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Located in the heart of Guide, Guide Ancient City is a complex of Ming Dynasty buildings with over 600 years of history. The city walls are now largely intact. The Jade Emperor Pavilion, a landmark of Guide, stands in the heart of the town, with the buildings arranged in a triangular pattern. Climbing the Jade Emperor Pavilion offers a panoramic view of the entire ancient city, framed by blue sky and white clouds.
The ancient city still retains most of the Ming Dynasty city walls, and in early April the many old pear trees in the city are very beautiful when they bloom.
Plateau continental climate;
July and August are the best months for traveling
60 yuan/person
All day
Guide Ancient City is one of the oldest cities in the Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, with a rich history dating back to the Tang Dynasty. The city is known for its traditional Tibetan culture, ancient architecture, and historical significance as a trade hub along ancient Tibetan routes. It serves as an important cultural center for Tibetan Buddhism.
Guide Ancient City is located in the Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, in Qinghai Province, China. It is accessible from Xining, the provincial capital, by bus or private car. There is no metro service in the area, so taxis or rented vehicles are the most convenient options for reaching the city.
Guide Ancient City is open year-round, but the best times to visit are from May to October, during the warmer months when the weather is more comfortable for exploring the city. Winter can be cold and may have limited access to some outdoor areas.
There is generally no entrance fee to visit the city itself, but some specific sites such as museums or monasteries may charge an entry fee of around 10–30 CNY. Tickets can usually be bought on-site or through local tour operators.
Booking tickets in advance is typically not required, except for special events or guided tours. It is advisable to book in advance during the peak travel seasons to ensure availability for tours or specific cultural performances.
Exploring the main sites of Guide Ancient City typically takes 2–3 hours. If you wish to visit surrounding monasteries and take part in cultural activities, consider spending a full day in the area.
Guided tours are available, typically in Mandarin. Some tours may offer English-speaking guides, but it is recommended to check in advance. Audio guides are not commonly available, so booking a guide may enhance the experience.
Start by visiting the city’s ancient walls and gates to get a sense of its historical significance. Then, explore the local Tibetan monasteries and markets. End your visit with a stop at one of the city’s museums to learn more about its culture and history.
Guide Ancient City does not offer night tours or light shows. However, the city offers a unique experience during the Tibetan New Year (Losar), when special cultural events and rituals are held, which can be considered a special tour opportunity.
The city can be busy during the summer months, particularly in July and August. The least crowded times are during the spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) months. Visiting on weekdays, especially in the morning, can also help avoid the crowds.
There are basic facilities available in the city, including public toilets, rest areas, and food stalls. Small shops sell local handicrafts, and there are a few restaurants offering traditional Tibetan food. It’s a good idea to carry water with you when exploring the more remote areas.
The city’s main attractions, such as the monasteries and city gates, are generally accessible, but some areas, particularly the older city sections and the surrounding terrain, may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors to navigate. It is recommended to plan accordingly if traveling with children or elderly individuals.
Cash is widely accepted in Guide Ancient City, especially in smaller shops and markets. However, larger establishments may accept mobile payments like WeChat Pay or Alipay. Credit cards are not commonly accepted in most areas.
Nearby restaurants typically serve Tibetan cuisine, such as yak meat dishes, barley, and butter tea. Some local cafes and small eateries offer basic meals and snacks, while more diverse options can be found in Xining, a short drive away.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available, with many Tibetan dishes being plant-based, including vegetable stews and barley dishes. Halal food options are more limited, but can be found in the larger towns or cities like Xining.
Yes, there are several souvenir shops in the city selling traditional Tibetan items such as prayer flags, yak wool products, Tibetan jewelry, and thangka paintings. These make great cultural mementos of your visit.
After visiting Guide Ancient City, you can continue your trip by bus or taxi to Xining, where you can take trains or flights to other destinations in China. Buses and taxis are the most common transportation methods for reaching nearby attractions or continuing your journey.
