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The Fuqi City Ruins are a fascinating site for history enthusiasts and archaeological explorers. You can explore the remains of ancient buildings, walls, and artifacts that provide a glimpse into the life and architecture of this historic city. Take your time to wander through the site, learn about the city’s significance, and photograph the well-preserved ruins.
The ruins of Fuqi City are a large ancient city site located near Qinghai Lake. The site is roughly square, 220 meters long from east to west and 200 meters wide from north to south. The city walls are 12 meters high and 17 meters wide, and are largely well-preserved. A 10-meter-wide gate runs along the southern wall. From this gate, a central axis runs westward, flanked by two rows of raised house foundations, each 50 meters long and 35 meters wide. At the westernmost end of the city lies a small square city, 70 meters long from east to west and 68 meters wide from north to south, with its gate facing east. Between the small square city and the southern wall lies a 15-meter-long, 9-meter-high earthen platform, on which are the remains of houses. Streets run through the city.
Fushi City is said to have been built by Fulianchou, the Tuyuhun king during the Northern Wei Dynasty, and has a history of over 1,500 years. The Northern Wei court appointed Fulianchou as General of the Western Expedition and the founding Duke of Xihai Commandery, and he built the city here. In 540 AD, Fulianchou's son, Kualu, established the Tuyuhun Kingdom, the first feudal kingdom in Qinghai history, and made Fushi City its capital.
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Fuqi City Ruins date back to the Western Zhou Dynasty, and they provide significant insight into the early history and culture of the region. The site is believed to have been a prosperous city during its time, and it was known for its advanced architecture and strategic importance. The ruins offer valuable archaeological evidence, helping to understand ancient Chinese civilizations.
The Fuqi City Ruins are located in Qinghai Province, Republic of China. To reach the site, you can take a taxi from the city center. Public transport may be limited, so it’s recommended to use a private car or taxi for convenience. Walking from nearby towns is also possible, though it may take time.
The ruins are generally open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day. The best time to visit is early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds. Visiting during the spring or autumn months provides a more comfortable climate for exploring the ruins.
The entrance fee to the Fuqi City Ruins is typically 30 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance. At this time, online booking is not required or available, but it’s always good to confirm beforehand for any special events.
Advance booking is not necessary. However, it’s a good idea to check the local tourism websites for updates if you plan to visit during peak tourist seasons or public holidays.
You can fully explore the Fuqi City Ruins in approximately 1 to 2 hours. If you are an archaeology enthusiast or a photographer, you may want to spend more time capturing the details of the ruins and learning about their history.
The main highlights of the Fuqi City Ruins include the city walls, which are partially intact, the foundation remnants of ancient buildings, and the stone inscriptions that provide insights into the city’s history. The surrounding landscape adds to the beauty of the ruins, offering great photo opportunities.
Guided tours are available at the Fuqi City Ruins, typically in Mandarin. Some tours may offer basic information in English, but availability can be limited. It's recommended to check in advance for English-speaking guides if needed.
Best photography spots include the city walls, the ancient stone gates, and the open plains surrounding the ruins. The panoramic view from the higher parts of the ruins offers a stunning look at the archaeological site, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Begin your visit at the entrance and walk along the city walls, stopping at key sections to examine the foundations and inscriptions. Afterward, head to the central area where the city’s core buildings once stood, and conclude your visit by walking around the perimeter for a better view of the ruins and landscape.
Currently, there are no special night visits or light shows at Fuqi City Ruins. The site is primarily a daytime attraction, ideal for daytime exploration and photography.
The Fuqi City Ruins are generally less crowded compared to major tourist sites, but can be busier during holidays or weekends. The least crowded times to visit are weekdays, especially in the early mornings or late afternoons.
The site offers basic facilities like toilets and drinking water stations. There are no major food outlets within the site, but you can find local restaurants or food stalls nearby. There are also rest areas where you can relax while enjoying the scenery.
The site is not fully accessible for elderly or disabled visitors due to uneven terrain and limited paved paths. Children can enjoy exploring the site, but supervision is recommended due to the rugged nature of the ruins.
Cash is accepted at the entrance, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are preferred for convenience.
While there are no restaurants inside the site, you can find local eateries near the entrance or within the nearby town that offer traditional Chinese meals and snacks.
Vegetarian options are available in some local restaurants near the ruins. However, vegan and halal food options may be limited, so it's best to check with the restaurant before dining.
There are several budget hotels and guesthouses in nearby towns where you can stay. For more luxurious options, you may need to stay in Qinghai city and travel to the site during the day.
Nearby attractions include the famous Qinghai Lake, which can be easily combined with a visit to Fuqi City Ruins in a day trip. Other local temples and monasteries offer cultural experiences as well.
There are small souvenir shops near the site selling traditional Chinese items such as local crafts, souvenirs, and artifacts inspired by the ruins, such as miniatures of the city walls or local pottery.
After visiting Fuqi City Ruins, taxis and local buses are available to continue your journey to nearby attractions. Renting a car is also an option for more flexibility if you're planning to explore further.
