Minfeng Travel Guide

Situated at the southwest of Xinjiang, China with Kunlun Mountains in the south and Taklamakan Desert in the north, Minfeng is a county under the administration of Hotan Prefecture. Covering an area of 56, 171 km², it has a population of 34, 284 with Uygur, Hui, Han and Mongolian inhabitants.
 

History

Minfeng is home to ancient Niya. Located on the southern branch of the Silk Road, ancient Niya was known as Ronglu during the Han dynasty. Minfeng County was set up in 1944 but still named Niya in Uigur.
 

Attractions

Minfeng tourism is mainly relying Niya Ruins and Yatongguzi Village. Niya Ruins is the place where ancient Jingjue Kingdom which was a famous oasis kingdom in Western Regions located. Yatongguzi Village is called “First Village in Taklamakan Desert where visitors can experience the desert life by riding a camel and enjoy the Uygur music and dance.
 

Transportation

Take a flight from Urumqi to Cherchen Airport, which is 330 km east of Minfeng and catch a long-distance bus from there to Minfeng. Take a train from Urumqi to Korla and there are long-distance buses from Korla to Minfeng.
 

Weather and Climate

With dry continental desert climate, temperature in Minfeng differs greatly between day and night. Summer is hot and winter is not too cold with limited rain all year round.

There is a small market, shops, many restaurants, and a hotel in Niya Town. Visitors can also go to the local families for meals.