Washixia Ancient City Ruins
瓦石峡遗址
The ruins of an ancient city from the Song and Yuan dynasties, about 75 km southwest of the county seat. Potsherds and smelting remains are scattered across the surface, making it suitable for archaeology enthusiasts.
The Washixia site lies in the desert near Washixia Town. It is a key national cultural relic protection unit and is generally believed to have been a settlement on the southern Silk Road during the Song and Yuan dynasties. Glass fragments, coins and iron-smelting remains have been unearthed here. The city walls have largely collapsed, though house foundations and ash pits survive. The site has essentially no visitor facilities and no fixed opening hours. To get there, head along G315 or in the direction of the Hotan–Ruoqiang railway, then ask locals for directions once in Washixia Town. Collecting potsherds or metal objects at the site is strictly forbidden. On desert roads, check your vehicle's condition and carry supplies.
Opening hours
No fixed opening hours
Nearby sights
- Ruoqiang Jujube Orchards
- Loulan Museum
- Taitema Lake
- Altun Mountains
- Miran Ruins
- Loulan Ancient City Ruins
- Lop Nur