Museum of the Mausoleum of the Nanyue King

Historical Overview

Constructed between 137–122 BCE for King Zhao Mo, the tomb was sealed for 2,000 years until its accidental discovery during construction work. Excavations revealed a 110-square-meter, multi-chambered complex with a central burial chamber, kitchen, music hall, and granary. The museum opened in 1988, later expanding in 2021 to include the Western Han Dynasty Museum of the South Vietnam Kingdom, displaying tools, weapons, and diplomatic seals. The site’s significance lies in its role as a bridge between Han Chinese governance and indigenous Baiyue customs, exemplified by bilingual inscriptions (Chinese and Vietnamese).

Structural Layout

The museum comprises two sections:

• Original Tomb Site:

Underground Palace: A stone-walled chamber with the king’s lacquered coffin, surrounded by 1,000+ jade artifacts.

East Wing: Replicas of the tomb’s drainage system (a 2,000-year-old engineering feat) and a “Silk Road” gallery featuring Roman glassware and Persian silver.

West Wing: A life-sized reconstruction of the tomb’s excavation, including the unearthing of the “Jade Burial Suit.”

• Western Han Dynasty Museum:

Maritime Trade Hall: Bronze drums, elephant tusks, and a 1.6m-long African ivory artifact.

Agricultural Gallery: Iron tools, terracotta livestock, and a 2,200-year-old seed vault.

Major Attractions

Jade Burial Suit: 2,291 jade pieces sewn with gold and silver thread, worn by King Zhao Mo to symbolize immortality.

“Record of Nanyue” Seal: A 159-gram gold seal inscribed with the king’s title, confirming Nanyue’s vassal status to Han China.

Bronze Seated Musicians: 12 figurines playing instruments like se (zithers) and pan (stone chimes).

Blue-Glazed Pottery Kiln: A 2,000-year-old kiln replica producing the vibrant ceramics found in the tomb.

Marine-Themed Murals: Frescoes in the tomb’s antechamber depicting sea monsters and sailing ships.

Fragrant Incense Burner: A 34cm-tall bronze burner filled with frankincense and cloves from the Arabian Peninsula.

Suggested Itineraries

• Classic Route (1–1.5 hours):

Tomb Entrance → Underground Palace → Jade Burial Suit Gallery → Maritime Trade Hall → Exit.

Highlights: Tomb exploration and jade artifacts.

• Cultural Route (2–3 hours):

Add the Western Han Dynasty Museum, Agricultural Gallery, and a 20-minute documentary on Nanyue’s history.

Highlights: Maritime trade and farming practices.

• Archaeology Route (Half Day):

Morning: Tomb site, drainage system replica, and a curator-led tour (¥50, English available).

Afternoon: Hands-on pottery-making workshop (¥80 materials fee) and a visit to the “Silk Road” gallery.

Highlights: Interactive learning and craftsmanship.

Ticket Purchase

Online: Book via the museum’s official website or WeChat mini-program (NanyueWangMausoleum) up to 7 days in advance.

On-Site: Tickets available at the entrance; arrive by 9 AM to avoid lines.

• Prices:

¥10 (adults), ¥5 (students/seniors).

Free: Children under 1.3m, disabled visitors, and military personnel.

Combo Ticket (Tomb + Western Han Museum): ¥15.

Transportation

By Subway: Line 2: Yuexiu Park Station (Exit E), 5-minute walk. Line 1: Ximenkou Station (Exit C), 10-minute walk.

By Bus: Routes 21, 58, 58A, or 201 to Panfu Road Stop.

By Taxi: Direct to “Nanyue Wang Bowuyuan” (¥15–20 from Tianhe District).

Best Time & Tips

Peak Hours: Avoid 10:30 AM–2 PM; visit early (9 AM opening) or late (after 4 PM).

Crowds: Weekends and school holidays are busiest; weekdays offer quieter viewing.

Weather: Summer (June–August) is ideal for underground tomb tours (cool at 20°C).

Essentials: Bring a jacket for tomb areas, carry a portable fan, and wear slip-on shoes for security checks.

Pro Tip: Combine with a visit to Yuexiu Park (adjacent) and Beijing Road (2km east) for a full day of history and shopping.