Sūbāshí was a Buddhist complex that thrived from the 3rd to the 13th centuries. It's less visited than other ancient cities in Xīnjiāng, but with it's starkly beautiful desert setting, is a highlight for many travellers in the region. Most people visit the west complex, with its large central vihara (monastery) and two large pagodas, but the dramatic eastern complex across the Kuqa River is worth the hike.
A return taxi to Sūbāshí, 23km northeast of Kuqa, costs about ¥80 to ¥100; you’ll need to pay extra waiting time if you want to visit the eastern ruins.
