Cao Cao's Gaoling

Introducing Cao Cao's Gaoling

Cao Cao's tomb, also known as Anyang Gaoling, is located in Xigaoxue Village, Anfeng Township, Anyang City, Henan Province, 12 kilometers west of Yebei City, Cao Cao's capital. According to the "Records of the Three Kingdoms" and other historical records, Cao Cao died in Luoyang in 220 AD and his coffin was buried in the hills west of the Ximen Bao Temple in Yecheng.

On December 27, 2009, the State Administration of Cultural Heritage, with unanimous confirmation from the Chinese archaeological community, finally determined that the Gaoling Tomb, located south of Xigaoxue Village, Anfeng Township, Anyang City, Henan Province, belonged to Cao Cao. On June 11, 2010, Cao Cao's Gaoling Tomb in Anyang was selected as one of the "Top Ten Archaeological Discoveries of 2009." In May 2013, Cao Cao's Gaoling Tomb became a designated "Seventh Batch of National Key Cultural Relics Protection Sites." In June 2013, Cao Cao's Gaoling Tomb and the Yecheng Ruins were included in the "Twelfth Five-Year Plan for the Protection of Major Sites," approved by the State Administration of Cultural Heritage and the Ministry of Finance.

The State Administration of Cultural Heritage stated that "the procedures for the archaeological excavation, academic identification, and publication of research results at Cao Cao's Gaoling Mausoleum conform to archaeological work procedures." Some scholars, such as Xu Pingfang, a member of the State Administration's expert panel; Yuan Jixi, an expert on Wei, Jin, and Southern and Northern Dynasties literature; Zhang Guoan, a doctoral student in Wei, Jin, and Southern and Northern Dynasties history at Beijing Normal University; and Ni Fangliu, a researcher on the history of Chinese tomb robbery, have expressed controversial opinions on Cao Cao's tomb. However, since most of these skeptics are outside the archaeological field, their opinions are not authoritative. In March 2018, the Henan Provincial Institute of Cultural Relics and Archaeology released the 2016-2017 archaeological findings at Cao Cao's Gaoling Mausoleum, confirming that Cao Cao's remains have been largely confirmed.

Climate and best time to travel

The temperate monsoon climate is characterized by a tomb plan shaped like a character "甲" (a), facing west and east, with a total length of nearly 60 meters. The burial chamber and burial mound are trapezoidal in plan, wide in front and narrow in the back. The widest point on the east side is 22 meters, the narrowest point on the west side is 19.5 meters, and the east-west length is 18 meters. The burial mound covers an area of ​​nearly 400 square meters, and the entire tomb area is approximately 740 square meters. It is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Despite repeated looting and severe damage, the tomb has still yielded a wealth of artifacts. These include gold, silver, bronze, iron, jade, bone, lacquerware, porcelain, glazed pottery, earthenware, and stoneware. Preliminary estimates indicate approximately 400 reconstructible artifacts. These include stone tablets inscribed with inscriptions reflecting the tomb owner's identity, iron armor, swords, emblems, and iron tent components that clearly reflect the era. Also found are bronze belt hooks, a gold-covered bow cap, and numerous mica and pottery fragments.

It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.

Tickets

To be determined

Attraction opening hours

Tentative opening date: March 2020

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Most Popular FAQs for Cao Cao's Gaoling

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

The Cao Cao Mausoleum, also known as Gaoling Mausoleum of Wei and Xigaoxue Tomb No. 2, is located in Xigaoxue Village, Anfeng Township, Anyang County, Henan Province. It is believed to be the burial site of Cao Cao (155–220 CE), a prominent warlord during the late Eastern Han Dynasty. The tomb was discovered in December 2009 and has been recognized as a Major Historical and Cultural Site Protected at the National Level in China. The site offers valuable insights into the era of the Three Kingdoms and the life of one of its key figures.

