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Visit the historical General's Building to learn about the military significance of the region, enjoy the architecture and surrounding landscapes, and explore the nearby historical and cultural sites in the Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture.
Located in Korla City, Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, the General's Tower is within the Tiemenguan Scenic Area. It was built in memory of Ban Chao. During the Eastern Han Dynasty, Ban Chao subdued the Xiongnu, who were vying for hegemony in the Western Regions, stabilizing the dynasty's northwestern frontier. Ban Chao once led his troops through Tiemenguan and watered his horses by the Kongque River. To commemorate General Ban Chao, later generations built the General's Tower in front of Tiemenguan as a tribute. In 1994, a two-story replica of the ancient building was rebuilt on the site of the former General's Tower, which is now the General's Tower.
Temperate continental climate, summer
Tiemenguan, 1 hour
free
08:00-20:00 (Monday-Sunday, January 1st-December 31st)
The General's Building in Xinjiang is historically significant as it served as a military headquarters during the Qing Dynasty. It played a key role in the strategic defense of the region. The architecture reflects the cultural blend of Chinese and Central Asian influences.
The General's Building is located in Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang. It can be accessed by taxi or private car from the nearby city of Korla. Public transportation options are limited, so taxis are the most convenient way to get there.
The building is generally 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 pleasant, and the area is less crowded.
The entrance fee is around 30-50 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or through local tourism websites, especially during peak tourist seasons.
It is advisable to book tickets in advance during peak tourist seasons (spring, summer) to avoid long lines. Booking 1-2 days before your visit should be sufficient.
It typically takes 1-2 hours to explore the General's Building and its surroundings. If you're interested in local history and the surrounding area, you may want to allocate more time.
Key highlights include the main hall of the General's Building, the military artifacts on display, and the surrounding courtyards and gardens that offer views of the region's rugged landscapes.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and sometimes in English during peak seasons. Audio guides may also be offered in Chinese and occasionally in English.
The best photography spots are around the building’s exterior, with the surrounding desert landscapes and distant mountains in the background. The inner courtyards also provide great framing for photos.
Start with the main entrance, explore the courtyards and exhibitions, and then head to the observation points for panoramic views. If time permits, walk around the surrounding area to see the old fortifications and military structures.
Night visits and light shows are not typically offered. The attraction is best visited during the day to fully appreciate the architecture and surrounding landscape.
The General's Building is not typically crowded except during major Chinese holidays. The best times to visit for fewer crowds are weekdays, especially in the off-season (fall and winter).
There are basic facilities including public toilets, rest areas, and small shops near the entrance selling souvenirs and local snacks. There are no large food courts, so bringing your own water and snacks is recommended.
The General's Building is accessible to most visitors, but some areas may be challenging for those with mobility issues due to stairs and uneven pathways. It's recommended to check for specific accessibility services upon arrival.
Mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are accepted, as well as credit/debit cards. However, carrying some cash is advisable, especially for small purchases or in case mobile payment systems are down.
There are limited dining options near the General's Building. Most visitors head to Korla for a wider variety of restaurants. In Korla, you can find traditional Xinjiang food, including lamb dishes and pilaf.
Vegetarian and halal options are available in Korla, as the region is home to many Uyghur communities who offer a variety of halal dishes. Inside the park area, however, food options are more limited.
For accommodation, you can stay in Korla, where a range of hotels is available, from budget to mid-range options. Some popular hotels in Korla include the Shanshui Hotel and Korla International Hotel.
Nearby attractions include the Taklamakan Desert, the ancient city of Loulan, and the Desert Culture Park. These sites can easily be combined in a day trip from the General's Building.
Souvenir shops are available near the General's Building, offering traditional Uyghur handicrafts, carpets, and textiles. You can also find local spices, dried fruits, and jewelry as souvenirs.
After visiting, taxis and private cars are the most convenient way to continue your trip. Public buses and trains are available from Korla, which connects to major cities in Xinjiang and beyond.
