Famous Pilgrimage Routes & Religious Sites in Yan’an Beilu, Xinjiang, China
1. Tiantan Temple
An ancient Buddhist temple built during the Ming Dynasty with a unique wooden architectural style.
- Historical Significance: One of the oldest temples in Yan'an Beilu, providing historical insights
- Wooden Architecture: Features intricate wooden carvings and design, making it architecturally unique.
- Buddhist Culture: A place to learn about Buddhism and its role in Yan'an Beilu culture
2. Houhe Si
An ancient Mosque with a distinctive Uighur architectural style.
- Uighur Architecture: Showcases the unique Islamic architecture of the Uighur people.
- Historical Significance: Oldest Mosque in Yan'an Beilu, offering a glimpse into its history
- Religious Importance: A significant place of worship for the Muslim community in Yan'an Beilu
3. Gaochang Ruins
An ancient city dating back to the Gaochang Kingdom, showcasing well-preserved Buddhist ruins.
- Archaeological Site: Offers insights into the history and culture of the Gaochang Kingdom.
- Buddhist Ruins: Features ancient Buddhist artifacts and structures, making it historically unique.
- Outdoor Exploration: Provides opportunities for outdoor exploration and discovery.
4. Karez Well System
A traditional irrigation system used in Yan'an Beilu, showcasing an underground water channel.
- Irrigation System: Demonstrates a unique method of water conservation and agriculture.
- Historical Significance: A testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the ancient people of Yan'an Beilu.
- Eco-friendly: Promotes sustainable water management, making it environmentally significant.
5. Subashan Park
A mountain park dedicated to Subashi Heji, a famous Uighur poet.
- Cultural Significance: Honors the life and work of a significant Uighur figure.
- Natural Beauty: Offers breathtaking mountain views and natural scenery.
- Hiking Trails: Provides hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts
6. Idigar Mosque
A modern mosque built during the Qing Dynasty with a unique blue dome.
- Qing Dynasty Architecture: Features the architectural style of the Qing Dynasty.
- Blue Dome: Its distinctive blue dome is a notable feature in Yan'an Beilu skyline.
- Religious Importance: A significant place of worship for the Muslim community in Yan'an Beilu
7. Berenik Palace
An ancient palace believed to be the residence of a Kanas Khan during the Qing Dynasty.
- Qing Dynasty History: Provides insights into the life and times of the Qing Dynasty.
- Architectural Beauty: Features beautiful Uighur architectural designs.
- Cultural Significance: A symbol of the rich cultural heritage in Yan'an Beilu
8. Karakul Lake
A beautiful high-altitude lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains.
- Natural Beauty: Offers stunning, picturesque landscapes.
- Wildlife Spotting: Provides opportunities for wildlife viewing, such as the famous Karakul sheep.
- Outdoor Adventure: Offers outdoor activities like hiking and camping.
9. Gaochang Ruins Museum
A museum dedicated to the history and culture of the Gaochang Kingdom.
- Historical Artifacts: Houses a collection of artifacts from the Gaochang Kingdom.
- Cultural Insights: Provides insights into the culture and way of life during the Gaochang period.
- Educational Experience: Offers an educational experience for visitors
10. Kumturem Toushiya
An ancient Uighur tomb complex showcasing unique Uighur artwork and architecture.
- Uighur Artwork: Features intricate murals depicting the life and culture of the Uighurs.
- Historical Significance: Provides insights into the history and lifestyle of the ancient Uighurs.
- Architectural Beauty: Features beautiful Uighur architectural designs.
11. Kizil Caves
An ancient Buddhist cave complex containing thousands of Buddhist murals and sculptures.
- Buddhist Art: Features a vast collection of Buddhist art from various periods.
- Historical Significance: Offers insights into the history and culture of ancient Buddhism in Xinjiang
- Cultural Preservation: Contributes to the preservation and study of ancient Buddhist art.
12. Karakax Grand Mosque
A large modern mosque with a unique green dome, serving as the central mosque for the local Muslim community.
- Modern Architecture: Features contemporary Islamic architecture.
- Community Gathering: Serves as a central gathering place for the Muslim community in Yan'an Beilu.
- Religious Importance: A significant religious site for the local Muslim community.
13. Burqin Tianshan Grand Canyon
A breathtaking canyon within the Tianshan Mountains, featuring unique geological formations and panoramic views.
- Natural Wonder: Offers a stunning natural spectacle.
- Geological Formations: Features unique and dramatic geological features.
- Outdoor Adventure: Offers opportunities for hiking, camping, and photography.
14. Emin Minaret
A historic minaret built during the Yuan Dynasty, featuring intricate Uighur architectural designs.
- Historical Significance: One of the oldest and most significant structures in Yan'an Beilu.
- Uighur Architecture: Features intricate Uighur architectural designs, making it culturally unique.
- Landmark Status: A recognized cultural landmark and important historical site in Yan'an Beilu.
15. Sugong Ta
An ancient Uighur tomb built during the Qing Dynasty for a wealthy Uighur merchant.
- Uighur Culture: Provides insights into the lifestyle and wealth of the Uighur merchants during the Qing Dynasty.
- Architectural Beauty: Features beautiful Uighur architectural designs.
- Historical Significance: A significant historical site showcasing Uighur tomb architecture.