Jiaohe Ancient City
Jiaohe Ruins, located in Turpan, Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, is the world’s largest and oldest intact earthen architecture site, dating back 2,300 years. Built by the Cheshi Kingdom and later expanded by the Tang Dynasty, it served as a critical hub on the Silk Road until its abandonment in the 14th century. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014, the ruins cover 220,000 square meters, with buildings carved directly into clay cliffs—a testament to ancient Central Asian urbanism.
Historical Overview
Jiaohe (meaning “River Intersection”) was founded in the 2nd century BCE by Indo-European Cheshi settlers, who chose the strategic confluence of the Turpan and Talimu rivers. It flourished under the Tang Dynasty (7th–8th centuries) as a garrison city, controlling trade between China and the Western Regions. The city declined after the Mongol conquests and was finally deserted due to climate change. Excavations began in 1953, revealing Buddhist temples, administrative offices, and residential quarters. Its UNESCO status in 2014 highlighted its role as a “living fossil of earthen architecture.”
Structural Layout
The city is divided into three zones:
- Religious Zone: Northeastern cliffs with cave monasteries, stupas, and the “Central Pagoda” ruins.
- Government Zone: Central plateau featuring the “East Hall” (governor’s office) and “Underground Granary.”
- Residential Zone: Southern labyrinth of courtyard homes, workshops, and the “Nobles’ Quarter.”
Key infrastructure includes 5km of defensive walls, 12 watchtowers, and the “Canal City” irrigation system.
Major Attractions
- Central Pagoda: A 15-meter-high Buddhist stupa with frescoes of Tara and Manjushri.
- East Hall: A Tang Dynasty administrative complex with preserved official seals and documents.
- Underground Granary: A 5th-century subterranean storage facility holding wheat and barley.
- Nobles’ Quarter: A maze of two-story earthen homes with original hearths and storage pits.
- Canal City: A 10km network of underground aqueducts feeding the oasis.
- Western Gate: The city’s main entrance flanked by two 10-meter-high earthen towers.
Suggested Itineraries
-
Classic Route (1.5–2 hours):
Visitor Center → Western Gate → Central Pagoda → East Hall → Return.
Highlights: Core religious and administrative sites. -
Extended Route (3–4 hours):
Visitor Center → Nobles’ Quarter → Underground Granary → Buddhist Caves → Canals → Return.
Highlights: Residential life and irrigation systems. -
Archaeological Route (Full Day):
Visitor Center → All zones with guided tours of excavation sites.
Highlights: In-depth exploration with artifact displays.
Ticket Purchase
- Online: Book via Ctrip, Fliggy, or the official Xinjiang Cultural Relics Bureau WeChat account (up to 7 days in advance).
- On-Site: Tickets available at the Visitor Center; arrive early for guided tours.
- Prices:
- Peak Season (April–October): ¥70 (adults), ¥35 (students/seniors).
- Off-Season (November–March): ¥40 (adults), ¥20 (students/seniors).
- Free: Children under 1.2m, disabled visitors.
Transportation
- By Bus:
- Turpan North Station → Jiaohe Shuttle (30 minutes, ¥10).
- By Taxi:
- Direct from Turpan City (20 minutes, ¥30).
- By Tour:
- Group tours from Ürümqi/Dunhuang include Flaming Mountains and Karez systems.
- Departure: Shuttle buses depart hourly to Turpan/Ürümqi.
Best Time & Tips
- Peak Season: April–June (mild weather), September–October (harvest festivals).
- Avoid Crowds: Weekdays; weekends host domestic tourists.
- Weather: Pack layers (15–35°C) and sun protection (desert climate).
- Essentials:
- Wear a hat and sunscreen (minimal shade).
- Carry water (1.5L+ per person).
- Respect Islamic customs (no pork products in nearby villages).
- Prohibitions: Drones, littering, and touching frescoes.
