Hotan Prefecture Hotan

Hotan

Hotan, know'n as Yutian in ancient times, is located on the southern rim of Tarim Basin in southwest Xinjiang. It was one of the earliest Buddhist centers in the West Regions. In the Tang Dynasty, songs and dance from Hotan enjoyed great popularity in the imperial court. Hotan used to be the home of silk along the Silk Road, too. Silk, jade and carpets are known as its three treasures. Tourist attractions include Yuetegan Ruins, the Ancient City of Melikawat, Niya Ruins, Eastern Han Tombs and Cliff Carvings in Sangzhu.

Niya Ruins

Niya Ruins are located in the desert about 150 km north of Minfeng. Covering a large area about 22 km in length from south to north and 10 km in width from east to west, ш№ the ruins are scattered anions; the dunes and basins. Traces of canals and river courses can still be found. Unearthed from the ruins were a great number of scriptures, ancient coins, bamboo and wooden slips with ancient inscriptions, and silk and linen fabrics.