Laogai Museum

This museum is a unique and interesting experience. The museum seems to have a small number of visitors and the location does not seem to inspire crowds of folks off the street because it looks a bit like a residential address and you need to buzz to enter. The photos, artifacts and evidence presented are trying to illuminate the challenge of how many in China have been oppressed. Some very formal visits by national leaders and key officials are surprising to see in the photos. The staff of the museum are very helpful and are able to discuss exhibits and recommend further reading as well.

Laogai Museum is a small two-story museum in a rowhouse in Dupont Circle. It's the first museum in the U.S. to directly address human rights in China. It's free and open Monday through Friday from 9am-5pm hours are subject to change, but they keep a calendar on their front door with the most current hours. Once you're buzzed in by the receptionist, you're free to wander through the exhibit on the first and second floor of the building. The exhibit includes over 100 photos, books, or items about human rights in China, especially around China's prison reform system. Each panel is written in Mandarin and English. The content is very important so take the time to let it sink in. Some of the photographs are graphic.

We tried to visit this museum April 2018 but it was closed when we got there. While trying to enter, a Washington, D.C. city employee sadly informed us that the owner had died last year and the family did not want to continue his legacy there. This is why the museum is closed. Those one-star reviews given to such an important museum should have asked about the circumstances before trolling. Maybe his family or a foundation may reopen this vital museum in the future.

Disappointed that I walked 2 miles to visit and they were closed. The sign said they would be open. There were no indicators that they were closed other than the locked doors. I called and left a voicemail. 3 days later they said they were closed due to a busted A/C and they said I should come back in 3 weeks...really? Do they not understand they are a destination? People go out of their way to visit. Their voicemail and website should reflect these closures to save people a wasted day.

I found this museum to be very informative and sobering. It took some time to read through all of the exhibits but it’s definitely worth the trip. I wouldn’t suggest taking young children but it’s good for age 10 and up I’d say.

I thought it was the Laogai lake from avatar….. I’m very sad cuz I wanted to talk to Long Feng…

it is closed.