Forest of Steles Museum

Introducing Forest of Steles Museum

Formerly known as Shaanxi Provincial Museum, it was built in 1944. It is an art museum that mainly collects, studies and displays steles, epitaphs and stone carvings from past dynasties.

The museum consists of three parts: the Confucius Temple, the Forest of Steles, and the Stone Carving Art Room, covering an area of ​​31,900 square meters. It currently has a collection of more than 11,000 cultural relics, 11 exhibition rooms, and a display area of ​​4,900 square meters.

The most famous are the inscriptions of famous calligraphers such as Yan Zhenqing, Liu Gongquan, and Huaisu, as well as two Tang Dynasty inscriptions, "Shitai Filial Piety Classic" and "Kaicheng Stone Classic".

In the Stone Carving Art Gallery inside the museum, you can admire exquisite stone carvings such as the Four Gods Tomb Gate, the Six Horses of the Tang Zhaoling Mausoleum, the Picture of Confucius Meeting Laozi, and the Picture of the Azure Dragon and Vermillion Bird.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

1-3 hours

Tickets

Regular ticket: RMB 50 (Monday to Sunday, December 1st - February 28th of the following year)

Regular ticket: RMB 75 (Monday to Sunday, March 1st - November 30th)

Half-price ticket: Children between 1.2m and 1.4m tall, seniors over 65 years old; active military personnel, active disabled military personnel, active soldiers, disabled persons, and students with valid ID.

Free of charge: Children under 1.2 meters are free of charge.

Attraction opening hours

08:00-18:00; Ticket sales end at 17:15 (Monday to Sunday, December 1st - February 28th of the following year)

08:00-18:30; Ticket sales end at 17:45 (Monday-Sunday, March 1-June 30, September 1-November 30)

08:00-19:00; Ticket sales stop at 18:15 (Monday to Sunday, July 1st to August 31st)

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Most Popular FAQs for Forest of Steles Museum

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Forest of Steles Museum, established in 1087 during the Northern Song Dynasty, preserves ancient Chinese steles and stone inscriptions. It is a key site for studying Chinese calligraphy, history, and culture.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Located in Xi’an, Shaanxi Province, near Beilin District. Accessible via Xi’an Metro Line 2 (Beilin Museum Station) or by taxi/bus from the city center.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM. Best visited in the morning on weekdays to avoid crowds.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Tickets cost around ¥40. Purchase at the ticket office or via official online platforms.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking is optional but recommended during holidays or peak tourist seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Allocate 2–3 hours to explore the main collections and exhibitions.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The Northern Song Dynasty steles hall.
• Calligraphy exhibition halls.
• Special exhibition areas for Tang and Ming dynasty steles.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, with some English audio guides or booklets provided.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Capture the central hall with dense stele arrangements and the outdoor steles courtyard for wide-angle shots.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start at the main hall, explore Tang and Song dynasty steles.
• Proceed to calligraphy exhibition halls.
• End with the outdoor stele courtyard.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

No night visits or light shows; special tours are offered on request.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Least crowded on weekday mornings. Avoid Chinese national holidays.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Facilities include restrooms, water fountains, a small café, and a gift shop.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Accessible, but some areas have steps. Wheelchair access is partially available.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are accepted for tickets and purchases.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Nearby restaurants and cafés in Beilin District offer local Shaanxi cuisine and quick snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are common; halal restaurants are available in nearby Xi’an areas.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several mid-range and boutique hotels are within walking distance in Beilin District.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Xi’an City Wall
• Bell Tower and Drum Tower
• Muslim Quarter for local food and shopping

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, souvenirs include calligraphy replicas, ink brushes, scrolls, and local crafts.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Continue via Xi’an Metro, taxis, or buses to nearby attractions or the city center.