Yongling Mausoleum
Discover Yongling Mausoleum, the rare surface tomb of Wang Jian, adorned with intricate stone carvings of warriors and musicians.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Yongling Mausoleum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Yongling Mausoleum, the rare surface tomb of Wang Jian, adorned with intricate stone carvings of warriors and musicians.
"The tomb of Wang Jian, a masterpiece of ancient artistry and historical significance."
🎟️ Admission Fee
Expect an admission fee of around RMB 20 (as of 2019). The adjacent museum is free to enter.
🚶♂️ Explore the Museum
Don't miss the free Yongling Museum outside the tomb for a richer historical context.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Stone Carvings
Coffin Bed
Marvel at detailed carvings of warriors, musicians, and Wang Jian, offering a glimpse into ancient artistry and burial customs.
Wang Jian's Statue
Burial Chamber
Stand before the imposing statue of Wang Jian, the founder of the Later Shu Kingdom, a powerful testament to his reign.
Yongling Museum
Outside the Tomb
Explore artifacts and exhibits at the free Yongling Museum, providing context and deeper understanding of the mausoleum's history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Yongling
Understanding Yongling's History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Admission Fee
Expect an admission fee of around RMB 20 (as of 2019). The adjacent museum is free to enter.
🚶♂️ Explore the Museum
Don't miss the free Yongling Museum outside the tomb for a richer historical context.
🌳 Respect the Site
Be mindful of the historical significance and avoid actions that could damage the ancient structure.
📸 Capture the Details
The intricate stone carvings are a photographer's dream. Take your time to capture their beauty.
The changes of the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum in Nanjing around 150 years ago~
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Admission Fee
Expect an admission fee of around RMB 20 (as of 2019). The adjacent museum is free to enter.
🚶♂️ Explore the Museum
Don't miss the free Yongling Museum outside the tomb for a richer historical context.
🌳 Respect the Site
Be mindful of the historical significance and avoid actions that could damage the ancient structure.
📸 Capture the Details
The intricate stone carvings are a photographer's dream. Take your time to capture their beauty.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Yongling Mausoleum to be a historically significant site, particularly appreciating the detailed stone carvings of warriors and musicians, and the statue of Wang Jian. The free adjacent museum adds value to the visit. Some reviews note past issues with site maintenance, such as leaks, but the overall experience is considered worthwhile for its historical insights.
"Amazing food, even for foreigners. I highly recommend the beef."
Faris Chebib
"The tomb of Wang Jian, the emperor of Former Shu during the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period, is known in history as Yongling. It was mistakenly believed by the people to be the piano-playing platform of Sima Xiangru, a writer of the Western Han Dynasty."
Yummy Yip
"Wang Jian was the founding emperor of the Later Shu Kingdom during the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period. He was destroyed by the Later Tang Dynasty. His tomb, built on the surface of the earth, was discovered during the Anti-Japanese War. Previously, it was mistakenly believed to be Sima Xiangru's "Piano Platform." Twelve stone statues depicting strong men carrying the coffin are carved along the coffin bed; twenty-four musicians are carved at the base of the coffin bed; and a statue of Wang Jian stands at the end of the burial chamber. These are all highlights of Wang Jian's tomb. Admission is RMB 20. (As of 2019). The Yongling Museum is located in the park outside the tomb and is free of charge."
Wing k
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Yongling Mausoleum is located in Chengdu, China. Public transportation options like buses and taxis are available to reach the site. It's advisable to check local transport apps for the most current routes and schedules.
Yes, Yongling Mausoleum is generally accessible by public transport in Chengdu. Local bus routes often serve historical sites, making it a convenient option for visitors.
From downtown Chengdu, you can typically take a bus or a taxi to Yongling Mausoleum. The travel time will vary depending on traffic conditions.
Information on specific parking facilities can be limited. If driving, it's best to inquire locally or check for designated parking areas near the entrance.
Yes, ride-sharing services like Didi are a popular and convenient way to reach Yongling Mausoleum from various parts of Chengdu.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The admission fee for Yongling Mausoleum was approximately RMB 20 as of 2019. It's always a good idea to verify current pricing upon arrival.
