Danggar Ancient City

What are the most recommended things to do in Danggar Ancient City?

Walk through the ancient city walls and gates to experience historical architecture.
Explore traditional Tibetan-style streets and houses.
Visit local temples and cultural sites inside the city.
Shop for handmade crafts and local souvenirs.
Try local Qinghai Tibetan cuisine at small eateries inside the city.
Attend cultural performances or festivals if available during your visit.

Introducing Danggar Ancient City

The main street in the city, which is less than a kilometer long, connects buildings such as the City God Temple, the Confucian Temple, and the Dangar Hall. The quiet streets and alleys crisscrossing each other, the residential courtyards with unique structures, the magnificent temples, the well-preserved "Xiejia" shops, and the Huangyuan lanterns with different styles carry a rich multicultural message.

The Gonghai Gate, the western gate of Dangar, originates from the Qiang custom of offering sacrifices to the sea. Officials performing the sacrifices would pass through this gate westward to Qinghai Lake to meet the West Sea God. "Gong" means "to bow," and "hai" means "to offer sacrifices to the sea," both expressions of respect. The tower houses large display panels and unique historical photographs. Dangar Hall, built in the ninth year of the Daoguang reign and converted into the Huangyuan County Office in the second year of the Republic of China, offers a fascinating display of court proceedings.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons, best in summer

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

1-2 hours

Fire Ancestor Pavilion

Fire Ancestor Pavilion, originally built during the Qianlong reign of the Qing Dynasty, commemorates the Fire God, Yan Emperor. With a history of over 200 years, the main structure stands 14 meters tall and covers an area of 202 square meters. In 1982, it was designated a provincial-level cultural relic protection site and is known as the "First Pavilion in the Upper Reaches of the Huangshui River." It has become a landmark of the ancient city of Danggar.

Fengsheng Street

Fengsheng Street, located outside the ancient city of Dangar, was built because the city itself was originally overcrowded with shops and could not accommodate more businesses. It stands as a testament to the ancient city's thriving commerce. In the 23rd year of the Kaiyuan reign of the Tang Dynasty (732 AD), the first tea-horse trade fair on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau was established at Sun Moon Mountain. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, this trade gradually shifted to Dangar. Historical records show that during the Jiaqing and Daoguang reigns of the Qing Dynasty, annual trade reached 2.5 million taels of silver, six to seven times that of Xining Prefecture. By 1924, the 13th year of the Republic of China, commercial trade reached its peak, with over 1,000 businesses and handicraftsmen, employing over 5,000 people, and total trade exceeding 5 million taels of silver. Merchants flocked to the city, thriving trade, earning it the nicknames "The Commercial Capital of the Sea" and "Little Beijing," becoming a major trading center and livestock distribution hub in western China.

Yingchun Gate

The East Gate of Dangar Ancient City. There are two gates in the ancient city: the west gate is called Gonghai Gate, and the east gate is called Yingchun Gate. "Yingchun" aptly expresses the people of the high-altitude and cold regions' hope for the revival of all things and the welcome of visitors from all directions. Passing through this gate, you truly enter the ancient city of Dangar.

Tickets

80.00 yuan

Attraction opening hours

08:00~18:00

Most Popular FAQs for Danggar Ancient City

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Danggar Ancient City is a historic settlement reflecting Tibetan and Qinghai regional culture. It was historically a trade and cultural hub, preserving traditional architecture, local customs, and Tibetan Buddhist heritage.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The city is located in Xining, Qinghai. Visitors can reach it by taxi, local bus, or ride-hailing services. Walking is possible within the ancient city once you arrive.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Typical opening hours are 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Morning or weekday visits are recommended for fewer crowds and more relaxed exploration.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance fees vary seasonally. Tickets can usually be purchased at the entrance; some travel platforms or local tourism websites offer online booking options.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking in advance is recommended for weekends, holidays, or festival days, usually 1–3 days prior.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Allow 2–4 hours to explore the main streets, temples, and cultural exhibits.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Main city gates and walls
Traditional Tibetan-style houses and streets
Local temples and shrines
Cultural performance areas
Markets and craft shops

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours may be available in Mandarin; audio guides are limited and usually provided in Chinese.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

City walls and gates for panoramic views
Main streets with traditional architecture
Temple courtyards
Local markets and cultural performance areas

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main city gate, follow the perimeter walls, explore the central streets, visit temples, and finish with the market areas.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits may be limited. Some festivals or special events may include evening cultural shows—check the local schedule in advance.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The site can be busy on weekends and holidays; weekdays and early mornings are the least crowded times.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Facilities include public toilets, small eateries, rest areas, and souvenir shops throughout the city.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Most areas are pedestrian-friendly, but some ancient streets may have uneven surfaces. Elderly and disabled visitors may need assistance on certain paths.