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The Baijiang Altar, also known as the Baijiang Terrace, is located on the north side of the middle section of Fengjing Road in Hanzhong City. Flanked by two square platforms, each over three meters high, the scenic area covers a total area of 7,840 square meters. Legend has it that it was built when Liu Bang appointed Han Xin as a general, demonstrating his commitment to talent.
The Altar of Generals is flanked by two stone tablets, one on the east and one on the west. The eastern tablet reads "Altar of Generals," while the western tablet reads "Altar of Generals Han Xin." Located at the altar is a medieval bell, weighing 11 tons and the largest bronze bell in western China. Its resonant and majestic sound is a sight to behold. The altar is also a key cultural relic protection site in Shaanxi Province.
The subtropical monsoon climate has distinct monsoon characteristics, with four distinct seasons compared to tropical regions. Generally speaking, spring and autumn are slightly shorter, while winter and summer are slightly longer. Winters are mild, summers are mild, and rain and heat occur in the same season. Summer and autumn are the best seasons for travel.
The South Platform is surrounded by white marble railings. The platform is flat and spacious. There is a stone tablet on the east and west sides of the South Platform. The three characters "Bajiangtan" are engraved on the front of the eastern tablet, and "Dan Tai Diao" is engraved on the back.
To the east of the South Terrace stands a stele approximately 2 meters high, inscribed by calligrapher Shu Tong for the Generals' Altar. The back of the stele is engraved with a conversation between Han Xin and Liu Bang, taken from Sima Qian's "Records of the Grand Historian: Biography of the Marquis of Huaiyin."
A pavilion stands on the North Terrace, its roof sloping like a mountain. Its brackets, eaves, and angled corners are accented by flying brackets, while the purlins and bamboo below are painted in dark purple and Su-style patterns. The pavilion is expansive yet steady, imposing and majestic, resplendent and magnificent. The North Terrace Pavilion features a couplet inscribed by Feng Yuxiang, a patriotic Kuomintang general during his time in Hanzhong: "Three heroes share unparalleled fame; their prestige upon the platform astounds the entire army."
The Han and Medieval Bell, located at the Baijiang Altar, weighs 11 tons and is the largest bronze bell in western China. Its sound is loud, majestic and spectacular.
It is recommended to play for about 1 hour.
12 yuan/person.
08:00-17:00 (Monday-Sunday, January 1-December 31).
The General Worship Altar in Hanzhong is an ancient site dedicated to honoring military generals, particularly those from the Han dynasty. It holds cultural and historical importance as a place of reverence for bravery and leadership. The altar also reflects the region's traditional architecture and religious practices.
The General Worship Altar is located in Hanzhong, Shaanxi Province. The most convenient way to reach it is by taxi or private car. Public transportation options may be limited, so driving or taking a taxi is recommended. The site is accessible by walking once you reach the vicinity.
The General Worship Altar is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during weekdays or early mornings to avoid the crowds. The site is especially serene during early spring or autumn when the weather is mild.
The entrance fee for the General Worship Altar is approximately CNY 30-50. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the site. It's also possible to book tickets online, though availability may vary depending on the season.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended during peak seasons or national holidays. A few days before your visit should be sufficient to secure your tickets online.
It typically takes around 1-2 hours to fully explore the General Worship Altar, including time for photographs, enjoying the views, and reading about its history.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides are also offered in Mandarin and sometimes in English, providing insights into the site's history and significance.
The altar itself is a prime photography spot, especially during sunrise or sunset when the lighting is ideal. The surrounding areas with scenic views of Hanzhong's landscape also provide great photo opportunities.
Start by visiting the altar and reading about its historical significance. Take a leisurely walk around the site to explore the surrounding gardens and monuments. End with some quiet reflection in the peaceful outdoor areas.
Currently, night visits and light shows are not available. The site is open during the day, and it is best to visit in daylight hours to fully appreciate the historical and cultural aspects of the site.
The General Worship Altar can get crowded during weekends and national holidays. The least crowded times to visit are during weekdays, particularly in the morning or late afternoon.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available at the site. However, there are no food stalls or shops directly within the area, so it is recommended to bring water and snacks with you.
The site is generally accessible for elderly visitors and children, with paved pathways leading to the main altar and surrounding areas. However, some parts may have stairs or uneven surfaces, so those with mobility challenges should check ahead for any accommodations.
While cash is accepted, mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted. Credit cards are not typically accepted, so it’s a good idea to use mobile payment apps or carry cash.
Nearby restaurants in Hanzhong offer vegetarian and vegan options. Halal food may be available at select restaurants, especially in areas catering to Muslim visitors.
There are no souvenir shops directly at the General Worship Altar. However, souvenir shops can be found in Hanzhong city, offering local crafts, traditional arts, and regional products such as hand-made pottery or calligraphy.
