Marshal's Mansion and Du Wenxiu's Tomb

Introducing Marshal's Mansion and Du Wenxiu's Tomb

Du Wenxiu's tomb is rectangular, oriented north-south, 1.40 meters long and 0.70 meters wide. It is inlaid with bluestone on all sides, with a roof-shaped roof and a marble tombstone. The original stele was erected in 1917 and re-erected after the founding of the People's Republic of China. The inscription "Du Wenxiu's Tomb" appears in the center, followed by "Born on the eighth day of the eleventh month of the Guiwei year of the Daoguang reign" on the right, and "Died on the twenty-sixth day of the eleventh month of the Renshen year of the Tongzhi reign" on the left.

Du Wenxiu (1828-1872), a native of Yongchang, Yunnan (now Baoshan), was a Hui. In 1856, he led the Hui people in Menghua and united with Han, Bai, and Yi peoples to revolt and establish a government. He was elected Grand Marshal of the Army and captured over 50 cities in Yunnan. In 1872, during the 11th year of the Tongzhi reign, the Qing army laid siege to Dali. In December, as the city was about to fall, he committed suicide by poisoning himself and surrendering to the Qing camp. His tomb was expanded in 1985.

Du Wenxiu's Mansion is located on Main Street, just inside the South Gate of Dali's Old City. In August 1856, the Du Wenxiu uprising captured the ancient city of Dali and elected him "Grand Marshal of the Army." He established the Dali government, replacing the former Dali Governor's Office with the Mansion. A new earthen wall, known as the Forbidden City, was built around it. The Mansion's main gate, part of the Forbidden City's walls, the main gate of the inner hall, the White Tiger Hall, and its side wings still remain. After the uprising's failure, Cen Yuying, the Governor-General of Yunnan and Guizhou, renovated the Mansion. After renovations in 1988, it was converted into the Dali City Museum.

Climate and best time to travel

Low-latitude plateau monsoon climate; the Marshal's Mansion and Du Wenxiu's Tomb were built to commemorate Du Wenxiu (Hui), the leader of the Taiping Movement in Yunnan during the Qing Dynasty. They are large in scale, with green grass and lush vegetation inside, and a beautiful environment, making them suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for 2-3 hours

Tickets

Free and open

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for Marshal's Mansion and Du Wenxiu's Tomb

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

The Marshal's Mansion was built to honor the military leader who played a pivotal role in the Dali Rebellion of the 19th century. Du Wenxiu's Tomb is a significant historical site as it marks the final resting place of Du Wenxiu, who led the last large-scale rebellion in Dali. These sites are important for understanding the region's history and military culture.

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

Marshal's Mansion and Du Wenxiu's Tomb are located in Dali, Yunnan Province, China. You can reach the site by taxi or private car from Dali Old Town, or take a bus from the city center. Walking to the site is possible if you're staying nearby, but public transportation is recommended for convenience.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The sites are generally open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. The best time to visit is during spring or autumn when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. Early mornings or late afternoons tend to be the least crowded.

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

The entrance fee is typically around 30-50 CNY for both sites. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, and some online platforms may offer tickets for special events or tours. It's advisable to buy tickets in person for general entry.

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

For general visits, advance booking is not necessary. However, if you plan to visit during busy times or participate in special events, it's recommended to book at least a few days in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore both the Marshal's Mansion and Du Wenxiu's Tomb, allocate around 1-2 hours. This will give you enough time to walk through the sites, take photos, and appreciate the historical details.

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

• The architecture and exhibits inside the Marshal's Mansion, which highlight the historical significance of the region.
• The tomb of Du Wenxiu, an important symbol of the Dali Rebellion.
• The scenic views of the surrounding area, perfect for photography.

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese, and some guides may offer basic English explanations. Audio guides are not commonly offered, but some tours may have multimedia resources.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• From the top of Du Wenxiu's Tomb, you can capture great views of the surrounding landscape.
• The courtyard and architectural features of the Marshal's Mansion provide fantastic photo opportunities with historical backdrops.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with the Marshal's Mansion to explore the historical exhibits and architectural details, then head over to Du Wenxiu's Tomb for a more reflective experience. If you have time, walk around the area to enjoy the local scenery.

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

Night visits and light shows are generally not available. Special tours may be offered during festivals or cultural events, but it's best to check ahead of time.

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

The site can get crowded, especially on weekends and public holidays. To avoid crowds, visit on weekdays, particularly early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

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

Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available. There are a few small vendors selling snacks and drinks, but there are no large restaurants or shops on-site. For more extensive options, visit Dali city center.

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

The site is mostly accessible to elderly visitors and children, though some areas may have uneven terrain. Disabled visitors may find it challenging to access certain parts of the sites due to stairs or steep paths.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are more commonly used throughout the area, especially for food and souvenirs.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few small food vendors inside the attraction, offering snacks and drinks. For full meals, there are plenty of restaurants in Dali Old Town, which is a short drive away.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan food options are available in Dali city, particularly in the Old Town area. Halal food options can also be found in some local restaurants, but are limited in the immediate vicinity of the sites.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Hotel Indigo Dali Ancient Town, offering comfortable accommodations with easy access to the sites.
• There are several guesthouses and boutique hotels in Dali Old Town, just a short distance from the sites.

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

• Dali Old Town, with its charming streets and local shops.
• The Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are several souvenir shops near the attractions, offering traditional Dali crafts, such as handmade pottery, silk scarves, and local snacks.

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

• You can take a taxi or bus back to Dali city center for further travel.
• If continuing to explore the region, consider renting a car or booking a private tour for more flexibility.