Silk routes within China as seen in archeological discoveries

The route of the Chinese section of the Silk Road has always varied during its long history. However, three key routes have been identified – the main line (starting in Xian and passing through to Wuquia, to the west of Kashi), and two other routes (both arriving eventually in Wuwei (Liangzhou). Apart from precise literary records, relics such as imported foreign coins (e.g. Byzantine, Sassanian and Arabian), gold- and silver-ware, decorations, glassware and Chinese silk all serve as tangible evidence of significant trade along these three routes.