Bijie, Guizhou Province

The Legend of the Yi Heroine: A Journey to the Tomb of Madam Shexiang

📸Photography 🏯Old Towns 🛤️Highland Aesthetics(高原美学)

Altitude

1,560m

Best Time

🌸 🍂

Ticket

Paid

ℹ️

About This Attraction

1.The Tomb of Madam: Shexiang, located at the foot of Yunlong Mountain north of Dafang County, Bijie City, Guizhou Province, is a solemn and historically significant cultural heritage site. Covering an area of approximately 50,000 square meters at an altitude of about 1,700 meters, this site is a tribute to Madam Shexiang, a legendary female politician of the Yi ethnic group from the late Yuan and early Ming dynasties. Designated as a National Key Cultural Relics Protection Unit, the tomb is not only a tranquil resting place but also a symbol of wisdom, courage, and national unity in the history of Southwest China.

The history of the site revolves around the extraordinary life of Madam Shexiang (1358–1396). Following the death of her husband, the local chieftain (Xuanweishi), she took over the governance of the region at a young age. Facing political turmoil and attempts to sow discord, she displayed remarkable statesmanship. Madam Shexiang is most famous for constructing the "Longchang Nine Stations" (Longchang Jiuyi), a network of courier roads that connected Guizhou with Sichuan, Yunnan, and Hunan, effectively linking the southwest borderlands with the Central Plains. This monumental infrastructure project facilitated economic and cultural exchange and played a crucial role in maintaining national stability.

The architecture of the tomb complex reflects a unique blend of Yi ethnic traditions and Han culture. The layout follows the principle of "front hall and rear tomb," featuring a spirit path lined with stone statues, memorial archways, and cloud pillars (Huabiao) that convey a sense of grandeur and dignity. The tomb itself is circular, constructed with stone and protected by nine layers of stone walls, standing about 4.5 meters high with a circumference of roughly 60 meters. The surrounding ancient pines and cypresses add to the solemn atmosphere, making it a place for quiet reflection on history.

2.Adjacent to the tomb is the Shexiang: Museum, the only museum in China dedicated to this historical figure. The museum houses a rich collection of artifacts, historical documents, and ethnic costumes that detail Madam Shexiang's life, the history of the Yi people in the Shuixi region, and the significance of the ancient courier roads. Visitors can see displays of Yi embroidery, scripts, and relics that offer a deep dive into the local heritage. The site is also a center for local cultural activities; during traditional Yi festivals like the Torch Festival, locals gather here to sing and dance in honor of their beloved heroine.

Whether you are a history enthusiast interested in the stories of powerful women in ancient China or a traveler seeking to understand the diverse ethnic cultures of Guizhou, the Tomb of Madam Shexiang offers a profound and educational experience. It stands as a testament to a leader who used her wisdom to bridge cultures and build roads that connected her people to the wider world.

✨ Why Visit Tomb of Madam Shexiang

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Historical Significance

Learn about Madam Shexiang, a revered female Yi politician who maintained national unity and constructed the vital "Longchang Nine Stations" connecting Southwest China.

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Unique Architecture

Admire the tomb's distinct design, featuring a circular stone structure with nine protective layers, blending Yi cultural elements with traditional Chinese architectural styles.

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Shexiang Museum

Explore the on-site museum, which showcases extensive exhibits on Madam Shexiang's life, the history of the Shuixi Yi people, and the ancient courier road system.

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Spirit Path & Stone Carvings

Walk along the solemn spirit path lined with ancient stone statues and memorial archways that guard the tomb and reflect the grandeur of the Ming Dynasty.

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Yi Cultural Center

Experience the vibrant local culture, as the site serves as a gathering place for Yi people during traditional festivals, offering a glimpse into their enduring customs and respect for their heroine.

Location & Nearby

📍 Bijie, Guizhou Province • 🏔️ 1560m elevation

Frequently Asked Questions - Tomb of Madam Shexiang Travel Guide

Where is the Tomb of Madam Shexiang located?

It is located at the foot of Yunlong Mountain, north of the county seat of Dafang County, Bijie City, Guizhou Province.

Who was Madam Shexiang? She was a prominent female politician of the Yi ethnic group during the early Ming Dynasty who governed the Shuixi region and is famous for building roads to connect the southwest with the central government.

What is the best time to visit? The best times are generally March to May and September to November when the weather in Dafang is mild and pleasant.

Is there a museum at the site? Yes, the Shexiang Museum is located within the grounds and offers detailed exhibits on her life and the local Yi culture.

How much time is needed for a visit? A visit typically takes about 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the tomb, the spirit path, and the museum.

Why do you include Chinese characters and Pinyin in the descriptions for Tomb of Madam Shexiang?

We provide the original Chinese names and Pinyin to make your travel smoother. Since English is rarely spoken in remote parts of Western China, you can easily show these Chinese names to local taxi drivers, hotel staff, or police when asking for help, or copy-paste them directly into Chinese navigation apps like Amap (高德地图) or Baidu Maps.