Western Xia Imperial Tombs | Mysterious Ruins at the Foot of Helan Mountain

| Mysterious Ruins at the Foot of Helan Mountain. Western Xia Imperial Tombs | Mysterious Ruins at the Foot of Helan Mountain There was once a people who crossed mountains and rivers, and after hundreds of years, gradually migrated from the southeastern edge of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau to northwestern China, where they grew and prospered. In 1038, they established the Western Xia Dynasty, a multi-ethnic empire that included the Tangut, Han, Uyghur, and Tibetan peoples. The Western Xia coexisted with the Song, Liao, and Jin dynasties for nearly 200 years, until it was conquered by the Mongol Empire in 1227. All that remains are the vast tombs, standing tall at the foot of Helan Mountain, gazing at the winding Yellow River. They have withstood the sands of time, shining brightly against the towering Helan Mountains, evoking a sense of nostalgia and longing for the past. 📌Tour Route: 1️⃣Western Xia Museum The museum has six exhibition halls, covering the history, culture, religion, art, and social economy of the Western Xia. From the grand layout of the tombs, the unique architecture of the mausoleums, the exquisite glazed components, and the rich stone carvings, we can explore the mysterious history of the Western Xia Dynasty and feel the diverse and long-lasting integration of the Chinese nation. 2️⃣Western Xia Imperial Tombs The Western Xia Imperial Tombs are home to nine imperial tombs and more than 250 accompanying tombs of princes and nobles. It is one of the largest and most complete imperial mausoleums in China, as well as the largest existing Western Xia cultural site. The tombs can be toured by sightseeing bus, with unique Gobi scenery outside the window. The bus stops near Tomb No. 3 (Li Yuanhao's Tomb). After visiting, you can take the bus to continue visiting Tombs No. 1, 2, and 4. Tomb No. 4 requires a horse-drawn carriage to reach. In addition, there is a Western Xia Art Museum near the bus stop, which is worth a visit if you have time.