Yinxu Chariot and Horse Pit

Introducing Yinxu Chariot and Horse Pit

The Yinxu Chariot and Horse Pit, located within the Yinxu site on Yinxu Road in Yindu District, Anyang City, is the earliest known chariot and horse artifact and road remains in ancient China. Since the excavation of Yinxu in 1928, several Shang Dynasty chariot and horse pits have been discovered. However, due to the limitations of excavation technology at the time, the wooden chariot frames within the pits had not been removed.

In 1953, the remains of a Shang Dynasty chariot were successfully excavated for the first time at Yinxu, revealing its general structure and the dimensions of some components. The numerous chariot pits and road remains discovered and excavated at Yinxu reveal the basic prototype of ancient road transportation in my country, providing crucial research material for studying class and hierarchy, kinship systems, burial customs, and craftsmanship in Shang society.

The six chariot and horse pits and road remains from the Yin Dynasty exhibited in the Yinxu Museum were excavated by the Anyang Station of the Institute of Archaeology, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences and the Anyang Cultural Relics Team in the north and south of Liujiazhuang and the east of Xiaomintun in Anyang respectively. The remains of a Shang Dynasty road were excavated in the south of Huagliding School.

Climate and best time to travel

The temperate monsoon climate is renowned. The Yinxu archaeological excavation of the Yin Dynasty chariot pits is the earliest physical specimen of an animal-drawn chariot ever discovered in China. This proves that my country was one of the earliest ancient civilizations to invent and use the chariot. The area is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

China, a vast country, saw animal-drawn chariots as the most important means of land transportation for its ancient people. Ancient texts claim the invention of the chariot during the Xia Dynasty, but no remains have been found. The Yin Dynasty chariot pits discovered at Yinxu are the earliest physical specimens of animal-drawn chariots ever discovered in China. This proves that my country was one of the earliest civilizations in the world to invent and use the chariot. The Yin Dynasty chariot pits not only demonstrate the sophistication of ancient animal-drawn chariots but also reveal the brutal practice of human sacrifice in slave society, serving as a vivid historical textbook for the Chinese people.

It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.

Tickets

70 yuan/person (included in the Yinxu ticket)

Attraction opening hours

April 1st - September 30th 08:00-18:30

October 1st - March 31st of the following year, 08:00-17:30

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Most Popular FAQs for Yinxu Chariot and Horse Pit

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Yinxu Chariot and Horse Pit is part of the Yinxu archaeological site, the last capital of the Shang Dynasty (c. 1300–1046 BCE). The site provides crucial insights into early Chinese civilization, military technology, and funerary customs, making it a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Located in Anyang, Henan Province, within the Yinxu archaeological complex. Visitors can take a taxi or private car from Anyang city center. Local buses also connect to the Yinxu site, followed by short walking distances to the pits.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The site is generally open from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM. Spring and autumn offer comfortable weather, avoiding the summer heat and winter chill. Early mornings are ideal for fewer crowds.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Tickets are available at the site or online through official platforms. Prices vary slightly by season and visitor type (adult, student, senior). Group discounts may apply.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking is recommended during peak tourist periods and holidays. Reservations a few days in advance ensure entry and reduce waiting time.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–3 hours are sufficient to explore the pits, exhibition halls, and museum thoroughly.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Chariot and horse pits showcasing royal Shang Dynasty burials.
• Bronze artifacts and weapons displays in the museum.
• Interactive educational exhibits explaining excavation techniques and ancient military culture.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Chinese; some tours offer English-speaking guides for international visitors. Audio guides may also be provided in multiple languages.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Above the pits for panoramic views of chariots and horses.
• Close-up shots of bronze artifacts in the museum displays.
• Paths surrounding the excavation areas for contextual shots with the landscape.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start at the main entrance museum to understand the site's history.
• Proceed to the chariot and horse pits for detailed observation.
• Finish with exhibition halls showing recovered artifacts and educational displays.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and light shows are generally not available. Special tours may be organized during festivals or heritage events.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Weekdays and non-holiday periods are least crowded. Weekends and national holidays see higher visitor numbers.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• Restrooms and drinking water stations are available throughout the site.
• Small cafes and snack kiosks inside the complex.
• Rest areas with seating near the main pits.
• Souvenir shops selling replicas, books, and local crafts.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Paths and ramps allow basic accessibility for elderly and children. Some areas may be uneven due to archaeological preservation, limiting access for visitors with mobility issues.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are accepted for tickets and purchases.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Cafes and restaurants within the Yinxu complex offer local cuisine and snacks. Additional options are available in Anyang city center, a short taxi or bus ride away.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available; vegan and halal options are limited, so advance inquiry is recommended.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Hotels and guesthouses in Anyang provide convenient accommodation for visitors, ranging from budget to mid-range options.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Anyang Museum for cultural and historical exhibits.
• Other Yinxu archaeological areas, including oracle bone inscriptions.
• Local parks and historical streets in Anyang city.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops sell replica bronzes, miniature chariots, books, and educational toys related to the Shang Dynasty.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Taxi or ride-hailing services to nearby attractions or Anyang city center.
• Public buses connecting to other cultural sites.
• Private car for flexible day trips to nearby heritage locations.