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Located within the Panshan Scenic Area in Ji County, the Yuanbao Stone is considered Panshan's most precious treasure. This massive stone, eroded by wind and rain, has become wide at the top and narrow at the bottom, resembling an ingot, hence its name. Inscribed on the stone are the words, "Here are towering mountains, steep cliffs, strange rocks, and peculiar pines." This was left behind by Ning Xuan, a scholar from ancient Miyun.
Upon arriving at Panshan, Ning Yu was captivated by its unique landscape and so quoted the line "Here are lofty mountains, steep ridges, luxuriant forests, and tall bamboos" from the Lanting Preface by the renowned Jin Dynasty calligrapher Wang Xizhi. He felt that "Here are lofty mountains, steep ridges, luxuriant forests, and tall bamboos" was inadequate to describe Panshan, so he changed it to "Here are lofty mountains, steep ridges, grotesque rocks, and unusual pines." Below right is a stone inscription left by Mr. Fu Zengxiang. Ning Yu visited Panshan three times and wrote the second volume of his "Special Issue on Visiting Panshan," providing powerful evidence for the study of Panshan's history. Ascending the steps and looking back at the Yuanbao stone, the scene becomes even more vivid.
Warm temperate semi-humid continental climate; four distinct seasons, suitable for travel all year round.
It is recommended to play for 1-2 hours
Starting from 78 yuan/person (included in the ticket for Panshan Scenic Area)
8:30-16:30
Yuan Gemstone is known for its extensive collection of rare and precious gemstones. The site is significant for both its geological value and its role in preserving the art of gemstone cutting and carving. It showcases not only natural wonders but also the deep cultural importance of gems in Chinese history.
Yuan Gemstone is located in the central area of Tianjin. It can be easily accessed by metro, with the nearest station just a short walk away. Taxis and buses also serve the area. Visitors can also walk from nearby landmarks within the city center.
The site is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are during weekdays, especially in the morning or late afternoon, to avoid large crowds. Weekends and public holidays tend to be busier.
The entrance fee is around 30 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site. Currently, there is no online ticketing service available for Yuan Gemstone, so visitors need to buy tickets upon arrival.
Booking tickets in advance is not required. However, if you are visiting during peak tourist seasons, it is advisable to arrive early to avoid long lines, especially on weekends.
Visitors typically spend around 1 to 2 hours exploring Yuan Gemstone, depending on their interest in the exhibits and how much time they wish to spend examining the gemstones and learning about their origins.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides may also be provided in several languages, including English, upon request. It's recommended to check the availability of these services in advance if you prefer a tour in a foreign language.
Night visits and light shows are not available. However, special gemstone exhibitions may be organized from time to time, especially during festivals or special events. It’s advisable to check the site’s schedule for any upcoming events.
Yuan Gemstone can be crowded during weekends and public holidays. For a more peaceful visit, weekdays, especially mornings, are ideal times to avoid large crowds.
The facility offers clean restrooms, a water fountain, and a small rest area. A gift shop is available, selling gemstone jewelry and souvenirs. There are no on-site food vendors, but plenty of restaurants and cafes are located nearby.
The attraction is mostly accessible, though some areas may have steps or uneven paths. Assistance may be required for elderly or disabled visitors. It is recommended to check with the staff for accessibility options before your visit.
