Xanadu Ruins

上都遗址

The archaeological remains of Kublai Khan's summer capital, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing Yuan Dynasty history and featuring museum exhibits and excavation sites. This historically significant location offers insights into Mongolian imperial history and medieval grassland civilization.

Things to do

• Explore the Palace Foundation Ruins — Walk among the excavated stone foundations and walls of Kublai Khan's imperial palace complex to visualize the layout of the Yuan Dynasty summer court.
• Visit the Xanadu Heritage Museum — Tour the on-site museum displaying artifacts including pottery, coins, tools, and architectural fragments unearthed from the site.
• Walk the City Wall Perimeter — Hike along the remaining sections of the ancient city walls that once enclosed Xanadu to understand its defensive structure and scale.
• Observe Active Archaeological Excavations — Watch archaeologists working at seasonal dig sites where new artifacts and structures continue to be carefully uncovered and documented.
• Climb the Observation Platform — Ascend the designated viewpoint to survey the entire ruins layout across the grassland and understand the spatial organization of the summer capital.
• Stroll the Grassland Surrounding the Ruins — Experience the authentic Mongolian steppe landscape that once formed the hunting grounds and pastoral setting of the imperial court.

Food to try

• Lamb Hotpot (羊肉火锅) — A traditional Mongolian dish of tender lamb slices cooked in a steaming broth at your table, reflecting the pastoral heritage of the region.
• Milled Millet Porridge (小米粥) — A simple, locally-prepared grain porridge that has sustained grassland communities for centuries and remains a staple comfort food.
• Mongolian Roasted Mutton (蒙古烤羊肉) — Meat seasoned with regional herbs and slow-roasted over open flame or in traditional earth ovens, showcasing nomadic cooking traditions.
• Dairy Products from Local Herds — Fresh yogurt, airag (fermented mare's milk), and cheese made by local herding communities using traditional methods passed down through generations.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect the Sacred Grassland — The site sits on living pastoral land still used by herders; stay on marked paths and avoid disturbing grazing areas or livestock.
• Best Visit Season is Summer — May through September offers the most pleasant weather, accessible excavation sites, and the grassland in full bloom; winter roads can be difficult.
• Hire a Local Guide — Guides from nearby towns provide essential context about Yuan Dynasty history, point out subtle architectural features, and share stories of the region's nomadic heritage.