Tourist Cities along the Silk Road

Xian - the Origin of the Silk Road： The Silk Road was originally opened in 139 BC during the Western Han Dynasty, when Emperor Wu ordered Zhang Qian to visit western regions from the capital - Xian (called Chang’an in the old times). As the origin of the Silk Road and an old capital of 13 Dynasties, Xian offers many wonderful historic sites and cultural experiences.

Dunhuang - the Most Important Post along the Silk Road: Appreciate the finest Buddhist art in the Oriental Louvre and the magic desert view with a never-dry lake!
As the westernmost city in the Hexi Corridor, Dunhuang held a strategic post along the Silk Road. With many goods, handicrafts, religions and cultures from central China and other regions in central Asia or Europe mixed here, it became a flouring trade and cultural center. Lots of historic relics are preserved in Dunhuang, including world-famous Mogao Grottoes.

Kashgar - the Convergence of North and South Route of the Silk Road: Get a memorable cultural and spiritual exploration in the essential part of Xinjiang!
Kashgar in Xinjiang is a must-be-visited site if you are seeking for the authentic Xinjiang atmosphere and the essence of the Silk Road culture. It is honored as the fusion of the Eastern and Western cultures, and various ethnic groups and different spiritual believes coexist here till now. In addition to cultural significance, an amazing plateau landscape can be viewed as well.

Turpan - A Veritable Oasis in the Desert: Discover the ancient city ruins, mysterious villages and sweet grapes in China’s most burning city!
Turpan is the hottest city in China, and its highest temperature can reach over 40 °C. However, it can easily enjoy coolness in the mud buildings or green vineyards because of the irrigating project of Karez System. There are also many historic sites in Turpan, from which travelers can take an insight into the brilliant culture of the Silk Road as well.

Jiayuguan - Crucial Transportation Hub on the Silk Road: See the westernmost fortress of the Great Wall of the Ming Dynasty!
Jiayuguan is most famous for its fortress situated at the end of the portion of the Great Wall of the Ming Dynasty. Unlike other sections built with stones or bricks, Jiayuguan Great Wall was built with rammed earth. The yellow hue of the pass blends harmoniously with the surrounding desert. Till now, it is still a great stop between Zhangye and Dunhuang for travelers.

Zhangye - Magical Rainbow Mountains: Be awed at the most spectacular Danxia Landform and Grottoes Temple Hanging on the Cliff!
Zhangye, literally translated as extending arm, excerpted from a phrase “to extend the arm of the country through to the Western Realm”. It is an important trade center holding a strategic position in the Hexi Corridor. Many historic sites can be found in Zhangye. Now, it is also attractive with its beautiful Rainbow Mountains in Danxia Geopark - colorful Zhangye Danxia.

Lanzhou - Transfer Center in Northwestern China: Enjoy an easy transfer to Lanzhou and start to discover the essence of the Silk Road!
Jiayuguan is most famous for its fortress situated at the end of the portion of the Great Wall of the Ming Dynasty. Unlike other sections built with stones or bricks, Jiayuguan Great Wall was built with rammed earth. The yellow hue of the pass blends harmoniously with the surrounding desert. Till now, it is still a great stop between Zhangye and Dunhuang for travelers.

Major Destinations to Go: Xian, Luoyang, Dunhuang, Zhangye, Jiayuguan, Lanzhou, Qinghai, Urumqi, Turpan, Kashgar, Kucha, Hotan, Tianshui, Ningxia...

Top Tourist Attractions to Visit: Xian Terracotta Warriors, Dunhuang Mogao Caves, Zhangye Danxia Landform - Rainbow Mountains, Qinghai Lake, Heavenly Lake, Jiaohe Ancient City, Kashgar Old Town, Karakul Lake...

Best Time to Go: Generally, months from April to October are the best time, because the temperature is moderate and pleasant, the weather is good and the natural scenery is the most beautiful during this period.