

    fit in the box healthy meals macau Dining

    Best Places for a Healthy Meal in Macau

    Eating smart is the best way to achieve a healthier outlook. These healthy food spots in Macau would make any meatless Monday much easier!

  • About
  • The Team
  • Advertise
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms and Conditions
  • Contact Us

COPYRIGHT © 2022 • MACAU LIFESTYLE

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Receive Macau Events Agenda, the Hottest Giveaway Offers and the Latest Article Updates!