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

The Cao Cao Mausoleum is situated in Xigaoxue Village, Anfeng Township, Anyang County, Henan Province. To reach the site, visitors can take a taxi or private vehicle from downtown Anyang, approximately a 40-minute drive away. Public transportation options may be limited, so arranging private transport is advisable for convenience.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Cao Cao Mausoleum Museum is open daily from 08:30 to 18:00, with ticket sales ceasing at 17:00. The museum is closed on Mondays, except during public holidays. The best times to visit are during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds, and early in the day to have ample time to explore the exhibits and the tomb site.

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

The entrance fee for the Cao Cao Mausoleum Museum is 50 yuan per person. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the museum's ticket counter. It's advisable to arrive early to secure tickets, especially during peak tourist seasons.

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

While it's not mandatory to book tickets in advance, doing so can help ensure entry, particularly during busy periods. It's recommended to book tickets at least a few days in advance if possible, especially during national holidays or weekends when visitor numbers are higher.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Visitors typically spend about 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the Cao Cao Mausoleum Museum and the surrounding tomb site. This allows time to view the exhibits, learn about the historical context, and tour the tomb's passageways and chambers.

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

Key highlights include the main tomb chamber, the inclined passage leading to the tomb, and the museum's exhibits featuring over 400 cultural relics such as stone plaques, tablets, and pottery tripods. These artifacts provide a glimpse into the burial practices and material culture of the Eastern Han Dynasty.

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

Guided tours and audio guides are available at the Cao Cao Mausoleum Museum. While the primary language for these services is Mandarin Chinese, some guides may offer basic explanations in English. It's advisable to check availability and language options upon arrival or in advance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Photography enthusiasts can capture the grandeur of the tomb's inclined passage and the main chamber. The museum's exhibits also offer opportunities for indoor photography, showcasing the intricate details of the unearthed artifacts. Visitors should be mindful of any photography restrictions within the museum.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the museum's exhibits to gain historical context, then proceed to the tomb site to observe the architectural features and burial chambers. Allow time to reflect on the significance of the site and its connection to the Three Kingdoms period.

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

Currently, the Cao Cao Mausoleum Museum does not offer night visits, light shows, or special tours. The site operates during daylight hours, and visitors are encouraged to plan their visit accordingly.

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

Weekdays, particularly Tuesday through Thursday, tend to be less crowded. Visiting early in the morning right after opening can also help avoid larger crowds, providing a more peaceful experience.

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

The Cao Cao Mausoleum Museum is equipped with basic facilities, including restrooms and a small gift shop. However, food and beverage options within the museum are limited. It's advisable to bring water and snacks, especially if planning to spend an extended period at the site.

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

The museum and tomb site are accessible to visitors with mobility challenges, though some areas may have uneven terrain. It's recommended to contact the museum in advance to inquire about specific accessibility features and accommodations.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

While cash is accepted, mobile payment methods such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly used and widely accepted in China. It's advisable to have a mobile payment option available for convenience.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are limited dining options within close proximity to the Cao Cao Mausoleum. Visitors may need to travel back to downtown Anyang for a wider selection of restaurants and cafes offering various cuisines.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

While vegetarian and vegan options are becoming more available in China, halal food options may be limited in the Anyang area. It's recommended to research and plan ahead if you have specific dietary requirements.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are a few accommodations near the Cao Cao Mausoleum, but for a broader selection, visitors may consider staying in downtown Anyang, where more hotels and guesthouses are available to suit various budgets.

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

Nearby attractions include the Anyang Yin Ruins, the Yinxu Museum, and the Anyang Museum. These sites offer additional insights into China's ancient history and can be visited in a day trip from the Cao Cao Mausoleum.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

The Cao Cao Mausoleum Museum features a small gift shop offering souvenirs such as replicas of artifacts, postcards, and other memorabilia related to the Three Kingdoms period and Cao Cao's legacy.

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

After visiting the Cao Cao Mausoleum, visitors can take a taxi or private vehicle to other nearby attractions like the Anyang Yin Ruins or the Yinxu Museum. Public transportation options may be limited, so arranging private transport is advisable for convenience.