Turpan

Turpan sits 154 meters below sea level in China's Xinjiang region, making it the world's second-lowest depression. Summer temperatures reach 47°C, yet you'll find endless green vineyards thriving thanks to the ancient Karez water tunnels. Walk through the carved streets of Jiaohe's 2,000-year-old ruins, watch the sun set on the red sandstone cliffs of Flaming Mountain, or browse evening markets where vendors sell sweet local grapes and hot plates of hand-pulled noodles.

Grape Valley and Wine Production

In Grape Valley, 10 kilometers from central Turpan, wooden trellises create long corridors where more than 15 varieties of grapes grow across 200 hectares. Visit between June and August to taste grapes directly from the vines. Watch local families dry raisins in traditional mud-brick houses with distinctive ventilation holes. Many families welcome visitors to see the drying process and buy fresh grapes or raisins.

The Ancient Karez System

Walk through 5,000 kilometers of underground tunnels that bring mountain water to Turpan's farms and homes. At the Turpan Karez Paradise museum, you'll see life-sized models showing how workers dig and maintain these tunnels. The museum displays tools, water containers, and other items found in different tunnel sections. You can descend into a section of real tunnel to experience the engineering that has kept Turpan green for 2,000 years.

Local Food and Markets

When the sun sets and temperatures drop, head to the central market where cooks grill lamb kebabs and bake Nang bread in clay ovens. Try Zhua Fan (rice eaten with hands) at the night market near the bus station. The grape night market sells more than 20 varieties of grapes and raisins. Local restaurants serve black tea and mare's milk alongside their main dishes.

Climate and When to Visit

Plan your visit for September or October when temperatures become mild and grapes reach full ripeness. Summer days regularly hit 40°C, while winter nights drop below freezing. If you visit in summer, explore early morning or after sunset. Temperature swings of 20°C between day and night are common, so pack both light clothes and warm layers.

Ancient Cities of the Silk Road

Walk the streets of Jiaohe Ancient City, perched on a plateau 10 kilometers west of Turpan. The city's earth-carved houses, temples, and government buildings line clearly defined streets dating from 60 BC. At the Gaochang Ruins, 20 kilometers from Turpan, explore three concentric city walls and several Buddhist temples. The site includes living quarters, military posts, and religious buildings spread across 2,000 square meters.

Getting Around

The city center takes about 30 minutes to cross on foot. For sites outside the center, take a taxi or join a tour. Buses run every hour between Turpan and Urumqi (3 hours). The Turpan North Railway Station connects to China's high-speed rail network but sits 50 kilometers from the center - shuttle buses make this connection every two hours. Within the old town, you might spot traditional donkey carts still used by some residents.