Introducing Karez Museum
The Turpan Karez Museum is located within the Karez Folk Park at No. 888, Xincheng Ximen Village, Yaer Township, Turpan City. With an investment of 2.4 million yuan, this unique museum aims to promote the Karez culture and showcase its rich history and culture. In other words, the Turpan Karez Museum is an ancient "underground Great Wall" transformed into a museum.
From a distance, this unique building has an elegant appearance. If you know Turpan, you will know that the slope of the building, which is higher in the north and lower in the south, represents the characteristics of Turpan; the circular part in the middle of the building, the square openings on both sides, and the blue part of the semicircular building in the middle represent the four components of the karez; the earth-colored flower holes on the circular building represent Turpan's folk characteristic building - the raisin drying room; the square in front of the museum represents the Turpan Basin.
Climate and best time to travel
Suitable all year round
Recommended number of days and locations for visiting
Recommended visit time: 1-2 hours
Tickets
40 yuan/person
Attraction opening hours
8:00-17:00
Most Popular FAQs for Karez Museum
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
The Karez Museum preserves the ancient Karez irrigation system, which allowed communities in Turpan to survive in an arid desert. It demonstrates advanced engineering techniques developed over centuries and reflects the cultural and economic significance of water management in Xinjiang.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
- Located near Turpan city, Xinjiang, adjacent to the Grape Valley region.
- Accessible by taxi or private car from Turpan city center.
- Some tour buses to Grape Valley include a stop at the Karez Museum.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- Open daily, generally 8:00–17:30.
- Best to visit in spring or autumn to avoid extreme summer heat.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
Entrance fee is around 40 CNY, tickets can be purchased at the museum entrance or via local travel agencies.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
Booking is optional but recommended during peak tourist seasons; 2–3 days in advance is usually sufficient.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
About 1–2 hours are enough to explore the tunnels, exhibits, and outdoor areas.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- Underground Karez tunnels and water channels
- Museum exhibits explaining Turpan’s irrigation history
- Interactive displays demonstrating water flow
- Outdoor reconstructed Karez wells and structures
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
Guided tours are available in Chinese; English-language guides can be arranged via local travel agencies. Audio guides are generally not provided.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- Entrance courtyard showing the Karez well structures
- Inside the underground tunnels for unique perspectives
- Exhibit areas with historical diagrams and water channels
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
- Start at the entrance → visit the outdoor wells → descend into the tunnels → explore exhibits and interactive displays → finish at the gift shop or outdoor viewpoint.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
Night visits and light shows are not available. Special guided tours may be arranged through travel agencies.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
Less crowded on weekdays and outside Chinese public holidays. Early mornings are preferable to avoid groups.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
Basic facilities include restrooms, water fountains, shaded rest areas, and a small souvenir shop.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
Partially accessible; some tunnels involve stairs or narrow passages, so elderly or disabled visitors may need assistance. Children can explore safely under supervision.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
Cash is accepted; Alipay and WeChat Pay are also widely used for tickets and purchases.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- Small cafes and snack vendors near the museum entrance
- Restaurants in nearby Grape Valley serving Xinjiang cuisine
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Halal options are available; vegetarian snacks such as fruit, bread, and nuts can be found nearby.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- Hotels and guesthouses in Turpan city center
- Accommodations near Grape Valley and Flaming Mountain
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Grape Valley
- Flaming Mountain
- Jiaohe Ancient City
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- Miniature Karez models
- Local handicrafts and textiles
- Dried fruits and nuts from the region
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- Taxi or private car back to Turpan city
- Combine with a tour to Grape Valley or Flaming Mountain using local shuttle services
- Car rental for visiting multiple nearby attractions in a day
