Kuqa - Ruins of Subashi

Subashi Temple was a Buddhism temple, which was built in the first century and reached its peak during the sixth to the eighth centuries in the Sui and Tang dynasties. In the Tang Dynasty (618 - 907), the hierarch Xuanzang was pulled by the splendor of the temple and the popularity of Buddhism in this area, and stayed here for more than 2 months on his way to India to get Buddhist sutra. Then over 10 thousand monks and many hierarchs came from the interior of China to promote and develop Buddhism here. In the ninth century, the temple was destroyed by wars and never recovered. Only pagodas, murals and other discoveries witness the prosperity and wane in this land.
 

Best Time to Visit

The spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) months are the most comfortable times to visit, as the weather is mild and ideal for exploration. Summers in the region can be scorching hot, while winters can be cold, with the possibility of snow.
 

History of Subashi Temple

The Subashi Temple, initially built in the 1st century CE, was a vibrant center of Buddhist worship and learning. Its location in the oasis city of Kuqa made it a crucial stop along the ancient Silk Road, a network of trade routes that connected East and West. The temple's strategic position enabled it to play a pivotal role in spreading Buddhist teachings across Central Asia and beyond.
 

During the 6th to 8th centuries, Subashi reached its peak, particularly during the Sui and Tang dynasties. It was in this golden age that the temple attracted monks, scholars, and pilgrims from across China and beyond. The most famous visitor was the renowned Buddhist monk Xuanzang, who stayed here for more than two months in the 7th century. Xuanzang’s journey to India to retrieve Buddhist scriptures is legendary, and his stay at Subashi Temple was a testament to the temple's importance as a hub of Buddhist activity.
 

At its height, Subashi Temple was home to over 10,000 monks and numerous Buddhist hierarchs, all dedicated to the study and promotion of Buddhism. However, the temple’s fortunes began to decline in the 9th century due to invasions and wars that ravaged the region. By the 13th century, with the spread of Islam throughout Xinjiang, Subashi was abandoned, and its once-grand structures fell into ruin.
 

Today, the site remains a powerful symbol of the ebb and flow of religious and cultural influences in Central Asia, offering valuable insights into the spread of Buddhism along the Silk Road.
 

What to See at the Subashi Ruins

The Subashi Ruins are a treasure trove of archaeological finds. Though much of the original architecture has been lost to time and natural decay, there are still many fascinating remnants to explore.

Pagodas
The most striking feature of the Subashi Ruins are the remains of ancient pagodas. These towering structures once served as religious landmarks, guiding pilgrims to the temple and acting as symbols of Buddhist devotion. Today, visitors can still admire the intricacy of these structures, which stand tall amidst the desert landscape.
 

Murals
The walls of the temple once featured elaborate Buddhist murals depicting scenes from Buddhist teachings, celestial beings, and important figures in Buddhist history. Some of these murals have survived in fragments, offering a glimpse into the artistic richness of the Tang dynasty. The vivid colors and intricate designs still evoke the beauty and spirituality of the temple’s heyday.
 

Buddhist Sculptures

Several Buddha statues and other sculptural works have been uncovered at the site, many of which exhibit the distinct style of Buddhist art that flourished during the Tang Dynasty. The craftsmanship and attention to detail in these sculptures speak to the temple's significance as a center of religious devotion.
 

Ruins of the Monastic Complex

The foundations of the temple’s monastic buildings, including meditation halls and living quarters for monks, are still visible. These ruins offer a tangible connection to the daily life of the monks who once resided here, providing visitors with a sense of the scale and structure of the temple complex.
 

Artifacts and Relics
Excavations at the site have uncovered numerous artifacts, including pottery, coins, and Buddhist relics, which further illuminate the life and culture of the time. These artifacts are often displayed in nearby museums or on-site, offering a deeper understanding of the temple’s historical context.

 

How to Get There

The Subashi Ruins are located about 23 kilometers (14 miles) northwest of Kuqa County, which is in the Aksu Prefecture of Xinjiang. The most common way to reach the ruins is by private vehicle, but there are also local buses or taxis that can take you from Kuqa to the site.
 

For those traveling to Kuqa, the easiest way to reach the area is via Kashgar, which is about 400 kilometers (250 miles) away. From Kashgar, you can take a long-distance bus or a private car to Kuqa and then continue to the Subashi Ruins.
 

Tips for Visiting the Subashi Ruins

1. Wear Comfortable Footwear: The ruins are spread over a large area, and the terrain can be uneven, so it’s essential to wear sturdy shoes for walking.

2. Bring Water and Snacks: The site is located in a semi-desert region, so it’s a good idea to carry water and snacks with you. There are few facilities at the site, so plan ahead.

3. Respect the Site: As with all historical and religious sites, be respectful when visiting the ruins. Avoid climbing on the structures or touching the delicate murals, and always be mindful of the cultural significance of the site.

4. Hire a Guide: While the site is accessible independently, hiring a local guide can enrich your experience. Guides can provide detailed information about the history of the site and explain the significance of various murals and artifacts.