Located about 42km southwest of Beijing, the Peking Man Site, also known as the Zhoukoudian Site, is a significant archaeological and anthropological locality discovered in 1921.
The Peking Man Museum, built in 1953, is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was constructed around a collection of ancient limestone caves where the first remains of Homo erectus pekinensis, commonly known as ‘Peking Man,’ were discovered—an important step in the understanding of human evolution in Asia.
READ MORE: This Day in History: The Discovery of Peking Man
Early excavations at the Peking Man Site. Image via Paleoarchive
These fossils date back to the Middle Pleistocene epoch, with estimated ages ranging from 230,000 to 800,000 years ago.
Sadly, most of the original Peking Man fossils were lost during the Second Sino-Japanese War. Fortunately, copies were made, and post-war excavations have led to the discovery of new fossils, allowing research to continue.
Image via China Expeditions
Excavations at Zhoukoudian have yielded a rich collection of hominid fossils, including remains of Homo erectus and archaic Homo sapiens.
Stone tools, bone tools, and evidence of fire use have also been discovered, providing insights into the lives of early humans and the prehistoric environment in which they lived.
Fossil exhibit at the Peking Man Museum. Image via Adventure Patches
The modern museum building showcases the relics and fossils found at the site. Exhibits include fossils of Peking Man and other ancient humans, as well as models and dioramas depicting their daily life.
The museum also features a 4D movie theater and interactive exhibits that utilize creative technology to enhance the visitor experience.
Peking Man Museum. Image via AI
In addition to the museum, you can visit the original cave sites where the fossils were discovered, such as Locality One (Apeman Cave), the Upper Cave, and Locality Four (New Cave).
Note: be prepared to do a bit of walking to get to each of the caves.
Cost: It is RMB30 to enter the museum and another RMB30 for access to the cave area. Children under 1.2m are half price. Remember to bring your passport to purchase tickets and enter the site.
Transportation:
Bus: The bus journey takes around 2 hours and 20 minutes. Take Bus 917 or 836 from Tianqiao Bus Station in Beijing to Zhoukoucun Lukou. Then, transfer to Fangshan Bus 38 to Yuanren Yizhi (Peking Man Site).
Alternatively, you can take Bus 616 from the south square of Beijing West Railway Station to Liangxiang Ximen, then change to Fangshan Bus 38.
Car: The drive takes about 1.5 hours, depending on traffic. Hiring a private car with a driver is a convenient option for a day trip.
Inside Peking Man Site enclosure. Image via Visit Our China
Planning Your Trip:
Allocate Sufficient Time: A full day trip is recommended, with a minimum of 4 hours to explore the museum and cave sites.
Check Operating Hours and Fees: The Peking Man Museum is open from 8.30am to 4.30pm from April 1 to October 31 and 8.30am to 4pm from November 1 to March 31, but it's closed on Mondays.
Bring Necessities: Wear comfortable walking shoes, especially if you plan to explore the cave sites. Consider bringing water and snacks.
Consider a Guide or Organized Tour: A local guide can enhance your visit by providing insights into the site's history and significance. There are many options for private tours online that includes transportation, a guide, and entrance tickets. These tours often combine the Peking Man Site with other nearby attractions like the Stone Flower Cave and Marco Polo Bridge.
Peking Man Site, No.1 Zhoukoudian Jie, Fangshan
[Cover image via Visit Beijing]
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