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Visit the Yao County Museum to explore local history and culture, with a focus on the region's archaeological findings. The museum features exhibits related to ancient artifacts, traditional art, and historical exhibits that highlight the heritage of Shaanxi. It's a great spot for history enthusiasts and those interested in the cultural roots of the area.
The Yao County Museum, located in Xuegu Lane, Beida Street, Yao County, Shaanxi Province, is a comprehensive local museum. According to the "Record of the Yaozhou Reconstruction of the State School" stele, erected in the ninth year of the Yuanhu reign of the Northern Song Dynasty (1093), and Chen Shilin's "Yaozhou Chronicles" in the Qing Dynasty, the Yaozhou Confucian Temple was founded by the prefect Shi Huozhao in the third year of the Jiahu reign (1058). After several repairs, it burned down during the war at the end of the Yuan Dynasty. It was rebuilt by Wei Bixing, the first prefect of the early Ming Dynasty, in the fifth year of the Hongwu reign (1372). The Ji Gate and Lingxing Gate were added in the ninth year of the Hongwu reign (1376). By the end of the Ming Dynasty, it had reached a relatively complete scale. The structure adhered to the "temple on the left, school on the right" arrangement, with the Confucian Temple on the left and the school (formerly known as the Ruxue School, now located within the Yaozhou District Committee compound) on the right. This differed from the "temple and school integration" arrangement of the Ming and Qing dynasties.
This site was designated a key cultural relic protection unit in Shaanxi Province in the second batch in 1957. According to the Yaozhou Chronicle, the Confucian Temple was founded during the Jiayou reign of the Song Dynasty (1056-1063), rebuilt during the Yanyou reign of the Yuan Dynasty (1314-1320), destroyed by war in the late Yuan Dynasty, and renovated six times during the Ming Dynasty. Three more renovations were carried out during the Kangxi reign (1696) and the Qianlong reign (1736-1795) of the Qing Dynasty, and once in 1957. Following the establishment of the county museum in 1984, the Dacheng Hall was renovated in 1986. The Dacheng Hall, as it still exists today, was built in the fifth year of the Hongwu reign of the Ming Dynasty (1372). The main hall's exterior is meticulously constructed and magnificent.
The warm temperate continental semi-humid climate makes it suitable for travel in all seasons to view cultural relics and accumulate historical culture.
Yao County Museum is located in Xuegu Lane in Yaozhou City. It houses an ancient building complex with a history of nearly 950 years - Yaozhou Confucian Temple. It faces south and from south to north are Lingxing Gate, Ji Gate, East and West Ear Rooms, East and West Verandas and Dacheng Hall. The museum covers an area of 5,883 square meters and has a construction area of 1,951 square meters.
It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.
free
Summer: 8:00-12:00 AM, 2:30-18:00 PM
Winter 8:00-12:00 2:00-17:30
The Yao County Museum is a cultural institution that showcases the history and heritage of Yao County and the broader Shaanxi region. It is significant for its archaeological collections, which provide insights into the ancient civilizations that once flourished in the area. The museum also reflects the region's role in Chinese history, particularly during the Qin and Han dynasties.
The Yao County Museum is located in the city of Tongchuan, Shaanxi. It can be reached by taxi or private vehicle from downtown Tongchuan. Public transportation options are limited, so taking a taxi is the most convenient option for visitors.
The museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the weekdays, especially in the morning, to avoid crowds and have a more peaceful experience. Visiting during the off-peak seasons, such as spring and autumn, offers the best weather for exploration.
The entrance fee to the museum is approximately 30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased directly at the museum's entrance. It is currently not possible to buy tickets online, so it’s recommended to purchase them on-site.
Booking tickets in advance is not required, but for larger groups or during busy periods, it may be a good idea to book tickets a day or two in advance to avoid delays.
It takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the Yao County Museum, including time to view the exhibits and learn about the area's history and culture.
The must-see exhibits at the Yao County Museum include the collection of ancient artifacts, historical relics from the Qin and Han dynasties, and displays of traditional local art. The museum also has a section dedicated to the region's archaeology, which is highly informative.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and the museum may offer audio guides in multiple languages upon request. It’s advisable to check availability before your visit if you need a guide who speaks English.
While the museum itself is an indoor space, the best photography spots are the well-curated exhibits of ancient artifacts and historical relics. The surrounding area also offers scenic views of the countryside, which can be appreciated from the museum's entrance.
Start with the introduction section to learn about the museum’s history. Then, proceed to the archaeology and artifacts exhibits, followed by the cultural displays of local art. Conclude your visit by browsing the museum's shop for souvenirs or additional information on the exhibits.
The Yao County Museum does not offer night visits or light shows. Special tours may be available upon request, but these are typically during daytime hours.
The museum tends to be less crowded during weekdays, especially in the mornings. Weekends and public holidays can see higher visitor numbers, so plan your visit accordingly if you prefer a quieter experience.
The museum has basic facilities, including clean restrooms, a small shop, and rest areas where you can relax. Food and water are not available on-site, so it's recommended to bring your own snacks or drinks if needed.
The museum is generally accessible for elderly visitors and children. However, some areas may have stairs, so visitors with mobility issues may find it challenging. It’s a good idea to inquire in advance about accessibility if you have specific needs.
Mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are accepted, as well as cash. Credit and debit cards are generally not accepted at the museum, so it’s best to carry cash or use mobile payment apps.
There are no restaurants or cafes directly inside the museum. However, there are several dining options in Tongchuan city, including local Chinese eateries and small cafes offering traditional food.
Vegetarian food options are available at some local restaurants in Tongchuan. Vegan and halal options may be harder to find, so it’s recommended to check specific restaurant menus in advance.
There are several budget and mid-range hotels in Tongchuan, including options near the city center. For a more comfortable stay, you can find higher-end hotels in the surrounding area.
Nearby attractions include the Zhaojin Xiangshan Scenic Area and Yaowang Mountain, both of which offer cultural and natural experiences that can complement a visit to the Yao County Museum.
Yes, the museum has a small souvenir shop selling items like postcards, cultural artifacts, and traditional Chinese crafts. These make great keepsakes from your visit.
After visiting the museum, you can take a taxi or private vehicle to continue your trip. Public transportation options in the area may be limited, so it’s most convenient to use a taxi or car service.
