Live Your Best Lives
The underground command center at Base 21, a key component of the former state-owned Factory 221, is one of the best-preserved and well-equipped sites on the base. Constructed 9.3 meters below the surface, the center, constructed of pure reinforced concrete, served as a communications support and command center.
Located within the Haibei Prefecture Post Office, the command center consisted of eight sections: a carrier room, wiring room, ventilation room, command room, generator room, power distribution room, command room, manual exchange room, and telegraph room. Built specifically to protect against enemy air raids, the center's iron doors were said to weigh three and a half tons and be 20 to 30 centimeters thick. The communications system within ensured constant communication with the central government.
In 2007, it was officially opened to the public and became another famous tourist attraction in Haibei.
The climate of Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture is a plateau continental climate with long cold periods and short warm and cool periods. It has abundant sunlight, strong solar radiation, distinct dry and wet seasons, rainy and hot seasons in the same season, and frequent night rains and strong winds.
It is recommended to play for one hour
free
08:00-18:00
221 Base Underground Command Center is a former military facility from the Cold War era, important for its strategic role in regional defense.
Located in Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai; best accessed by taxi or private car.
Open 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; spring and summer are ideal for travel.
Entrance fee is modest; tickets are usually bought on-site.
Advance booking is generally not required.
1–2 hours.
Guided tours may be available in Chinese; no standard audio guides.
Start at the visitor center, then proceed through tunnels and main exhibits in order.
No night visits or light shows; occasional special tours may occur.
Weekdays and mornings are less crowded.
Basic toilets, benches, and a small visitor shop.
Accessible for most visitors, but some tunnels may be challenging for mobility-impaired individuals.
Cash and mobile payments accepted for small purchases; entrance usually handled on-site.
Nearby towns have small restaurants and tea houses.
Limited vegetarian options; halal food may be available locally.
Local guesthouses and mid-range hotels in Haibei.
Nearby Tibetan cultural sites and Qinghai scenic spots.
Small shops may sell postcards, military memorabilia, and local crafts.
Taxi or private car are most convenient for onward travel.
