Live Your Best Lives
At the Fengtu Charity Granary, visitors can explore the historical significance of the site, which houses a collection of traditional granaries that reflect the region's agricultural history. It’s a peaceful spot for learning about the local culture and history, as well as taking in the surrounding rural landscapes. Be sure to check out the nearby exhibits related to local charity initiatives and traditional farming practices.
Fengtu Charity Granary was a privately-run warehouse built in 1882 in Dali County, Weinan City, Shaanxi Province. Empress Dowager Cixi approved it as "the best granary in the world" and bestowed the characters "tiger" and "dragon" on the top of the granary. It is one of the few remaining large granaries from the Qing Dynasty in China.
The main structure of Fengtu Charity Granary is a brick-built, cave-like granary, resembling an ancient city. The warehouse is built within the walls of the granary, with 58 cave dwellings arranged around the inner wall. Each cave can store 90 tons of grain, for a total of 5,200 tons. The granary faces south, measuring 133 meters from east to west and 83 meters from north to south. Its walls are 4 meters wide and lined with crenels. The granary has two gates, the East Gate and the West Gate. A pair of stone lions stand in front of each gate, and above the gates are inscribed large stone characters in regular script: "Fengtu Charity Granary."
Weinan has a warm temperate semi-humid and semi-arid monsoon climate with distinct four seasons, ample sunshine, and moderate rainfall, making it a suitable place for travel in all seasons.
Fengtu Yicang City has two gates, namely East Warehouse Gate and West Warehouse Gate. In front of each gate stands a pair of stone lions, and above the gate is a large stone inscription of "Fengtu Yicang" in regular script.
It is recommended to play for about 2 to 3 hours.
30/person.
08:00~18:00.
The Fengtu Charity Granary has historical importance as a symbol of agricultural progress and community support in Shaanxi. The granary was established to ensure the sustainable storage of crops and provide relief during times of famine. It also represents local charity efforts and community solidarity.
The Fengtu Charity Granary is located in Huayin, Shaanxi. It can be reached by taxi or private car from the center of Huayin city. There are no metro lines directly to the site, but local buses may provide access depending on your starting point. Walking is an option if you're staying close by.
The granary is typically open from 9 AM to 5 PM every day. The best time to visit is in the spring or autumn when the weather is pleasant, and the surrounding countryside is at its most picturesque.
The entrance fee is generally around 20 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site, and there is no need to book in advance unless visiting during peak seasons. You can also inquire about any guided tours or group discounts when purchasing tickets.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for individual visitors. However, for groups or during busy times such as holidays, it's recommended to book tickets a few days in advance to avoid long wait times.
Exploring the Fengtu Charity Granary will typically take 1 to 2 hours. This allows enough time to explore the historical exhibits and enjoy the surrounding countryside.
The must-see highlights include the traditional granaries themselves, which are an important part of the region’s history. Additionally, visitors should check out any exhibitions or displays about local agricultural practices and charity projects supported by the granary.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and there might be options for English-speaking guides if requested in advance. Audio guides in various languages may also be available at the entrance.
Best photography spots include the granaries themselves, set against the rural backdrop, and any elevated areas where you can capture the surrounding landscape. The nearby fields and countryside also make for great photo opportunities, particularly at sunrise or sunset.
Start your visit at the main entrance, where you can explore the history of the granaries through exhibits and displays. Then take a walk around the granary structures and the surrounding fields. If time permits, enjoy the scenic views from the higher points around the site before finishing with a visit to the souvenir shop or rest area.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Fengtu Charity Granary. The site is mainly a daytime attraction, focusing on its historical and agricultural significance. Special tours may be available for large groups or special events.
The granary can get moderately busy on weekends and during public holidays. For a quieter experience, it’s best to visit on weekdays, particularly in the morning or off-peak seasons like winter or early spring.
Basic facilities such as toilets and water fountains are available on-site. There are also rest areas where visitors can relax. There are small shops selling local products and snacks, though for a full meal, visitors may need to head to nearby restaurants in Huayin city.
The main areas of the granary are accessible for elderly visitors and children, with paved paths and rest areas. However, some of the granary buildings may involve walking over uneven ground, so it may be challenging for those with limited mobility. It’s advisable to check the accessibility of specific areas before visiting.
While cash is accepted, mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted in the area. It’s a good idea to have a mobile payment app ready, but it’s also recommended to carry some cash for small purchases.
There are no major restaurants inside the Fengtu Charity Granary, but nearby Huayin city offers several dining options, from local eateries serving Shaanxi cuisine to international food chains.
In Huayin city, vegetarian and vegan options are available, especially at larger restaurants. Halal food is also available in some local eateries, as the region has a significant Muslim population.
Several hotels are available in Huayin city, ranging from budget accommodations to mid-range hotels. The city offers convenient options for travelers who wish to stay overnight and explore the region further.
Nearby attractions include the Hua Mountain Scenic Area, which is famous for its stunning landscapes and hiking trails. Other options include the ancient city of Huayin, which has historical sites and traditional architecture to explore.
Souvenir shops at the granary sell local products such as handicrafts, agricultural items, and snacks. Common souvenirs include hand-carved wooden items and locally made preserves and jams.
After visiting the granary, taxis or private cars are the best options for continuing your journey. For longer trips, public buses are available to nearby cities, including Xi'an, from Huayin city.
