Xiaoshe Tai Yinshan Rock Carvings

Xiaoshe Tai Yinshan Rock Carvings

Xiaoshe Tai Yinshan Rock Carvings

The Xiaoshe Tai Yinshan Rock Carvings are located 600–800 meters north of the Qin Dynasty Great Wall in Xiaoshe Tai. To date, four sites with a total of over 70 rock carvings from the Bronze Age have been discovered. The carvings depict images of shepherds, hunters, ibexes, hunting dogs, horses, donkeys, and more. These ancient petroglyphs were engraved on quartz vein rocks, locally referred to by herders as the “Red Wall.” It runs parallel to the black stone Great Wall, stretching from east to west, resembling two giant dragons—one black and one red—slowly dancing across the Yin Mountains, adding to the appeal and mystique of the Xiaoshe Tai Qin Great Wall.

The creators of these rock carvings were ethnic minorities who once lived in the area. Their origins span from the Bronze Age through the Warring States, Qin, and Han periods, with some carvings gradually added after Emperor Qin Shi Huang ordered General Meng Tian to construct the Great Wall here. Additionally, plant fossils and algae fossils have been discovered in this region. These precious rock carvings add significant archaeological and research value to the Qin Great Wall. Currently, the cultural relics authorities have carried out preliminary restoration work on this section of the wall, making it highly scenic.