This June, the world-renowned Terracotta Warriors will arrive at WA Museum Boola Bardip for an Australian-exclusive exhibition titled Terracotta Warriors: Legacy of the First Emperor — the most significant museum show Western Australia has ever hosted.
Running from June 28th, 2025, to February 22nd, 2026, the blockbuster exhibition will showcase more than 225 artefacts, including several of the iconic warrior figures that have captivated the world since their discovery in 1974. Many of these items have never been seen outside China, with nearly half making their international debut in Perth.
Created in partnership with the Shaanxi Cultural Heritage Promotion Centre and the Emperor Qin Shi Huang Mausoleum Museum, the exhibition promises to be as much a cultural experience as a historical one, featuring immersive multimedia displays, large-scale outdoor projections, behind-the-scenes tours, and interactive elements tailored to all ages.
WA Premier Roger Cook hailed the event as a landmark moment for the state’s creative and tourism sectors.
“Terracotta Warriors: Legacy of the First Emperor will be a major tourism drawcard for Western Australia and is set to attract visitors from around Australia and internationally,” he said. “This unique exhibition will share a 2,000-year-old story through a combination of priceless ancient Chinese artefacts, and state-of-the-art Australian digital technology.”
Why the Terracotta Warriors Matter
First unearthed by a farmer near Xi’an in 1974, the Terracotta Army was created to guard the tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, China’s first emperor, who unified the country in 221 BC. The life-sized clay figures — each with distinct facial features, clothing, and weaponry — were buried in battle formation to accompany the Emperor into the afterlife, reflecting the immense power and organisational sophistication of ancient China.
The mausoleum is one of the greatest archaeological finds of the 20th century, with experts estimating that over 8,000 soldiers, along with chariots and horses, were created for the underground army.
Minister for Creative Industries Simone McGurk said the exhibition is more than just a visual marvel — it’s a rare moment of cultural exchange.
“This is a unique opportunity to see the remarkable centuries-old Terracotta Warriors right here in Western Australia,” she said. “The impressive collection of priceless artefacts, together with the warriors and the brand new immersive digital experiences, will thrill audiences of all ages.”
Ticket Info
- General public tickets: On sale now
- Exhibition dates: June 28th, 2025 – February 22nd, 2026
- Location: WA Museum Boola Bardip, Perth Cultural Centre
- More info & tickets: visit.museum.wa.gov.au/boolabardip
Whether you’re a history buff, a culture lover, or simply looking for something extraordinary to experience in Perth, this once-in-a-lifetime exhibition is not to be missed.
