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At the end of the Qin Dynasty, Liu Bang was assigned by the county magistrate to escort a group of laborers to Mount Li to build the mausoleum for Qin Shi Huang. By the time they reached Mangdang Mountain in Yongcheng, Shangqiu, most of the people had already fled. Liu Bang hurried on under the moonlight. As he reached a weedy path in front of Mangdang Mountain, he suddenly encountered a large white snake lying in the path, terrified. Liu Bang drew his sword and cut the snake in two. The white snake's blood flowed all over the ground, and a patch of red grass subsequently grew where the snake had been cut. Even today, over 2,000 years later, the red grass has retained its color.
After Liu Bang slew the snake, he immediately launched a rebellion, recruiting troops in the Mangdang Mountains. After years of campaigning, he finally established the Western Han Dynasty in 202 BC. During the reign of Emperor Wen of Han, a stele and temple were erected at the site to commemorate Liu Bang's rebellion. Over the millennia, the stele and temple have undergone numerous repairs and destructions. The Liu Bang Snake Slaying Stele is captivating not only because of its historical legends but also because of the magical illusion it creates. At night, when light shines on the stele, a warrior in silver armor appears, as if Liu Bang himself were reborn, a breathtaking spectacle that has become a world-renowned wonder.
The temperate monsoon climate makes the entire scenic area a temple. However, the side halls display movable type printing, papermaking, portraits of Han Dynasty emperors, and models of technological inventions such as the armillary sphere and the Si Nan. It is a suitable place for travel in all seasons.
There is a huge and exquisite statue on the Liu Bang Snake-Slaying Monument, and there is a 4D exhibition hall next to it. At every hour, a 3D animation of Liu Bang slaying the snake will be played. It is quite exquisite and worth seeing.
It is recommended to play for 2 hours
free
Open all day
The Liu Bang's Snake-Slaying Monument commemorates the legendary founder of the Han Dynasty, Liu Bang, and the myth where he killed a giant snake, symbolizing courage and leadership. It reflects local folklore and historical pride.
Entrance fee is approximately 20–30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the site; online booking is not usually required.
Advance booking is generally unnecessary, except during peak holiday periods.
1–2 hours to visit the monument, gardens, and nearby scenic spots.
Guided tours are rare and usually only in Chinese; most visitors explore independently.
Night visits and light shows are not typically available; daytime visits are recommended.
Weekdays and mornings are the least crowded times; weekends and holidays attract more local visitors.
Paths are mostly flat and accessible, but some steps near the monument may be challenging for mobility-impaired visitors.
Entrance and small purchases can usually be paid via mobile apps or cash.
Vegetarian options are available; halal options are limited and should be checked in advance.
Several mid-range and budget hotels in central Shangqiu are within a short taxi or walking distance.
Small souvenir shops near the monument offer postcards, miniature statues of Liu Bang, and local handicrafts.
