The ancient Silk Road passed through the westernmost parts of China, and along this trade route, magnificent civilizations flourished. Yang Chengxi travelled to China's western border to explore one of these historical sites. 

YANG CHENGXI, Taxkorgan, Xinjiang "Look, there over the mountains is the country of Tajikistan, and there is Afghanistan, and over in that direction is Pakistan!"

This is Taxkorgan, a Silk Road outpost in China near the western border. Its role in connecting the East and West has left behind a rich history.

YANG CHENGXI, Taxkorgan, Xinjiang "This site dates back to an estimated 2200 years ago. Much of the area has been destroyed over time."

But in the middle lies the ruins of the inner city, atop a 40-meter tall base, which itself rests on a natural high ground.

YANG CHENGXI, Taxkorgan, Xinjiang "These niches in the walls used to have Buddha sculptures in them. The inner city has the remains of temples and houses: this was a proper metropolis back in the day, the center of a glorious kingdom on the ancient Silk Road."

Adding to its legendary status is the fact that the kingdom had thrived under a particularly harsh climate of this region.

DILISADIK IBRAHIM, Tajik Historian "Although this area was quite treacherous in ancient times, certain attributes attracted horse and camel riding traders along the Silk Road. For example, the region is abundant in water and grass. The popularity of the place was thanks to its geography."

Strolling amidst the ruins, you can still sense the influence of the ancient Silk Road that once gave rise to this mighty city.

YCX, CGTN, Taxkorgan, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.