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Yanbo Terrace, also known as Mars Terrace and Fire God Terrace, is located 1.5 kilometers southwest of the ancient city of Shangqiu. The existing Yanbo Terrace, resembling a tomb, stands 35 meters high and has a circumference of 270 meters. It was built of rammed earth. Numerous Han Dynasty tiles and pottery fragments are found within the layers of rammed earth, suggesting its construction during this period. Repeated siltation from the Yellow River has hidden the original Yanbo Terrace beneath the existing one. Yanbo Terrace is my country's oldest extant observatory, dating back over 4,000 years.
The mound beneath Yanbo Terrace is Shangqiu, where Yanbo was first enfeoffed. The name Shangqiu derives from this. Yanbo Terrace looms large and prominent against the vast plain. It was the highest point in the ancient Shangqiu capital. Furthermore, the ancients believed that the energy from Yanbo Terrace corresponded to the Shang star. Therefore, since ancient times, people have considered Yanbo Terrace a symbol of Shangqiu. The scenic area includes the Suiren Mausoleum, Yanbo Terrace, Kaiyuan Temple, Huaxi Tower, Botanical Garden, Jade Emperor Palace, Fengdu City, Shangzu Temple, and Yuelao Palace.
According to historical records and folklore, in ancient times, Qi, the son of Emperor Ku, served as the Fire Master here. His primary responsibility was to manage fire, ensuring that people had ready access to it (hence his later name, the Fire God). Secondly, he worshipped Mars and observed its movements, advising people to avoid disasters and to plant and harvest at the appropriate times. Over time, Qi, the Fire Master who observed the relationship and position between Mars and Tai Sui, became known as Yanbo. After Qi's death, he was buried on the high ground where he had observed Mars during his lifetime. This was later called Yanbo Terrace, Mars Terrace, or Fire God Terrace.
The Ancient Dynasty Goods Exchange Fair, held from the first to the second day of the second lunar month every year, attracts millions of people from Henan, Shandong, Jiangsu, Anhui, Hebei and other provinces to pay homage to the platform; the China Shangqiu Suihuang Sacred Fire Festival is held during the May Day Golden Week; and the "Shang Culture" Festival is held during the National Day Golden Week. Mars Terrace is the birthplace of commerce, and Yanbo is the ancestor of merchants.
The temperate monsoon climate makes it suitable for travel in all four seasons.
Yanbo Terrace, adjacent to the Emperor Sui's Mausoleum, is a circular, rammed-earth structure shaped like a tomb, 35 meters high and 270 meters in circumference. The existing Yanbo Terrace houses the Yanbo Temple, also known as the Yanbo Shrine, a Yuan Dynasty building. The temple features a main hall, worship halls, east and west Zen gates, auxiliary rooms, and a bell and drum tower. Beneath the terrace are a theater and the Grand Zen gate. The main hall is inscribed with the inscription "Ligong Zhengwei." To the east lies the Zhaoming Hall, and to the west is the Xiangtu Hall. Since the Ming and Qing dynasties, the terrace has undergone several renovations. The magnificent buildings, with their overhanging eaves and ornamental animals, vibrant red walls and green tiles, are a delightful and picturesque setting for a visit.
It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.
40 yuan/person
September to June of the following year, 7:50-17:30,
July-August 7:50-18:30
Yanbo Terrace is a historical site in Shangqiu, Henan, showcasing ancient agricultural terraces and irrigation techniques. It reflects the region's cultural heritage and traditional farming practices.
Located in Shangqiu, Henan Province. Accessible by local bus, taxi, or private car. Walking paths connect the main terraces and observation areas.
Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Early morning or late afternoon is ideal for cooler temperatures and fewer visitors.
Entrance fee is around 20–40 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance; online booking may be available during peak season.
Advance booking is not typically required except during holidays. If needed, book 1–2 days ahead.
1–1.5 hours is sufficient to explore the terraces, pathways, and surrounding areas.
Guided tours are generally available in Chinese. Limited options for English audio guides exist.
Start at the entrance, walk along the terraces from bottom to top, stop at observation platforms, explore gardens, and end at any exhibition or historical markers.
Night visits are generally not permitted. Special tours may be organized during cultural festivals.
Weekdays are less crowded, while weekends and holidays see more visitors.
Basic facilities include toilets, rest areas, benches, and a few food stalls near the entrance.
Mostly accessible for children and elderly; some steep pathways may be challenging for wheelchair users.
Cash is accepted; mobile payments may be available at select stalls.
Local eateries are available nearby; central Shangqiu offers larger restaurants and cafes.
Vegetarian options are available at local eateries; vegan and halal options are limited.
Several mid-range hotels and guesthouses are within 5–10 minutes by car in Shangqiu city.
Small shops offer postcards, local crafts, and miniature terrace replicas.
Taxi, ride-hailing, or local buses to Shangqiu city center, train stations, or nearby attractions.
