Bajiao Town Site

Introducing Bajiao Town Site (from CGTN & Xinhua.net)
Visit the 2000-year-old Han dynasty town of Bajiao, whose remarkable 12-sided walls still shelter a small living community. Bajiao Ancient Town preserves a large number of cultural relics from the Southern and Northern Dynasties (420 BC - 589 BC) to Qing dynasty. The name Bajiao, which literally means "eight angles" in Chinese, comes from the unique formation of its exterior walls which have eight corners. Historical records show that it was once an important military stronghold in western China and an important stop along the ancient Silk Road. This site is well preserved, and has been listed as the national key cultural relic protection unit in Gansu Province in 1981.

Bajiao Town Site Fast Facts
• Chinese Name: Ba Jiao Gu Cheng 八角古城
• Best Time to Visit: June to September
• Recommended Visiting Hours: 3-4 hours
• Things to Do: Photography, History, Architecture
• Opening Hours: All day
• Entrance Fee: CNY20
• Address: 35km north of Xiahe County, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu Province

What to expect at Bajiao Town Site
The total length of the city is 2,193 meters, and the city covers an area of 200,000 square meters with a moat outside. More than 100 households of herders still live in the town and graze their cattle on pasture surrounding it. People can walk through the city and experience its peace and tranquility, like going back in time to the old days. As you approach Bajiao, you will see the amazing White Rock Cliffs. At the foot of these cliffs, there is a small monastery and monk village.

 

How to get to Bajiao Town Site
• Bajiao Town Site is approximately 35 km away from Xiahe and 261km from Lanzhou.
• Take a long-distance bus from Lanzhou South Bus Station or Lanzhou Passenger Transport Center to Xiahe County (3.5 hours). Upon arrival, take a taxi to the site.
• Rent a car/bus from GGC to enjoy a hassle free private transfer from hotels in Xiahe or Lanzhou to Bajiao Town Site.

Additional travel advice on Bajiao Town Site
• There is no official ticket office at the site. Someone will ask you to pay for the admission at the entrance of the town site.