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The ancient Sanjiao City is located in Huangcaogou Village, about 18-19 kilometers east of Qilian County. It is surrounded by the Qilian Mountains and Babao River and is surrounded by scenic grasslands.
Sanjiaocheng is the site of an ancient city from the Song Dynasty. However, after so many years, not much remains of it. If most tourists pass by here on their way to Qilian, they will see a stone tablet with the words "Sanjiaocheng" written on it on the roadside, with several stone pillars behind it. Just take a quick look and take a photo.
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
Sanjiaocheng Ruins are an ancient site dating back to the Western Zhou and Eastern Zhou dynasties. The ruins are believed to have been an important settlement and cultural center during these periods. They are significant for their architectural remains and the artifacts discovered, which provide insight into the life and customs of ancient Chinese civilizations.
The Sanjiaocheng Ruins are located in the Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai. The best way to reach the site is by taxi or private car from Xining, which is about 130 kilometers away. Public transportation options to the ruins are limited, so arranging a private car is the most convenient option.
The ruins are typically open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are in spring and autumn when the weather is mild. Summer is also a good option, but it can get crowded, especially during Chinese holidays.
The entrance fee is approximately 30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site, but it is also possible to book tickets online through local tourism platforms or travel agencies. It's recommended to check availability during peak seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory, but it is recommended during peak seasons or holidays. Booking a few days in advance can help ensure availability and avoid any long waiting times.
A visit to Sanjiaocheng Ruins typically takes about 2 to 3 hours to fully explore. This includes walking around the site, taking photos, and visiting the nearby areas. If you enjoy a more leisurely visit, plan for up to half a day.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some may offer basic English support. Audio guides are not commonly available at the site, so a local guide is recommended for a deeper understanding of the history.
The best photography spots are near the central ruins, where you can capture the ancient structures and the surrounding scenic landscape. The elevated viewpoints around the site also offer great panoramic shots of the ruins and the nearby countryside.
Start at the main entrance and explore the central ruins first. Then, visit the archaeological display to see artifacts uncovered from the site. Afterward, take a walk through the surrounding areas for a complete experience of the site and its historical context.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Sanjiaocheng Ruins. The site is primarily a daytime attraction, and visitors typically explore it during daylight hours for the best experience.
The site can be crowded during weekends, holidays, and the summer months. The least crowded times are during weekdays in the off-peak seasons, especially in the spring and autumn months.
Basic facilities, such as toilets and water stations, are available near the entrance. However, there are limited food and rest areas inside the ruins, so it is recommended to bring snacks and water with you for the visit.
The site is generally accessible to elderly and children, though the terrain can be uneven, so it may be challenging for visitors with mobility issues. It’s advisable to check with local tour operators for accessibility details.
Cash is accepted, and mobile payments via WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly used. Credit cards are not widely accepted, so it's best to carry cash or use mobile payment options for convenience.
There are no restaurants directly inside the ruins, but local eateries can be found in nearby towns or in Xining. These offer traditional Tibetan cuisine and Chinese dishes.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in nearby towns, especially in Xining. Halal food is also available, particularly in Muslim-friendly restaurants in the region.
There are a few guesthouses and small hotels near the site. For more extensive accommodation options, Xining offers a variety of hotels ranging from budget to mid-range options.
Souvenir shops near the ruins are limited, but in Xining and surrounding towns, you can find Tibetan crafts, jewelry, prayer beads, and textiles, which make for great souvenirs.
After visiting Sanjiaocheng Ruins, the best transportation options are by private car or taxi. If you plan to visit nearby attractions such as Qinghai Lake or Kumbum Monastery, hiring a driver or joining a local tour is recommended.
