Machi Ancient City Ruins

Introducing Machi Ancient City Ruins

The ruins of the ancient city of Machi are located about 800 meters northwest of the Machi Township Government in Jiuyuan District, Baotou City. The ancient city is adjacent to the Machi-Harlinger Highway in the south.

The city is divided into two parts, north and south, which are connected in an oblique "Lv" shape with an 8-degree angle. The north city is 690 meters long from north to south and 720 meters wide from east to west.

The South City is 600 meters long from north to south and 640 meters wide from east to west.

Flat tiles, tubular tiles, ridge tiles and other building materials as well as pottery fragments such as jars, basins, bowls and beans are scattered on the surface of the ancient city. "Wuzhu" coins, iron field pieces, iron shovels and copper arrowheads are often unearthed.

The Great Wall of the Warring States Period, Qin Dynasty and Han Dynasty in Baotou area are mostly roughly square in shape and distributed in a very regular pattern. They are generally located on the main transportation routes north and south of Yinshan Mountain. The ancient city of Machi faces the southern entrance of Kunlun Valley, and obviously has an important military position.

In terms of area, the north and south cities of the ancient city of Machi are both over 650×650 square meters in area, making them county-level city sites.

Climate and best time to travel

Temperate continental climate, suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

long time

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

---

Most Popular FAQs for Machi Ancient City Ruins

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

Machi Ancient City is an ancient city that dates back to the Tang Dynasty and once served as a strategic point along the Silk Road. The ruins are important for understanding the region’s history of trade, culture, and the interactions between the Chinese and Central Asia.

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

The Machi Ancient City Ruins are located in Baotou, Inner Mongolia. It is best accessed by taxi or private car from the city center. There are no metro or bus lines directly to the site, but it’s a short drive from Baotou’s main attractions.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The site is open year-round and accessible during daylight hours. The best times to visit are in the spring or autumn when the weather is mild and pleasant for outdoor exploration. Morning and late afternoon visits are ideal for avoiding midday heat and capturing great photos.

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

The entrance fee is usually around 20-30 CNY, which can be paid on-site. Tickets are available at the entrance, and there is no online booking system for this site.

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

No, advance booking is not necessary for visiting the Machi Ancient City Ruins. You can purchase tickets directly at the site upon arrival.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You will need around 1 to 2 hours to fully explore the Machi Ancient City Ruins. The site is not very large, but it offers fascinating historical insights, which can take some time to fully appreciate.

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

The most notable highlights are the city walls, ancient gates, and remnants of the central area, where you can get a sense of how the city was structured. The ruins are sparse but provide a clear glimpse of the past, especially in relation to Silk Road trade routes.

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

Guided tours are available at the site, typically in Mandarin. Audio guides may not be available, so it is recommended to bring along a local guide or join a group tour for a more informative experience.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are at the ancient city walls, which provide sweeping views of the surrounding desert landscape. Sunrise or sunset offers the best lighting for photographs of the ruins against the dramatic sky.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the main entrance gates and walk along the ancient city walls. Then, move towards the central area where you can find the most well-preserved sections of the city. Finish by visiting any remaining ruins scattered around the site for a complete experience.

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

There are no night visits or light shows at the Machi Ancient City Ruins. Special tours are available during the day, and it’s recommended to visit during daylight hours for the best experience and safety.

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

The Machi Ancient City Ruins are generally not crowded. Weekdays are less busy compared to weekends, and early mornings or late afternoons are the least crowded times to visit.

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

There are basic facilities like public toilets at the entrance. However, there are no restaurants or shops directly at the ruins. It’s advisable to bring your own water and snacks.

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

The Machi Ancient City Ruins are located in an open, outdoor area with some uneven surfaces, which may be difficult for elderly visitors or those with mobility issues. It’s suitable for children, but some assistance may be needed for elderly or disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is typically required for entrance fees. Mobile payments are not commonly accepted at the site, so it’s best to carry some cash with you.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no restaurants or cafes inside the site. However, nearby Baotou offers a range of local eateries where you can enjoy traditional Mongolian and Chinese dishes.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and halal options are available at restaurants in Baotou, which serves traditional Mongolian and Xinjiang cuisines.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Hotels near the Machi Ancient City Ruins include budget and mid-range options in Baotou. Popular choices are the Baotou Huitong Hotel and Jinjiang Inn, which are within driving distance of the site.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Other nearby attractions include the Baotou Museum and the Wudangzhao Monastery. Both can be easily combined with a trip to the Machi Ancient City Ruins.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are no souvenir shops at the ruins themselves, but in Baotou, you can find shops selling local Mongolian handicrafts such as jewelry, textiles, and artwork, which make excellent souvenirs.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Taxis or private car rentals are the best way to continue your trip after visiting the ruins. Alternatively, you can take a local bus to Baotou city center for further travel.