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Visit the mausoleum to explore its historical significance, admire the ancient architecture, and walk through the scenic gardens surrounding the tomb. It's also an excellent spot for photography and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
Yongchang Mausoleum is the tomb of Emperor Taizu of Song, Zhao Kuangyin (927-976), located in present-day Gongyi City, Henan Province. All Northern Song emperors were buried in Gongyi. Zhao Kuangyin served in the imperial guards of the Later Zhou Dynasty and, due to his bravery in battle, rose to high rank in the army. He was then acting Grand Marshal.
In the spring of 960 AD, he launched the historically famous "Chenqiao Mutiny" in Chenqiao Town, Fengqiu County, Henan Province. He overthrew the Later Zhou Dynasty, proclaimed himself emperor, and named his country "Song." He reigned for 17 years, dying at the age of 50. To prevent history from repeating itself, he ordered his generals to retire and return home through the "cup of wine to release military power," a classic move of the Northern Song Dynasty.
temperate monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons
It is recommended to visit for 1 hour
free
All day
The Yongchang Mausoleum is an ancient tomb that dates back to the Eastern Han Dynasty. It is a significant archaeological site, offering insights into ancient burial customs and the history of the Han Dynasty emperors.
Located in Zhengzhou, Henan Province, the mausoleum is easily accessible by taxi or bus. It is a short drive from the city center. Public transportation options like buses are available, but a taxi is the most convenient.
The site is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild, making for a comfortable experience while exploring the site.
The entrance fee is approximately 30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through local ticketing platforms such as Alipay and WeChat.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance, but for peak seasons or weekends, booking a few days ahead may help avoid long lines.
About 1-2 hours is sufficient to explore the mausoleum and its surrounding areas, including taking time for photography and a peaceful walk through the gardens.
The tomb itself is the main highlight, along with the beautifully landscaped gardens and the surrounding historical relics. The inscriptions and sculptures inside offer fascinating historical insights.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and there may be limited audio guide options in English, especially during peak tourist seasons.
The best photography spots are around the mausoleum itself and the surrounding gardens. The ancient architecture combined with the lush greenery provides excellent photo opportunities.
Start by visiting the main tomb and then walk around the surrounding garden. Take time to explore the nearby historical relics and monuments before concluding the visit with a peaceful walk through the scenic areas.
Currently, night visits and light shows are not available at the Yongchang Mausoleum. It is best visited during the day.
The mausoleum can be crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are early mornings on weekdays.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available. There are no extensive food or shopping facilities on-site, so it’s recommended to bring snacks and water, especially if you plan to stay for a while.
The main pathways and tomb areas are accessible for elderly and children. However, some of the garden trails may be challenging for those with mobility issues.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted, and cash is also accepted. Credit cards are not commonly used in the area.
There are no restaurants inside the mausoleum, but there are several local restaurants nearby in Zhengzhou offering traditional Chinese food.
Vegetarian options are available at local restaurants, but vegan and halal food options may be limited. It's best to check with restaurants in advance.
Several hotels are located in Zhengzhou city center, which is about a 20-minute drive from the mausoleum. Options range from budget hotels to more upscale accommodations.
Nearby attractions include the Zhengzhou Yellow River Scenic Area, Shaolin Temple, and the Zhengzhou Museum, which are easily accessible for a day trip.
Small souvenir shops are available near the mausoleum, selling items such as traditional Chinese handicrafts, postcards, and Yellow River-themed souvenirs.
After visiting, you can continue your trip by taking a taxi or bus to other nearby attractions, or head to the Zhengzhou Railway Station for onward travel by train.
