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Located in Shanshan County, Turpan Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, the Desert Earth Art Museum sits at an altitude of 140 meters, not far from the Huoyan Mountain Scenic Area, nestled along the lush Mutougou River. The museum features unique cultural landscapes and artistic sculptures. Founded through the tireless efforts of artist Zhang Wenge, the museum revives the splendor of Western culture within Huoyan Mountain. The scenic area, themed around the Journey to the West, is a grand cultural landscape that attracts numerous visitors with its unique artistic style.
Temperate continental climate, summer
Huoyan Mountain, Mutougou River, Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves, 1 hour
The Desert Earth Art Museum is dedicated to the preservation and celebration of the region's unique desert earth art, a tradition that reflects the interaction between local culture and the harsh desert environment. The museum showcases art created using materials from the desert itself, highlighting the ingenuity of local artists and their connection to the natural world.
The Desert Earth Art Museum is located in Turpan, Xinjiang. It can be accessed by taxi or private car from the city center. Public transport options are limited, so using a taxi is the most convenient way to reach the museum.
The museum is open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day. The best time to visit is early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy the exhibits with fewer crowds.
The entrance fee is approximately 50 RMB per person. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through the museum's official website.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance unless you are visiting during peak tourist seasons (summer or holidays). Booking tickets a few days ahead is recommended during these times.
Allow about 2-3 hours to explore the museum and its surrounding outdoor installations. If you're interested in participating in a workshop, plan for an additional 1-2 hours.
Guided tours are available in Chinese and English. Audio guides are also offered in multiple languages, including Mandarin and English, to enhance the visitor experience.
Start with the indoor exhibitions to get a sense of the history and significance of the art. Then, explore the outdoor installations, which are scattered across the desert, with the option to take part in a hands-on workshop.
Currently, there are no night visits or light shows at the Desert Earth Art Museum. However, special tours may be available during festivals or peak seasons, so it's worth checking the museum's schedule before your visit.
The museum can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times to visit are weekdays, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon.
The museum is generally accessible, with paved paths and ramps for visitors with mobility challenges. However, the outdoor installations may require walking on uneven terrain, which may be difficult for some visitors.
Cash payments are accepted, but mobile payment options (like Alipay and WeChat Pay) are the most commonly used. Credit cards are rarely accepted.
There are several hotels in Turpan that offer convenient access to the museum. Recommended options include the Turpan Oasis Hotel and the Karamay Hotel, both located within a short drive of the museum.
The museum's souvenir shop sells local art, crafts, and handmade desert earth sculptures. Other typical souvenirs from the region include Xinjiang silk products, dried fruits, and traditional jewelry.
After visiting the Desert Earth Art Museum, taxis or private cars are the best way to continue your journey. If you're heading to nearby attractions, local buses may be available but are less frequent.
