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Visit the Mangshan Tombs to explore ancient tombs and artifacts dating back to the Han Dynasty. The site offers a serene environment with historical significance, ideal for those interested in Chinese history and archaeology. Don’t miss the stone carvings and detailed burial structures that tell the story of ancient rulers.
The Mangshan Tombs, a National Key Cultural Relic Protection Site, are located on Mangshan Mountain in Luoyang City and Mengjin County, Henan Province. The area stretches nearly 50 kilometers from east to west and approximately 20 kilometers from north to south. It encompasses Mengjin and Yanshi, as well as the urban districts of Xigong, Laocheng, and Luolong, encompassing more than 20 townships.
The mausoleum complex stretches westward from Jiuliuao Village in Changdai Township, Mengjin County, to Yangzhong Village in Hongshan Township, Luoyang City, and eastward from Guangming Village in Shanhua Town, Yanshi County, to Zhongyi Village in Shanhua Town. The Mangshan Mausoleum Complex covers an area of 756 square kilometers and contains over 970 large earthen mounds and hundreds of thousands of ancient tombs.
The tomb complex boasts eight royal tombs from the Eastern Zhou Dynasty, five imperial tombs from the Eastern Han Dynasty, one from the Cao Wei Dynasty, five from the Western Jin Dynasty, four from the Northern Wei Dynasty, and one from the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period (Later Tang Dynasty). This is the largest and most concentrated burial site for emperors in China. Including the accompanying tombs of royal family members and ministers, the total number exceeds one thousand. The Mangshan Tombs are one of the most concentrated concentrations of ancient tombs in the world.
The warm temperate continental monsoon climate makes it suitable for travel in all four seasons.
The Mangshan Tombs can be divided into four areas: the western section (Northern Wei Tombs area), the middle section (Eastern Zhou, Eastern Han, and Later Tang Tombs area), the eastern section (Western Jin and Cao Wei Tombs area), and the Jiahe section (Eastern Han and Western Jin Tombs).
It is recommended to play for about 3 hours.
free
09:00-17:00
Closed on Mondays
The Mangshan Tombs are part of the rich cultural heritage of Luoyang. These tombs were constructed for noble families during the Han Dynasty and serve as an important archaeological site, providing insight into ancient burial customs and royal life during this period.
Located in Luoyang, Henan, the Mangshan Tombs are accessible by taxi or private car. The nearest public transport options are limited, so using a taxi from the city center is the most convenient option.
The Mangshan Tombs are open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is early in the morning or late in the afternoon, especially to avoid the crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
The entrance fee is approximately 50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, and some online platforms may offer ticket sales during peak seasons.
It is not mandatory to book tickets in advance, but it’s recommended during holidays or peak seasons to secure your entry. Booking a few days in advance can help avoid long queues.
A visit to the Mangshan Tombs typically takes around 2-3 hours, depending on your interest in the historical details and the time spent exploring the tombs and surrounding area.
The must-see highlights include the main tombs, the intricate stone carvings, and the surrounding areas with historic relics and burial sites. Be sure to take time to appreciate the peaceful environment and learn about the historical significance of each tomb.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides in English may also be available, but it’s best to check in advance or hire a local guide for detailed information.
The best photography spots are near the tomb entrances and the surrounding landscapes. You can also capture the detailed stone carvings and ancient architecture, which make for unique historical photos.
Start by exploring the main tomb areas, then move towards the stone carvings and burial chambers. Take a walk around the site to absorb the peaceful atmosphere, and end with a visit to the small museum or informational displays if available.
Currently, there are no night visits or light shows available. The site is best visited during the day, as the tombs and surrounding areas are not equipped for evening tours.
The site can get crowded during weekends and holidays. The best time to visit is on weekdays, especially in the early morning, to avoid large crowds.
Basic facilities like toilets and rest areas are available on-site. There are no major food stalls or restaurants, so it’s recommended to bring water and snacks. A few souvenir shops may be located near the entrance.
The site may be challenging for those with limited mobility due to uneven terrain. It’s advisable to check with the site staff beforehand regarding accessibility options.
Cash is accepted, and mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are also supported. Credit cards may not be widely accepted, so it’s best to carry cash or use mobile payments.
There are no major restaurants inside the Mangshan Tombs. However, there are small eateries in nearby areas in Luoyang city where you can find local Chinese dishes.
Vegetarian options may be available in nearby eateries, but vegan or halal options might be limited. It’s recommended to inquire locally or prepare in advance for specific dietary needs.
There are several hotels and guesthouses in the Luoyang area, with a variety of price ranges. You can find both budget and mid-range accommodations nearby, making it convenient for overnight stays.
Nearby attractions include the Longmen Grottoes, the White Horse Temple, and the Luoyang Museum. These sites can be easily combined in a day trip to explore the historical richness of the region.
Souvenir shops are available near the entrance of the Mangshan Tombs, selling items such as local handicrafts, historical replicas, and other small keepsakes.
After visiting the tombs, taxis or rental cars are the best options to continue your trip. Alternatively, public buses may be available, but they are less frequent and may require transfers.
