Turpan: an oasis of grapes in Xinjiang

Asia » China » Xinjiang » Turpan
July 17th 2013

Published: July 17th 2013

I believe there are 3 places that stand out in Xinjiang province in terms of popularity. The first one is naturally Urumuqi because it’s the capital of the province and it’s also the largest and most developed city in this huge province. The second one is Kashgar because of its location in the far west of Xinjiang. It’s the gateway to Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan or Pakistan and it’s the heart o... Read Full Entry

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Jeremy Chiron

Jeremyaroundtheworld

I am a 36-year old language teacher, currently working in Beijing. I was born in France but China has been my home for many years. I taught French and English in Fuzhou, Fujian Province, for 6 years. I never thought I would stay in China for such a long time but it’s been an amazing experience! Professionally speaking, teaching Chinese students is extremely rewarding. They are so hard-working and eager to learn new things. And then China… there aren’t enough words to describe this intricate (hence fascinating) country. “China is not to be liked or disliked: i... full info

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The Monkey King from Journey to the West

at the Flaming Mountains

entering Gaochang ancient city

map of Gaochang painted on the Gate

I thought it was hilarious that they had painted the map on the main entrance gate and nowhere else later on for us to get oriented

visiting Gaochang

in Gaochang

A busy trading center, it was a stopping point for merchant traders traveling on the Silk Road. It was destroyed in wars during the 14th century, and old palace ruins and inside and outside cities can still be seen today. The ruins are located 30 km southeast of modern Turpan.

the ancient city of Gaochang

Gaochang

Gaochang was built in the 1st century BC, it was an important site along the Silk Road. It played a key role as a transportation hub in western China. The Jushi kingdom invited the Chinese Han dynasty to take over, and pledged their allegiance. In 327, the Gaochang commandery was created by the Former Liang under the Han Chinese ruler Zhang Gui, set up a military colony/garrison, and organized the land into multiple divisions. Chinese colonists from the Hexi region and the central plains also settled in the region.

walking around Gaochang

Now THIS is a door!

storing grapes to dry

18th July 2013

Home and Away
Bob Carlsen

Actually Turpan is -154m below sea level...
the third lowest depression in the world. But it's a true oasis...thanks for the pictures with all the vineyards.

18th July 2013

Jeremyaroundtheworld
Jeremy Chiron

you're right about the depression being below sea Level, but ...
I think the city of Turpan is built 30m above sea level. You check for me?

18th July 2013

Home and Away
Bob Carlsen

You're right...
the town is +30m above sea level!

21st July 2013

Dancing Dave
David Hooper

Flaming Mountains
Camels & magestic eroded mountains...place of dreams

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Turpan: an oasis of grapes in Xinjiang

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