Kizilsu Kirghiz Autonomous Prefecture is located in the western part of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, on the eastern edge of the Pamir Plateau, bordering Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. It has a temperate continental arid climate with large temperature differences between day and night, abundant sunshine, scarce precipitation, cold winters, and cool summers.
In ancient times, Kizilsu was part of the Shule Kingdom in the Western Regions. Zhang Qian passed through here during his mission to the Western Regions under Emperor Wu of Han. During the Tang Dynasty, it was under the jurisdiction of the Anxi Protectorate, and in the Qing Dynasty, it belonged to Kashgar Prefecture. In 1954, Kizilsu Kirghiz Autonomous Prefecture was established, becoming the main settlement area for the Kirghiz people.
The Kirghiz culture is profound, famous for the epic 'Manas'. Traditional festivals include Nowruz and Horse Milk Festival. Cuisine features hand-grabbed lamb, roast whole sheep, and fermented mare's milk. Kumai (baked flatbread) and Boortsog (fried dough) are also flavorful.
In recent years, Kizilsu has leveraged the Belt and Road Initiative to develop border trade and tourism. Artux, the prefectural capital, has continuously improved its infrastructure, with a vibrant border port economy while emphasizing ecological protection and sustainable development.
The best time to visit 克孜勒苏 is The best travel time is from May to October..
From May to June, the temperature is pleasant, grasslands turn green, and you can enjoy alpine lakes and snow scenes.
From July to August, summer is cool, ideal for escaping the heat, and you can experience traditional Kirghiz festivals.
From September to October, the weather is clear and crisp, scenery magnificent, perfect for photography and hiking.
Zhang Qian was sent by Emperor Wu of Han to the Western Regions, passing through Kizilsu, promoting ties between the Central Plains and the Western Regions.
On July 14, 1954, Kizilsu Kirghiz Autonomous Prefecture was officially established, becoming the first ethnic autonomous prefecture in Xinjiang.
Kizilsu became a key node on the Silk Road Economic Belt, with rapid development in border trade and tourism.
Recommended places to visit
Muztagh Ata, 7546 meters above sea level, known as the 'Father of Icebergs', is a paradise for mountaineers. The peak is majestic, surrounded by beautiful spots like Karakul Lake.
Karakul Lake lies at the foot of Muztagh Ata, with clear water reflecting snowy peaks. It is a pearl on the Pamir Plateau, ideal for photography and sightseeing.
Explore rich intangible cultural heritage and traditional crafts
Manas is a Kirghiz heroic epic telling the story of the hero Manas and his descendants, inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Kirghiz embroidery is exquisite with ethnic patterns, used in clothing and yurt decorations, listed as a national intangible cultural heritage.
Must-know transportation for exploring the city
Kizilsu has no civil airport; the nearest is Kashgar Airport. From Kashgar, you can take a bus or charter a car to Kizilsu.
Bus from Kashgar to Artux about 20 yuan
Kizilsu has Artux Railway Station, connecting to Kashgar, Urumqi and other places, accessible by train.
Hard seat from Artux to Kashgar about 15 yuan
City bus routes cover main areas with low fares; long-distance bus stations have services to counties and scenic spots.
City bus 1-2 yuan; long-distance bus varies by distance
Taste the most authentic and popular local specialties
Hand-grabbed meat is a traditional Kirghiz dish, made by boiling lamb in plain water. The meat is tender, eaten with salt, preserving the natural flavor.
Whole roasted lamb is a must for festive feasts, crispy skin and tender meat, marinated with multiple spices and roasted.
Sultan Mazari is an ancient tomb complex from the Karakhanid period, of great historical and cultural value, with unique architectural style.
Artux Heavenly Gate is a natural stone arch about 500 meters high, spectacular and unique, great for hiking and adventure.
Uchtash Grassland is a typical alpine grassland, lush green in summer with herds of cattle and sheep, a great place to experience Kirghiz nomadic culture.
Mare's milk is a traditional Kirghiz beverage, fermented, sweet and sour, aiding digestion.
Kumai is a type of baked bread, baked in a tandoor, crispy outside and soft inside, often eaten with milk tea.
Baursak is fried dough, small in shape, golden and crispy, served as a snack for festivals and daily life.