Historical Site
Heishuiguo Relics
Zhangye, China
1 hour
About
Heishuiguo Ruins lie 12.5 kilometers northwest of Zhangye urban area beside National Highway 312, split into South City and North City separated by two kilometers, surrounded by massive Han, Wei and Jin Dynasty tomb clusters as a national key cultural relic protection site. Once a vital frontier transportation hub on the ancient Silk Road, the South City retains intact rammed-earth city walls and an urn city gate, while the older North City is half-submerged by quicksand with scattered pottery shards, bronze arrowheads and Buddhist pagoda foundations all over the ground. Wind and sand have eroded the city for thousands of years, forming a solemn, desolate desert historical landscape full of ancient frontier legends.
Travel Tips
- The outdoor ruins area is open to all visitors free of charge with no entry tickets required.
- The ground is covered with loose sand, gravel and broken bricks; wear anti-slip closed shoes to avoid sprains.
- There are almost no shade shelters in the desert ruins; strong UV radiation and huge day-night temperature gaps, bring sunscreen, hats and windproof jackets.
- Sandstorms frequently occur in late autumn and winter; check weather forecasts before visiting and avoid windy days.
- Do not climb rammed-earth city walls, dig soil or pick up cultural relic fragments to protect the ancient ruins.
- No restrooms, catering or water supply facilities on site; carry enough drinking water and snacks.
- No direct public buses to the ruins; take a taxi or self-drive, free parking space available at the entrance.
Facilities
Photography Allowed
AdmissionFree Entry
Opening Hours
Mon00:00 - 23:59
Tue00:00 - 23:59
Wed00:00 - 23:59
Thu00:00 - 23:59
Fri00:00 - 23:59
Sat00:00 - 23:59
Sun00:00 - 23:59
Best Time to Visit
April-May & September-Octobermild temperature and soft golden light for ruin photography.