Tea Horse King's Former Residence Memorial Hall

Introducing Tea Horse King Memorial Hall

The Tea Horse King Former Residence Memorial Hall is located northwest of Shuhe Ancient Town, next to the Nine Tripod Dragon Pond. Walk along Renli Road in the ancient town to the northwest corner and cross a small alley called Tiaoshui Lane to find it. This former residence, once home to the Wang family, the renowned horse caravan leader, boasts a history spanning over 200 years. Visitors can explore the ancient Naxi residence and learn about the stories of the caravan era.

The former residence is a quaint Naxi courtyard. Couplets in Dongba script adorn the gates, creating a unique atmosphere. Flowers and trees are planted within the courtyard, creating an elegant and quaint environment. Entering the main room, one can see the caravan leader's bedroom, preserved in its original state. It features an old bed and a mix of Naxi and Tibetan-style furniture, all imbued with a quaint charm. Hanging throughout the room are portraits and photos of the caravan's past, as well as an ancestral hall housing tablets for the caravan's ancestors.

The first floor of the side room of the former residence is where the descendants of the caravan leader receive visitors. Here you can enjoy tea and learn about the caravan's story with the owner. Please note that photography is not allowed in the courtyard or rooms of the entire former residence. Please cooperate.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate; The Tea Horse King's Former Residence Memorial Hall is an ancient Naxi courtyard with a history of more than 200 years. It is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for 1-2 hours

Tickets

Free and open

Attraction opening hours

Managed by the descendants of the Tea Horse Wang family, the opening hours are irregular, approximately 7:30-17:30

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Most Popular FAQs for Tea Horse King's Former Residence Memorial Hall

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

The Tea Horse King's Former Residence Memorial Hall celebrates the history of the Tea Horse Road, which was a major trade route that connected China with Tibet. The "Tea Horse King" was a prominent figure in the trade, and his residence serves as a historical reminder of the region's cultural and economic exchange. The memorial hall highlights the importance of tea in the development of the area and its influence on the Silk Road's success.

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

The Tea Horse King's Former Residence Memorial Hall is located in Lijiang, Yunnan Province, China. It can be reached by taxi or private car from the center of Lijiang. The memorial hall is situated near the Old Town of Lijiang, so walking from the town center is also possible for those who enjoy scenic strolls.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The memorial hall is typically open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is pleasant, and the area is less crowded. Avoid visiting during peak tourist seasons (summer holidays and Chinese New Year) for a more relaxed experience.

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

The entrance fee for the Tea Horse King's Former Residence Memorial Hall is around ¥30-¥50 (approximately $4-$7 USD), depending on the time of year and any special exhibitions. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance or through local travel agencies. It is also possible to purchase tickets in advance through the memorial hall's official website or other ticketing platforms.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not required, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons to avoid long wait times. Tickets can be booked a few days in advance through online platforms.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A typical visit to the memorial hall takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. This allows for a comprehensive tour of the exhibits and a chance to enjoy the historical context of the site.

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

Must-see highlights include:

• The main hall with exhibits showcasing the Tea Horse Road's history.
• Artifacts related to the Tea Horse King's life and his trade activities.
• The traditional architectural features, including Tibetan and Naxi styles.
• Photographs and documents that provide insights into the cultural exchange along the trade route.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be available upon request, but it is advisable to book in advance. Audio guides in multiple languages, including English, are also available to enhance the experience.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots include the front of the memorial hall, where you can capture the unique architectural design. The surrounding area, with views of the nearby mountains, is also great for scenic photography, particularly during the golden hour of sunset.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

It is recommended to begin your visit by exploring the main hall where the history of the Tea Horse Road is introduced. Then, proceed to the exhibition rooms displaying artifacts and documents related to the Tea Horse King. Finally, take a stroll around the residence's garden to enjoy the surrounding views and architecture.

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

There are no night visits or light shows at the memorial hall. The site is a daytime attraction, and special tours are available during the day, particularly focused on the history and culture of the Tea Horse Road.

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

The memorial hall is generally not crowded, but it can see increased visitors during weekends and national holidays. The least crowded times to visit are on weekdays in the morning or during the off-peak seasons (spring and autumn).

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

Basic facilities such as toilets, drinking water, and seating areas are available at the memorial hall. There are no major food or shopping options within the hall, but nearby Lijiang Old Town offers plenty of dining and shopping choices.

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

The memorial hall is accessible to elderly and children, although some areas may require walking up stairs. The site is not fully wheelchair accessible, so visitors with disabilities may need assistance, particularly in the exhibition areas.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but mobile payments via WeChat Pay and Alipay are more commonly used. Credit cards are not widely accepted, so it is advisable to carry cash or use mobile payment platforms.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no restaurants or cafes inside the memorial hall. However, nearby Lijiang Old Town has a wide range of dining options, including local Naxi cuisine, tea houses, and cafés offering traditional snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in Lijiang, with many local restaurants offering plant-based dishes. Halal food options can be found at certain Muslim-owned restaurants in the Old Town.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels in Lijiang, including boutique guesthouses and luxury resorts. Options near the memorial hall include hotels in Lijiang Old Town and the surrounding area, offering easy access to local attractions.

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

Nearby attractions include the Lijiang Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and Black Dragon Pool. These can easily be combined in a day trip with a visit to the Tea Horse King's Former Residence Memorial Hall.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are souvenir shops in Lijiang Old Town where you can purchase traditional Naxi handicrafts, jewelry, and tea-related products. Typical souvenirs include handwoven textiles, pottery, and carved wooden items.

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

After visiting the memorial hall, taxis and private cars are available for further exploration of Lijiang or to continue your journey to other destinations in Yunnan. Public buses and shuttles also connect Lijiang to nearby towns and attractions.