Chengdu Yongling Mausoleum is the tomb of Wang Jian (847-918AD) Emperor of Shu. It is the only Imperial mausoleum built on the ground and was discovered only in 1942, during excavation work for underground air raid shelters by Tiancheng Railway Corporation. Above the tomb is a mound, now covered in pine trees, but once thought to be a sacred hill on which zither musicians played. The Royal way leading to the Mausoleum has just eight figures, before reaching the main entrance. The Mausoleum has an upward ramp before descending to the burial chamber. A replica statue of the emperor rests behind the coffin plinth. The coffin would seem to have been shackled to the base. Intricate sacred carving adorn the base. On exiting the Mausoleum the building on the right has an excellent briefing on the mausoleum and it’s history together with a cut away scale replica of the tomb. The Yong Ling Museum behind the Mausoleum holds all the artefacts excavated from the tomb and admission in included in the entrance fee to the Mausoleum (¥20). There is a statue of Yong Ling which sat at the end wall of the tomb and his wife (now headless) together with the paul bearers . Sacred vessels in silver including a bowl and an ornamental pig can be seen. The Emperors jade belt and seal are also on display. Allow at least three hours to see all parts of the Mausoleum / Museum. Nice gardens surround the Mausoleum and a temple and bell are certainly worth a look at. Outside the park itself is a reconsideration of statues of musicians and the Emperors seal as it’s centre piece. Well worth a visit. Good information in English though-out the museums but the free well illustrated guidebook (available at the museum entrance) is only in Chinese. A truly unique tomb structure. Be sure not to miss the museum which is signposted but may not be evident if your not aware it’s there. It’s accessed from the rear of the Mausoleum compound by a marble bridge. Photography allowed in all areas. Ticket office is located to the left of the main entrance on the main road - isn’t obvious from the entrance.