Bijia Mountain Kiln Site
A major Tang-Song ceramic centre known for ancient dragon kilns, Qingbai porcelain and Maritime Silk Road trade.
- City
- Chaozhou
- Address
- N°189 Dongxing North Road, Xiangqiao District, Chaozhou, Guangdong, China
- Cost
- Free
Overlooking the Han River, the Bijia Mountain Kiln Site preserves the remains of one of southern China’s most important ancient ceramic production centres.
The site stretches along the western foothills of Bijia Mountain and provides a remarkable insight into the development of Chaozhou ceramics during the Tang and Song dynasties.
About the Site
The complex began producing ceramics during the Tang Dynasty and reached its peak during the Song Dynasty.
Its location was particularly advantageous. The nearby Han River provided an important transportation route, while the surrounding area offered resources needed for ceramic production.
The site therefore represents more than an ancient industrial centre. It is also evidence of Chaozhou's participation in the historic Maritime Silk Road and the exchange of Chinese ceramics with overseas markets.
Archaeological evidence indicates that Bijia Mountain ceramics reached parts of East Asia, Southeast Asia and other regions.
One of the most fascinating features of Bijia Mountain is its long dragon kilns, traditional sloping kilns built along the hillside, a kind of infrastructure you can also find in Foshan with the Nanfeng Ancinet Kiln
About the Ceramics
Several types of products have been unburden on the site :
- Bowls and dishes
- Cups and small vessels
- Lamps and incense burners
- Jars, bottles and boxes
- Wash basins and other household vessels
- Figurines and Buddhist images
- Animal figures and small toys
The ceramics were made in several glaze colours and finishes.
Decorative techniques included carved, incised and pierced designs. Some objects were clearly made for everyday use, while others demonstrate the ability of local workshops to produce more sophisticated decorative ceramics.
Nearby Attractions
- Han Wen Gong Temple
- Chaozhou Museum
- Chaozhou Ancient City : Guangji Bridge, Guangji Tower and Paifang Street...
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