Housed in a refurbished 1940s warehouse on Lisbon’s Alcântara waterfront, the Museu do Oriente explores Portugal’s centuries-long engagement with Asia through art, culture, and history. Opened in 2008, the museum features two major collections: the Portuguese Presence in Asia, showcasing Indo-Portuguese furniture, Japanese screens, and Chinese porcelain; and the Kwok On Collection, which includes over 13,000 pieces related to Asian performing arts, masks, and religious rituals. Exhibits are arranged by country and presented in dramatic lighting, creating an immersive experience. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, cultural events, and educational programs that highlight the diversity of Eastern traditions. A fifth-floor restaurant serves Asian cuisine, while the ground-level shop offers curated design items. Located at Avenida Brasília, it’s easily reached via train from Cais do Sodré to Alcântara-Mar. The Museu do Oriente is a compelling destination for those interested in cross-cultural dialogue and the artistic legacy of East-West encounters.
Lisbon PortugalThe Museu do Oriente in Lisbon is located at Avenida Brasília, Doca de Alcântara Norte, in a renovated 1940s industrial building along the scenic waterfront of the Alcântara district. This museum highlights the historic connections between Portugal and Asia, featuring extensive collections of Portuguese presence in Asia, including rare 17th and 18th-century Chinese and Japanese screens, Namban art, and artifacts from Timor. The second floor showcases the vast Kwok On Collection of over 13,000 items related to Asian performing arts, religions, puppetry, masks, and ritual objects, making it a vibrant cultural hub with frequent exhibitions, shows, and courses. Nearby, visitors can enjoy the riverside atmosphere and explore the contemporary Alcântara neighborhood known for its cultural venues, dining options, and proximity to the Tagus River. Public transport is accessible, with nearby bus, tram, and train connections. The museum also features a restaurant and café with views of the river. Its combination of rich Asian art, historic Portugal-Asia ties, and a dynamic riverside setting positions Museu do Oriente as a unique cultural destination in Lisbon’s vibrant waterside district.