Explore the rich history of the Han Princess, a key figure in the development of the Silk Road. The memorial hall offers insights into her life and influence, with exhibits on her cultural contributions and the Han Dynasty. Take time to enjoy the picturesque surroundings, including gardens and sculptures.

The Han Princess Memorial Hall, located in Yining City, Ili Prefecture, Xinjiang, is a two-story museum dedicated to ethnic unity and integration. With a floor area of 1,791 square meters, the main exhibition hall spans over 500 square meters. The hall showcases two Han princesses, Princess Jieyou and Princess Xijun, commemorating their significant contributions to political stability and ethnic integration. The entire complex, with its distinctive Han Dynasty architectural style, features a main exhibition hall and four secondary halls, along with Han Dynasty ques, pavilions, corridors, and sculptures.
Temperate continental climate, summer
Princess Jieyou Lavender Garden, 1 hour
The Han Princess Memorial Hall commemorates the life of the Han Princess who was married to a local ruler in the ancient Yili region. Her marriage played a key role in strengthening the ties between the Han Dynasty and the Xiongnu tribes, fostering peace and trade along the Silk Road.
The memorial hall is located in Yili, Xinjiang. It can be reached by taxi or local bus from the city center. There are no metro stations in the immediate area, so driving or taking a bus is the most convenient option.
The memorial hall is open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are in the morning or late afternoon, avoiding midday heat and larger crowds.
The entrance fee is around 50 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the memorial hall or online in advance through local tourism websites.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons or weekends. Booking a few days in advance is sufficient if you prefer to secure tickets beforehand.
Allow 1 to 2 hours to explore the Han Princess Memorial Hall and its exhibits thoroughly, including time for photography and enjoying the surrounding gardens.
The main highlights include the life-sized statue of the Han Princess, the historical artifacts from the Han Dynasty, and the section that details the role of the Silk Road in connecting different cultures. The peaceful gardens and scenic spots around the hall are also must-sees.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and occasionally in English. Audio guides may also be available, providing insights into the history and significance of the exhibits.
The best photography spots are near the large statue of the Han Princess, as well as around the surrounding gardens and scenic areas. The architecture of the hall itself also provides great photo opportunities.
Start by exploring the main exhibit hall where historical information and artifacts are displayed. Then, move on to the garden area, followed by the statue of the Han Princess. If available, take a guided tour to enrich your experience.
Night visits or light shows are not available at the memorial hall. However, special tours may be arranged during holidays or festivals, and it's best to check in advance for any scheduled events.
The hall can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are on weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available. There is a small shop selling souvenirs, and food and water are available in nearby eateries.
The memorial hall is accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, with ramps and elevators available. It is also family-friendly, with open spaces for children to explore.
Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted, along with credit and debit cards. Cash is also accepted, though electronic payments are preferred.
While there are no restaurants inside the memorial hall, nearby areas in Yili offer local eateries that serve traditional Xinjiang cuisine, including lamb skewers and hand-pulled noodles.
Halal food options are widely available in Yili, as the region has a large Muslim population. Vegetarian and vegan options can also be found in local restaurants.
There are several hotels in Yili, ranging from budget to mid-range options. Popular choices include local hotels that are located in the city center, which is a short drive from the memorial hall.
Other nearby attractions include the Yili River, the Tianshan Mountains, and the Yining Ancient City. These can be easily combined for a scenic day trip.
The memorial hall has a small souvenir shop where visitors can purchase items such as local crafts, silk products, and miniature versions of the Han Princess statue.
After visiting, taxis or buses are the best options to explore other attractions in Yili. Local transportation is easily available, and renting a car is also an option for more flexibility.