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Karez Folk Custom Park
Introducing Karez Folk Custom Park
The Ancient City of Jiaohe is nestled in the Yarnaz Valley west of Turpan. The Ancient City of Jiaohe is the largest and best-preserved earthen city of its kind globally. Perched atop a steep cliff on a leaf-shaped plateau, Jiaohe (river junction) strategically commanded the passage between two deep river valleys, making it a formidable military fortress. Serving as the heart of the Jushi Kingdom, this city thrived as its capital from 108 BC to 450 AD but was abandoned due to relentless wars.
Spanning 0.47 square kilometers (116.14 acres), the layout of the ancient city echoes the grandeur of the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD) capital Chang’an, while retaining a distinct character. Remnants of bustling marketplaces and imposing government offices whisper of its former economic and political significance. Serene Buddhist temples provide insights into the spiritual lives of Jiaohe’s inhabitants, while humble houses, military training grounds, and defensive trenches paint a vivid picture of daily life lived under the constant threat of invasion.
In recognition of its role in connecting cultures along the Silk Road, the Ancient City of Jiaohe was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2014 as part of the “Silk Roads: the Routes Network of Chang’an-Tianshan Corridor,” a joint nomination by China, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. Today, it stands as a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of ancient architectural prowess.
Karez Folk Custom Park Fast Facts
• Chinese Name: Kǎn’érJǐng MínSúYuán 坎儿井民俗园
• Best Time to Visit: April to October
• Recommended Visiting Hours: 1 - 2 x hours
• Things to Do: Photography, Architecture, History and Culture, Folk Custom
• Opening Hours: 9:30 – 20:30
• Entrance Fee: CNY40
• Address: 30-168 Ximen Village, Gaochang District, Turpan, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region
What to Expect at the Karez Folk Custom Park
Step into the Karez Folk Custom Park and uncover the ingenious ways desert dwellers “made a way out of no way” for generations. Explore the fascinating museum dedicated to the Karez irrigation system, feast your eyes on the lush grape garden flourishing thanks to this ancient technology, and savor authentic regional dishes at the park’s restaurants. This educational park will inspire a newfound appreciation for the delicate balance of life in the desert.
Karez Museum
Opened in 2007, the Karez Museum offers a unique exploration of the ingenious Karez irrigation system. The journey begins with a descent into a 100-meter-long (328 ft) underground passage – a segment of an actual ancient water channel. This immersive experience, where visitors can feel the cool air and imagine the flow of water from centuries past, is enriched by surface-level exhibits featuring photographs, artifacts, and models that systematically illustrate the Karez system’s history, structure, water distribution, and functionality.
Grape Vineyard
The Grape Vineyard in the park is a feast for the senses. A beautiful trellis, adorned with lush grapevines, forms a verdant canopy, casting cool shade upon the pathway below. Clusters of plump, sweet grapes dangle invitingly, their aroma mingling with the scent of sun-warmed earth. Triangular flags in vibrant red and gold flutter in the breeze, adding a festive air. Tourists and locals alike stroll beneath the leafy arches, some sampling the juicy grapes, others capturing the picturesque scene. This bounty of grapes and raisins offers a delightful glimpse into the agricultural heritage of Turpan.
Folk Song & Dance Restaurant
For a delicious way to beat the heat of Turpan, delight your senses in the traditional Uyghur cuisine. Enjoy the hearty Big Plate Chicken and the savory hand-pulled Lagman noodles, balanced by the crispy Sangza and refreshing Grape Juice. As you dine, lose yourself in the energy of traditional Uyghur song and dance, where captivating melodies and graceful movements weave together tales of their rich history and heritage.
How to Get to the Karez Folk Custom Park
• The Karez Folk Custom Park is located approx. 12 kilometers (7.4 miles) west of Turpan.
• Charter a car/bus from GGC to enjoy a hassle-free private transfer to the Karez Folk Custom Park.