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Located in Shengya Township, Turpan Prefecture, Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, the Sand Therapy Center offers visitors a unique sand therapy experience. Turpan, long known as the "Fire Continent," boasts sand temperatures reaching 60°C in midsummer, making summer the ideal time for treatment. The center utilizes sand burials, a method used by the people of the inland desert region of Northwest China to treat illnesses using the unique climate and geography of the region, offering visitors a unique experience.
Temperate continental climate, summer
Red River Valley, Grape Valley, 1-3 hours
The Sand Therapy Center in Turpan is part of a growing wellness trend in China, utilizing natural elements like sand to promote healing. Turpan itself is known for its unique desert environment, which provides the perfect conditions for sand therapy, believed to have ancient roots in traditional healing practices.
The Sand Therapy Center is located in Turpan, Xinjiang. The most convenient way to reach it is by taxi or private car from the city center, as public transport options are limited. It is about a 30-minute drive from Turpan’s main attractions.
The Sand Therapy Center is open daily, typically from 9 AM to 6 PM. The best time to visit is during the cooler months, from March to May and September to November, as the summer heat can be intense in the desert.
The entrance fee for the Sand Therapy Center is approximately ¥80-¥150, depending on the type of therapy session you choose. Tickets can be purchased at the center, and some tour operators may offer package deals that include tickets and therapy sessions.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance for general visits, but for specific therapy sessions or group bookings, it is advisable to reserve at least a few days in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Typically, a visit to the Sand Therapy Center takes about 1 to 2 hours. This allows enough time to experience the sand therapy sessions, explore the facilities, and enjoy the surrounding desert scenery.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and occasionally in English with prior arrangement. Audio guides may be provided for self-guided visitors, though they are primarily in Chinese.
Begin with a guided tour of the facilities, then try the sand therapy sessions. Afterward, take a short walk outside to enjoy the tranquil desert surroundings and relax in one of the rest areas.
Night visits and light shows are not available at the Sand Therapy Center. It is best to visit during the daytime to experience the therapy sessions and desert environment.
Weekends and holidays tend to be busier, especially during the summer. The least crowded times are on weekdays, particularly in the morning or late afternoon during the off-peak seasons (spring and autumn).
The Sand Therapy Center is accessible for elderly and children, though the sand therapy itself may not be suitable for everyone. Disabled visitors should check with the center in advance regarding specific accessibility features, as the terrain can be uneven in some areas.
Mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted, and credit cards are often usable. However, it's recommended to carry some cash as well, especially in smaller shops or for smaller transactions.
There are a few local guesthouses and hotels in Turpan that offer convenient access to the Sand Therapy Center. For a wider range of accommodation, you can stay in Turpan city, which is about 30 minutes away by car.
Souvenir shops inside or near the Sand Therapy Center offer local handicrafts, including Uyghur textiles, pottery, and wellness-related products such as herbal teas and natural oils.
Taxi services are available for onward travel to nearby attractions in Turpan or the surrounding desert areas. Alternatively, renting a car or booking a local tour can be convenient for further exploration of the region.
