Turfan

Turfan, also spelled Turpan, is a city in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of China. It serves as the administrative center of Turpan Prefecture and lies at the eastern edge of the Tarim Basin, within the Turpan Depression near the Flaming Mountains. The city experiences an arid climate with extremely hot summers and very low annual rainfall.

Historically, Turpan was an important oasis city on the Silk Road, linking Central Asia with China. The area preserves ancient urban sites such as the Jiaohe Ruins and the Gaochang Old City, which illustrate the region's role as a trading and cultural crossroads. The Emin Minaret, a landmark built in the late 18th century, stands on the edge of the town.

Water supply for this desert oasis has traditionally relied on the karez, a network of underground canals that bring water from nearby mountains. The karez system enabled irrigation and sustained agriculture, especially grapes and other fruits.

Economy and culture: Turpan is renowned for grape production, raisins, and fruit processing. The city has a predominantly Uyghur population with other ethnic groups, and Uyghur is commonly spoken alongside Mandarin in commerce and administration.

Attractions: Jiaohe ruins, Gaochang ruins, the Emin Minaret, the Flaming Mountains, and nearby pastoral sites draw visitors. The city is a base for exploring the Turpan Basin and Silk Road heritage. Today, Turpan is served by road and rail connections and remains a center for agriculture and tourism in Xinjiang.