Live Your Best Lives
Visit the archaeological site of the Gaixia Ruins, where you can explore the remnants of ancient structures and learn about the significant historical battles that took place here. The site offers peaceful walks and great photo opportunities of the ruins and surrounding landscape.
The Battle of Gaixia ruins, located on the south bank of the Tuohe River in Haocheng, Guzhen County, are said to be the site where Xiang Yu's army of 100,000 was surrounded and forced into a decisive battle with Liu Bang. Within the city walls, Qin bricks and Han tiles can be found throughout, woven into the fabric of history and creating a captivating experience.
In 202 BC , Emperor Liu Bang of Han led 300,000 troops from his own vassal states in pursuit of Xiang Yu, the Overlord of Western Chu. In December of that year, Xiang Yu's army of 100,000 was surrounded at Gaixia, forcing him to a decisive battle with Liu Bang. In the Battle of Gaixia, the Chu army suffered 40,000 casualties and 20,000 captured. The Han army, with its overwhelming superiority, completely annihilated the Chu army, creating a successful example of a large-scale pursuit campaign in ancient China. This victory is listed as one of the seven great battles of ancient times and is known as the " Waterloo of the East . "
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended playing time: about 1 hour
The Gaixia Ruins are historically significant as the site of the famous Battle of Gaixia, where Liu Bang, the founder of the Han Dynasty, defeated Xiang Yu, the leader of the Chu State. The ruins include remnants of ancient walls and tombs, marking the site's role in the formation of the Han Dynasty.
The Gaixia Ruins are located in Bengbu, Anhui. You can reach the site by taxi or bus from the city center. Walking is not recommended due to the distance from the main urban areas.
The site is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the area is less crowded.
The entrance fee is around ¥30-50. Tickets can be purchased at the site entrance or through online platforms in China.
It is advisable to book tickets in advance during peak travel seasons or weekends. A few days' notice should be enough.
Plan for about 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the Gaixia Ruins, allowing time for walking and taking photos of the historical sites.
The key highlights include the battle site remnants, ancient tombs, and the surrounding scenic areas offering views of the landscape that played a key role in ancient Chinese history.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides may be available in Chinese, though English language support is limited.
The best photography spots are near the ancient walls and battle sites. The nearby hills also offer a great vantage point for panoramic views of the ruins and landscape.
Start at the entrance and follow the main path leading to the remnants of the ancient structures. Make sure to visit the battle site and surrounding areas for the best experience and views.
Currently, night visits or light shows are not offered at the Gaixia Ruins. The site is typically best explored during daylight hours.
The site can get crowded on weekends and national holidays. For a quieter experience, visit early in the morning on weekdays or during the off-peak seasons.
Basic facilities are available, including toilets and rest areas. There are small food stalls and vendors nearby selling snacks, but there are no large shops inside the park.
The site is mostly accessible, though some areas may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors due to uneven terrain. Assistance may be needed for navigating hilly parts of the ruins.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used. Credit cards may not be accepted everywhere on the site.
There are several local restaurants and cafes in Bengbu city, serving traditional Anhui cuisine like noodles, dumplings, and local snacks. The nearest options are about 10-15 minutes away by taxi.
Vegetarian food is available at some local restaurants, but vegan and halal options may be more limited. It's best to check with the restaurant beforehand for specific dietary needs.
There are budget and mid-range hotels in Bengbu city, located around 10-15 minutes from the Gaixia Ruins by taxi. Options include local guesthouses and hotels.
Nearby attractions include Longzihu Park and the Bengbu Museum, both of which offer additional historical and cultural experiences that can easily be combined in a day trip.
Small souvenir shops are available near the entrance, selling items such as traditional Chinese handicrafts, calligraphy, and local teas.
After visiting, you can take a taxi or bus back to Bengbu city. From there, you can continue your journey via trains or buses to other destinations in Anhui and beyond.
