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Yutian County, known as "Keriya" in Uyghur, is named after the Keriya River. Located in southern Xinjiang, at the northern foot of the Kunlun Mountains, it borders the Tibet Autonomous Region to the south, Cele County to the west, and the Taklamakan Desert to the north, along with Shaya County in Aksu Prefecture. It is a predominantly Uyghur minority settlement.
Yutian County, a vast expanse of flat land, boasts vast mountain pastures, plateau villages, desert sunsets, pastoral songs, and the majestic Kunlun Mountains. It was a key town along the southern route of the ancient Silk Road. South of the county, in Kashgar Tashtag (meaning "Jade Mountain"), is home to five jade mines, including the world-renowned Alamas, earning it the ancient reputation of "the Hometown of White Jade."
At present, there are many ancient sites scattered along both sides of the Keriya River and into the heart of the desert. Traces of ancient human activities from more than 10,000 years ago are still preserved to this day, such as the Kaladun and Dandan Uilik sites excavated by archaeologist Stein.
Yutian County has a warm temperate inland arid desert climate with distinct four seasons, large temperature differences between day and night, and frequent wind, sand, dust and other disasters in spring and summer.
Recommended play time: 1 day
Yutian, also known as Hotan, is historically significant as an ancient trade route town in the Silk Road. It was a hub for the exchange of goods, cultures, and ideas between the East and West. The region is known for its rich history, which includes the famous Yutian Ruins and its long-standing role in the spread of Buddhism, arts, and culture.
Yutian is located in the southern part of Xinjiang, China, within the Hotan Prefecture. It is accessible by taxi, bus, or private car from Hotan city, which is about 100 kilometers away. There is no metro service in this area, but buses and taxis are commonly used for transport.
Most attractions in Yutian are open year-round, typically from 9 AM to 6 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is milder. Summer can be very hot, while winter is cooler but less crowded.
The entrance fees for major attractions like the Yutian Ruins or the Yutian Museum typically range from 20 to 50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance or through local tour agencies. It's advisable to buy tickets in person, as online booking may not always be available.
Booking tickets in advance is usually not necessary for most attractions. However, if you're visiting during peak tourist seasons, such as holidays or festivals, it's a good idea to book a few days in advance, especially for special tours or events.
You can explore the key attractions in Yutian, such as the Yutian Ruins and local markets, in about half a day. If you're planning on visiting multiple sites, including the desert or participating in a tour, a full day might be necessary.
Guided tours are available at major attractions like the Yutian Ruins and the Yutian Museum. Tours are typically offered in Mandarin, but some guides may speak English if requested in advance. Audio guides may also be available at some sites.
Start by visiting the Yutian Ruins to immerse yourself in the ancient history of the region. Then, head to the Yutian Museum for more cultural context. Afterward, enjoy a visit to the local markets for souvenirs and traditional Uyghur food. If time allows, consider a camel ride or a desert tour to experience the region's natural beauty.
Night visits and light shows are not commonly available in Yutian. However, some special cultural tours or festivals may occur during specific times of the year. It's worth checking with local tourism offices for any seasonal events or performances.
Yutian is generally not very crowded, except during holidays and peak tourist seasons. Weekdays, particularly outside of summer, are the least crowded times to visit. Early mornings are also a quieter time to explore the sites.
Most attractions, like the Yutian Ruins and Museum, have basic facilities such as toilets and drinking water. Local markets provide a range of food options, including traditional Uyghur dishes. There are also rest areas in parks and some tourist spots. Shops are available in the local markets for souvenirs.
Most of the main attractions in Yutian, like the Yutian Museum and local markets, are accessible to elderly and children. However, the Yutian Ruins and desert tours may involve rough terrain or walking, which could be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors.
Cash is still commonly used in Yutian, especially in markets and smaller shops. However, mobile payment methods such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted in larger establishments and for transportation.
Halal food is widely available, with many restaurants offering vegetarian options such as vegetable stews, flatbreads, and fresh salads.
Yes, there are souvenir shops in the local markets, selling Uyghur textiles, carpets, spices, and traditional jewelry.