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The most complete and largest existing ancient city ruins on the "Silk Road" - Western Xia Black City (Heishui City), is located in a desert Gobi about 26 kilometers southwest of Dalaihub Town, the seat of Ejina Banner government. It is in the same scenic area as the 2,000-year-old Red City ruins, the Datong City ruins that integrates the history of the Sui and Tang Dynasties, and the cemetery of Populus euphratica - Strange Forest.
Heicheng, also known as Black Water City, was a major military castle and garrison fortress established by the Western Xia Dynasty on the northern border. It was also a key post station on the Hexi Corridor's route to Lingbei Province during the Yuan Dynasty. A vast oasis once surrounded Heicheng, but the water sources began to dry up after the mid-14th century, leaving the ruins of the city isolated in a sea of sand. In the southwest of the ancient city, a relatively well-preserved ancient church can be seen, its ceiling and walls resembling those of an Islamic chapel. Although much of the city has been buried by shifting sand, the streets and building walls can still be clearly discerned. A stupa, a stupa-shaped pagoda, sits atop the northwest wall and can be seen from the desert from as far as 10 kilometers away. Outside the city, not far from the large earthen pagoda, two more groups of earthen pagodas remain, though only their bases remain. The entire site exudes a sense of desolation and solemnity.
Temperate continental climate;
Best in Autumn
Included in the Black City-Strange Forest scenic area ticket (scenic area ticket 120 yuan, bus 40 yuan (currently only available during the National Day))
08:00~18:00
The Black City Ruins, located in Alxa League, Inner Mongolia, are remnants of an ancient city that once flourished as a strategic trading post along the Silk Road. The city was known for its blackened stone walls and buildings, hence the name "Black City." Over time, it was abandoned, but it remains an important archaeological site that provides insight into ancient Mongolian and Chinese civilizations.
The Black City Ruins are located in the Alxa League region of Inner Mongolia, China. The nearest city is Alxa Left Banner. Visitors can reach the site by car, taxi, or private transport. There are no metro or bus routes directly serving the ruins, and walking is not recommended due to the remote location.
The ruins are open year-round, but the best time to visit is during spring (April to June) or autumn (September to November), when the weather is milder. Avoid summer as it can be extremely hot in the desert region. The site is usually open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
The entrance fee to the Black City Ruins is approximately 50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance. There is currently no online ticket booking available for this attraction, but it's always a good idea to check local websites for any changes or special offers.
Booking tickets in advance is generally not required, as the site does not experience massive crowds. However, during peak seasons (especially national holidays), it is recommended to book at least a day or two in advance to avoid waiting in line.
A visit to the Black City Ruins typically takes 2 to 3 hours, including time for a guided tour and photography. If you are interested in exploring the surrounding desert or other nearby attractions, you may want to spend a half-day or more in the area.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, with some tours offering limited English-speaking guides. Audio guides are not typically offered at the site, but local guides can provide detailed information about the history and significance of the ruins.
Start by exploring the main entrance and the surrounding walls. Follow the paths leading to the central ruins and then move outward towards the periphery, where more scattered ruins and viewpoints can be found. End your visit by taking in the panoramic view from the highest point of the site for a complete perspective of the city’s layout.
Night visits are not available at the Black City Ruins due to the remote location and lack of lighting. There are no scheduled light shows or special tours, though special arrangements may be made for group tours upon request.
The Black City Ruins are relatively quiet compared to more famous attractions. However, it can become crowded during public holidays and peak tourist seasons. The least crowded times to visit are on weekdays, particularly in the off-season (autumn or winter months).
The Black City Ruins are located in a desert area with uneven terrain, which may make it difficult for elderly or disabled visitors to fully explore the site. However, the main paths and areas near the entrance are accessible. It is recommended to use caution and wear comfortable shoes if visiting with children or elderly individuals.
Cash is commonly accepted, and mobile payments via apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are also widely used at the site. Credit cards may be accepted in some shops, but it is best to carry cash or use mobile payments to avoid any issues.
There are no large restaurants or cafes directly inside the ruins. However, there are a few local eateries and small restaurants in nearby towns where visitors can try Mongolian cuisine and simple dishes.
Vegetarian and halal food options are available in nearby towns, especially in areas with a Mongolian population. It may be more challenging to find these options within the ruins, so it is advisable to plan ahead.
There are basic hotels and guesthouses in the surrounding towns of Alxa Left Banner. For more comfortable accommodations, you may need to travel to Hohhot, which offers a wider range of options.
Souvenir shops are available near the entrance to the ruins, where visitors can purchase traditional Mongolian handicrafts, black stone souvenirs, and small trinkets related to the historical site.
The best transportation options for continuing your trip after visiting the Black City Ruins are by taxi or private car. Public transport options are limited, so private transportation is the most reliable way to explore other nearby attractions.
