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At Ximatai, visitors can explore the historical relics, enjoy hiking through scenic areas, and marvel at the well-preserved ancient architecture. It's also a great place for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Ximatai, located at the highest point of Hubu Mountain in the central area of Xuzhou City, was originally one of the most famous historical sites in Xuzhou. In 206 BC, after the peerless hero Xiang Yu conquered the Qin Dynasty, he proclaimed himself the Overlord of Western Chu and established his capital in Pengcheng. He built a high platform on the Nanshan Mountain, a few miles south of the city, to watch horse performances, hence the name Ximatai.
Throughout Chinese history, Ximatai has endured many vicissitudes. For two thousand years, Ximatai, the site of Xiang Yu, the King of Western Chu, has attracted countless scholars and literati to pay their respects. Numerous structures have been constructed on the platform over the centuries, including Taitou Temple, Sanyi Temple, Minghuan Shrine, Jugui Academy, Songcui Mountain House, and stele pavilions.
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Ximatai is historically significant as an ancient site that offers insight into the culture and architecture of the region. The area is known for its well-preserved historical structures, which showcase Jiangsu's rich heritage.
Ximatai is located in Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province. Visitors can reach it by taking a taxi or private car from the city center. Public buses may also be available, but it's best to check local schedules for convenience.
Ximatai is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are early mornings or late afternoons, avoiding midday crowds and enjoying the cooler temperatures.
The entrance fee is approximately 40 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site, or you can book them online through local ticketing platforms in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during holidays or weekends. Booking 1-2 days before your visit is ideal to secure tickets and avoid long lines.
You will need about 2-3 hours to explore Ximatai fully, including time to walk through the area, enjoy the views, and take photos of the historical structures.
The must-see highlights include the ancient city walls, historical architecture, and the scenic viewpoints offering panoramic views of Xuzhou. The site is also great for exploring local culture and historical significance.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. English-speaking tours may be available during peak tourist seasons, but it's advisable to book in advance if needed. Audio guides may also be offered in Mandarin.
The best viewpoints are from the high platforms near the ancient walls, which offer sweeping views of the surrounding area. Sunrise and sunset provide the best lighting for photography.
Start your visit by exploring the ancient structures at the entrance, then follow the main trail that leads to the observation areas and scenic viewpoints. Finally, take time to enjoy the quieter corners for reflection and photography.
Currently, there are no night visits or light shows at Ximatai. It's best to visit during the day to fully experience the natural beauty and historical aspects of the area.
Ximatai can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times to visit are weekday mornings and early afternoons, outside of school holidays.
Basic facilities like toilets, water stations, and small rest areas are available. There are also a few souvenir shops within the site, though food options are limited, so it's best to bring snacks.
The site is relatively accessible for children and elderly visitors, though some areas may have uneven terrain. Disabled visitors may require assistance in some parts of the site due to the natural landscape.
Cash, mobile payments (Alipay and WeChat Pay), and credit cards are accepted at most ticket counters and souvenir shops. It's advisable to have cash as a backup.
There are a few local restaurants near Ximatai that serve traditional Chinese food. For more dining options, the city center of Xuzhou has a wider range of restaurants and cafes.
Vegetarian food options are available at local restaurants near Ximatai. Halal food options are available in some parts of Xuzhou city, but they are limited near the site itself.
There are a few budget and mid-range hotels near Ximatai. For more luxury accommodations, visitors can choose hotels in the city center of Xuzhou, which is about a 15-minute drive away.
Nearby attractions include the Xuzhou Museum, Yunlong Lake, and the Han Stone Tablet Museum. These can easily be combined in a day trip from Ximatai for those interested in history and nature.
Souvenir shops at Ximatai offer local crafts such as handmade pottery, historical replicas, and traditional Chinese artwork. Local tea and snacks are also popular items.
Taxi, bus, or private car services are available for continuing your trip. Visitors can also use the public transportation system to reach the next destination in Xuzhou or beyond.
