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Explore the Yanjiagang Paleolithic Site to see ancient tools and artifacts that date back to the Paleolithic period. Take a guided tour to learn about early human life in this region. Visit the excavation site, which offers insights into the prehistoric culture and environment of the area.
The Yanjiagang Paleolithic site is located 25 kilometers southwest of Harbin City, Heilongjiang Province, on the first terrace of the Songhua River.
The relics in the terrace deposits were exposed due to the cutting of Yunliang River, a tributary of the Songhua River.
In the subsequent trial excavation, a number of ancient animal fossils such as mammoths, woolly rhinoceros, and bison were unearthed.
More than 3,000 specimens have been unearthed here, and two semi-circular remains surrounded by a large number of mammal bones have been discovered, making it an important Paleolithic site in northern my country.
It is one of the earliest human cultural sites in Heilongjiang Province and an important supplement to the study of the Paleolithic Age in Northeast China.
Temperate monsoon climate, suitable for all seasons
One hour
free
All day
The Yanjiagang Paleolithic Site is one of the most important archaeological sites in Heilongjiang. It provides evidence of early human activity in northern China, dating back over 10,000 years. The site has yielded tools and remnants that give researchers valuable insights into the Paleolithic period and the lifestyle of early humans in the region.
The Yanjiagang Paleolithic Site is located in Harbin, Heilongjiang. It is accessible by taxi or private car from the city center. Public transport options may be limited, so a taxi or guided tour is recommended for easy access.
The site is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is milder. Avoid the peak summer months when it can get crowded, and winters can be quite cold in Harbin.
The entrance fee for the Yanjiagang Paleolithic Site is approximately 30-50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, and it’s recommended to buy tickets on-site. Online ticketing may not always be available, so it's best to check ahead.
Booking tickets in advance is generally not necessary unless visiting during peak seasons or holidays. However, for a more convenient experience, it’s advisable to purchase tickets a day or two ahead if possible, especially during busy travel periods.
You will need about 2 hours to explore the Yanjiagang Paleolithic Site fully, including time for a guided tour and to visit the various exhibition areas. If you're interested in photography or spending more time at the excavation site, you may want to allocate more time.
The most important areas of the site are the excavation pit where Paleolithic tools have been found, the exhibition hall displaying artifacts, and the surrounding area which gives insight into the early human environment. The site’s educational displays are also a highlight.
Guided tours are available at the site, with guides typically speaking Mandarin. English-language tours may be available upon request, but it’s recommended to confirm in advance. Audio guides are not widely available, so a guided tour is recommended for a deeper understanding of the site.
The best photography spots are around the excavation areas where the Paleolithic tools are displayed. The surrounding natural scenery also provides great opportunities for photography, especially for those interested in the landscape of early human habitats.
Start with a visit to the excavation pit, where most of the artifacts were discovered. Then move on to the exhibition hall for detailed displays of the findings. Finally, walk around the site to learn about the environmental context of the Paleolithic period.
Night visits or light shows are not available at this site, as it primarily operates during the daytime. Special tours may be available during festivals or special events, but it’s best to check with the site for any updates.
The site tends to be less crowded during weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. Weekends and public holidays can be busy, so visiting on a weekday is the best way to avoid large crowds.
There are basic facilities available, including toilets and drinking water stations. However, there are no major food stalls or restaurants inside the site. You can find small shops offering souvenirs related to the Paleolithic period nearby.
The site is generally accessible for children and elderly visitors, with paved paths leading through the main areas. However, certain sections may be uneven or require walking on natural terrain, which may be challenging for disabled visitors. It's advisable to check in advance for any special accommodations.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are also commonly used at the site. Credit cards may not be accepted, so it's a good idea to bring cash or use mobile payment apps.
There are no restaurants inside the site, but you can find local eateries and cafes in Harbin city center, about a 30-minute drive away. Many of these offer local Heilongjiang cuisine.
In Harbin, you will find a variety of restaurants offering vegetarian and halal options, though they may not be available near the Paleolithic site itself. For vegan or halal food, it’s better to go to the city center.
There are a number of hotels in Harbin city center, ranging from budget to luxury. For more convenient access to the Paleolithic Site, consider staying in the city center, such as at the Shangri-La Hotel Harbin or Ibis Harbin.
Nearby attractions include the Harbin Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival (in winter), the Central Street in Harbin for shopping, and the St. Sophia Cathedral. These can be easily combined into a day trip along with a visit to the Yanjiagang Paleolithic Site.
There are small souvenir shops selling Paleolithic-themed items such as replicas of tools, artifacts, and traditional Heilongjiang crafts. You can also find locally made handicrafts, including textiles and woodwork.
After visiting the site, taxis or private cars are the best options to continue your trip. Public transportation options are available in Harbin, but a taxi or private car offers more comfort and flexibility, especially for exploring other attractions in the city.
