Yue Kiln Sites, Ancient ceramic production site in Cixi City, China
The Yue Kiln Sites consist of roughly 179 individual kiln locations scattered across the region near Shanglin Lake in Zhejiang Province. The site preserves structural remains and ceramic fragments that reveal details of how ancient Chinese artisans worked and what they produced.
These kilns started production during the Eastern Han period and continued operating for over a thousand years into the Southern Song era. During this long span, they developed techniques for making celadon pottery that became one of the most sought-after wares of its time.
The kilns produced everyday items like wine vessels, incense holders, and toys that people bought and traded across wide areas. This created a network of production that connected the region to distant markets and communities.
The site spreads across a large area, so it helps to plan which sections you want to visit to make best use of your time. Wear sturdy shoes and prepare for varying weather since the locations are spread out in the open.
The celadon pottery from these kilns was so valued that it traveled along Silk Road routes all the way to Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and even Africa. Archaeologists have found fragments of this pottery at hundreds of locations far from where it was made.
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