One of Torrance’s most impressive museums is also one of its easiest to overlook.

The Chen Art Gallery, located at 1625 Abalone Avenue, houses more than 1,000 works of Chinese art and antiques representing approximately 5,000 years of history. Its collection stretches from early Neolithic pottery to objects associated with the imperial courts of the Ming and Qing dynasties.

Visitors move through more than 15 exhibition rooms containing ceramics, jade, furniture, paintings, sculptures, jewelry, Buddhist artwork and other historical objects. The scale and depth of the collection feel especially surprising because the museum is tucked inside the headquarters of Sunrider International rather than a conventional museum complex.

Admission is free, but this is not a drop-in attraction. Visitors must call ahead to reserve a guided tour. Tours typically last between 90 minutes and two hours and are offered Tuesday through Friday during the gallery’s visiting hours.

The museum notes that there are no benches or chairs inside the galleries, so visitors should be prepared to stand and walk during most of the tour. Mobility aids and small portable stools are permitted when needed.

For residents who believe they have already explored Torrance’s cultural side, the Chen Art Gallery may be the discovery that changes their minds.

Chen Art Gallery Visitor Information: