Exploring the Origin of Mythology, Appreciating the Charm of Empress Wa - A Living Fossil of Ancient Eastern Architecture

1. Scenic Area Introduction

Wa Palace is located on Zhonghuang Mountain in She County, Handan City, Hebei Province. It is the legendary site where the goddess Nüwa mended the sky with melted stones and created humans from clay. Built during the Northern Qi Dynasty over 1,400 years ago, it is now a national 5A-level tourist attraction and a key cultural relic protection site. The architectural complex of Wa Palace is ingeniously built along the mountain terrain, earning it the title of "Ancestral Temple of China." Every year, it attracts numerous domestic and international visitors for ancestral worship and sightseeing.

2. Recommended Attractions

- **Wa Huang Pavilion**: The main structure of Wa Palace, suspended on a cliff, houses a statue of the goddess Nüwa. Climbing the pavilion offers a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains.
- **Sky-Mending Square**: At the center stands a sculpture of Nüwa mending the sky, surrounded by historical steles recording the legends of Nüwa and the history of Wa Palace.
- **Cliff Carvings of Buddhist Scriptures**: Buddhist classics carved during the Northern Qi Dynasty, boasting significant historical and artistic value.
- **Chaoyuan Palace**: The lower courtyard of Wa Palace, serving as the main venue for sacrificial ceremonies.
- **Tingcan Palace**: The middle courtyard, where Nüwa is said to have rested.
- **Guangsheng Palace**: A place dedicated to the Child-Giving Goddess, with thriving incense offerings.
- **Nüwa Museum**: Exhibits on Nüwa culture, folklore, and artifacts, helping visitors gain a deeper understanding of the Nüwa legends.

3. Suggested Itineraries

- **One-Day Tour**: Sky-Mending Square → Wa Huang Pavilion → Cliff Carvings of Buddhist Scriptures → Chaoyuan Palace → Tingcan Palace → Guangsheng Palace → Nüwa Museum
- **Half-Day Tour**: Sky-Mending Square → Wa Huang Pavilion → Cliff Carvings of Buddhist Scriptures → Chaoyuan Palace

4. Transportation Guide

- **By Car**: From downtown Handan, take the Qinglan Expressway to the She County exit, then follow signs to Wa Palace Scenic Area (approx. 1.5-hour drive).
- **Public Transport**: Take a bus from Handan Bus Station to She County, then transfer to a local bus or taxi to Wa Palace.

5. Ticket Information

- **Peak Season (April 1–October 31)**: ¥80/person
- **Off-Season (November 1–March 31)**: ¥60/person
- **Discounted Tickets**: Available for students, seniors, etc., with valid ID.

6. Opening Hours

- **Peak Season**: 8:00 AM–6:00 PM
- **Off-Season**: 8:30 AM–5:00 PM

7. Accommodation Recommendations

- **Within Wa Palace Scenic Area**: Wa Palace Hotel
- **In She County Town**: She County Hotel, She County International Hotel, etc.

8. Food Recommendations

- **She County Liangfen**: A local specialty snack, refreshing and cool.
- **She County Donkey Meat**: Tender and flavorful.
- **Wa Palace Vegetarian Cuisine**: Light and delicious, with a unique taste.

9. Tips

- Wa Palace is built on a mountain, so comfortable shoes are recommended for hiking.
- Incense is abundant in the scenic area; fire safety is crucial.
- Protect cultural relics—no carving or graffiti.
- Respect local customs and practice civilized tourism.

10. Best Time to Visit

Spring and autumn are ideal for visiting Wa Palace, with pleasant weather and beautiful scenery. The Wa Palace Temple Fair, held from the 1st to the 18th day of the third lunar month, features grand sacrificial ceremonies and folk performances, creating a lively atmosphere.

Wishing you a pleasant journey!