The Western Han Nanyue King Mausoleum Museum
A museum housing the tomb of the King of Nanyue from the Western Han Dynasty.
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867 Jiefang N Rd, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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The Western Han Nanyue King Mausoleum Museum: A Glimpse into Ancient Royalty
The Western Han Nanyue King Mausoleum Museum is a fascinating archaeological site and museum in Guangzhou, built around the tomb of Zhao Mo, the second king of the Nanyue Kingdom (2nd century BC). Discovered in 1983, this well-preserved tomb offers an extraordinary insight into the burial customs, artistry, and political landscape of the early Western Han Dynasty.
What to See and Do
The Tomb Site: Descend into the actual tomb, which is carved into a hillside. You can see the various chambers, including the main burial chamber, and understand the layout of this ancient royal resting place.
Jade Burial Suit: The museum's most famous artifact is the complete jade burial suit of King Zhao Mo, made from 2,291 pieces of jade sewn together with silk thread. It's a stunning example of ancient Chinese craftsmanship and a symbol of imperial power.
Exquisite Artifacts: The tomb yielded over 1,000 burial artifacts, including bronze vessels, gold and silver ornaments, jade carvings, and pottery. The museum displays these treasures, providing a rich picture of the Nanyue Kingdom's culture and its connections with the Han Dynasty.
Silk Nanyue King Seal: Another significant discovery is the "Wen Di Xing Xi" seal, a rare imperial seal made of silk, which is a testament to the advanced silk production of the time.
Exhibition Halls: Beyond the tomb, the museum features several exhibition halls that provide historical context, archaeological findings, and detailed explanations of the artifacts.
Best Time to Visit
The museum is an indoor attraction, making it suitable for visiting year-round. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends and public holidays.
How to Get There
The museum is conveniently located in Yuexiu District. Take Metro Line 2 to Yuexiu Park Station (越秀公园站), Exit E. The museum entrance is a short walk from the station.
Travel Tips
Allow ample time: Plan for at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the tomb and the extensive artifact collections.
Audio guides: Consider renting an audio guide to enhance your understanding of the historical context and the significance of the artifacts.
Photography: Check the museum's photography policy, as some areas or artifacts might have restrictions.
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