No, the Yongling Museum, located outside the tomb, is free of charge to visit.
Opening hours can vary. It's recommended to check with local sources or the official tourism information for the most up-to-date operating times before your visit.
Information on online ticket purchasing is not widely available. Typically, tickets are purchased on-site at the entrance.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or children. Inquire at the ticket counter for any applicable concession rates.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The main attractions include the intricate stone carvings along the coffin bed depicting warriors and musicians, and the statue of Wang Jian in the burial chamber.
A visit to Yongling Mausoleum can take approximately 1-2 hours, depending on your interest in the historical details and the museum.
Yongling Mausoleum offers a historical and cultural experience that can be educational for children, especially with the visual appeal of the stone carvings.
Information on official guided tours is not always readily available. You might find local guides offering services, or you can explore independently using provided signage.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as you'll be exploring the site. Dress appropriately for the weather, as much of the exploration is outdoors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there might be limited snack options near the entrance, extensive dining facilities are not typically found within the mausoleum complex itself.
The area around Yongling Mausoleum likely offers various local eateries and restaurants. You can find diverse Sichuan cuisine and other Chinese dishes.
It's generally advisable to consume food and drinks outside the main historical structures to preserve the site. Check for specific rules upon entry.
Near Yongling, you can explore authentic Sichuan cuisine. The reviews mention 'amazing food, even for foreigners,' with a specific recommendation for beef.
Most Chinese restaurants will offer vegetarian dishes. Look for vegetable stir-fries, tofu dishes, and noodle options.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed in most outdoor areas of Yongling Mausoleum. However, check for any restrictions inside specific structures or exhibits.
The intricately carved stone statues, the statue of Wang Jian, and the overall architectural details offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical and cultural sites to protect the integrity of the monuments and for safety reasons. It's best to assume it's not permitted.
Morning light can be ideal for capturing the details of the stone carvings without harsh shadows. Consider visiting during the 'best time to visit' for optimal lighting.
Flash photography might be prohibited inside enclosed areas or near delicate artifacts to prevent damage. Always look for signage indicating such restrictions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit more enjoyable for kids, consider focusing on the visual aspects of the carvings and keeping explanations brief and engaging. The adjacent Yongling Museum offers additional exhibits that might hold their attention. Remember to bring comfortable shoes for walking and ensure children are supervised around the historical structures.
🏛️ History Enthusiasts
Pay close attention to the historical context, including its initial misidentification as Sima Xiangru's 'Piano Platform.' The Yongling Museum provides further depth with related artifacts and information. Understanding the preservation challenges, like past leaks, also adds to the appreciation of the site's enduring legacy.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Yongling
The mausoleum is renowned for its elaborate stone carvings. Along the coffin bed, you'll find twelve powerful stone statues of men carrying the coffin, symbolizing the immense effort and respect involved in the burial. Further down, twenty-four musicians are carved at the base, suggesting the importance of music and ceremony in the funeral rites. At the end of the burial chamber stands a statue of Wang Jian himself, a commanding presence that underscores his status as a ruler. These carvings offer invaluable insights into the artistic techniques and cultural practices of the era.
Despite its historical importance, Yongling has faced challenges. A review mentioned a serious leak discovered decades ago, attributed to management issues and the removal of surrounding trees, which can impact the tomb's structure. This serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts required to preserve such ancient sites. The adjacent Yongling Museum provides further context and displays related artifacts, enriching the visitor's understanding of this unique historical treasure.
Exploring the Stone Carvings
Equally captivating are the musician carvings. These figures are often depicted with various instruments, suggesting a rich tradition of music accompanying both life and death. Their presence adds a layer of cultural depth to the mausoleum, hinting at the ceremonies and festivities that might have been part of Wang Jian's reign. The sheer number of these carvings – twenty-four musicians – emphasizes the importance placed on such cultural expressions.
Finally, the statue of Wang Jian in the burial chamber is a focal point. It's designed to be imposing and regal, serving as a lasting monument to the founder of the Later Shu Kingdom. Seeing these carvings up close provides a tangible connection to history, allowing visitors to appreciate the artistry and the historical context of this ancient tomb.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit