Gumu Bowuguan (Ancient Han Tombs)

Description:

• This fascinating museum features 25 reconstructed underground ancient tombs dating from the Western Han dynasty (206 B.C.-A.D. 9) to the Northern Song dynasty (960-1127). By the Eastern Han dynasty (25-220), the use of hollow bricks with painted designs gave way to larger stone vault tombs made of solid carved brick. Eleven of the tombs also have elaborate wall murals, the most famous of which is the Western Han "Expelling the Ghost Mural Tomb," which features a faded but still gorgeous fresco of celebrants holding a feast before the exorcism. The tombs are about 10km (6 miles) north of town on the road to the airport.

• © Frommer's 2012

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Recommended 2010