Yuwangtai

Introducing Yuwangtai

Yuwangtai, also known as Guchuitai, is located in Yuwangtai Park in the southeast corner of Kaifeng City, Henan Province, China. Originally called "Chuitai," it was named in honor of Shi Kuang, a musician from the State of Jin during the Spring and Autumn Period. In ancient times, Chuitai was very tall, reaching 10 meters in height and a circumference of 100 meters during the Ming Dynasty. Later, due to flooding and siltation from the Yellow River, it was reduced to only about 7 meters above the ground. It is now a provincial-level cultural relic protection site.

At the entrance to Yuwangtai, below the southern steps, stands a gatehouse-style memorial archway with the three large characters "Guchuitai" (Guchuitai). Guchuitai underwent numerous renovations during the Ming and Qing dynasties. The three large characters were inscribed by He, a local official in Henan Province, in 1762. The Yuwangtai ancient architectural complex was renovated in 1981. The main buildings after the renovation include the Yuwang Temple, the Three Sages Shrine, the Shuide Shrine, and the Imperial Library. The palace-like Shuide Shrine and the Three Sages Shrine were added later. Ascending the steps beneath the memorial archway, one encounters the three-bay Imperial Library, built to commemorate the Kangxi Emperor's inscription: "Gongcun Heluo." On one side of the building's wall is a stele inscribed with Kang Youwei's "Poems on a Visit to Yuwangtai." Behind the Imperial Library is the Yuwang Temple, featuring two courtyards and a five-bay main hall.

Climate and best time to travel

With a warm continental monsoon climate, Yuwangtai has high historical and cultural value. It preserves various stone carvings from the Han Dynasty to the Republic of China. They are valuable materials for studying history, science and technology, and calligraphy art. It is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

The north wall of the Yuwang Temple is inlaid with the "Kuoxi Stele," a copy of the inscription by Liu Shutang, the Henan Governor during the Guangxu period of the Qing Dynasty. Its ancient characters and unique handwriting are treasured by calligraphy enthusiasts. Two small courtyards stand to the east and west of the main hall: the "Three Sages Shrine" to the east and the "Water Virtue Shrine" to the west. The Three Sages Shrine was built in 1517 AD, the 12th year of the Zhengde reign of the Ming Dynasty, to commemorate the ascent of Chuitai by renowned Tang Dynasty poets Li Bai, Du Fu, and Gao Shi. In 744 AD, during the third year of the Tianbao reign of the Tang Dynasty, Li Bai, Du Fu, and Gao Shi gathered at Chuitai, reminiscing about the past while drinking and composing poetry, leaving behind beloved works such as "Liangyuan Yin." The Water Virtue Shrine, also built in the Ming Dynasty, honors renowned figures of flood control throughout history, commemorating the merits of Yu the Great.

It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.

Tickets

20 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

7:00-19:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Yuwangtai

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

Yuwangtai, also known as Yuwang Tower, was historically a royal site during the Song Dynasty. It served as a place of royal gatherings and is believed to be the location of the famous "Yuwangtai Incident," which holds great cultural significance in Chinese history. The tower offers a glimpse into ancient royal architecture and provides a connection to the city’s rich cultural heritage.

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

Yuwangtai is located in Kaifeng, Henan Province, in the eastern part of the city. You can reach the site by taxi or local buses. The location is within walking distance from the city center and is easy to access for tourists.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The site is open daily from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the early morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler and the crowds are fewer.

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

The entrance fee for Yuwangtai is approximately 30 CNY for adults. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online through local travel booking platforms.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary, but it is recommended during peak seasons or public holidays. You can book tickets online up to a week in advance if you prefer.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Visiting Yuwangtai typically takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on how much time you spend exploring the tower, surrounding gardens, and taking in the scenic views.

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

• The Yuwangtai Tower itself, offering stunning views of the city.
• The surrounding gardens and ancient architectural features that add to the historical charm.
• The memorial sites and inscriptions that reflect the site's historical importance.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides in English may be available upon request, but it is recommended to check in advance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The top of Yuwangtai Tower offers the best viewpoint for panoramic photos of Kaifeng. The surrounding gardens and the tower’s intricate architecture also provide excellent photography opportunities.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the base of Yuwangtai and exploring the historical inscriptions and gardens. Then, ascend to the tower for a sweeping view of the city and nearby landmarks. Conclude your visit by strolling through the surrounding park or taking a break in the garden.

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

Currently, there are no night visits or light shows at Yuwangtai. However, the site may hold special tours during cultural festivals or events.

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

Yuwangtai can get crowded on weekends and during public holidays. The least crowded times are early in the morning or late in the afternoon on weekdays.

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

• Restrooms are available near the entrance and in the surrounding areas.
• There are no full-service restaurants on-site, but local snacks and bottled water are available at nearby stalls and shops.
• Seating areas are available in the gardens for visitors to relax.

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

The main pathways and gardens are accessible for elderly visitors and children. However, access to the top of the tower may be challenging for disabled visitors, as there are stairs to climb.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) and credit cards are accepted at the site. Cash is not commonly used, so it’s best to rely on digital payment methods.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no full-service restaurants inside Yuwangtai, but several local eateries are located nearby, offering traditional Kaifeng cuisine, such as beef noodles and steamed buns.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at nearby restaurants, and halal food can be found in some local eateries catering to the Muslim community in Kaifeng.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several mid-range hotels are located close to Yuwangtai, including options like the Kaifeng Hotel and local guesthouses. There are also boutique hotels that offer a more traditional stay experience.

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

• The Kaifeng Iron Pagoda, an iconic historical landmark in the city.
• The Dragon Pavilion, a must-visit for those interested in ancient Chinese architecture.
• The Kaifeng Ancient City Wall, providing historical context and panoramic views of the city.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are small souvenir shops around Yuwangtai offering items like local handicrafts, traditional paintings, and replicas of historical artifacts.

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

After visiting Yuwangtai, taxis and local buses are the best options to continue your journey. The Kaifeng Railway Station is also nearby for those planning to travel further.