Page 17 - 15 Day China Sample

Turpan, called Gushi in ancient times is the place where the State of South Cheshi and the South Cheshi Court were set up during the Han dynasty; established as Gaochang Prefecture where Tiandi County were set up during the Liang Dynasty. The Turpan Depression is second only to the Dead Sea in Jordan as the lowest point on Earth. The temperature soars here to an average of as much as 105 F during summer, hence its name ‘Fiery Land’. It is a small city, but the surrounding area is full of interesting places such as Gaocheng and Jiaohe, once great cites on the Silk Road. Once upon a time, Gaochang was the capital of the Uighur people and the ruins are very impressive, with the temples, pagodas and courtyards still distinguishable even though they were abandoned over 700 years ago. The Astana Graves nearby are where the dead people of Gaochang were buried. The people who live in the shadow of the rich red mountains surrounding Turpan are from the Uygur minority, renowned for their warmth and hospitality. Uygurs are particularly fond of singing and dancing: the women dress for performances in vivid red dresses, with the men attired in colorful braided waistcoats and trousers. Overnight: Tuha Petroleum Hotel –Club Room