Hami Wubao Ghost City

Introducing Hami Wubao Ghost City

Wubao Ghost City is located in the south of Wubao Township, Hami City, 20km away from Wubao Township and about 100km away from Hami City. The Hami Yadan landform starts from Luotuo Peak outside Yandun in the east, passes through Yamansu Iron Mine, Dananhu Coal Mine, and reaches the Thirteen Rooms of Wubao Shar Lake. It is about 400 kilometers long and about 5-10 kilometers wide. It has a special geographical environment in Hami. It was formed naturally after a long period of wind erosion.

Hami Wubao Ghost City is the most mysterious of China's four largest ghost cities. Due to its mysterious nature, those unfamiliar with the terrain risk becoming lost in a storm. Dozens of these ghost cities are scattered across the vast 3,600 square kilometers of Yadan landform, making this a rare cluster of ghost cities in China. Its vast area, diverse types, intricate shapes, and unique characteristics are all unique.

In the Devil City, you can see landscapes that resemble castles, palaces, pagodas, monuments, people, and animals in various shapes, dazzling steep cliffs, colorful agates mixed in the gravel, petrified wood everywhere, and plant fossils with fresh branches and leaves. Occasionally, you can find small round stones like dinosaur egg fossils, marine fish fossils, and bird fossils. When night falls, you can sometimes hear the heinous screams of ghosts and wolves howling.

Climate and best time to travel

Hami has a temperate continental arid climate, offering suitable weather all year round. Summer and autumn are the best times to visit Hami, with sunny weather and minimal winds. Enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables, admire the beautiful natural scenery, and experience the diverse local customs and cultures. Hami's winters, however, last longer, blanketing the area in snow and creating a truly northern landscape. This makes it a great time for winter sports, but be sure to dress warmly during these times.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Hami Wubao Ghost City is centered around the Aisikaixiaer Ancient Post Station and is divided into four scenic areas: East City, South City, West City, and North City.

Dongcheng : The main scenic spots include the Ancient Castle, Goddess Peak, Thousand Buddha Mountain, Fangta Mountain, and Colored Stone Beach

South City : The main scenic spots include Jingu Mancang, Sphinx, Jinling Stone Tiger, Bie Gailiang, and the original Populus euphratica forest.

Xicheng : The main scenic spots include Tianmen Cave, Flying Wings Together, Twin Pagoda Peak, Shigu Beach, Fengshen, and Sigui

North City : The main scenic spots include the Sea Turtle, the Two-Headed Horse, the Ancient City of Eskaxiaer, and the Red Willow Beach.

Recommended play time: 3-4 hours

Tickets

Peak season 40 yuan/person

25 yuan/person in off-season

Attraction opening hours

Summer : 9:00-20:00

Winter : 9:30-19:00

---

Most Popular FAQs for Hami Wubao Ghost City

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Hami Wubao Ghost City is an ancient fortified settlement on the Silk Road, historically significant as a military and trade post. Its abandoned structures provide insight into desert life, historical trade routes, and regional defense strategies during various dynasties.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The site is located near Hami city in Xinjiang. The most convenient access is by private car or taxi. Local buses may reach nearby towns, but additional transport or walking is required to reach the actual ruins.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Opening hours are typically 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
• The best times to visit are spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) for comfortable temperatures and minimal desert heat.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance fees are generally low and can be purchased on-site. Limited online booking options may exist via local tourism websites or authorized travel platforms.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Advance booking is not usually required unless visiting with a guided tour or during peak tourist season. In such cases, booking 1–2 days in advance is recommended.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–3 hours are sufficient to explore the main ruins and surrounding desert area. A full half-day is ideal for photography and leisurely exploration.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Ancient city walls and fortifications.
• Ruins of houses and watchtowers.
• Desert landscapes surrounding the ghost city.
• Historic trade route paths near the site.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Chinese, sometimes arranged through local travel agencies. English-speaking guides may need to be booked in advance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Higher sections of the remaining city walls for panoramic desert views.
• The abandoned buildings and watchtowers for dramatic photography.
• Sunset over the desert for scenic shots.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Enter at the main gate, explore the city walls and fortifications first, then walk through the inner ruins, and finish by viewing the surrounding desert landscapes. Allocate time for photography stops along the way.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are generally not permitted. Special tours may be arranged through travel agencies, usually focused on history and photography.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The site is relatively quiet and not crowded. Weekdays and early mornings are the least busy times.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• Basic toilets near the entrance.
• Limited rest areas for short breaks.
• No restaurants or shops inside; bring water and snacks.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Main areas near the entrance are accessible, but uneven terrain in the ruins and desert may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is recommended for entrance and any small on-site purchases. Mobile payments may be accepted at the ticket office but are not guaranteed.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Small local eateries or roadside restaurants near Hami city are available. No dining facilities are inside the ghost city.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Halal options are widely available in Hami. Vegetarian or vegan choices are limited and typically simple vegetable dishes.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Small hotels and guesthouses in Wubao town or Hami city are closest. Larger hotels are available in Hami city for more comfort.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Hami Desert Scenic Areas
• Local Silk Road historical sites
• Nearby oases and sand dunes

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Traditional Xinjiang crafts and textiles
• Dried fruits such as Hami melons
• Small cultural or historical replicas

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Private car or taxi is the most convenient for reaching nearby attractions or returning to Hami city. Local tour services may provide transfers to other destinations.