Hetian

Hotan has strong sunlight and dry air, so be sure to use sun protection and bring moisturizing products.

Built around an oasis fed by snowmelt from the Kunlun Mountains, Hotan lies on the edge of the Taklamakan Desert. It preserves traces of the ancient kingdom of Khotan while showcasing the distinctive character of life in southern Xinjiang. The itinerary below covers cultural attractions, natural scenery, and local food, and can serve as a reference for exploring the “Jade City.”

• Yotkan Ancient City: Restored in the style of the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Khotan, it is best visited in the late afternoon to enjoy both the sunset and the night views. The nighttime *Music from All Directions in Khotan* is an immersive performance across the entire site, with actors interacting with visitors and creating a strong sense of participation.

• Hotan Tuan City: This area preserves one of the more complete traditional Aywang residential neighborhoods in southern Xinjiang, with creamy yellow buildings and colorful carved doors and windows. The blue hour is ideal for street photography, while a city-opening ceremony and special performances are also held at night.

• Hotan Museum: With a rich collection, the museum is an important place to learn about the history of southern Xinjiang. Visitors can see artifacts excavated from the Niya ruins and thousand-year-old mummies. Free guided tours are offered daily at 11:00 and 16:00; advance reservations are recommended.

• Hotan Night Market: A good place to sample southern Xinjiang flavors in one stop. Dishes and snacks such as grilled pigeon, red willow kebabs, yogurt zongzi, and Three Eggs One Star are all available. Ethnic song-and-dance performances are usually held around 9 p.m.

• Hotan Jade Lake: Located on the southern edge of the Taklamakan Desert, the scenic area combines desert, poplar trees, and a jade-green lake. The water looks like a piece of jade set in a sea of sand. Entry is currently free. It is suitable for both self-driving trips and aerial photography.

• Kunlun Mountain Scenic Area: The drive from the city center takes about three hours one way. From the Dairufeng Viewing Platform, you can look out over the snow-covered Kunlun Mountains and the Banlange grasslands. The scenery is especially spectacular from autumn through early winter. Be alert for altitude sickness and prepare warm clothing.

Classic 3-Day, 2-Night Itinerary

• Day 1 (City Cultural Route): After arriving in Hotan, visit the Hotan Museum in the afternoon to learn about the history of the Western Regions. In the evening, head to Tuan City, walk along the old streets, and enjoy the scenery during the blue hour. Have dinner at the Hotan Night Market and watch an ethnic song-and-dance performance.

• Day 2 (Immersive Western Regions Route): In the morning, visit the Yulong Kashi River to try searching for jade. In the afternoon, explore Yotkan Ancient City, taking in its architecture and surroundings before watching the immersive performance at night.

• Day 3 (Desert Hidden-Gem Route): Hire a car or drive yourself to Hotan Jade Lake to see the lake in the desert. Alternatively, you can visit the Wuluwati Scenic Area to admire the scenery of the “Little Three Gorges of the Kunlun Mountains,” then return in the afternoon.

Must-Try Local Specialties

• Three Eggs One Star: A specialty found at the Hotan Night Market. Goose eggs, pigeon eggs, and free-range chicken eggs are mixed with honey and saffron, then grilled over charcoal. The texture is delicate and the flavor distinctive.

• Yogurt Zongzi: Glutinous-rice zongzi topped with thick Xinjiang-style local yogurt and served with fig or blueberry jam. The sweet-and-sour flavor helps balance the richness of the sticky rice.

• Red Willow Kebabs: Large pieces of lamb are threaded onto red willow branches and grilled over charcoal. The meat is tender and carries the plant’s distinctive fragrance.

• Grilled Stuffed Buns: These buns have thin wrappers and generous fillings, with plenty of broth when freshly baked. Make a small opening at the top first to let the heat escape, then eat them slowly.

• Lamb in an Enamel Mug: Slow-braised bone-in lamb and yellow carrots are served in a traditional enamel mug. The broth is light and refreshing, while the lamb is tender and soft. It is best enjoyed with naan.

Transportation and Accommodation Tips

• Transportation: Hotan’s attractions are spread out. Taxis within the city usually charge the starting fare, making it convenient to get around. For attractions outside the city, such as the Kunlun Mountains and Jade Lake, self-driving or hiring a car is recommended. Mobile reception is weak on some sections of the route, so download offline maps before setting out.
• Accommodation: For convenience, stay both nights in Hotan city, preferably near Tuanjie Square or Tuan City. There are plenty of accommodation, dining, and shopping options in these areas, and the night market is easy to reach.

Important Notes and Travel Tips

• Sun and Sand Protection: The area has strong sunlight and dry air, and dusty weather is also common. Bring high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, a windproof face covering, and lip balm.
• What to Wear: The temperature difference between day and night is significant, so even in autumn it is advisable to bring a light down jacket. When visiting the Kunlun Mountain Scenic Area, wear non-slip shoes and bring warm clothing.
• Buying Jade: Near the Yulong Kashi River and the jade bazaar, do not buy jade sold by roadside vendors who claim it was “found.” Such products are often fake. If you want to buy something, choose an inexpensive small pendant as a souvenir, and do not make a rushed decision about valuable jade.
• Respect Local Customs: Respect the customs of local ethnic minorities. In mosques and old urban areas, do not photograph elderly people or children without permission, and do not touch children on the head.
• Daily Schedule: Xinjiang uses Beijing Time, but local daily routines are usually about two hours later than in other parts of China. The sun does not set until around 9:30 p.m., and the night market becomes livelier after 10 p.m., so plan your rest and outings accordingly.