Yinxu Oracle Bone Stele Forest

Introducing the Yinxu Oracle Bone Stele Forest

The Oracle Bone Stele Forest, a collection of 30 stone tablets carefully selected by renowned Chinese oracle bone scholars Wang Yuxin and Yang Shengnan, uses the original oracle bone fragments. They contain 125 items, recording the wars between a general and two states, the Tufang and Gongkoufang.

Since Wang Yirong identified the oracle bone inscriptions in 1899, they have been valued by epigraphers and acquired by many parties. In order to obtain greater profits, antique dealers have kept the unearthed sites of the oracle bones secret and blocked the news.

In 1911, renowned epigrapher Luo Zhenyu sent his brother Luo Zhenchang to Anyang to investigate. They not only pinpointed the exact location of the oracle bones unearthed at Yinxu, but also acquired a large number of inscribed oracle bones, including a king oracle bone and a complete tortoise shell. It's said that the person who sold the oracle bones used the profits to buy 20 mu of land.

Climate and best time to travel

The temperate monsoon climate and the Chinese characters, which evolved from oracle bone inscriptions, played a significant role in spreading Chinese culture and contributing to the formation and consolidation of a unified Chinese nation. All four seasons are suitable for travel.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

The Yinxu Oracle Bone Stele Forest is located in the ruins of the Yinxu Palace and Ancestral Temple in Anyang. It is a collection of 30 carefully selected oracle bones, which have been enlarged into stone steles in the shape of the original oracle bones. The front of the oracle bones is inscribed with oracle bones, and the back has interpretations. It is well worth a visit.

It is recommended to play for about 1 hour.

Tickets

65 yuan/person (included in the Yinxu ticket)

Attraction opening hours

08:00-18:30 (July-September)

08:00-17:30 (October to June of the following year)

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Most Popular FAQs for Yinxu Oracle Bone Stele Forest

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

Yinxu Oracle Bone Stele Forest is part of the ancient Yinxu site, the last capital of the Shang Dynasty (c. 1300–1046 BCE). It is significant as the birthplace of Chinese writing, with oracle bones used for divination and inscribed with the earliest known Chinese characters.

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

The Stele Forest is located in Anyang, Henan Province, within the Yinxu archaeological site. Visitors can reach it by taxi, local bus, or rideshare from central Anyang. Walking from nearby attractions is possible within the Yinxu site.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Opening hours are typically 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Mornings are best to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures for walking.

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

Admission to the Yinxu site, including the Oracle Bone Stele Forest, is around 60–80 CNY. Tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance ticket office.

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

Booking is recommended during peak tourist seasons, typically 1–3 days in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

1.5–2 hours are sufficient to explore the stele forest, read inscriptions, and visit any small exhibition areas.

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

• Main stele forest area with oracle bone inscriptions.
• Replica displays of oracle bones and Shang Dynasty artifacts.
• Historical markers explaining the Shang Dynasty's culture and divination practices.

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

Guided tours are available, primarily in Chinese, with some English-speaking guides for international visitors. Audio guides may be limited.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Central stele area for photographing multiple inscriptions.
• Garden pathways with aligned steles for artistic shots.
• Entrance or museum areas for capturing educational displays.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the visitor center, proceed to the main stele forest, explore nearby exhibition areas, then walk the landscaped pathways surrounding the steles.

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

Night visits are generally not available. Special tours or exhibitions may be arranged during festivals or heritage events.

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

Weekdays and early mornings are less crowded. Weekends and public holidays see higher visitor numbers.

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

Facilities include public restrooms, benches, drinking fountains, a small cafe, and a gift shop with educational materials.

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

Paths are mostly paved and accessible, suitable for children and elderly visitors. Some areas may have limited access for wheelchairs.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, and mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely available for tickets and purchases.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Nearby Anyang city offers local restaurants and cafes serving Chinese cuisine. Small snack vendors may be available near the site entrance.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are generally available. Vegan and halal options are limited and may require prior inquiry.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Hotels and guesthouses in central Anyang are within a 10–15 minute drive, offering budget to mid-range accommodations.

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

Nearby attractions include the Anyang Museum, Shang Dynasty ruins, and historical temples within the city.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenirs include replicas of oracle bones, educational books, postcards, and Shang Dynasty-themed crafts.

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

Taxis, rideshares, or local buses connect the site to central Anyang and nearby historical attractions.