The tomb of the second Nanyue King, Zhao Mo, was discovered in 1983 during preparation for building on the site.. It has been dated to a period over 2,000 in the past and contained more than 1,000 items. It is considered to be one of the earliest stone tombs in the South China region and a major archaeological discovery for the region. Relics include the "dancing lady" carving, jewelry, and jade tomb goods, as well as a set of large bronze bells and "cooking" tripods used for ceremonial purposes.
The museum opened in 1988 and was designed to feature the open tomb in the center with an architectural style based on the local Lingnan culture. The front hall contains the visitor's center where audio guides can be rented in a variety of languages, though if you read English these guides will offer little more than the display guides do. Up the steps to the first special exhibit rooms and the ceramic pillows collection and the first of the archaeological explanation exhibits. This exhibit features Maba Man and the basic practices of archaeology in the Guangdong and South China region. The third floor continues this theme and displays locally discovered grave goods from the region including ceramic farm houses and animals. The tomb is at the top of these steps on the peak of the hill. It has a fully covered walkway and glass pyramid protective cover to prevent further water and element damage. Once inside, step descend to wooden planks throughout the tomb so visitor's can explore the tiny rooms. Don't take the money scattered around the entrance; it's for the ghosts so they rest easily. Leaving the tomb, guests move towards the Unearthed Relics hall where the removed tomb goods have been stored, preserved and placed on display according to group. The first display group focuses on the King's body and burial practice of the period. This includes the "jade suit" and jade disks which he was placed on top of, his gold seal of state, and materials found that identify his body. This room leads to the jade exhibit. Jade was, and still is, very important to the Chinese and was used for decorative and jewelry purposes. These pieces have survived well over time. Next are the weapons and chariots and the "tiger passport". The fourth and fifth galleries explore the production of food and materials needed for daily life. Fishing and the story of the Five Goats and Immortals and their introduction of rice to the South China region play a major feature. Up the stairs to the final hall with its musical instruments and feasting utensils. The "dancing lady," bells and chimes are displayed next to a display of virtual dancers performing traditional style pieces. Then the gift shops offer high-quality copies of the pieces seen in a variety of sizes along with books about the history of the museum pieces. Prices are not unreasonable, though they are closer to high than low. - GZ Traveler |
Time needed : 3 - 5 hours
Ticket price : 12RMB Opening times : 9 AM - 5:30 PM (tickets are not sold after 4:45 PM) Everyday except Feb. 28, Aug. 31 How to get there : Take Metro line 2 and stop at Yuexiu Park Station. Exit E. Turn right and follow the road 1/2 block. |