Explore the tomb of Fan Zeng, a prominent figure in Chinese history. Walk through the historical site, admire the surrounding nature, and learn about the cultural significance of the tomb. It's also a great spot for photography and understanding the local heritage.

Fan Zeng's Tomb, also known as the Yafu Tomb, is located on a hill behind the Qianlong Palace on Pengcheng Road in Xuzhou City. Fan Zeng (277-204 BC), a native of Juhu (present-day Juchao District, Chaohu City, Anhui Province), participated in Xiang Liang's uprising against the Qin Dynasty and later served as Xiang Yu's advisor, earning the title "Yafu." "Records of the Grand Historian: The Biography of Xiang Yu" records: "King Xiang Yu suspected Fan Zeng of ties with the Han and gradually stripped him of his power. Furious, Fan Zeng declared, "The affairs of the world are now settled. Your Majesty will take care of them. I beg you to give my remains to my soldiers." King Xiang agreed. Before reaching Pengcheng, he developed a carbuncle on his back and died."
Suitable for all seasons
1 hour
The Tomb of Fan Zeng is the burial site of Fan Zeng, a key strategist during the late Qin Dynasty, known for advising King Xiang Yu during the Chu-Han Contention. His contributions to Chinese military and political strategies are highly regarded.
The tomb is located in Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province. Visitors can reach the site by taxi, or public transport options including buses that stop near the tomb. Walking is an option if you are staying nearby.
The tomb is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring or autumn when the weather is mild, and early mornings or late afternoons tend to be less crowded.
Entrance fees are typically low and can be paid at the entrance. Tickets can be purchased on-site, though it’s advisable to check for any online booking options depending on the season.
No advance booking is generally required, but it’s a good idea to check online for any special events that may require prior reservation.
Visiting the Tomb of Fan Zeng takes about 1-1.5 hours, depending on your interest in the historical context and the surrounding nature.
The main highlight is the tomb itself, surrounded by scenic views. The historical inscriptions and the landscape around the tomb are also worth exploring.
Guided tours in Mandarin are available. Audio guides in other languages might be limited, so it’s best to check in advance if you require one in English or another language.
The best photography spots are around the tomb itself, especially from the higher grounds. The surrounding trees and nature also offer excellent scenic views for photos.
Start by visiting the main tomb area, then explore the surrounding grounds. Don’t miss the nearby historical markers and the peaceful walking paths for a full experience of the site.
Night visits and light shows are not available at the Tomb of Fan Zeng. The site is primarily a daytime attraction.
The site can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are weekdays, especially in the morning.
Basic facilities like toilets and rest areas are available. However, there are no food or drink vendors within the site, so it’s advisable to bring your own refreshments.
The site is somewhat accessible for elderly and children, with paths for walking, though some areas may be uneven and not fully accessible for those with mobility issues.
Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly accepted, while cash is also acceptable. Credit cards are not as commonly used.
There are no restaurants within the Tomb site, but nearby restaurants in Xuzhou offer local and Chinese cuisines.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in Xuzhou’s nearby restaurants. Halal options may be more limited but can be found in the city center.
There are several hotels in Xuzhou, including budget and mid-range options, such as Xuzhou Hotel, which is about a 15-minute drive from the tomb.
Nearby attractions include the Xuzhou Museum and Yunlong Lake, both of which can be easily combined in a day trip.
There are a few souvenir shops near the site offering local crafts, postcards, and traditional Chinese artwork.
The best options are taxis or buses to get to other attractions in Xuzhou. Alternatively, the Xuzhou Railway Station is nearby for onward travel to other cities.