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Visit the Tomb of Kou Zhun to learn about his role in Chinese history as a statesman and poet during the Song Dynasty. Explore the well-preserved tomb and its surrounding scenic area. Take a walk around the site, enjoy the peaceful environment, and reflect on the historical significance of Kou Zhun.
Kou Zhun's tomb, now 15 meters long from north to south and 8 meters wide from east to west, is 4 meters high. Located approximately one mile south of Zuojia Village, Guandi Township, Linwei District, Weinan City, Shaanxi Province, a stone tablet stands in front of the tomb, inscribed with the words "Cemetery of Kou Lai of the Song Dynasty." The tablet was erected by Qiu Gu, the magistrate of Weinan County, during the Qianlong reign of the Qing Dynasty (1776). The inscription was written by Bi Yuan, then Vice Minister of War, Governor of Shaanxi Province, and Deputy Chief Censor of the Censorate.
Kou Zhun (961-1023 AD), courtesy name Pingzhong, was a native of Xiagui (Xiagui, pronounced xiáguī) in Huazhou (present-day Weinan City). He was a statesman of the Northern Song Dynasty and a Jinshi (Jinshi) during the Taiping Xingguo era. He served four dynasties, spanning nearly 40 years, and was known for his integrity, unyielding integrity, and patriotic integrity.
Before 1976, this cenotaph was majestic, smooth, and finely textured. It's said the soil above it was entirely cultivated soil, typically devoid of vegetation. However, during the Cultural Revolution, during the "Winter Fan" campaign, the villagers of Zuojia Village dug up the soil to cover their wheat fields, completely destroying the towering prime minister's mausoleum. After 1986, the local government, recognizing its importance as a cultural relic, built the Kou Zhun Primary School on the site to protect the cenotaph and commemorate the renowned prime minister. Kou Zhun's tomb is now a provincially designated key cultural relic protection site.
The warm temperate continental monsoon climate offers four distinct seasons and abundant sunshine, making spring, summer, and autumn ideal for travel.
Pay homage to Kou Zhun's tomb.
It is recommended to play for about 10 minutes.
free
Open all day
The Tomb of Kou Zhun is dedicated to the famous Song Dynasty statesman and poet, Kou Zhun, known for his integrity and contributions to literature. The tomb serves as a historical site to commemorate his legacy in Chinese culture and government.
The tomb is located in Huayin, Shaanxi Province. It is accessible by taxi or private car from the city center. Public transportation options might be limited, so it is recommended to arrange for a taxi or ride-sharing service for convenience.
The Tomb of Kou Zhun is generally open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the spring and autumn, when the weather is pleasant, and the site is less crowded. Weekdays are typically quieter than weekends.
The entrance fee is around ¥20-¥30. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance on the day of your visit. It is recommended to check the official website or local tourism platforms for any online booking options.
Booking tickets in advance is not usually necessary unless visiting during peak tourist seasons. For convenience, especially during weekends or holidays, it is advisable to book a few days ahead if available online.
Exploring the Tomb of Kou Zhun typically takes around 1-2 hours. If you want to take your time to explore the surrounding landscape or learn more about the history, you might want to spend a little longer.
The tomb itself is the primary highlight, set in a tranquil area surrounded by nature. The inscriptions on the tomb and surrounding memorials are also important for understanding Kou Zhun's historical contributions.
Guided tours may be available in Mandarin. Audio guides may also be offered in Mandarin, and English-speaking guides could be available on request, although they might not be common.
The best photography spots are near the entrance of the tomb and the surrounding natural area. Capture the tomb from a distance, framed by trees and hills, for a picturesque scene. Early morning or late afternoon light provides great photo opportunities.
Start by exploring the tomb itself, then take a walk around the memorial area to see the inscriptions and nearby scenic spots. If time permits, enjoy the surrounding natural beauty, which is perfect for a short hike or peaceful walk.
There are no special light shows or night visits available at the Tomb of Kou Zhun. It is best visited during daylight hours to fully appreciate the surroundings and the history of the site.
The site is not usually very crowded, but weekends and public holidays can see more visitors. Weekdays, especially in the morning, tend to be quieter and more peaceful.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available. There are no large food or shopping areas on-site, so it’s a good idea to bring your own snacks and drinks, especially if you plan to stay for a while.
The tomb area has some uneven paths, which may make it less accessible for elderly or disabled visitors. However, children and families can enjoy the site without issues.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments (such as Alipay and WeChat Pay) are also widely used. It's advisable to carry a small amount of cash just in case, as card payments might not be accepted at all vendors.
There are no significant restaurants or cafes inside the tomb area. However, nearby towns offer local eateries where you can enjoy traditional Shaanxi cuisine, such as hand-pulled noodles or meat dishes.
Vegetarian and halal food options may be available in nearby towns, particularly in larger areas of Huayin or Xi'an. It's best to check with local restaurants for specific dietary options.
There are several hotels in Huayin, ranging from budget to mid-range accommodations. For more luxurious options, you can stay in Xi'an, which is about an hour's drive from the tomb.
Nearby attractions include Mount Huashan, one of China's five sacred mountains, known for its dramatic peaks and hiking trails. A visit to both the tomb and Mount Huashan can be combined into a single day trip.
There are no large souvenir shops at the tomb, but you may find small stalls selling local crafts and souvenirs, such as postcards, local art, and calligraphy items.
Taxis or private cars are the most convenient option to continue your trip. If you plan to visit Mount Huashan or return to Xi'an, taxis or buses are available for longer journeys.
