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The Macun Brick Tombs, located in the western part of Macun, 4 kilometers west of Jishan County, Yuncheng City, Shanxi Province, contain 14 tombs. The Jishan Macun Brick Tombs (Shanxi Jin Tombs Museum) are the burial site of the Duan family, a prominent local family and renowned physicians from before the Jin Dynasty. They espoused the "Three Virtues" of filial piety, nourishing the family through food, and cultivating the spirit through play, embracing the Confucian ideals of "regulating the family" and "cultivating the self." The brick tombs are a well-preserved treasure trove of ancient architecture, brick carving, folklore, and popular literature.
Related History: The trend of tomb-building in China has been intensifying throughout history, as evidenced by the most famous example, the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huangdi. By the Song, Liao, and Jin dynasties, small, exquisite brick tombs imitating wooden structures and featuring carved murals became the mainstream. This trend is particularly prominent in central and southern Shanxi and northwestern Henan, but only the Macun Brick Carved Tombs remain in their original locations and open to the public.
Temperate continental monsoon climate
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended Places to Visit: In addition to the courtyards and stage above ground, the tombs are connected by underground tunnels, allowing visitors to explore the tombs and delve into their mysteries. The nearby Qinglong Temple is also a great addition for a visit.
Recommended play time: 1-3 hours
free
All day
The Brick-carved Tomb of the Jin Dynasty in Macun, Yuncheng, is a significant archaeological site dating back to the Jin Dynasty (1115–1234). It is renowned for its intricate brick carvings depicting historical, cultural, and religious scenes, offering insights into the funerary practices and art of northern China during the period.
The site is located in Macun, Yuncheng, Shanxi Province. Visitors can reach it by taxi or private car from Yuncheng city center. Local buses connect nearby towns, but walking long distances is not recommended.
Typical visiting hours are from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Spring and autumn are ideal for visiting due to comfortable weather and clearer skies for photography.
Entrance fees are generally around ¥40–¥60. Tickets are available at the site entrance, and some local travel platforms may offer online booking.
Advance booking is not mandatory but recommended during weekends or public holidays to avoid waiting in line.
Visitors typically spend 1.5–2 hours exploring the tomb complex and examining carvings and murals.
Guided tours are generally available in Mandarin. Audio guides in other languages may be limited and should be requested in advance.
Start at the main entrance, visit the central tombs first, then move to side tombs and auxiliary structures, finishing with a walk along the perimeter to capture architectural details and scenery.
Night visits and light shows are not typically offered. Special guided tours may be arranged for research groups or cultural events.
The site is generally less crowded on weekdays. Avoid national holidays and weekends for a quieter experience.
Some areas involve steps and uneven paths, which may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can explore with supervision.
Cash is accepted, and mobile payment options like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used.
Nearby towns offer local Shanxi cuisine, including noodles, dumplings, and traditional snacks. Cafes are limited.
Vegetarian options are generally available at local eateries. Halal food may require visiting restaurants in Yuncheng city.
Accommodations are available in Macun or Yuncheng city, ranging from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels within a 15–30 minute drive.
Souvenir shops sell miniature replicas of tomb carvings, postcards, and local handicrafts.
