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Bajiao Town Site
Introducing Bajiao Town Site
Bajiao Town Site is a military fortress situated 34 kilometers (21 miles) north of Xiahe County. Bajiao Town Site earned its name from its unique heritage – eight distinct corners adorning its ancient walls.
Echoing the grandeur of the ancient ruins of Yumen Pass and Yangguan, the town distinguishes itself with its unique architectural design. Unlike the ubiquitous square city walls found throughout China, its walls stretch over 2,193 meters (1.36 miles), reaching a height of over 10 meters (30 ft). They were ingeniously crafted using layers of rammed earth, tamarisk branches, and reeds, resulting in a distinctive hollow, cross-shaped layout with eight distinct corners. This strategic design ensured that every corner of the city remained within archers’ protective range, eliminating potential blind spots for invaders. A protective moat further bolstered the town’s defenses, encircling it with an outer wall guarding the crucial gates.
Centuries of slumber couldn’t erase the grandeur of this once-mighty frontier fortress. Re-emerged as a must-see tourist destination, it now draws tens of thousands of visitors seeking to connect with China’s rich past.
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: 2 - 3 x hours
• Things to Do: Photography, History, Architecture
• Opening Hours: All day
• Entrance Fee: CNY20
• Address: 34 km (21.1 miles) northeast of Xiahe County, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu Province
History of Bajiao Town Site
Built during the Han Dynasty (202 BC-220 AD), Bajiao town was a vital transportation hub in the ancient Gansu and Qinghai provinces. Its strategic importance ensured the town remained a vital military outpost throughout the Tang (618-907 AD) and Song (960-1279 AD) dynasties, fiercely contested by both central governments and local ethnic forces such as the Tuyuhun, Tibetan, and Tangut.
However, Bajiao’s prominence began to fade during the Yuan dynasty (1271-1368 AD) and continued to decline under the Ming dynasty (1368-1644 AD). This decline ultimately led to its transformation from a bustling hub of trade and military might into a modest village, home primarily to Tibetan nomads.
What to Expect at Bajiao Town Site
While traversing the enchanting grasslands of Xiahe County, a detour to the historical gem of Bajiao Town is an absolute must. This ancient village, boasting a remarkable 2000-year-old layout, paints a vivid picture of China’s architectural genius. Wander through its timeworn streets, marvel at the traditional architecture, and immerse yourself in the stories whispered by the very stones beneath your feet. Bajiao Town is not merely a stop on your journey, but a journey back in time itself.
Stunning Viewpoint
The viewing platform, perched atop a hill north of town, offers visitors a panoramic vista of Bajiao town and the majestic White Rock Cliffs. From this summit, a truly spectacular scene greets the eye. The town spreads out below, like a four-petaled flower in full bloom, its eight corners jutting out sharply, the shaded sections of its walls gleaming a bluish-white. Beyond the town, vast, windswept grasslands stretch towards the horizon, dotted with grazing cows that appear as black and white spots against the vibrant green. This elevated perspective also provides an ideal vantage point for capturing stunning photographs of the staircase itself, its impressive scale standing in stark contrast to the vast landscape.
Bajiao Village Life
Unlike typical walled cities with their wide avenues, Bajiao Town is a labyrinth of narrow, winding alleys. A recently built road connects it to neighboring villages, but within its heart, the old ways remain. Most villagers make their living through herding, utilizing any space around their single-story homes to cultivate vegetables, fruits, and flowers. Only a few two-story dwellings dot the landscape. Visitors can find peace amidst the countryside, enjoying the unique opportunity to share stories over a cup of locally grown tea with welcoming residents.
How to Get to Bajiao Town Site
• The Bajiao Town Site is located approx. 34 kilometers (21.1 miles) northeast of Xiahe.
• Charter a car/bus from GGC to enjoy a hassle-free transfer to the 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.
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