Live Your Best Lives
Visit Mi County Government Office primarily for administrative purposes, such as handling local government affairs, permits, or official documentation. Observing the building’s architecture and understanding local governance may also be of interest.
The Mi County Yamen is located in Xinmi City, Zhengzhou. It was first built in the 12th year of the Sui Dynasty (616 AD). It has gone through six dynasties, namely the Sui, Tang, Song, Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties, and has a history of about 1,400 years. It is the oldest existing government office in China and is known as the "No. 1 Yamen in China."
In addition to admiring the weathered remains of the county government office, visitors can also see a prison that was in use for over 1,000 years. Built during the Sui Dynasty and in use until 2003, this prison is the longest-lasting prison in existence and a true historical wonder.
The county government office consists of five courtyards, with a bell and drum tower and a screen wall in front. On the central axis from south to north, there are the main gate, lotus pond, ceremonial gate, stone archway, moon platform, rolling shed, main hall (Mu'ai Hall), second hall (Sanjian Hall), third hall, Daxian Tower, and back garden. On both sides of the central axis are the Eight Classes Room, Six Departments Room, Zanzheng Hall, Jiage Warehouse, Dianshi House, East and West Flower Halls, East and West Inner Study Rooms, Tuisi Hall, Caoting Courtyard, Yin Guest House, Theater, Prison and other buildings. Another major feature of the Mi County government office is the "map" in front of the lobby. The then Mi County magistrate used bricks and tiles to build the east and west hemispheres in the courtyard, presenting the old geographical features of Mi County in the form of a sand table. This map always reminds those in power to avoid official-centered thinking and to care about the world.
The temperate monsoon climate makes it suitable for travel in all four seasons.
Double Dragon Monument
The Double Dragon Monument, erected by the Qing Dynasty magistrate Zhong Kunhua during the reconstruction of the county government office, boasts a history of over 300 years. Following extensive renovations by Zhong, the Mi County government office boasts a bright, spacious hallway and comprehensive facilities, earning praise from later generations. To the east of the main gate stands the Double Dragon Monument, a symbol of imperial conferral. While dragons were not permitted on ordinary county offices, the Mi County government office, once part of Mizhou during the Sui and Tang dynasties, was a provincial government office. The first magistrate, Zhuo Mao, was granted the imperial title of "Marquis of Baode," allowing the Double Dragon Monument and the pavilion in front of the main hall to be erected, a testament to Mi County's status as a state-run government.
County government gate
The gate of the county government office is three rooms wide, with the main room being the corridor.
A "drum for crying out for justice" is placed in the front half of the east end room, which is used by common people to beat the drum to complain about their grievances. It was first established by Liu Bang, the founding emperor of the Han Dynasty, and has been passed down for more than two thousand years. Until the end of the Qing Dynasty, it was an important means for feudal officials to understand the people's sentiments.
It is recommended to play for about 3 hours.
free
9:00-18:00, please refer to the on-site announcement of the scenic spot for specific opening hours.
Mi County Government Office is the administrative center of Mi County in Zhengzhou, Henan, responsible for local governance and public services.
Located in Mi County, Zhengzhou. Accessible by local buses or taxi; walking is feasible if nearby.
Typically open Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM–5:00 PM. Best to visit in the morning to avoid queues.
Free entry; no tickets required.
Not required for general visit; appointments may be needed for specific administrative services.
1–2 hours for administrative matters or a brief visit.
Main service counters, administrative offices, and public service areas.
No guided tours; information is mainly in Chinese.
Exterior of the government building for architectural photos; interior photography may be restricted.
Visit the reception area first, then proceed to the relevant service counters or offices.
No night visits or special tours; building closes in the evening.
Least crowded early in the morning or mid-week.
Basic facilities include public toilets and waiting areas; limited food options nearby.
Accessible for elderly and disabled visitors with ramps and elevators; children may need supervision.
Cash or mobile payments may be used for administrative fees if applicable.
Several local eateries and small cafes within walking distance.
Limited vegetarian options; Halal food may be available at nearby local restaurants.
Budget and mid-range hotels are available in the Mi County area.
Local parks, historical sites, and nearby lakes in Mi County can be visited in combination.
No dedicated souvenir shops; local handicrafts may be found in nearby markets.
Taxi or local buses to other parts of Mi County or Zhengzhou city.
