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Located on the Jinyintan Grassland, approximately 20 kilometers from the eastern shore of Qinghai Lake, Atomic City was China's first nuclear weapons development base, where both the nation's first atomic and hydrogen bombs were developed. Today, the site boasts numerous attractions, including the Atomic City Memorial Hall, the detonation test site, the Second Branch Plant, and the underground command center. Visitors can visit exhibitions and the former research base, learn about the hardships of China's nuclear weapons development, and commemorate the selfless contributions of its predecessors.
Atomic City, now the capital of Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, is officially known as Xihai Town, but is colloquially referred to as the Atomic City due to its historical significance. Today, it looks like any other small town, and there's no entrance fee. The main attractions are located within and outside the town, which takes about half a day. It's also a must-see stop on Qinghai Lake tours, and many people stay overnight in the town during their trips.
Scenic spots within the town include the Atomic City Memorial Hall, the Wang Luobin Music and Art Museum, Shangxing Station, the Second Branch Factory, and the Underground Command Center. These attractions are all within 2 kilometers of each other, allowing visitors to explore them on foot. A detonation test site is located approximately 10 kilometers outside the town, and visitors can take a free sightseeing bus to the site after purchasing a ticket.
Plateau mountain climate; Atomic City is the first nuclear weapons research and development base built in my country. It has now become another famous tourist attraction in the central province after Qinghai Lake and Ta'er Temple. It is suitable for travel in all seasons.
221 Base Underground Command Center, Qinghai Atomic City National Patriotism Education Base Memorial Hall, Shangxing Station;
It is recommended to visit for half a day
No tickets are required, there is no charge to enter the town, and the Atomic City Memorial is free;
The town scenic area pass is 160 yuan per person, including the explosion test site, Wang Luobin Music and Art Museum, Shangxing Station, the Second Branch Factory, the Atomic City Memorial Hall, the underground command center and other attractions;
If you do not purchase a pass, individual tickets are available for each attraction.
8:30-18:00
Atomic City in Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai, was established as a top-secret research site during the mid-20th century. It played a significant role in China’s atomic and nuclear research during the Cold War era. Today, it serves as a historical site that educates the public about China’s atomic advancements and the secretive nature of this project.
Atomic City is located in the Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai. The site is accessible by taxi or private car. There are no direct metro or bus routes to the area, so it's recommended to hire a local guide or rent a car for the journey.
Atomic City is typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is mild and comfortable for outdoor exploration.
The entrance fee to Atomic City is approximately ¥80. Tickets can be purchased on-site, and there is no online booking available at this time.
No advance booking is required. Tickets are available for purchase on the day of your visit at the entrance.
A visit to Atomic City typically takes 2 to 3 hours, depending on your interest in the exhibits and exploration of the surrounding area.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides in English may be available on request, but it’s advisable to check in advance for availability.
The best viewpoints for photography are from the observation deck overlooking the historical research facilities and the surrounding landscapes. The remnants of the buildings and their unique architecture also offer interesting photo opportunities.
Start with the museum to get an overview of Atomic City’s history, then explore the preserved research facilities. Afterward, take a walk around the surrounding area for scenic views and additional historical landmarks.
There are no night visits or light shows available at Atomic City. Special tours can be arranged, but these are typically during the day and must be booked in advance.
Atomic City is not typically crowded, especially on weekdays. The least crowded times are in the early mornings and during the off-season (spring and autumn).
There are basic facilities available, including toilets and rest areas. There are no major food or water stations on-site, so it is recommended to bring your own refreshments. Souvenir shops are limited, but you can find small local vendors near the entrance.
Atomic City is accessible for elderly and children, although some of the facilities may require walking on uneven terrain. Wheelchair access may be limited, and it’s advisable to check in advance for accessibility details.
Cash is generally preferred for ticket purchases and local transactions, though mobile payments may be accepted at some spots.
There are limited dining options within Atomic City itself. However, local restaurants offering Tibetan and Chinese cuisine can be found in the nearby town.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in the nearby local restaurants, but halal options may be more limited due to the regional cuisine.
There are small souvenir shops near the entrance, selling local crafts, Tibetan jewelry, and other cultural items. Typical souvenirs include Tibetan handicrafts and traditional artwork.
After visiting Atomic City, taxis and local buses are available to take you to nearby attractions such as Qinghai Lake or Tibetan monasteries. Renting a private car is also a convenient option for exploring the region further.
