Location & Transportation

Tang Dynasty New Stele Forest Museum is nestled within the sprawling grounds of Daming Palace Heritage Park in Xi’an’s Xincheng District. To get there, take Metro Line 2 to Daming Palace West Station (大明宫西站) and walk for about 10 minutes through the park’s lush greenery. Buses 2, 26, or 528 also drop you near the entrance. If driving, park at the main gate of Daming Palace Park—it’s free and convenient.

Natural Surroundings

The museum sits inside a massive park that feels like a mini escape from the city. You’ll wander past ancient trees, wide lawns, and ponds with lily pads. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom along the paths, and autumn paints the park in golden hues. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll before diving into history at Tang Dynasty New Stele Forest Museum.

Cultural Highlights

This isn’t just any museum—it’s a treasure trove of Tang Dynasty art and literature! Inside, you’ll find over 1,000 stone steles carved with poetry, calligraphy, and historical texts. Many were salvaged from old temples and palaces. Unlike traditional forests, this “stele forest” lets you walk between towering stone slabs, each telling stories of emperors, poets, and scholars. Some even have intriguing carvings of dragons or mythical creatures.

Must-See Exhibits

  • Poetry Wall: A long corridor lined with steles featuring poems by Li Bai and Du Fu. Perfect for photography!
  • Calligraphy Hall: See masterpieces by Tang artists—think flowing brushstrokes frozen in stone.
  • Historical Archives: Learn how these steles survived wars and time, thanks to careful restoration.

Practical Facilities

The museum is visitor-friendly. Free Wi-Fi, clean restrooms, and a small café make breaks easy. Rent an audio guide (¥20) for detailed stories behind each stele, or join a free English tour at 10 AM daily. There’s also a gift shop selling quirky souvenirs like mini replica steles and calligraphy sets.

Immersive Experience

Wandering through Tang Dynasty New Stele Forest Museum feels like stepping back in time. Kids love touching the rough stone surfaces, while history buffs geek out over the carvings’ details. On weekends, local artists sometimes perform traditional music near the entrance, adding to the atmosphere. Plan for 2–3 hours to explore calmly.

Pro Tips

  • Go on a weekday morning to avoid crowds.
  • Wear comfy shoes—there’s a lot of walking on gravel paths.
  • Combine your visit with nearby Dancing Crane Tower or the City Wall for a full Xi’an adventure.

Whether you’re into art, history, or simply peaceful gardens, Tang Dynasty New Stele Forest Museum offers a unique blend of culture and nature. Don’t miss it if you’re in Xi’an!