Six Virtues Stele Forest

Introducing Six Virtues Stele Forest

The Liude Stele Forest, located at the junction of Yushui, Yingshan, and Shuanghe villages in Liude, Yongsheng County, Lijiang, is nestled within the Taliu Zongzhi Mountain and is also known as the Taliu Great Stele Forest. Over 10,000 tombstones are scattered across the approximately 3 square kilometers of forest, with a particularly concentrated area covering 100 hectares. The tombs are meticulously arranged along the mountainside, with numerous steles and stone tablets standing in a rigorous layout, creating a magnificent atmosphere.

This forest of stele represents the burial site of the Taliu people. The ancient tombs are all inscribed in standard Chinese characters, with neat, fluent calligraphy and exquisite craftsmanship. Many of the stele tablets feature totems of the Taliu people. Burials at the burial site began during the Jiajing and Wanli reigns of the Ming Dynasty, with the majority occurring during the Qing Dynasty. The forest of stele at the Taliu burial site provides insights into the dates of the Taliu ancestors' settlement, their totems, the evolution of their surnames, and the historical process of their social, economic, and cultural development.

The stele forest is now a key county-level cultural relic protection site. On the gentle slope southeast of the Heliude Stele Forest, the ruins of the ancient Heliu Castle, built in the late Ming and early Qing dynasties, remain. This strategic location, once a gateway connecting northwest Yunnan to Huaping and inland Sichuan, served as a crucial route along the ancient Southern Silk Road. Once a prosperous fortress, the existing ruins encompass approximately one li in radius and are impressive in scale.

Climate and best time to travel

Lijiang has a plateau southwest monsoon climate, suitable for travel in all seasons. The climate is characterized by relatively low temperatures and a large temperature difference between day and night. Most areas of Lijiang experience warm winters and cool summers, with July and August being the months with the most rainfall.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for 1-2 hours

Tickets

Free and open

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for Six Virtues Stele Forest

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

The Six Virtues Stele Forest is a historical site in Lijiang, Yunnan, containing ancient steles that are inscribed with teachings and moral virtues from various dynasties. It is considered a site of cultural and philosophical importance, reflecting the values of the local Naxi people.

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

The Six Virtues Stele Forest is located in the Lijiang area of Yunnan Province. It can be reached by taxi or bus from Lijiang's city center. Walking is possible for those staying nearby, but a taxi is more convenient for most visitors.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The site is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is mild and comfortable for walking around the forest.

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

The entrance fee is approximately 40 CNY. Tickets can be bought at the entrance or online through local ticket platforms.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary unless visiting during peak travel periods. For group visits, it's recommended to book at least a day in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It takes about 2-3 hours to explore the entire Six Virtues Stele Forest, depending on your pace and interest in reading the inscriptions.

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

Key highlights include the ancient steles, which are inscribed with moral teachings, and the serene forest setting. The main path offers the most notable inscriptions and scenic views.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides in Chinese may be rented at the entrance, and English-speaking guides can be arranged in advance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are along the main forest path and near the steles themselves. The surrounding trees and the inscriptions offer a unique contrast for photos.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by walking along the main path to see the most significant steles. Then, explore the surrounding forest to enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty before heading to the exit.

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

Night visits and light shows are not typically available at the Six Virtues Stele Forest. However, special cultural tours may be arranged during certain festivals.

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

The site can be crowded during weekends and holidays. The least crowded times are early in the morning on weekdays, especially outside of the tourist season.

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

The site has basic facilities, including toilets and rest areas. There are also small food stalls selling snacks and bottled water near the entrance, but there are no large shops inside the forest.

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

The paths are relatively easy to walk, but there may be some areas that are challenging for people with mobility issues. It is generally accessible for families with children and elderly visitors who can walk short distances.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly accepted. Some locations may accept credit cards, but it’s a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few local restaurants and cafes near the entrance to the site, offering traditional Yunnan cuisine. Options for snacks are also available inside the scenic area.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at some nearby restaurants. Halal food options are available in specific areas catering to Muslim visitors in Lijiang.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels and guesthouses near the site, including options ranging from budget to mid-range. Some popular accommodations include the Lijiang Old Town area, which is a short drive away.

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

Nearby attractions include the Lijiang Old Town, Black Dragon Pool, and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. These can be combined into a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir shops near the entrance selling local handicrafts, including Naxi-style jewelry, textiles, and small carvings related to the Six Virtues Stele Forest.

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

Taxis, public buses, or rented vehicles are ideal for continuing your journey. For further exploration of Lijiang or nearby attractions, consider hiring a local guide or driver.