Yin Ruins - World Heritage Site
Discover the Yin Ruins
Yin Xu, the ancient capital of China’s Shang Dynasty, is one of the most significant archaeological sites in East Asia. Rediscovered in 1899, its trove of oracle bone inscriptions confirmed the Shang Dynasty’s existence, once debated as myth. Today, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers unparalleled insights into early Chinese governance, religion, and craftsmanship through its royal tombs, bronze workshops, and divination archives.
Historical Significance
Yin Xu, the final capital of China’s Shang Dynasty (1600–1046 BCE), marks the dawn of recorded Chinese history. For centuries, the Shang Dynasty existed only in legend—until the 1899 discovery of oracle bone inscriptions at Yin Xu transformed myth into irrefutable fact. These inscribed turtle shells and ox scapulae, used for divination by Shang rulers, are the earliest known form of Chinese writing, documenting everything from celestial events to royal decrees.
As the political and spiritual heart of China’s first archaeologically confirmed dynasty, Yin Xu flourished under King Wu Ding, whose 59-year reign saw unprecedented advancements in bronze metallurgy, warfare, and governance. The site’s royal tombs, including the undisturbed burial of Queen Fu Hao—military leader, priestess, and diplomat—reveal a society steeped in ritual, ancestor worship, and artistic mastery.
Yin Xu’s bronze ritual vessels, some weighing over 800 kg, and its chariot pits—the earliest evidence of horse-drawn chariots in East Asia—underscore the Shang’s technological prowess. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2006, Yin Xu isn’t just an archaeological treasure; it’s the foundation of Chinese cultural identity, bridging the gap between prehistory and the written word.
Political Hub
For 255 years, Yin Xu served as the Shang Dynasty’s administrative heart, ruled by 12 kings, including Wu Ding, under whom the empire flourished.
Cultural Legacy
Oracle bones—used for divination—documented everything from harvests to wars, forming the earliest Chinese writing system.
Technological Mastery
Shang artisans cast intricate bronze vessels for rituals, showcasing metallurgical skills unmatched in the ancient world.
Archaeological Discoveries
Unearth the secrets of the Shang Dynasty through Yin Xu’s groundbreaking finds: oracle bone inscriptions, royal tombs, and chariot pits. These discoveries redefined Chinese history, offering tangible proof of rituals, governance, and technological brilliance..
Oracle Bone Script
Over 150,000 fragments decoded, revealing divinations on harvests, wars, and royal health.
Tomb of Fu Hao
The only intact Shang royal tomb, belonging to Queen Fu Hao—warrior, priestess, and diplomat.
Chariot Burial Pits
Earliest evidence of horse-drawn chariots in East Asia, used in ceremonies and warfare. Symbolized status and military power of Shang elites.
Bronze Ritual Workshops
Advanced casting techniques produced 800 kg ritual vessels for ancestor worship. Taotie (mythical beast) designs reflected spiritual beliefs.
Visitor Information
Opening Hours
Tuesday - Sunday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Closed on Mondays
Contact
Phone: +12345678910
Email: info@visitanyang.com
Location
Yindu District, Anyang City,
Henan Province, China
Admission
Adults: ¥100
Students and Seniors: ¥50
Children under 12: Free