Reflections of a distant dream, collectors' treasures from Asia

A Journey to the Heart of Asia, at the royal Chateau of Blois

Installed in the Louis XII wing, in the Museum of Fine Arts, this unique focus exhibition showcases an exceptional selection of Asian artifacts from the château’s collections, on display for the first time.

A unique experience that allows visitors of all ages to admire works of art and traditions from faraway places without crossing a border.

Through a thematic exhibition featuring 55 works—delicate porcelain, refined textiles, prints, sculptures, and precious objects—the exhibition tells the story of Chinese and Japanese artistic traditions, as well as that of the French collectors who, in the early 20th century, developed a passion for these distant cultures.

Combining cultural discovery, wonder, and shared experiences, “Reflections of a distant dream, collectors' treasures from Asia” promises a true invitation to travel without leaving Blois. It offers a unique opportunity to discover little-known treasures and immerse yourself in the richness of Asian cultures through a program brimming with emotion and encounters.

An exhibition suitable for everyone

From tea ceremonies, beliefs, and rituals to traditional ceramics, embroidered textiles, and graphic arts, visitors explore Asian arts and traditions at their own pace. The immersive, sensory, and educational exhibition design allows everyone to enjoy a meaningful and accessible experience, regardless of age.

Designed with inclusion and intellectual accessibility in mind, the exhibition offers educational activities tailored to all audiences. Sensory stations where visitors can touch different materials—such as silk, paper, and porcelain—are scattered throughout the exhibition to satisfy the curiosity of both children and adults! Fun activities for young visitors enrich the experience with coloring pages and a wooden memory game.

A specific set of signs using the FALC reading method (“Easy to Read and Understand”) was developed in partnership with the SAAJ (Day Care and Activity Support Center) in Cellettes (41) - only in French.

The exhibition is included in the Château’s admission price at no extra charge.

Activities to keep the adventure going

Throughout the exhibition, the château is offering a series of activities designed to help visitors discover the Asian way of life in a fun and friendly atmosphere.

• Guided Tours of the Exhibition - only in French

Join a guide to delve into the secrets of the works on display and the history of these exceptional collections.
September 19 and 20 at 3:30 p.m. (Heritage Days)
Saturdays: October 10, November 7 and 21, December 5 and 19, January 9 and 23, February 6, March 6, April 3 and 24 at 3:30 p.m.
Reservations required at 0033 (0)2 54 90 33 33*: +€5 per person in addition to the admission fee

• Origami Workshops (For Young Visitors) - only in French

The Japanese art of paper folding will hold no more secrets for you! Young and old alike can learn the basics of origami during creative workshops that combine exploring the exhibition with hands-on art activities—a unique family experience!
Wednesdays, October 21 and 28; February 10, 17, and 24; March 3; and April 7 and 14 at 3:30 p.m. (duration: 1 hour 30 minutes)
Ages 9 and up
Reservations required at 02 54 90 33 33*: +€5 per person in addition to admission fee

• Chinese Calligraphy and Painting - only in French

Discover the techniques, tools, and philosophy behind these traditional arts that are emblematic of Chinese culture.
- Chinese painting: Saturdays, November 14 and April 3, from 2:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- Calligraphy: Saturdays, October 17 and March 13, from 2:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Ages 12 and up
Reservations required at 0033 (0)2 54 90 33 33*: +€5 per person in addition to the admission fee

In partnership with the Confucius Institute at the University of Orléans, whose mission is to promote the teaching of Chinese and to spread Chinese culture.

• Tea Ceremony - only in French

Experience a moment outside of time with a tea ceremony demonstration led by a tea master, followed by a tasting of premium teas. A unique sensory experience that offers insight into the subtleties of this ancient art.
Saturdays, October 3 and March 20 at 2 p.m., 3 p.m., or 4 p.m.
Ages 12 and up
Reservations required at 0033 (0)2 54 90 33 33*: +€5 per person in addition to the admission fee

In partnership with the Confucius Institute at the University of Orléans.

• Chinese New Year Concert

Let yourself be carried away by the sounds of traditional Chinese instruments during an exceptional concert celebrating the Chinese New Year in the chateau’s prestigious setting.
Saturday, February 6, from 3:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., Gaston d’Orléans Hall
Open to all ages
Included in the admission price

In partnership with the Confucius Institute at the University of Orléans.

• To close out this exhibition: Museum Night

As part of the national initiative “La classe, l’œuvre!”, students from schools in Blois are drawing inspiration from the objects on display in the exhibition to create their own manga-style comic strips.
Their work will be presented to the public during European Museum Night
Saturday, May 15, 2027: 7:00 p.m.– 10:00 p.m.
Free admission to the museum

*The reservations and information desk is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and from 1:30 p.m. to 5:15 p.m.—excluding holidays.

A project led by the "Musées en Centre-Val de Loire" association

This exhibition is part of the “Asia in Centre-Val de Loire” program, a unique cultural season organized by the Musées en Centre-Val de Loire (MCVL) association, with support from the Centre-Val de Loire Region and the DRAC.

This ambitious project—the result of a three-year inventory and research effort—showcases a heritage that has long remained in the shadows through 30 museums and nearly 2,500 works, inviting visitors to take a fresh look at the historical ties that united the Centre-Val de Loire region and Asia between the 17th and 20th centuries.

Presentation of the regional project and complete program https://www.museescentre.com/projet-asie (link in French)