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The ancient Xing Iron and Steel Site is located 20 kilometers northwest of Zhengzhou City . It is home to two large blast furnaces for iron smelting discovered so far. The furnace hearth is oval in shape, and the furnace walls and base are rammed with black-brown refractory clay. There are remains of smelting wood in front of and on the sides of the furnace.
Numerous sets of casting molds and finished ironware were unearthed near the blast furnace, most bearing the inscription " He Yi . " These products primarily consisted of production tools. The excavation also uncovered 14 pottery kilns and boat-shaped pits, along with other smelting-related remains. The site dates from the mid-Western Han Dynasty to the Eastern Han Dynasty. Excavated materials confirm that it was a state-run smelting and casting workshop, which is of great significance to the study of China's metallurgical history.
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The Ancient Ying Iron Smelting Site is one of the oldest and best-preserved ancient iron smelting sites in China. Dating back to the Warring States period, it was an important site for the production of iron, a critical resource for the development of ancient Chinese society. The site provides insights into ancient metallurgical techniques and the technological advances that helped shape China's history.
The Ancient Ying Iron Smelting Site is located in Gongyi, Henan Province, about 50 kilometers from Zhengzhou. Visitors can reach the site by taxi or private car, or take public buses from Zhengzhou to Gongyi and then a short walk to the site.
The site is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are in the morning or on weekdays to avoid crowds.
The entrance fee is approximately 40-50 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance. It is not necessary to purchase tickets in advance unless visiting during peak tourist seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is not required, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons (such as public holidays) to ensure availability. Booking a few days ahead is sufficient.
It takes around 1-2 hours to explore the site, depending on your interest in the historical and technical details of the ancient smelting process.
Guided tours are available, typically in Mandarin, but it's best to inquire in advance if English-speaking guides are available. Audio guides may also be available in Chinese and possibly in other languages.
The best photography spots are near the ancient furnaces and in the museum's artifact displays. The surrounding landscape also provides good views of the historical site against the backdrop of nature.
Start at the entrance to the iron smelting area, where you can view the furnaces and learn about the smelting process. Then, visit the museum or exhibition hall to explore artifacts and additional information. Finish with a walk around the scenic areas for a peaceful conclusion to your visit.
Currently, there are no night visits or light shows available at the Ancient Ying Iron Smelting Site. However, special tours may be arranged for large groups or during special events, so check with the site beforehand.
The site can be crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are weekdays, particularly in the morning before noon.
Basic facilities are available, including toilets, a small rest area, and shops selling souvenirs and snacks. There are no major dining facilities, so visitors may want to bring their own food or eat at nearby restaurants.
The site is generally accessible, but some areas may have uneven ground or stairs that could be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors. It is recommended to check in advance for any special accommodations or assistance available.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are also commonly used. Cards may be accepted at larger shops or for ticket purchases.
There are a few simple restaurants and cafes nearby that offer local Chinese dishes. However, more dining options are available in Zhengzhou if you're looking for a broader selection.
Vegetarian food options may be available in the nearby restaurants, though choices may be limited. Halal options are less common in this area, so it’s advisable to check before dining.
There are a few budget hotels and guesthouses near the site. For more upscale options, visitors can stay in Zhengzhou, which offers a range of accommodations.
Yes, there are souvenir shops selling local crafts, small statues, iron-related items, and traditional Chinese artifacts related to the site’s iron-smelting history.
The best transportation options are to take a taxi or private vehicle. If you plan to visit other attractions in the area, public transport options like buses are available, but a taxi will provide greater flexibility and comfort.
