Exploring the Enigmatic Remnants of the Western Xia Dynasty - The Black City in Alxa League

Introduction:

Nestled in the desolate expanse of desert and dunes, the Black City (Hei Cheng), also known as Heishuicheng, stands as the most well-preserved and grandiose ancient city ruins along the historic Silk Road. Situated approximately 26 kilometers southwest of Dalaibuhu Town, the Black City shares its vicinity with the two-thousand-year-old Red City ruins, the historical Datong City ruins encompassing both Sui and Tang dynasties, and the eerie graveyard of the Populus Euphratica forest – the Grotesque Poplar Forest. All these landmarks coalesce within a single scenic area.

Upon entering the gates of the scenic area, visitors embark on a journey along a designated route, exploring the Grotesque Poplar Forest, the Red City, Datong City, and finally, the Black City. During the National Day holiday, the scenic area operates internal sightseeing vehicles shuttling between different attractions (30 RMB per ride). While these vehicles offer frequent trips, it's crucial to note that during peak periods, especially when returning from the Black City to the main entrance, boarding may become challenging. Covering a distance of over ten kilometers, the journey from the entrance to the Black City takes approximately half an hour. Presently, the sightseeing vehicles only operate during the National Day holiday; however, visitors can rent vehicles from the town to enter the scenic area during other times, and local drivers are exempt from purchasing admission tickets.

The Historical Significance of the Black City:

Also known as Heishuicheng, the Black City served as a vital military fortress and defensive stronghold on the northern border during the Western Xia Dynasty. Moreover, it played a crucial role as a relay station on the Yuan Dynasty's communication route connecting the Hexi Corridor to the northern provinces. Once surrounded by vast green oases, this 14th-century city witnessed the gradual depletion of its water sources, resulting in the poignant image of a solitary city ruin amidst the sea of sand.

The ancient city walls of the Black City, with each side measuring over two hundred meters, featured gates on the east and west sides. Today, remnants include the south wall and the ruins of the south gate. Inside the city, towards the southwest, a relatively well-preserved ancient church stands, with its dome and wall patterns resembling those of Islamic mosques. Although many areas have succumbed to drifting sands, discernible remnants of streets and building walls still resonate within the city. At the northwest corner of the city wall, a pagoda with a bowl-shaped top is visible even from ten kilometers away. In the vicinity outside the city, not far from the Great Pagoda, lie two groups of earthen pagodas, although only the bases remain. The entire site exudes a sense of desolation and tragedy.

Visitor Information:

  • Duration: Plan for 1 to 3 hours of exploration.

  • Transportation: To reach the scenic area:

    1. There is no public transportation from the town to the scenic area. The one-way charter fee is approximately 60 RMB (on regular days).

    2. If chartering a car from the town to the scenic area and touring within the area (including from the Grotesque Poplar Forest to the Black City) before returning to town, the round-trip car fee varies from 100 to 120 RMB (on regular days), with no admission fee for local drivers.

    For National Day holiday sightseeing buses:

    1. Many shuttle bus trips are available, but they tend to be crowded. Physical stamina is required to secure a spot. The shuttle bus stops at two stations within the Grotesque Poplar Forest and one station in the Black City.

    2. If disembarking at the "Second Station" within the Grotesque Poplar Forest and walking approximately ten minutes, visitors can reach the Red City.

    3. There is a station in Datong City, but few tourists currently visit due to barriers surrounding the site. If disembarking at this station, prior communication with the driver is necessary.

Conclusion:

Embark on a captivating journey through the remnants of the Western Xia Dynasty at the Black City in Alxa League. Immerse yourself in the historical significance, architectural marvels, and the poignant beauty of this once-thriving military fortress. The Black City stands as a testament to the ebb and flow of time, resonating with tales of conquest, trade, and the relentless march of the desert sands. Explore the enigmatic allure of this ancient city and uncover the mysteries embedded in its weathered walls and silent corridors.