HetianKhotan

Hetian, also known as Hotan, is a prefecture-level city in the southwestern part of the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, China. It lies in the Tarim Basin near the Kunlun Mountains and centers on the historic oasis town of Hotan along the Hetian River. The area has a long history as a Silk Road hub, with the ancient Kingdom of Khotan trading jade, silk, carpets, and other goods.

Hetian jade, a form of nephrite jade, has been prized since antiquity and remains a notable product of the region. The oasis has historically attracted traders and artisans, contributing to a cultural landscape shaped by exchanges along routes that linked Central Asia with China proper.

Demographics in the area are predominantly Uyghur, with Han Chinese and other ethnic groups also present. The main languages are Uyghur and Mandarin, and Islam is the traditional religion for many residents. The population centers around urban districts and surrounding agricultural communities.

Economy and land use combine extractive, agricultural, and commercial activities. Jade mining and processing are longstanding industries, while irrigation-based farming supports crops such as cotton and various fruits, including apples and grapes. Local markets and craft workshops reflect traditional trades in textiles and jade objects.

Transport and connectivity include Hotan Airport, which serves the city, along with regional road networks. The area forms part of Xinjiang’s broader transport corridors, linking it with other cities in the southern part of the region and beyond.