Temple and Tomb of Sima Qian
司马迁祠墓
The temple and tomb of Sima Qian, author of the Records of the Grand Historian, set on a cliff at the east foot of Liangshan Mountain in Zhichuan, where a climb up the ancient road offers views over the Yellow River plain.
The Temple and Tomb of Sima Qian lies in Zhichuan Town, about 10 kilometers south of Hancheng City. It was first established in the fourth year of the Yongjia era of the Western Jin dynasty (308 CE) and is a key national cultural heritage site under state protection. Visitors first pass through the Zhichuan Ancient Road and gateways including the 'Sunny Side of the River and Mountain' archway, then climb the stone steps of Hanyi Slope to the temple compound on top of the cliff. Inside the Offering Hall and the Inner Shrine are a statue of Sima Qian and stone steles from successive dynasties. Behind the temple stands a brick tomb built in the Yuan dynasty in the shape of a Mongolian yurt, with ancient cypress trees growing on top. From the cliff top you can see far across the Yellow River and Zhichuan. Admission is sold separately from the Sima Ancient Town at the foot of the mountain. The steps to the top are steep, so wear non-slip shoes.
Opening hours
About 08:00–18:00
Nearby sights
- Sima Ancient Town
- Hancheng Confucian Temple
- Hancheng Ancient City
- Hancheng City God Temple
- Hancheng Golden Pagoda
- Hancheng Dayu Temple
- Liangdai Village Rui State Site Museum
- Dangjia Village