Yangshan stele materials

Introducing Yangshan Stele Materials

The Yangshan Stele is located on the southern slope of Yangshan Mountain, northwest of Tangshan Street, Jiangning District, Nanjing City. It is the site of the Shengong Shengde Stele carved by Emperor Chengzu Zhu Di of the Ming Dynasty to praise the merits of his father, Emperor Taizu Zhu Yuanzhang of the Ming Dynasty. Because of the stone, it is known as the "No. 1 Stele in the World". The Yangshan Stele is a national key cultural relic protection unit.

The Yangshan stele materials were carved out of the huge and well-integrity Qixia limestone in the mountain. They are composed of three parts: the base, the lintel and the body. The base is 17 meters high, 29.5 meters wide and 12 meters thick; the lintel is 10 meters high, 22 meters wide and 10.3 meters thick; the body is 51 meters high, 14.2 meters wide and 4.5 meters thick.

The weight of the three huge stones is even more astonishing: experts used modern instruments to accurately measure and calculate that the weight of the base is 16,250 tons, the weight of the tablet is 6,118 tons, and the weight of the tablet body is 8,799 tons.

The giant stones used to build the Egyptian pyramids have amazed people for thousands of years, yet they weigh only 2.5 tons on average, and the largest weighs no more than 50 tons.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to visit for 1 hour

Tickets

50 yuan

Attraction opening hours

9:00 to 17:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Yangshan stele materials

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Yangshan Stele Materials are a historic collection of stone inscriptions dating back to the Tang Dynasty. These steles are famous for their exquisite calligraphy and are important cultural relics that showcase ancient Chinese writing and craftsmanship. They are significant in understanding China's ancient history, art, and the development of calligraphy over the centuries.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The Yangshan Stele Materials are located in the Yangshan area of Nanjing, Jiangsu Province. You can get there by taxi or private transport from the city center. Public buses also connect the area, but it’s best to use a taxi for convenience, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the routes.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Yangshan Stele Materials are open year-round, generally from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant. Early mornings or late afternoons are less crowded and ideal for a more relaxed visit.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee for the Yangshan Stele Materials is usually around 30-50 RMB. Tickets can be bought on-site at the entrance, but it's also possible to purchase them online through the official website or third-party platforms for convenience.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory but recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons or holidays. You can book tickets up to a week in advance through online platforms.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You’ll need about 1-2 hours to fully explore the Yangshan Stele Materials, including walking around the steles, taking photographs, and learning about their history through available guides or signage.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The main exhibition of Yangshan Stele inscriptions, showcasing the intricate calligraphy and stone carvings.
• Surrounding temples and natural landscapes that offer a glimpse into the historical setting of the stele materials.
• The panoramic views of the Nanjing countryside from the stele area, perfect for photography.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Chinese, and English-speaking guides may be available upon request. Audio guides in both Chinese and English are also available for rent.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots include the steles themselves, the surrounding temples, and the scenic views of the countryside. The early morning light provides a great opportunity for capturing the inscriptions and carvings in natural light.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start by visiting the main stele exhibition to understand the historical significance of the materials.
• Walk around the surrounding temples for a more immersive experience in the historical setting.
• End your visit by taking in the panoramic views of the Nanjing countryside from the highest point in the area.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are not typically available, as the site is generally closed in the evening. However, special tours or events may be organized during holidays or peak tourist seasons.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The Yangshan Stele Materials can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit during weekdays, especially early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• Public toilets are available at the entrance and near the main exhibition area.
• There are small cafes and rest areas around the site where you can take a break.
• There are also small souvenir shops selling books, local crafts, and replicas of the steles.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The site is mostly accessible for elderly and children, but there may be some uneven terrain in certain areas. Disabled visitors may face challenges navigating the more historical sections, but there are accessible paths for general exploration.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted at the site. Cash payments are also accepted, but it is recommended to use mobile payments for convenience.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• There are several local restaurants near the site where you can try Nanjing’s famous dishes, such as salted duck and duck blood soup.
• There are also tea houses and small cafes offering snacks and drinks in the vicinity.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan food options are available at local restaurants, with a range of vegetable dishes typical of Jiangsu cuisine. Halal food is less common, but you can find some halal restaurants in the Nanjing city center.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are several budget hotels near the Yangshan Stele Materials, offering convenient access to the site.
• For more upscale accommodations, Nanjing’s city center has a range of hotels, including international chains and boutique options.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The famous Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum is nearby and can easily be combined with a visit to the Yangshan Stele Materials.
• The Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, another UNESCO World Heritage site, is also close and makes for an excellent additional stop.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops around the site selling replicas of the steles, calligraphy materials, and local crafts. The most common souvenirs are postcards, books, and traditional Chinese calligraphy brushes.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• From the site, you can take a taxi or public bus back to Nanjing city center for further exploration.
• There are also convenient transport links from Nanjing to other major cities in Jiangsu province via high-speed trains and buses.