Shimen Hanging Coffins
石门悬棺
Rare hanging coffin remains in northern China, with wooden coffins and walkway traces on the cliff face, plus an overlook walkway.
The Shimen Hanging Coffins are located in Shimen Gorge, southwest of Ningwu County town. Holes were cut into the cliff face and wooden beams set into them to hold wooden coffins. This is one of the few hanging coffin burial sites in northern China, and its exact date and ethnic affiliation are still debated. The scenic area has built a walkway hugging the cliff, allowing close views of the coffins and the cliff's beam holes, and the gorge scenery is deep and secluded. It is often combined with Wannian Ice Cave and the Wanghuagou Hanging Village as a day trip. The visit takes about an hour. The walkway is steep, so take care.
Opening hours
About 08:00–17:30
Nearby sights
- Wanghuagou Hanging Village
- Wannian Ice Cave
- Source of the Fen River (Leiming Temple)
- Ningwu Tianchi Lake (Mayinghai)
- Malun Grassland
- Ningwu Pass
- Luya Mountain
- Ninghua Ancient Town