Kashgar, Xinjiang

Zhang Qian Memorial Hall in Shule: A Monumental Tribute to the Pioneer of the Silk Road

Altitude

1,289m

ℹ️

About This Attraction

1.The Zhang Qian Memorial: Hall is a significant historical site located in the center of Shule County, Kashgar Prefecture, Xinjiang. Unlike typical scenic areas, it serves as a profound cultural bridge and a monument to an era of exploration that defined the Ancient Silk Road. Shule itself was a vital kingdom of the Western Regions and a key node on the Middle Route of the Silk Road, making this the ideal location to honor the man who first connected these distant lands to the Han Dynasty.

Historically, the hall commemorates Zhang Qian (approx. 164–114 BC), the Han Dynasty envoy who was sent by Emperor Wu in 138 BC to seek an alliance against the Xiongnu. Although he was captured and spent over a decade in captivity, his eventual escape and arrival in kingdoms like Dayuan and Kangju allowed him to return to Chang'an with detailed reports on the geography and products of the west. His legendary "mission to the west" effectively opened the Silk Road era, facilitating a millennium of trade and cultural exchange between the East and West.

The architectural style of the memorial hall is classic and solemn, integrating Han Dynasty elements with local folk characteristics, symbolizing the fusion of cultures. The focal point of the exterior is a grand statue of Zhang Qian, standing with a staff and gazing toward the western horizon as if facing the desert winds of the past. Inside, the exhibition halls utilize a wealth of historical relics, maps, sand tables, and multimedia displays to systematically recount Zhang Qian's two major missions to the Western Regions. Visitors can see Han Dynasty artifacts, records of the ancient Shule Kingdom, and traditional Kashgar oasis items that illustrate the life and times of this heroic pioneer.

✨ Why Visit Zhang Qian Memorial Hall

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Iconic Statue of Zhang Qian: Gaze upon the grand statue of the pioneer looking west, capturing the spirit of courage and exploration that bridged two civilizations.

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Comprehensive Silk Road Exhibits: Explore detailed sand tables and historical maps that track

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Han Dynasty Heritage: View rare artifacts and cultural relics that provide a glimpse into the military and diplomatic history of the

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Gateway to Shule History: Learn the unique history of the

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Cultural Fusion Architecture: Admire the solemn

Location & Nearby

📍 Showing 6 nearby attractions within 50km

📍 Kashgar, Xinjiang • 🏔️ 1289m elevation

Frequently Asked Questions - Zhang Qian Memorial Hall Travel Guide

Who was Zhang Qian?

He was a Han Dynasty official and explorer.

is situated in the central area of Shule County, near the city of Kashgar in southern Xinjiang. What can I see inside the museum?

The museum features a large statue of Zhang Qian, historical maps of the Silk Road, Han Dynasty artifacts, and multimedia displays of his missions.

When is the best time to visit Shule?

The most comfortable weather.

is between April and June or September and October, when the desert heat is mild. Is Shule historically significant?

Yes, it was one of the major kingdoms of the Western Regions and remains a critical site for understanding early Silk Road history.

✨ Why Visit Zhang Qian Memorial Hall

✦Iconic Statue of Zhang Qian: Gaze upon the grand statue of the pioneer looking west, capturing the spirit of courage and exploration that bridged two civilizations.

✦Comprehensive Silk Road Exhibits: Explore detailed sand tables and historical maps that track

✦Han Dynasty Heritage: View rare artifacts and cultural relics that provide a glimpse into the military and diplomatic history of the

✦Gateway to Shule History: Learn the unique history of the

✦Cultural Fusion Architecture: Admire the solemn