*Editor's note: Zaruhi Poghosyan is a multimedia editor for CGTN Digital. This article is part of China, Soft Focus – a slow journalism series that offers textured glimpses into culture, history and everyday life across China through measured pace and intimate storytelling.

If your soul has been craving artsy indulgence, Beijing has you covered. This season, the capital offers a several exhibitions that will satisfy every artistic palate – ranging from global contemporary art to culturally iconic masterpieces, and even edible chocolate creations. Mark the dates not to miss out!

The 10th Beijing International Art Biennale (2025)

First is the 10th Beijing International Art Biennale, offering an impressive visual world tour.

Launched in 2002, the Beijing International Art Biennale is distinguished by its wide international participation. Over the years, it has attracted more than 5,000 artists from over 100 countries and welcomed more than one million visitors, establishing itself as a key platform for cultural exchange.

Hosted at the Beijing Exhibition Center, this Biennale runs until January 28, 2026, bringing together around 600 contemporary artworks from nearly 120 countries and regions. Step into multiple halls with thematic sections, special showcases and a country-specific exhibition to get a broad snapshot of today's global art scene.

The works on display embody the Biennale's central theme of "Coexistence," exploring ideas of peaceful development, ecological awareness and humanity's shared future. Traditional art forms such as stunning painting and sculpture are shown alongside new media works, including digital creations and audiovisual installations that stay on your mind long after you've left the exhibition.

Galloping Horse — masterpieces on the theme of horses

With the Year of the Horse approaching, this exhibition arrives at just the right moment  – both culturally and symbolically. In Chinese culture, the horse symbolizes strength, vitality and success, so this visually striking exhibition is a popular stop for those hoping to usher in good fortune for the year ahead.

Titled "Galloping Horse," the show brings together, for the first time, treasured horse-themed works from the Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties, collected by renowned Chinese artist Xu Beihong. These historic pieces are presented alongside Xu's own iconic horse paintings, creating a dialogue across centuries.

Located at the 4F Exhibition Hall, Xu Beihong Memorial Museum, this exhibition runs through March 8.

A museum you can (almost) eat

Art, meet dessert at the Choc Choco Chocolate Museum. Freshly opened in early 2026, this museum is Beijing's newest and sweetest cultural attraction. Crafted over three years using nearly 50 tonnes of chocolate, the museum transforms cocoa into large-scale artworks, interactive spaces and playful performances.

Located at Beijing Fun Phase II, the museum officially opened on New Year's Day 2026. Inside, visitors can explore a Chocolate Artwork Exhibition Zone featuring chocolate recreations of Chinese cultural icons – including a coiled-dragon caisson ceiling, a miniature Beijing cityscape, the Central Axis and, of course, the Great Wall.

The experience doesn't stop there. In the Chocolate Art Gallery, replicas of Chinese and Western masterpieces are displayed, all made entirely of chocolate. Furthermore, live performers at the Chocolate Dream Theater, including warriors, wealthy merchants and conjurers, interact with visitors through games, Q&A sessions and playful surprises. The Chocolate Kitchen allows visitors to watch chocolatiers at work through panoramic glass windows. 

And to add to all of the fun, DIY chocolate workshops for adults and families are also set to launch.

Before you leave, stop by the 380-square-meter retail area on the second floor, where you can find everything from classic chocolate snacks to creative gift boxes inspired by Beijing landmarks – including tanghulu, the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven and the Great Wall. Make sure to inquire about the stamp-collection activity, where completing the set may earn you a special opening-edition souvenir.

The museum is located at Building 5, Courtyard 2, Langfang Toutiao, Beijing Fun, Xicheng District, Beijing, open from 10:00 a.m. – 21:00 p.m.

So, whether you're in the mood for global contemporary art, traditional ink horses charged with symbolism or a fully immersive chocolate dreamland, Beijing's exhibition scene is serving something for every appetite.

So go ahead, feed your curiosity!