Full Name: Kizilsu Kirgiz Autonomous Prefecture

Chinese Name: 克孜勒苏柯尔克孜族自治州 (kè zī lè sū kē ěr kè zī zú zì zhì zhōu)

Population: 484,300

Area: 72,500 square kilometers (27,992 square miles)

Nationalities: Uygur, Kirgiz, Han

Administrative Division: 3 counties (Akto, Akqi, Wlugqat); 1 city (Artux)

Seat of the Prefecture Government: 3, Pamir Xi Lu, Artux City

Location: Kizilsu Kirgiz Autonomous Prefecture is located in the west of Xinjiang, bordered by Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan in the north and west. It shares a boundary of 1,195 kilometers with these two countries. In addition, it is bounded on the east by the Aksu Region and in the neighborhood of Kashgar in the south.

History: When Central China had entered its golden age of the slave society three thousand years ago, the Kizilsu was still governed by tribe union in matrilineal society. Nomads had established several kingdoms in this region before it was brought into the domain of the Han Dynasty (206BC-220AD).

Physical Features: The region is situated at the southwest foot of Tianshan Mountains and the north foot of the Kunlun Mountains and lies in the east of Pamir Plateau and northwest Tarim Basin. Mountains constitute the main framework of its terrain with basins and valleys interleaving among those mountains. Duo to several rivers in the region, plains make up the main part of central Kizilsu.

Climate: Kizilsu is situated in the hinterland far away from the sea, bearing a typical temperate continental climate. The weather of the prefecture is characterized by strong sunlight and aridity. It is chilly in winter and the temperature is unstable in summer.

Physical Features: The region is situated at the southwest foot of Tianshan Mountains and the north foot of the Kunlun Mountains and lies in the east of Pamir Plateau and northwest Tarim Basin. Mountains constitute the main framework of its terrain with basins and valleys interleaving among those mountains. Duo to several rivers in the region, plains make up the main part of central Kizilsu.

Attractions:

Muztagata peak is situated in Akto County capped with snow and ice all the year round. The formidable peak stands in the Pamir Plateau setting off perfectly with the Karakul Lake. When summer and autumn come on, the resort became the base camp of climbers. The peak and the alpine lake surrounded by snow mountains are the most famous sights of Kizilsu prefecture.

Other Scenic Spots: Auyitagh Scenic Area

Special Local Products: fig, apricot, grape