Xin'an Stele Garden

Introducing Xin'an Stele Park

Xin'an Stele Park, located across the Lianjiang River from the west of She County, consists of three main buildings. The first is the stele corridor, which is over 200 meters long and winds its way through the garden, giving visitors a sense of seclusion. Inside the corridor are niches and protective covers for displaying steles.

It is built according to the terrain of the mountain, with various flower walls, lattice windows, and cave doors that are transparent to each other. The stele corridor twists and turns, winding for more than 200 meters. There are pavilions in the high places and ponds in the low places. There are rockery and stalagmites, small bridges and flowing water, towering ancient water, and flowers and plants complementing each other, which is unique and interesting.

The stele garden displays over 200 calligraphy tablets from the Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties. Among them are two sets of inscriptions, the "Yu Qing Zhai Tie" and the "Qing Jian Tang Tie," which are both in excellent condition and are truly rare. Japan is said to possess a complete set of rubbings from these tablets, which it claims is the only one in the world.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Piyun Cottage

It is a three-bay bungalow in the style of the Ming and Qing Dynasties, with a courtyard in front and a yard behind the house. The interior door and window styles and brick carvings show the unique style of Huizhou ancient architecture.

Liangqingtang

The hall is named after the two famous calligraphy works it houses : the Yuqingzhai Calligraphy Collection and the Qingjiantang Calligraphy Collection . Furthermore, the hall is dotted with rockery, ponds, pavilions, and small bridges, while its flower walls, lattice windows, and doorways connect to each other, making it a famous scenic spot in She County.

Recommended playing time: less than 1 hour

Tickets

30 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Xin'an Stele Garden

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

The Xin'an Stele Garden is a historical site that houses many ancient stone steles, which are important records of Chinese history, culture, and philosophy. These steles were used to inscribe important texts, commemorations, and official orders, offering a glimpse into the past of the Anhui region.

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

The Xin'an Stele Garden is located in Huangshan, Anhui, China. It can be reached by taxi or private car from Huangshan city, approximately 30 minutes away. Public transportation options may be limited, so a taxi or private car is the most convenient way to get there.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The garden is typically open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late in the afternoon, especially during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are fewer.

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

The entrance fee is generally modest, around 20-30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance. It's also possible to buy tickets in advance at select travel agencies or online for a small discount.

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

No advance booking is required for general access to the garden, but it's recommended during peak tourist seasons or for guided tours. Booking at least a few days in advance can ensure availability.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You can fully explore the garden in about 1 to 2 hours. If you're interested in the detailed inscriptions or want to take your time enjoying the peaceful environment, you might want to spend up to 3 hours.

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

The must-see highlights include the collection of ancient steles, the serene pathways, and the surrounding natural landscape. Look for steles that tell stories of important local events, historical figures, and significant philosophical ideas.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and English-speaking guides may be offered during peak tourist seasons. Audio guides in Mandarin are also available for a self-guided experience.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are from the stone pathways that wind through the garden, offering clear views of the steles and the surrounding mountains. The steles themselves, set against the natural beauty of the landscape, make for excellent photography subjects.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by entering through the main gate and follow the central path, which leads to the most famous steles. Then, take the winding paths to explore lesser-known inscriptions and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. End your visit by relaxing at the garden's edge with views of the surrounding countryside.

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

Night visits are not available, and there are no light shows at the garden. However, the calm atmosphere at dusk makes for a serene experience if you visit just before closing time.

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

The garden can be crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times to visit are weekday mornings, especially during the off-peak seasons of spring and autumn.

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

Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available. There are a few small shops selling souvenirs and bottled water. For more extensive dining options, visitors should head to nearby Huangshan city.

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

The garden has some uneven pathways and stairs, which might be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children will enjoy exploring the paths and steles, but it’s best to be cautious around the stone inscriptions.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but mobile payments via WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used in the area. Credit card acceptance may be limited, so it's recommended to have a mobile payment option or cash on hand.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no major restaurants inside the garden, but nearby Huangshan city offers a variety of dining options, including local Anhui cuisine and international restaurants.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian food options are available in the nearby restaurants, but vegan and halal options may be more limited. It's best to check with the restaurant staff for specific dietary needs.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several guesthouses and hotels near Huangshan city. For a more luxurious stay, options like Huangshan International Hotel are recommended. Some accommodations offer views of the surrounding mountains and easy access to the garden.

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

Nearby attractions include Huangshan Mountain, famous for its scenic views and hiking trails. You can also visit the ancient villages of Hongcun and Xidi, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are small souvenir shops selling traditional Chinese crafts, steles replicas, and local Anhui snacks. Popular items include painted fans, tea, and stone-carved artwork.

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

After visiting, taxis or private cars are the best options to continue the trip. You can also take public buses or head to the Huangshan Railway Station to travel to other destinations.