Gaochang Ancient City — Ruins Like an Ancient Roman City

🌟 Gaochang Ancient City: A Millennium-Old Silk Road Legacy

Gaochang Ancient City is located at the foot of Flaming Mountains in Turpan, Xinjiang. It was an important hub on the ancient Silk Road. Built in the 1st century BC by the Western Han military agricultural troops, it was once one of the largest international trade centers in the Western Regions. The ancient city’s layout mimics the Tang Dynasty Chang’an City, divided into outer city, inner city, and palace city, earning it the title "Chang’an’s replica far in the Western Regions." It witnessed the history of multi-ethnic exchanges and religious coexistence. Artifacts unearthed here include 18 scripts and 25 languages, vividly showcasing the profound influence of Chinese culture on the Western Regions.

✅**Main Highlights**:
- **Buddhist Sites**: Xuanzang preached here during his westward journey and became sworn brothers with the King of Gaochang.
- **Religious Coexistence**: Ruins of Buddhist, Manichaean, and Nestorian churches stand side by side, demonstrating harmonious coexistence.
- **Khan Fortress**: The palace of the Gaochang king, where Xuanzang set up his preaching tent.

🌟**Best Time to Visit**: July to September. The weather is cool, fruits are ripe, and you can feel history amid the vast desolate ruins while enjoying Turpan’s sweet grape feast.

🚗**Itinerary**:
- **Morning**: Visit the Buddhist temple ruins at the southeast corner of the outer city to experience the historical scene of Xuanzang’s preaching.
- **Afternoon**: Explore the Khan Fortress and palace city ruins to appreciate the style of Tang Dynasty Chang’an.
- **Evening**: Stroll through the ancient city ruins and capture dramatic shots in the sunset glow.

🍴**Food Recommendations**:
- **Must-Try Specialty**: Piyazi naan with yogurt zongzi, savor the authentic flavors of Huozhou.
- **Recommended Restaurant**: Restaurants around GreenTree Inn Hotel (Old City West Road branch).

✈️**Transportation Guide**:
- **By Air**: After arriving at Turpan Airport, take a taxi or tourist shuttle (about 40 minutes).
- **By Bus**: Take a bus or tourist shuttle from Turpan Bus Station (Tourist Shuttle Line 1 goes directly).

🏨**Accommodation Recommendations**:
- **Recommended Hotel**: GreenTree Inn Hotel (Turpan Old City West Road branch), with a prime location and convenient transportation.
- **Best Location**: Choose accommodation around Gaochang District Old City for easy access to attractions.

👧**Family Tips**:
Turpan summers are hot and windy. Prepare sun-protective clothing, hats, plenty of water, and sunscreen for children. The site is open and exposed to the sun, so visiting in the evening is recommended to avoid heatstroke. Bring a small telescope for kids to observe site details and spark their interest in history.