Located just 25kms outside the city of Yinchuan, the Western Xia Tombs are a great daytrip destination for those interested in culture and history.
This magnificent site consists of nine majestic tombs and 253 lesser tombs. Recreated as an imitation of the Song Tombs in Gongxian County, each of the majestic tombs is distinctly different from the others, making exploring a rewarding experience.
The Western Xia Kingdom was founded a little less than 800 years ago and was finally overthrown in the 13th century by Genghis Khan. Although tourists are not permitted to enter the tombs, wandering around them is an awe-inspiring experience, surrounded by deserted and shaded by the forests of Mount Helan.
The tombs are situated in a rectangle and face north and nearby, visitors will find a number of large statues which appear to have been carved from the desert. With large features and teeth, these appear to be the guardians of the tombs, although their actual function is unknown.
It can naturally get rather hot in the desert, so visitors are advised to take plenty of provisions such as water, a sunhat, suntan lotion and good walking sandals.
Getting There & Away
The Western Xia Tombs are best reached from Yinchuan as the city has its own airport (Yinchuan Hedong) with flights to major domestic cities such as Beijing, Chengdu, Dalian and Xi’an. Buses regularly run from Yinchuan’s large bus station to the Western Xia Tombs in 20 minutes.