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Visit the Hometown of Medicine King to learn about traditional Chinese medicine and its cultural significance. Explore the museum showcasing the legacy of the Medicine King, as well as the beautiful gardens and historical sites in the area. Visitors can also participate in workshops or demonstrations related to medicinal herbs.
The Medicine King's Hometown is located in Sunyuan Village, Yaozhou District, Tongchuan City, 5 kilometers from the urban area and adjacent to Yaowang Mountain. The birthplace of Sun Simiao, the "Medicine King," the hometown of the Medicine King features attractions such as the Medicine King's birthplace, the site of his childhood studies, the Medicine King's Shrine, and the Medicine King's Tomb.
The Medicine King Temple has served as a center for generations of people to commemorate and worship the Medicine King. First built in the Song Dynasty, it has been rebuilt four times throughout the dynasties. The Medicine King Hall boasts soaring eaves, while the Our Lady Hall is compactly arranged. Twelve ancient cypresses stand tall and lush around the main hall. Inside and outside, the hall boasts carved beams and painted rafters, depicting various legends and landscapes, such as "The Medicine King Diagnosing a Dragon" and "Subduing a Tiger." The Medicine King Tomb Scenic Area features eight scenic spots: a shadow stele, stone lions, a monument and stele pavilion, the Medicine King's tomb, the joint tomb of the Medicine King's parents, an apricot grove, the Min'an Temple ancestral monument, and the Sino-Japanese Friendship Tree.
Medicine King Sun Simiao made tremendous contributions to the people throughout his life, and for thousands of years, people have held various events to commemorate him. Every year on the second day of the second lunar month, the Yaowang Mountain Temple Fair is held, and people from all over the country come to pay homage to the Medicine King, a tradition that has continued throughout the ages.
The subtropical monsoon climate makes it suitable for travel in all four seasons.
The hometown of Medicine King is the birthplace of "Medicine King" Sun Simiao. It has attractions such as the birthplace of Medicine King, the site of Medicine King's childhood studies, Medicine King Temple, and Medicine King's Tomb.
It is recommended to play for about 2 hours
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Open all day
The Hometown of Medicine King is dedicated to the legacy of famous Chinese medical practitioners. The site is historically significant for its connection to the development of traditional Chinese medicine and is a popular pilgrimage for those interested in herbal medicine and healing practices.
The Hometown of Medicine King is located in Tongchuan, Shaanxi province. Visitors can reach the site by taxi or private car from the city center. Public transportation options like buses may also be available, but it’s best to check the local schedules for the most convenient routes.
The site is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn seasons, when the weather is mild and the natural surroundings are at their best. It is also recommended to visit on weekdays to avoid the weekend crowds.
The entrance fee is approximately 40 RMB. Tickets can be purchased directly at the site or at local ticket counters. Online ticket purchases may not be available, so it’s best to buy tickets in person when you arrive.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for individual visitors. However, if you plan to visit during peak seasons or in a group, it is advisable to book tickets at least a few days in advance to ensure availability.
A visit typically takes about 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the main attractions, including the museum and the surrounding grounds. If you want to take part in additional activities like workshops or guided tours, you might need an extra hour.
The highlights include the Medicine King’s Memorial Hall, the herbal gardens showcasing traditional medicinal plants, and the exhibits on ancient healing techniques. The surrounding landscapes also provide great opportunities for peaceful walks and reflection.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some English-speaking guides may be available with prior notice. Audio guides are also offered, mainly in Chinese. It is advisable to arrange for an English guide in advance if required.
The best viewpoints are from the upper levels of the memorial hall, offering panoramic views of the surrounding gardens. The herbal gardens also make for beautiful photography spots, with their vibrant collection of medicinal plants.
Start by exploring the Memorial Hall, where you can learn about the history and contributions of the Medicine King. Next, visit the herbal gardens and take a leisurely walk through the area. If available, end your visit with a workshop or a demonstration on traditional Chinese medicine.
Night visits and light shows are not available at the Hometown of Medicine King. The site operates primarily during daylight hours and focuses on educational tours and workshops.
The site can be busy during weekends and public holidays. For a more peaceful visit, consider coming on weekdays, particularly in the morning or late afternoon, when crowds are generally smaller.
Basic facilities such as toilets, rest areas, and water stations are available on-site. There are small shops selling local herbal products and souvenirs, but no large dining facilities. It’s best to bring snacks or plan to eat in Tongchuan city.
The site is moderately accessible for elderly and children, though some areas may require walking on uneven terrain. Disabled visitors might find certain areas challenging, as the paths may not be fully wheelchair accessible.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payment options like Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly used. Credit cards are not widely accepted, so it’s a good idea to bring cash or use mobile payments for purchases.
There are no large restaurants on-site, but you can find local food stalls near the entrance. For more dining options, head to Tongchuan city, where you will find a variety of local restaurants serving Shaanxi cuisine.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at the nearby food stalls, particularly dishes made with vegetables and tofu. Halal food options are more limited but can be found in the nearby city of Tongchuan.
There are budget guesthouses and small hotels near the site. For more comfortable accommodations, head to Tongchuan city, where you will find a range of hotels from budget to mid-range options.
Nearby attractions include the Yaowang Mountain, known for its stone carvings, and the Qianling Temple. Both sites are within a short drive and can be combined into a day trip with the Hometown of Medicine King.
Souvenir shops are available at the entrance, where you can purchase traditional Chinese medicine products, herbal teas, and other local handicrafts. These make for unique and educational souvenirs.
The best way to continue your trip after visiting is by taxi or private car. From Tongchuan city, you can also take buses or trains to nearby cities in Shaanxi province for further exploration.
