Xinjiang

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INTRODUCTION

关于Xinjiang

Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, abbreviated as Xinjiang, is located in northwestern China. Covering an area of approximately 1.6649 million square kilometers, it is the largest provincial-level administrative region in China, accounting for about one-sixth of the country's total land area. As of 2023, the permanent population of Xinjiang is about 25.85 million. It is a multi-ethnic region, with major ethnic groups including Han, Uygur, Kazakh, Hui, and Kirgiz. Historically known as the Western Regions, Xinjiang became an important passage on the Silk Road after Zhang Qian's mission to the Western Regions during the Han Dynasty. In 60 BC, the Western Han established the Protectorate of the Western Regions, officially incorporating it into Chinese territory. Xinjiang boasts rich natural landscapes and cultural heritage, including natural wonders such as the Tianshan Mountains, Kanas Lake, and the Flaming Mountains, as well as world cultural heritage sites like the Jiaohe Ruins and the Gaochang Ruins. Its unique geographical location and diverse cultural integration have formed a pluralistic civilization characterized by Islamic culture, Buddhist culture, and nomadic culture, earning it the reputation of 'the pearl of the Eurasian continent.'

I. Core Natural Landscapes

1. Tianshan Tianchi Lake: Located about 110 km northeast of Urumqi, it is a high-altitude barrier lake formed by ancient glacial debris blocking a river, at an altitude of 1,980 meters. Ticket prices: peak season 155 yuan (April 1 to October 31), off-season 105 yuan (November 1 to March 31). Opening hours: 8:30-19:30 (peak season). It takes about 2 hours by tourist shuttle bus from downtown Urumqi.

2. Kanas Lake: Located in the northern part of Burqin County, Altay Prefecture, about 800 km from Urumqi. The lake surface is at an altitude of 1,374 meters, famous for the mysterious lake monster legend and golden birch forests in autumn. Ticket: 230 yuan (including shuttle bus). Opening hours: 8:00-20:00 (May 1 to October 15). It is recommended to fly from Urumqi to Kanas Airport (about 1.5 hours) and then transfer to a scenic area bus for 1 hour.

3. Turpan Flaming Mountains: Located in the middle of the Turpan Basin, about 30 km from Turpan city. Summer surface temperatures can exceed 80°C. Ticket: 40 yuan. Opening hours: 8:00-21:00. Best viewing time is early morning or evening to avoid midday heat.

SUBREGIONS