Yarkand

Yarkand, also known as Shache, is an oasis city in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of China. Located in the southwestern part of the Tarim Basin, it sits at the confluence of the Yarkand River and the Kashgar River. Historically, Yarkand was a significant stop on the southern branch of the Silk Road, a vital trade route connecting East Asia with Central Asia and beyond. Its strategic position facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures for centuries.

The city's economy has long been based on agriculture, particularly the cultivation of fruits such as melons, apricots, and grapes, benefiting from the fertile oasis environment. Yarkand has a rich history and a diverse cultural heritage, influenced by Uyghur, Turkic, and Chinese traditions. The population is predominantly Uyghur, with a significant Han Chinese minority. Architectural remnants and historical sites within and around Yarkand attest to its past importance, although modern development has transformed much of the urban landscape. The Yarkand River, a major artery of the Tarim Basin, plays a crucial role in the region's water supply and agricultural productivity. The area continues to be an important agricultural and cultural center within Xinjiang.