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At Yuan Shangdu, visitors can explore the historic ruins of the Yuan Dynasty’s capital, enjoy scenic walks through the surrounding steppe, and learn about Mongolian culture and history. The site is great for photography, especially for its unique architecture and landscapes. Visitors can also participate in local cultural activities, including traditional Mongolian games and performances.
The Yuan Dynasty Shangdu Ruins are located within the Wuyi Pasture of Zhenglan Banner, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, on the north bank of the Lightning River, upstream of the Luan River. During the Jin Dynasty, the Shangdu area was known as Jinlianchuan or Liangxing. The Jingming Palace, home to the ruins, served as a summer retreat for the Jin emperors. The theme of the Inner Mongolia Yuan Dynasty Shangdu World Heritage application is the backdrop of the cultural relics and grassland landscape, highlighting the historical and cultural value and unique historical significance of the Yuan Dynasty Shangdu.
The ruins of Shangdu City still exist today, with the city walls largely intact. Remnants of buildings and street layouts within and outside the city walls can still be vaguely seen; standing on the platform outside the city walls, one can vaguely discern the original layout of the houses. Currently, the ruins of Shangdu City from the Yuan Dynasty are the largest, highest-ranking, and best-preserved of any grassland city site in my country.
Temperate continental climate;
Suitable for all seasons
It is recommended to play for 1 to 2 hours
30 yuan/person
6:00-18:00
Yuan Shangdu, also known as the Yuan Dynasty Capital Ruins, was established by Kublai Khan in the 13th century. It was the capital of the Yuan Dynasty before the capital was moved to Beijing. The site is historically significant as the center of Mongol rule and a key cultural and political hub during the Yuan Dynasty.
Yuan Shangdu is located in the Xilingol League of Inner Mongolia. The nearest city is Hohhot, which is accessible by train or flight. From Hohhot, visitors can take a taxi or bus to the site. Public transportation within the site is limited, so private transportation is recommended.
The site is open year-round, but the best times to visit are from May to October when the weather is pleasant. Summer months tend to be the busiest. The site is open daily, generally from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
The entrance fee is around 50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance or in advance through local tourism platforms or travel agencies.
It’s not mandatory to book tickets in advance, but it’s recommended during peak tourist seasons, especially in the summer months. Booking a day or two in advance is usually sufficient.
A visit to Yuan Shangdu generally takes about 2 to 3 hours, depending on how much time you wish to spend exploring the ruins, taking photos, and learning about the site’s history.
Must-see highlights include the ruins of the imperial palace, the temple areas, and the layout of the city walls. The panoramic views of the surrounding steppe are also a major attraction.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some tours may offer English-speaking guides. Audio guides are also available in Mandarin, with some offering English translations for foreign visitors.
The best photography spots are near the ruins of the imperial palace, where you can capture both the historic structures and the vast steppe in the background. The view from the top of the city wall offers an excellent vantage point for panoramic shots of the area.
The recommended route is to start with a visit to the main ruins, followed by a walk through the city walls and temple areas. Take your time to explore the open steppe and enjoy the natural beauty surrounding the ruins. If you have more time, participate in local cultural experiences.
Night visits are not typically offered, but the site is occasionally open for special events and cultural performances during festivals. It is best to visit during the day for optimal sightseeing and photography.
The site can be crowded during the summer months and national holidays. The least crowded times are in the early mornings or late afternoons, particularly on weekdays outside of peak tourist seasons.
Basic facilities such as toilets, water stations, and rest areas are available. There are small local shops selling souvenirs and refreshments, but for a wider variety of food, visitors may need to travel to nearby cities.
The attraction is mostly accessible for elderly and children, though some areas may have uneven terrain. For visitors with mobility issues, it is recommended to check with the local tourism office for specific accessibility information.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and credit cards are accepted at most points within the site. However, it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases in remote areas.
There are limited dining options near Yuan Shangdu, with local restaurants offering traditional Mongolian cuisine. For more options, visitors can head to the nearest city, Hohhot, which has a wider selection of restaurants.
Vegetarian and halal food options are available at some local restaurants in Hohhot, but options near Yuan Shangdu are limited. It is recommended to check ahead if you have specific dietary requirements.
There are a few mid-range hotels in the nearby town, but most visitors stay in Hohhot, where a wide range of accommodations is available, including budget and luxury options.
Nearby attractions include the Da Zhao Temple and the Hohhot Museum. These can easily be combined in a day trip from Hohhot, which is about 1.5 hours away from Yuan Shangdu by car.
There are souvenir shops at Yuan Shangdu selling traditional Mongolian items such as jewelry, wool products, and handmade crafts. Common souvenirs include locally produced textiles, souvenirs with Mongolian symbols, and souvenirs featuring the ruins themselves.
The best transportation options to continue your trip are by private car or taxi. Visitors can return to Hohhot via taxi, bus, or a private vehicle for further travel to other destinations in Inner Mongolia.
