Tangqi Qianlong Imperial Stele

Introducing the Qianlong Imperial Stele in Tangqi

The Qianlong Imperial Stele is located west of the Church of Jesus on Shuibei Street, north of Guangji Bridge in Tangqi Town, Yuhang District, Hangzhou. In the 16th year of the Qianlong Emperor's reign ( 1751 ), Emperor Hongli conducted a southern tour to inspect the imperial grain payments made by Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Anhui provinces. He discovered that Jiangsu and Anhui provinces had significant arrears, while Zhejiang Province had not defaulted. To commend Zhejiang Province, the emperor, with a stroke of his pen, exempted the province from land tax and grain taxes of 300,000 taels, and inscribed a " sacred edict " on stone to inform officials and civilians.

On the second day of the first lunar month in the sixteenth year of the Qianlong Emperor's reign ( 1751 ), the Qianlong Imperial Stele was erected on the site of the former Hangzhou Prefecture Water Conservancy Commissioner's Office. The stele contains 429 characters of text and a 10- character inscription, surrounded by cloud and dragon patterns.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: within 10 minutes

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Tangqi Qianlong Imperial Stele

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

The Tangqi Qianlong Imperial Stele commemorates an imperial visit during the Qianlong era of the Qing Dynasty. It is famous for its intricate inscriptions and represents an important piece of Chinese history, reflecting the emperor's influence and the region's cultural heritage.

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

Located in Tangqi Town, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, the site is easily accessible by taxi or private car. There are public buses that pass through the area, but taxis offer the most direct route from Hangzhou city center.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Tangqi Qianlong Imperial Stele is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the early morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler and there are fewer tourists.

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

Entry to the Tangqi Qianlong Imperial Stele is free of charge. However, donations or small fees may apply for access to special exhibitions or guided tours.

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

No advance booking is required, as entry is free. However, booking in advance may be recommended for guided tours or during peak tourist seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to the Tangqi Qianlong Imperial Stele typically takes 1 to 2 hours. This allows time for photography, exploring the stele, and walking around the surrounding park.

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

• The Qianlong Imperial Stele itself, featuring intricate carvings and a historic inscription.
• The surrounding garden and park area, perfect for a peaceful stroll.
• Nearby cultural displays and historical plaques explaining the significance of the stele.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be available upon request, but it is advisable to check in advance for availability.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The area surrounding the stele offers great photo opportunities, especially the view from the base looking up at the stone structure.
• The park around the stele is perfect for wide-angle shots with nature in the background.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the stele, reading the inscriptions, and learning about its history. Then take a walk through the surrounding garden and park, where you can enjoy the natural surroundings and relax in the peaceful environment.

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

Night visits and light shows are not available at the Tangqi Qianlong Imperial Stele. It is best enjoyed during daylight hours when the historical details of the stele are clearly visible.

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

The site is relatively quiet during weekdays, especially in the morning. Weekends and public holidays tend to be busier, so it's best to visit early in the morning or on weekdays for a more peaceful experience.

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

There are basic facilities such as toilets, resting areas, and small kiosks selling refreshments near the entrance. However, there are limited food options within the site, so it’s recommended to bring snacks or visit nearby restaurants.

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

The attraction is mostly accessible, with paved paths leading to the stele and around the park. However, the site may not be fully wheelchair accessible due to some uneven terrain in the surrounding areas.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is not necessary, as mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted. Credit cards are not typically used at the site.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few local restaurants in the nearby area serving traditional Zhejiang cuisine. For a wider selection, the West Lake area in Hangzhou has numerous dining options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Local restaurants near the site offer vegetarian options, though vegan and halal choices may be more limited. It's a good idea to check with the restaurant in advance for specific dietary needs.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels near West Lake in Hangzhou, including both budget and luxury options. Tangqi Town also offers smaller accommodations that are closer to the stele.

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

• West Lake: A UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its beautiful scenery and cultural significance.
• Lingyin Temple: One of the largest and most famous Buddhist temples in China.
• Longjing Tea Village: Known for its tea plantations and tea tasting experiences.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops near the site sell local crafts, tea products, and postcards. Popular items include tea sets, silk products, and traditional Chinese artwork.

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

Public buses, taxis, or private car hire are available to continue your trip. Taxis offer the quickest access to other nearby attractions, and buses connect to the city center.