Live Your Best Lives
The Tomb of King Xiao of Liang, located on the North Peak of Baoan Mountain at the foot of the Mangdang Mountains north of Yongcheng City, stands alongside the Tomb of King Xiao of Liang on the South Peak. It is the tomb of Liu Wu, King Xiao of Liang during the Western Han Dynasty. It was formerly known as the Liang Xiaowang Cave or the Liangwang Summer Cave. The North Peak houses the tomb of Liu Wu's wife, Queen Li, a joint underground palace where the couple were buried together in the same tomb but separate burial sites .
The tomb chamber essentially hollowed out the interior of the rear mountain and was constructed to mimic the layout of the imperial palace of the time. The entire tomb consists of a passage, corridors, a main chamber, a veranda, and more than ten side chambers, side chambers, corner chambers, and a drainage system. The project was massive and magnificent, with a well-organized structure, a rational layout, and superb architectural artistry.
As one of the most important royal tombs of the Western Han Dynasty, the most remarkable feature of the tomb of King Xiao of Liang is the massive, colorful murals within its burial chamber. When the chamber was discovered in 1986 , several people entered, touched, and even scratched the murals, causing partial damage. Only about 25 square meters remain. The remaining paintings in the burial chamber are from a 1993 restoration.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended playing time: about 1 hour
10 yuan/person
Summer : 8:00-18:00
Winter : 8:30-17:00
The Tomb of King Xiao of Liang dates back to the Han Dynasty and serves as a historical monument reflecting ancient Chinese royal burial practices. It is significant for its well-preserved architecture, inscriptions, and artifacts that provide insights into the culture, politics, and art of the era.
Located in Shangqiu, Henan Province. Accessible by taxi or private car from the city center. Local buses may connect nearby towns, but direct public transport is limited, so private transport is more convenient.
Generally open from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is spring and autumn when weather is mild and comfortable for walking around the tomb complex.
Entrance fees are approximately 40–60 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the site or online through official booking platforms if available.
Booking is not strictly required on weekdays but recommended during public holidays or peak tourist season, ideally 1–2 days in advance.
Plan for 1–2 hours to explore the tomb, pathways, and surrounding exhibition areas at a relaxed pace.
Guided tours in Chinese are usually available. Audio guides in English may be limited, so arranging a private English-speaking guide in advance is recommended.
Enter through the main gate, visit the exhibition halls first, then proceed to the burial mound, and end with a walk along scenic paths around the site.
Night visits and light shows are not available. Special guided tours may be arranged for groups with prior notice.
Weekdays are usually quiet. Weekends and public holidays can be more crowded, especially during spring and autumn.
Facilities include restrooms, small snack kiosks, water vending points, and souvenir shops near the entrance.
Paths are generally flat and suitable for elderly visitors and children. Some areas may have steps, so mobility assistance may be needed for disabled visitors.
Both cash and mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are accepted for entrance fees and onsite purchases.
Small local restaurants and cafes are located near the site, offering Henan cuisine and light refreshments.
Vegetarian options are available. Halal or vegan options may be limited and should be confirmed in advance.
Hotels and guesthouses in Shangqiu city are the closest options, ranging from budget to mid-range accommodations.
Nearby attractions include Shangqiu Ancient City, historical temples, and other Han Dynasty tomb sites, making for an interesting cultural day trip.
Souvenirs include postcards, replicas of tomb artifacts, small handicrafts, and books about King Xiao of Liang and Han Dynasty history.
Taxis, private cars, or local buses can be used to reach nearby attractions, Shangqiu city center, or nearby train stations for onward travel.
