China Tuyugou Valley, Turfan

This small Uyghur community lives in a valley nestled in a mountain range about 70km out of Turfan in Xinjiang, China. It represents a way of life that can be traced back to the time of when Buddhism first came to China. Grottoes with ancient Buddhist art are located nearby. Despite its mountainous terrain, the village and surrounds are located on the Turfan Depression, the second lowest point on the planet.

The village offers many opportunities for capturing the details of a genuine way of life quickly fading from this world. Many of the locals expect money for having their picture taken. Climbing the hills behind the village offer the best bird's eye views of the village

To get to the village, hire a driver/guide out of Turfan. Turban can be reached by train or plane from Urumqi, the major terminal servicing Xinjiang for the rest of China. Tuyugou Valley can be done as a day trip from Turfan.