Chongqing - In Beijing’s Forbidden City, the “imperial cats” have long been a beloved cultural symbol. However, in Chongqing, a similar story unfolds, where cats and cultural relics coexist, bringing museums to life. 

From stray cats to “cultural ambassadors,” these furry residents not only help protect relics but also bridge the gap between history and the public, transforming once-sterile exhibition halls into lively cultural spaces.

A resident cat at the Chongqing Institute of Cultural Relics and Archaeology. (Photo provided by the interviewee)

From strays to cultural ambassadors

At the Chongqing Institute of Cultural Relics and Archaeology, two former stray cats once roamed the institute’s gardens unnoticed, but that changed when staff discovered their hidden talents. Today, this feline duo strolls confidently through exhibition areas: one balancing gracefully on handrails like a runway model, the other peeking from floral displays with wide, innocent eyes, quietly reminding visitors to respect relics. Their charm has captured the hearts of many, amassing a devoted following.

Across town at Shapingba Museum, three resident cats—each with distinct personalities—add further character. “Quan’er,” the aloof queen, watches over the courtyard; “Little Orange,” the easygoing spirit, appears on his own schedule; and “Blackie,” the mischievous one, often sneaks into the office area. Their stories have been turned into playful posters, guiding visitors through exhibits while they search for the cats. As the museum director puts it, “They add warmth to the museum—some visitors come for the cats and stay for the history.”

Cats as bridges between culture and the public

The tradition of cats in museums is not a new phenomenon. In the Forbidden City, cats are affectionately known as the “guardians of the palace,” with legends tracing their lineage back to the imperial cats of the Ming and Qing dynasties. Social media accounts dedicated to these “imperial cats” have attracted millions of followers, blending historical storytelling with everyday charm.

A museum cat serves as a special guide at the “Artistic Life of Li Shutong” exhibition in Chongqing Shapingba Museum. (Photo provided by the interviewee)

Similarly, in Chongqing, museums are embracing their feline residents as living symbols of cultural connection. At Shapingba Museum’s ongoing special exhibition, “The Artistic Life of Li Shutong,” cats play an active role. Li, a celebrated artist who fondly referred to himself as a “cat slave,” even dedicated a “cat room” in his home. Today, museum visitors can cuddle with the resident cats while immersing themselves in Li’s legacy.

“Cats bring historical figures to life,” noted the exhibition curator. “They make culture more relatable.” In this sense, Chongqing’s approach mirrors that of the Forbidden City—using cats as a lively, tangible medium to make heritage feel closer and more accessible.

Feline guardians of the museum ecosystem

Beyond their symbolic roles, Chongqing’s “cat employees” also perform practical duties. They patrol the grounds, help control rodent populations, and contribute to the preservation of museum buildings.

At the Shapingba Museum, staff carefully regulate the cats’ movements: exhibition cases and storage areas are tightly secured, and the cats are restricted from sensitive zones to ensure that relics remain untouched. Regular health checks and habitat management further ensure that the cats fulfill their roles without risking the artifacts.

A resident cat at Shapingba Museum. (Photo courtesy of the interviewee)

While some visitors appreciate the cats for making museums feel more inviting, others express concerns about potential disruptions to the exhibits. In response, museum officials emphasize that, with proper management, cats serve as “living cultural symbols,” enriching the museum experience without compromising its professionalism.

From Beijing to Chongqing, these feline ambassadors are quietly transforming the way culture is shared. They may not recite complex historical facts, but a single stretch, a playful nudge, or a gentle gaze is often enough to captivate visitors, forging a heartwarming bridge between history and everyday life.

(Li Sheng, a reporter from Chongqing Daily, contributed to this report's Chinese version.)