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The Ejina Banner Green City Ruins is an ancient site where visitors can explore the remnants of the city that once thrived along the ancient Silk Road. Explore the ruins of city walls, buildings, and fortifications, and enjoy a glimpse into the past of the Mongol Empire. Hiking around the ruins is also a popular activity to fully appreciate the scale and historical significance of the site.
The Green City Ruins of Ejin Banner, located in a desert area approximately 45 kilometers southeast of Dalaikubu Town, Ejin Banner, Alxa League, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, are an oval-shaped city site with an inner and outer city covering approximately 120,000 square meters. A building similar to an urn city stands in the northeast corner of the site, though its age and purpose remain unverified. The area also houses large-scale, complex remains from various periods. The area boasts over 60 high-rise buildings from the Western Xia Dynasty, five temple sites, and five earthen pagodas. Numerous Han and Jin dynasty tombs, as well as housing and military farm sites from various periods, are also scattered throughout the area. Surface strata also contain coarse red pottery with sand inclusions and fragments of painted pottery with a red background and black glaze.
Climate: Temperate continental climate
Best travel time: June to October
1-3 hours
Tickets: 150 yuan
The Ejina Banner Green City Ruins date back to the time of the Mongol Empire and are considered one of the most important archaeological sites in the region. The ruins are believed to be the remnants of a once-thriving city that played a key role in the Silk Road trade network. The site provides a significant understanding of the ancient cultures and civilizations that once inhabited the area.
The Ejina Banner Green City Ruins are located in Alxa League, Inner Mongolia. The most common way to get there is by taxi or private vehicle. Public transportation options are limited, so it's recommended to rent a car or take a guided tour for easier access.
The ruins are open throughout the year, but the best times to visit are during spring and autumn when the weather is milder. It is best to visit during the daytime, with morning hours being less crowded.
The entrance fee is typically low or free, but fees may vary depending on the time of year or special events. Tickets can usually be purchased on-site. It is recommended to check for any changes in pricing or availability before visiting.
Booking in advance is generally not required, but it can be useful during peak travel seasons or for special tours. You can book tickets a few days in advance if needed.
You will need approximately 2 to 3 hours to explore the ruins, including walking around the site, reading information panels, and taking photographs.
The main highlights include the well-preserved remains of the city walls, gates, and residential areas. The ancient fortifications provide a glimpse into the layout of the city, and the surrounding desert landscape offers great opportunities for scenic views and photography.
Guided tours are available and typically offered in Chinese. It is recommended to arrange for a private tour if you need an English-speaking guide, as most tours may not have English-speaking guides readily available.
The best viewpoints are from the high points of the ancient city walls and gates. The panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape are perfect for photography, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Start your exploration at the main entrance and proceed to the central square, where the ruins of public buildings are located. Then walk along the city walls, moving toward the outer gates, and finish with a walk around the fortifications and surrounding desert areas.
Night visits and light shows are not typically available at the site. However, the ruins are best explored during daylight hours for the best visibility and to appreciate the details of the historical structures.
The ruins are generally not very crowded. Weekdays, especially in the morning, are the least crowded times to visit. Avoid national holidays and peak tourist seasons for a more peaceful experience.
Facilities are basic, with toilets available at the site. There are no food vendors or rest areas directly at the ruins, but there are local shops and restaurants in nearby towns where you can rest and eat.
The site is relatively accessible for most visitors, though some areas may require walking on uneven terrain. Elderly or disabled visitors may need assistance, especially in navigating the ancient walls and fortifications.
Cash is generally accepted, but mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay may also be available. It's a good idea to carry some cash, especially in more remote areas.
There are no restaurants or cafes inside the ruins, but you can find simple local restaurants in nearby Ejina Town where you can try regional specialties like lamb and roasted meats.
Vegetarian and halal food options are available in nearby towns, with a focus on Uyghur cuisine, including grilled vegetables, breads, and meat dishes prepared according to halal standards.
There are basic accommodations in Ejina Town, including guesthouses and small hotels. If you are looking for more luxurious options, you may need to travel to larger cities like Alxa or Yinchuan.
Other nearby attractions include the Ejina Poplar Forest, which is famous for its ancient poplar trees, and the Great Wall of China at Jiayuguan, a UNESCO World Heritage site. These can be visited on a day trip from the ruins.
Souvenir shops are available in nearby Ejina Town, where you can purchase local handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry, particularly items inspired by Mongol and Uyghur cultures.
After visiting the ruins, you can take a taxi or hire a private car to explore nearby attractions. Public buses may be available for certain routes, but they are less frequent and less convenient than private transportation.
