Cheng-Ting way-station

A way-station in Cheng-Ting was one of many such way-stations positioned along the Old Silk Road, owing their allegiance to Kublai Khan. It was run by Wang-Lo and had a stable, a courtyard, and a Hanging garden.

In 1289, the First Doctor, Susan, Barbara, and Ian stayed in the way-station in the city during their journey to Shang-Tu with Marco Polo's caravan. While there they tried to effect their escape, after Ping-Cho stole the TARDIS key for Susan, however Susan was caught by Tegana before she could reach the TARDIS. (TV: "Rider from Shang-Tu") The caravan left the next day at dawn, heading for an Inn along the road to Shang-Tu. Later, worried for any punishment she might receive for stealing the key (as well as her impending marriage to a man four times her age) Ping-Cho returned to the way-station, after fleeing the wrath of Marco. Ian soon caught up with her in the way-station, however, but the pair were soon accosted by Tegan once again. (TV: "Mighty Kublai Khan")