Hotan Travel Introduction
Hotan, historically known as Yutian, lies in southern Xinjiang, at the northern foot of the Kunlun Mountains and the southern edge of the Taklamakan Desert. A vital stronghold on the Southern Route of the ancient Silk Road, it is famed for its "Three Treasures": Hotan jade, Atlas silk and Hotan carpets. It is also hailed as a hometown of melons, fruits, song and dance.
I. Geography & History
Location
Located in the southernmost part of Xinjiang, it borders Xizang to the south via the Kunlun Mountains and faces the Taklamakan Desert to the north. Covering a total area of around 247,400 square kilometers, it administers one city and seven counties: Hotan City, Hotan County, Moyu County, Pishan County, Lop County, Qira County, Yutian County and Minfeng County.
Climate
It features a warm temperate arid desert climate with four distinct seasons, abundant sunshine and a large temperature gap between day and night.
History
The ancient Kingdom of Yutian was founded around 242 BC. It was incorporated into Chinese territory during the Western Han Dynasty. The official Chinese name was changed from "Hetian" (old spelling) to "Hotan" in 1959.
II. City Symbols: The Three Treasures of Hotan
Hotan Jade
White mutton fat jade is its most renowned variety. The Yulongkash River serves as the core producing area, and the Jade Capital hosts the largest rough jade trading market.
Atlas Silk
A national-level Intangible Cultural Heritage. Boasting vivid colors and unique patterns, it is known as "the last handicraft of the 21st century".
Hotan Carpets
Its weaving craft is listed as national Intangible Cultural Heritage. With exquisite patterns and delicate weaving, the carpets are precious treasures of Western Regions art.
III. Must-Visit Attractions
Tuan City Scenic Area
Dubbed "the reception hall of Hotan", it features Uyghur-style architecture and rainbow alleys filled with authentic local life atmosphere.
Yotkan Ancient City
A cultural block styled after the Han and Tang dynasties, staging the live grand show All Nations Gather to Play Music in Hotan every night.
Hotan Museum
It houses well-preserved mummies and Buddhist relics from the ancient Yutian Kingdom. Admission is free; closed every Monday.
Yulongkash River
Visitors can hunt for jade stones at dawn or dusk and experience the fun of "jade speculation".
Hotan Night Market
Home to 260 stalls offering over a hundred delicacies including red willow lamb skewers, roasted egg platters and yogurt glutinous rice zongzi.
King Walnut Tree Scenic Area
Located in Baghchi Town, this walnut tree dates back to the Tang Dynasty with a history of more than 1,300 years.
Niya Ruins
Mysterious relics of the ancient Kingdom of Jingjue, where the famous brocade inscribed with the text "Five stars rising in the east bring good fortune to China" was unearthed. A special permit is required for entry.
IV. Local Specialties
Red Willow Lamb Skewers
Lamb threaded on red willow twigs and grilled over charcoal. The meat is tender and juicy, infused with a subtle herbal fragrance from the willow branches.
Roasted Egg Platter
Layers of goose egg, pigeon egg and local chicken egg slow-roasted with saffron and honey, yielding a smooth, nourishing texture.
Yogurt Glutinous Rice Zongzi
Pressed glutinous rice dumplings topped with yogurt and fruit jam, cool and refreshing.
Baked Nang Buns
A national Intangible Cultural Heritage snack with crispy crust and a juicy lamb and onion filling.
Rose Jam Nang
Flatbread baked with rose jam, blending rich wheat aroma with sweet floral notes.
V. Travel Tips
- Best Travel Seasons: April to May (blooming season) and September to October (ripening season for melons and fruits).
- Transportation: Hotan Airport operates flights to Urumqi, Kashgar and other cities; highways connect all parts of southern Xinjiang.
- Safety: Public security is reliable here. Please respect local ethnic customs and avoid walking alone in remote alleys late at night.
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