Live Your Best Lives
Visitors to Cai Lun's Tomb and Shrine can pay respects to the inventor of paper, Cai Lun, by exploring the tomb and the surrounding historical site. You can also enjoy a peaceful walk around the area, view the exhibits showcasing Cai Lun’s achievements, and participate in the ceremonies held in honor of his contributions to papermaking.
Located in Longting Town, 10 kilometers east of Yang County, Hanzhong City, Shaanxi Province, the Cai Lun Mausoleum and Shrine is dedicated to Cai Lun, the inventor of papermaking, one of ancient my country's four great inventions. The mausoleum and shrine are divided into two sections, north and south. The burial area is located in the north, with the tomb mound approximately 7 meters high, 30 meters long, and 17 meters wide. To the south is the shrine, and along its central axis, from south to north, lie the mountain gate, the worship hall, and the offering hall. A plaque inscribed with the words "Cai Hou Shrine" inscribed by Emperor Dezong of the Tang Dynasty hangs above the main entrance hall.
Inside the tomb, staff break down Cai Lun's papermaking process step by step, demonstrating the ten steps involved: soaking, steaming, pounding, bleaching, cutting, pounding, scooping, and airing. Each step is accompanied by explanatory text and displays of tools and raw materials. In the west area, China's first Cai Lun Paper Culture Museum is located, where visitors can experience the art of making "Cai Hou Paper" on site.
In front of the tomb, there is a memorial pavilion with the words "Cai Lun's Tomb" written by Zhao Puchu and a hanging flower gate with a plaque inscribed with "Cai Lun's Tomb" by the famous calligrapher Yu Youren. Behind Cai Lun's tomb is the "Mingyue Pond", on which there used to be a pavilion, which served as Cai Lun's bedroom.
In general, Cai Lun's Tomb and Shrine is a cultural relic tourist attraction that combines tombs, ancient buildings and gardens.
Longting Town, where Cai Lun's tomb is located, has a northern subtropical inland climate with distinct seasons and abundant sunshine. The heaviest rainfall occurs in July, August, and September, making February to May the best time to visit.
The Cai Lun Mausoleum is divided into two parts, north and south. The ancestral hall is located in the south, while the tomb area is in the north. Along the central axis of the ancestral hall, from south to north, are the mountain gate, the worship hall, and the offering hall. A plaque inscribed with the words "Cai Hou Shrine" inscribed by Emperor Dezong of the Tang Dynasty hangs above the main hall's entrance. A statue of Cai Lun can be found within the hall. A flowchart depicting the production process of "Cai Lun paper" is painted on the right wall, while a mural depicting Cai Lun expressing his gratitude for his appointment as Marquis of Longting in 114 AD is depicted on the left. Flanking the central axis of the Cai Lun Shrine are ancient buildings such as the bell tower, drum tower, side rooms, and theater.
Located west of Cai Lun's mausoleum, China's first Cai Lun Paper Culture Museum has been established. It collects, displays, and recreates Cai Lun's papermaking process, showcasing the ten steps involved in making paper: soaking, steaming, pounding, bleaching, cutting, pounding, scooping, and airing. Each step is accompanied by explanations and tools and materials. Visitors can also participate in a live demonstration of how to make "Cai Hou Paper." The museum has attracted visitors from over a dozen countries, including the UK, the US, Canada, Japan, and South Korea, and is also popular with domestic tourists.
It is recommended to play for about 2 to 4 hours.
30 yuan/person.
8:00~18:00.
Cai Lun's Tomb and Shrine commemorate Cai Lun, the renowned Chinese inventor credited with the invention of paper around 105 AD. This site is historically significant as it honors his legacy and impact on the world’s communication and education. It is located in Hanzhong, Shaanxi, where Cai Lun is believed to have spent his later years.
The tomb and shrine are located in Hanzhong, Shaanxi Province. You can take a taxi from Hanzhong's city center or use a local bus. There are no direct metro routes, but public transport options are available for easy access. The site is also walkable from some nearby hotels and attractions.
The site is open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM. The best time to visit is during spring or autumn when the weather is pleasant and the park surrounding the tomb is at its most beautiful. Weekdays tend to be less crowded compared to weekends and holidays.
The entrance fee is approximately 30 CNY. Tickets can be bought at the entrance or online via the official website or through third-party platforms that offer travel packages to the area.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance, except during busy holiday seasons. Booking a few days before your visit is recommended to avoid long queues, especially during peak tourist months.
A visit typically takes about 1 to 2 hours. If you are interested in learning more about Cai Lun’s contributions and the history of paper, consider spending a bit more time to explore the exhibits and participate in the cultural activities.
Key highlights include Cai Lun’s tomb, the shrine dedicated to his memory, and the exhibits about the history of papermaking. There are also serene gardens around the site that provide a peaceful atmosphere for reflection.
Guided tours in Chinese are available. Audio guides in English and Mandarin can be rented at the entrance for self-guided tours.
Photography enthusiasts will enjoy capturing the peaceful atmosphere of Cai Lun’s tomb, with the surrounding gardens and the statue of Cai Lun. The site offers beautiful views of the countryside and the tomb itself, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Start at the main entrance and visit the tomb and shrine. Afterward, explore the historical exhibits and gardens surrounding the site. If available, consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the history of Cai Lun and the development of papermaking.
Currently, night visits or light shows are not available. Special tours may be arranged for educational purposes or group visits in advance.
The site is generally less crowded on weekdays, especially outside of public holidays. It can get crowded on weekends and national holidays when local tourists come to pay respects.
Facilities at the site include public restrooms, water fountains, and seating areas. There are small shops near the entrance selling souvenirs, including items related to Cai Lun and the history of papermaking.
The site is mostly accessible, with paved paths and rest areas. However, some areas near the tomb might be slightly challenging for those with limited mobility. It is recommended to check for specific access requirements beforehand.
Mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are accepted throughout the site. Credit cards may be accepted at major shops, but it's advisable to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases.
There are no restaurants inside the site, but several local eateries are nearby in Hanzhong city, offering traditional Shaanxi cuisine and snacks.
Vegetarian and halal food options are available in nearby restaurants in Hanzhong city, which offers a wide range of local dining options.
Several hotels are available near Hanzhong city center, offering convenient access to Cai Lun’s Tomb and Shrine. Mid-range hotels and guesthouses are the most common in this area.
Nearby attractions include the Wuhou Temple and the Hanzhong Museum. These can easily be combined into a day trip from the tomb site.
Yes, there are souvenir shops selling items related to Cai Lun, papermaking, and Chinese culture. Typical souvenirs include papermaking crafts, calligraphy tools, and local handicrafts.
After visiting the tomb and shrine, you can continue your journey by taxi, local bus, or by taking a train or bus to nearby cities such as Xi'an or Chengdu.
