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Located in Gaochang District, Turpan City, Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, the Uyghur Ancient Village is a large museum complex covering over 20,000 square meters. It showcases the history and culture of Jiaohe Ancient City and offers visitors a glimpse into the authentic Uyghur customs and traditions, preserving the history and lifestyle of the Uyghur people. With a profound Uyghur historical and cultural heritage, the village showcases the living environment, daily life, and culinary culture of the local ethnic minority, embodying aspects of Uyghur life, labor, and customs, drawing numerous visitors.
Continental arid desert climate, summer
Turpan Flaming Mountain, Grape Valley, 1-2 hours
35 yuan
09:00-20:00 (Monday-Sunday, January 1st-December 31st)
The Uyghur Ancient Village in Turpan showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Uyghur people. The village has preserved its traditional lifestyle, architecture, and agricultural methods, particularly its famous karez irrigation system, which is vital to the region's survival in the arid climate.
The Uyghur Ancient Village is located in the Turpan region of Xinjiang, China. It is accessible by taxi or private vehicle from Turpan city, approximately 10 km away. Public transportation options are limited, so it is best to take a taxi or arrange a local tour.
The Uyghur Ancient Village is typically open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild, and on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds.
The entrance fee for the Uyghur Ancient Village is approximately 50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site, and it is recommended to check local tourism websites or platforms for online booking options if available.
It is generally not necessary to book tickets in advance, though booking online may be useful during peak tourist seasons (summer or public holidays). Booking 1-2 days in advance should suffice during busy periods.
A visit to the Uyghur Ancient Village typically takes about 2-3 hours to explore, including time spent walking around, visiting workshops, and learning about the local culture and history.
Guided tours are available, typically in Mandarin, though some guides may offer tours in basic English. Audio guides in Mandarin and possibly in English may also be available.
The best photography spots are near the traditional Uyghur homes and the karez wells. The surrounding desert landscape and the village's ancient architecture also offer beautiful shots, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Start with the entrance to the village, where you can learn about the history of the karez irrigation system. Proceed to the artisan workshops, then explore the traditional homes. End the visit with a cultural performance, if available.
Night visits or light shows are not available at the Uyghur Ancient Village. It is best visited during daylight hours to fully appreciate the village's atmosphere and activities.
The village can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. The best times to visit are weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler and crowds are thinner.
Basic facilities such as toilets, water, and rest areas are available. There are a few small shops where visitors can purchase snacks, water, and souvenirs. Local food may also be available for purchase from nearby vendors.
The village is accessible for elderly visitors and children, though some parts of the village, such as the karez wells and traditional homes, may require walking on uneven terrain. Disabled access may be limited in some areas.
Cash is accepted, and mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly used in the area. Credit cards may not be accepted, so it is advisable to carry cash or use mobile payment options.
There are no formal restaurants inside the Uyghur Ancient Village, but nearby villages offer traditional Uyghur food such as lamb kebabs, pilaf, and naan bread.
Traditional Uyghur cuisine is predominantly halal, with plenty of vegetarian-friendly options like stuffed vegetables, bread, and rice dishes.
Several hotels are located in Turpan city, including options like the Turpan Hotel and the Silk Road Hotel. These are about 10-15 minutes by taxi from the Uyghur Ancient Village.
Souvenir shops near the Uyghur Ancient Village sell local crafts such as handmade carpets, embroidered clothing, traditional pottery, and Uyghur-style jewelry.
Taxis or private vehicles are the best way to continue your journey from the Uyghur Ancient Village. Public transportation is limited in the area, so a taxi is the most convenient option for traveling to other attractions.
