Little Chinese Everywhere: The REAL Life of Uyghurs in China 🇨🇳 I S3, EP11

Turpan, known as the hottest place in China, experiences scorching temperatures often exceeding 38°C from June to August, with peaks reaching up to 46°C. Despite the heat, the dry climate makes it bearable, and traditional homes are ingeniously designed with small windows to keep interiors cool in summer and warm in winter.

Visiting local families in Turpan reveals a warm community life centered around agriculture. For example, one family grows melons and raises cows and sheep, drying their harvest in traditional drying houses. Children like Mehmet and Merzi, who have grown taller since last visit, share stories of their schooling and daily life.

Despite the intense heat, the community thrives with unique practices like sun-drying grapes and melons, which are sold locally and beyond. The hospitality of Turpan’s residents is evident in their welcoming of visitors with homemade treats and shared stories, creating memorable cultural exchanges.

The local culture is vibrant, with traditional clothing worn by tourists and residents alike. The village atmosphere is enriched by historical sites such as old mosques and prayer rooms, blending seamlessly with the natural environment through earth-toned buildings and mulberry and apricot gardens.

The unique architecture in Turpan features houses with small, perforated windows and thick walls, reflecting centuries of adaptation to the harsh desert environment. These homes are not only functional but also full of character, with wooden windows indicating the wealth of the family.

A remarkable ancient innovation in Turpan is the Karez irrigation system, an underground network channeling water from the Tianshan Mountains to sustain agriculture in the desert. This Persian invention, spread along the Silk Road, supports the lush vineyards and orchards that thrive in this arid region.

Modern visitors to Turpan experience a blend of ancient heritage and contemporary life, from exploring archaeological sites to enjoying local delicacies like chilled grapes. The region’s enduring traditions and innovations offer a fascinating glimpse into human resilience and cultural richness in a desert landscape.

In summary, Turpan is a compelling destination where history, culture, and environment converge. Its architectural ingenuity, ancient irrigation systems, and vibrant community life provide valuable lessons on adapting to extreme climates while preserving rich traditions.

Turpan's rich history is deeply connected to the Silk Road, serving as a strategic hub for trade and cultural exchange. The region was also significant in the spread of Buddhism, with ancient kingdoms like Gaochang and Jiaohe leaving behind Buddhist relics and stupas dating back over 1300 years.

Turpan’s Flaming Mountains are a natural spectacle, with daytime temperatures soaring above 50°C. This area is steeped in legend, including tales from the Journey to the West, where the monk Xuanzang passed through, facing challenges posed by a fiery mountain and a powerful princess.