Stone City Travel Guide
The ruined stone walls atop the Congling Mountains
The Stone City stands on a lonely hill by the Tashkurgan River. The city walls, made of piled-up stones, can be traced back to the Jiepantuo Kingdom of the Jin and Tang periods, making it one of the most important sites in the Congling section of the Silk Road. Below the city lies Jincao Beach, where the rise and fall perfectly frame the dusk of Taxian.
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Destination Details
The castle atop the solitary hill is built with river stones and rammed earth walls, overlooking and guarding the ancient valley route from a high vantage point. During the Tang Dynasty, this place was called Jiepan Tuo, and further ahead was Puli; when Xuanzang returned from his pilgrimage to India, he crossed the Congling Mountains around this area. The remnants of walls, corner towers, and house foundations within the castle are still clearly distinguishable today.
Tour Highlights
- Route: First go up to the Stone City to see the ruins, then descend to Jin Caotan to walk the plank path, two sights with one ticket at dusk
- Highlights: The western walls are best preserved; the southern side offers a view over the valley and the county town
- Note: Altitude is about 3,100 meters; take your time on the steps
Stone City and Jin Caotan are usually visited together with one ticket, and the evening light is the gentlest. The ruins can be very windy between the stones, so make sure your hat is secure.
