Introducing the Emperor's Six-horse Chariot Museum
The Luoyang Zhou Royal City Emperor's Six-Chariot Museum is located in the Eastern Zhou Royal City Square in the center of Xigong District, Luoyang City, Henan Province, in the northeast of the Eastern Zhou Royal City ruins. It is a special museum of "Royal City, Royal Tombs, and Royal Utensils" with a large chariot and horse pit from the Eastern Zhou Dynasty as the main body and a supplementary exhibition of the Eastern Zhou Royal City, new discoveries in the archaeological excavation of the royal tombs, and some precious cultural relics from the Eastern Zhou Dynasty.
The museum is a site-based museum built on the original site of a major 21st-century archaeological discovery: the "Emperor Driving Six Chariots" burial pit. The pit is large in scale, with a variety of chariots neatly arranged and a magnificent display. It is a unique example of a "Six-horse chariot" burial pit in the world today.
Climate and best time to travel
temperate monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended number of days and locations for visiting
The stone gui with the ink-written word "Son of Heaven" and the bronze ware with the inscription "The King made a precious Yi" are of great significance to Chinese archaeology; the bronze ritual vessels such as tripods, drums, and pots, the large jade bi with openwork dragons and tigers, the bronze mirror with hunting patterns inlaid with gold and silver, and the bronze and silver figures are exquisitely made and of extremely high artistic value.
The discovery of the "Emperor Driving Six" chariot pits beneath the square of the Eastern Zhou Dynasty Royal City shocked the world. This excavation uncovered 18 chariot pits and 397 tombs, exceeding the total number discovered in Luoyang over the past 50 years.
It is recommended to visit for about 2 hours
Tickets
30.00 yuan
Attraction opening hours
08:30~19:00
Most Popular FAQs for Emperor's Chariot Museum
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
The Emperor's Chariot Museum in Luoyang is built over the excavation site of the Eastern Zhou Dynasty chariot and horse pits, discovered in 2002. It holds over 30 chariots and nearly 100 horses, making it one of the most complete royal chariot burial sites in China. The museum reflects the advanced metallurgy and ceremonial traditions of the Zhou period, providing valuable insight into ancient Chinese royal burials and craftsmanship.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
- Location: Mangshan Road, Luoyang City, Henan Province, China.
- By Bus: Take bus routes 41, 60, or 81 to the Emperor’s Chariot Museum stop (帝王车马坑博物馆站).
- By Taxi: A 15-minute ride from Luoyang city center or Longmen Railway Station.
- By Metro: The nearest metro station is not directly connected; taxi or bus transfer is recommended.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- Opening hours: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (last entry around 5:00 PM).
- Best time to visit: Spring and autumn (March–May and September–November) for comfortable weather.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
- Ticket price: Around 30–40 RMB per person.
- Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online via major Chinese travel apps such as Ctrip or Meituan.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
Advance booking is not mandatory, but it is advisable during weekends and national holidays to avoid queues.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
Visitors typically spend 1–1.5 hours exploring the museum and exhibition areas in detail.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- The main underground excavation hall displaying ancient chariot pits.
- Exhibit of bronze fittings and decorative ornaments from the Zhou Dynasty.
- Multimedia interpretation area showing burial rituals and royal life.
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
Guided tours are available in Chinese; some exhibits have English captions. Visitors may request Chinese-speaking guides at the entrance.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- Overhead glass walkways offering panoramic views of the chariot pits.
- The main pit area where the horses and chariots are arranged symmetrically.
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
- Start at the introduction hall for background information.
- Proceed to the main excavation hall to view the chariots and horses.
- End at the exhibition zone displaying artifacts and videos about the excavation.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
No night visits or light shows are offered; the museum operates only during daytime hours.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
- Weekdays and early mornings are the least crowded times.
- Weekends and public holidays tend to be busier with tour groups.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
- Toilets and rest areas are available inside the museum.
- Small souvenir and refreshment stalls near the entrance.
- No full restaurants inside; basic amenities only.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
Yes, the museum is barrier-free with ramps and elevators, making it accessible to all visitors.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
Mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are widely accepted; cash is also accepted at ticket counters.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- Local eateries and noodle shops are located within a short walk outside the museum gate.
- Nearby Mangshan area has several traditional Luoyang cuisine restaurants.
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Vegetarian dishes are available in most nearby Chinese restaurants; halal options may be limited but can be found in central Luoyang.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- Luoyang Peony Hotel – upscale option in city center.
- 7 Days Premium Hotel (Mangshan Branch) – budget-friendly and close to the museum.
- Luoyang Grand Hotel – mid-range, about 15 minutes’ drive away.
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Mangshan Tombs of the Han Dynasty
- Luoyang Museum
- White Horse Temple
- Luoyang Ancient City
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- Souvenir stands sell replicas of bronze chariots and ancient coins.
- Local crafts and miniature chariot models are popular gifts.
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- Taxi or ride-hailing apps to nearby Luoyang attractions.
- Bus connections to downtown or Longmen Grottoes for further sightseeing.
