Hotan Tuancheng

Historical Overview
Founded over 500 years ago, Tuancheng ("Unity City") was historically a melting pot for Silk Road merchants, renowned for trading pigeons, birds, and exotic goods. By the early 2000s, the area had declined into a slum but was reimagined in 2016 through a 317 million yuan restoration project. Over 3,500 households were relocated, and traditional residences were rebuilt using "one-house-one-design" principles, preserving Uyghur architectural elements like arched windows and flat roofs. Today, it symbolizes Hotan’s cultural revival, attracting over 940,000 visitors annually as of 2024.

Structural Layout
The district follows a radial layout centered around a central plaza, with streets radiating outward in a "circular cluster" pattern:

• Cultural Core: Features Ayiwang-style residences, heritage workshops, and the "Stone City" exhibition hall.
• Commercial Zone: Includes 686 shops selling Uyghur carpets, jade, and dried fruits, alongside cafes and boutique hotels.
• Public Spaces: Comprises the Baixing Stage (for traditional dance performances), Kunlun Lake Park, and the Night Market.
  Key structures include the reconstructed "Seven Phoenix Tower" (inspired by local folklore) and the Uyghur Traditional Food Street.

Major Attractions

1. Ayiwang Residences: Traditional Uyghur homes with open courtyards, wooden balconies, and geometric patterns.
2. Uyghur Craft Workshops: Live demonstrations of carpet weaving, pottery, and "Aidilaisi" silk dyeing.
3. Seven Phoenix Tower: A modern landmark with nightly light shows, symbolizing Hotan’s resilience.
4. Baiying Food Street: Sample roast lamb skewers, baked naan, and saffron milk tea.
5. Hotan Museum Annex: Displays artifacts from the ancient Khotan Kingdom, including Buddhist relics and Tang Dynasty coins.

Suggested Itineraries

1. Half-Day Classic Route (3–4 hours):
   Main Entrance → Ayiwang Residences → Uyghur Craft Workshops → Seven Phoenix Tower → Baiying Food Street → Kunlun Lake Park
   Highlights: Architectural photography, craft shopping, and local cuisine.

2. Full-Day Cultural Immersion (6–7 hours):
   Morning: Guided tour of residences and workshops.
   Afternoon: Visit the museum annex, participate in a pottery-making class.
   Evening: Attend a "Maxirap" (Uyghur folk dance) performance and night market dining.

3. Family-Friendly Route (4 hours):
   Children’s Play Area → Kunlun Lake Park → Uyghur Puppet Theater → Ice Cream Parlor (try pomegranate-flavored treats).

Ticket Purchase

• Admission: Free entry to the main district; some attractions (e.g., museum annex, light shows) may charge 20–50 yuan.
• Online Booking: Not required for general entry, but recommended for workshops and performances via Ctrip or the official WeChat account.
• On-Site: Tickets for paid attractions sold at the Stone City Exhibition Hall.

Transportation

• By Car: 10 minutes from downtown Hotan; free parking available.
• By Bus: Take Bus 2 or 8 to "Tuancheng Stop."
• By Taxi: Direct ride from Hotan Airport (30 minutes, 40–60 yuan).
• Guided Tours: Half-day tours offered by local agencies (150–200 yuan/person, including transportation).

Best Time & Tips

• Avoid Crowds: Visit weekday mornings (10–11:30 AM) or late afternoons (5–7 PM).
• Season: Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) for mild weather.
• Essentials:
  • Wear comfortable shoes (15,000+ steps possible).
  • Bring cash for small vendors (mobile payment accepted at most shops).
  • Photography allowed (ask permission before photographing locals).
  • Prohibited: Drones, large bags, and outside food.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Remove shoes before entering residences, and avoid pointing cameras directly at prayer areas.