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At the Harbin Shangzhi Forest of Steles, visitors can explore the rich historical and cultural significance of the ancient stone inscriptions. Enjoy a peaceful walk through the forest, taking in the scenic surroundings, and appreciate the artistry of the steles, some of which date back centuries. It’s also a great spot for photography and learning about traditional Chinese calligraphy and stone carving techniques.
The Shangzhi Stele Forest is located on Xinjian Road, Shangzhi City, Heilongjiang Province. It is the largest cultural stele forest in Northeast my country and a boutique tourist attraction with great cultural charm and artistic connotation.
It consists of two major parts, one is a stele corridor about 600 meters long, and the other is a forest of steles on the ground. There are more than 1,400 steles in the two parts.
The content consists of seven columns: "General's Art Garden", "Love for the Pearl River", "Origin of Calligraphy", "National Essence for Thousands of Years", "The Splendor of the Seal Carving World", "Selections from the Couplet Garden", and "Light of Wisdom".
Shangzhi Stele Forest has the world's largest calligraphy art echo wall, which has a very strong echo effect and unique timbre.
The Forest of Steles also has the world's largest engraved seal, the "Nine Dragon Seal", which was officially approved as the world's largest by the Guinness World Records Headquarters on December 1, 2001.
Temperate monsoon climate, suitable for all seasons
One hour
free
All day
The Harbin Shangzhi Forest of Steles is home to a collection of ancient stone tablets, known as steles, that date back to the Tang and Qing dynasties. These inscriptions hold cultural, historical, and artistic value, representing traditional Chinese calligraphy and stone carving. The site serves as an important reminder of Chinese heritage and the evolution of written language.
The Forest of Steles is located in Shangzhi, a small city just northeast of Harbin. To get there, visitors can take a taxi or drive from Harbin city center. Public transportation options like buses may be available, but taxis are the most convenient way to reach the site.
The Forest of Steles is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and the site is less crowded. Summer can be more crowded, while winter offers a quieter experience with a chance to see the steles in a snowy landscape.
The entrance fee is typically around 20-30 CNY. Tickets can be purchased directly at the entrance or online through local tourism platforms. It’s recommended to buy tickets in advance during peak seasons.
While it’s not mandatory to book tickets in advance, it’s a good idea to do so during peak seasons (summer and holidays) to avoid long lines. Booking a few days in advance should suffice.
It takes approximately 1-2 hours to explore the entire Forest of Steles, depending on your interest in reading the inscriptions and enjoying the surrounding scenery. If you're keen on photography or history, you may want to spend extra time in the area.
The main highlight of the Forest of Steles is the impressive collection of stone tablets scattered throughout the forest, each bearing intricate carvings and historical inscriptions. Pay special attention to the most well-preserved steles, which offer a glimpse into ancient Chinese writing and calligraphy.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, offering deeper insights into the history and significance of the steles. Audio guides in Mandarin may also be available for rent. It's best to check in advance for availability of English-speaking guides, as they may be limited.
The best photography spots are along the pathways where the steles are set in a natural forest setting. Look for angles that frame the steles with trees in the background. Early morning or late afternoon light creates great conditions for photography.
Start by walking along the main pathway, where most of the steles are located. Take time to admire the carvings and inscriptions. If available, follow the guide's recommendations to better understand the historical context of the stones. Conclude your visit by taking in the overall landscape views.
Night visits and light shows are not typically offered at the Forest of Steles. The site is best visited during daylight hours for the best views of the steles and surroundings.
The site can get moderately crowded on weekends and holidays. The least crowded times are on weekdays, especially early in the morning. Visiting during the off-season or on weekdays provides a more peaceful experience.
The site has basic facilities, including public toilets, rest areas, and small food kiosks. There are also souvenir shops where visitors can purchase local handicrafts and memorabilia. It's recommended to bring your own water, especially if visiting during warmer months.
The attraction is accessible to most visitors, with paved pathways and benches for resting. However, elderly or disabled visitors may find some areas challenging due to the natural terrain. It is advisable to check with the local staff for specific accessibility options.
Both cash and mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are accepted for ticket purchases and at kiosks. Credit cards are not commonly accepted, so it’s best to carry cash or use mobile payment options.
There are no large restaurants inside the Forest of Steles. However, nearby areas in Harbin offer a variety of dining options, including local Chinese cuisine and international restaurants.
Vegetarian and vegan options can be found in nearby restaurants, particularly in Harbin. Halal food is also available in some of the restaurants in the city, but may be limited near the site itself.
There are several hotels in Harbin, ranging from budget to luxury accommodations. Some nearby options include local guesthouses in Shangzhi and larger hotels in Harbin city center, about 1.5-2 hours away by car.
Nearby attractions include the Harbin Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival (seasonal), Saint Sophia Cathedral, and Harbin’s Central Street. These can be easily combined in a day trip from the Forest of Steles if traveling back to Harbin.
Yes, there are souvenir shops near the entrance to the Forest of Steles. Typical souvenirs include traditional Chinese crafts, local art, and carved stone replicas of the steles.
After visiting, the best options to continue your trip are by taxi or public bus to Harbin city. Taxis provide the most direct route, while buses offer a more economical option but may require transfers.
