Western Zhou Yan State Capital Museum

The Western Zhou Yan State Capital Museum preserves the remains of an ancient city with walls, palace grounds, and residential areas dating back over 3,000 years. The excavation site covers a large area where visitors can walk through different sections of the settlement.

The excavation site was discovered in 1962 and contains the remains of the Yan State capital from the Western Zhou dynasty. The location has given archaeologists important insights into the structure and daily life of this ancient civilization.

The bronzes on display showcase the advanced metalworking techniques that craftspeople mastered during this ancient period. Walking through the exhibits, you notice how these objects reveal the daily skills and knowledge that sustained a wealthy kingdom.

The site is located roughly 40 kilometers south of central Beijing and can be reached by various modes of transport. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes, as the grounds are expansive and exploring the different areas takes time.

The grounds contain tombs with remains of sacrificed horses and chariot pits where workers and dependents were buried, revealing the burial practices of this ancient society. These archaeological discoveries show the role that wealth and status played in the rituals of this culture.