Hotan Prefecture

Hotan Prefecture
Name	Hotan Prefecture
Country	China
Province	Xinjiang
Area	26371

Hotan Prefecture is a prefecture in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of the People's Republic of China. It is located in the southern part of the region, bordering Afghanistan and Pakistan to the southwest, Tajikistan to the west, and Kyrgyzstan to the northwest, as well as Kashgar Prefecture to the west, Kizilsu Kyrgyz Autonomous Prefecture to the north, and Aksu Prefecture and Lanzhou to the east. The prefecture covers an area of 26371 square kilometers and is home to a diverse range of cultures and ethnic groups, including Uyghurs, Han Chinese, Kazakhs, and Kyrgyz.

Geography

Hotan Prefecture is situated in the Tarim Basin, a vast endorheic basin in northwest China. The prefecture is bounded by the Kunlun Mountains to the south and the Tian Shan mountain range to the north. The Hotan River, a major river in the region, flows through the prefecture and provides water for irrigation and other purposes. The climate in Hotan Prefecture is arid, with very little rainfall throughout the year. The prefecture is also known for its rich mineral resources, including jade, gold, and copper.

History

Hotan Prefecture has a long and rich history, with archaeological evidence showing human habitation dating back to the Neolithic period. The region was an important stop on the Silk Road, a major trade route between China and Central Asia. During the Han dynasty, Hotan was a key location for the production of jade, which was highly valued in Chinese culture. In the Tang dynasty, the region was a major center of Buddhism, with many monasteries and temples built throughout the prefecture. In the Qing dynasty, Hotan Prefecture was a key location for the production of cotton and other crops.

Economy

The economy of Hotan Prefecture is primarily based on agriculture, with major crops including cotton, wheat, and corn. The prefecture is also rich in mineral resources, including jade, gold, and copper, which are mined and processed in the region. In recent years, Hotan Prefecture has also become a major hub for trade and commerce, with many businesses and enterprises setting up operations in the region. The Hotan Airport provides air transportation links to other parts of China and Central Asia.

Culture

Hotan Prefecture is home to a diverse range of cultures and ethnic groups, including Uyghurs, Han Chinese, Kazakhs, and Kyrgyz. The region is known for its rich cultural heritage, including traditional music, dance, and art. The Hotan Museum is a major cultural institution in the region, showcasing the history and culture of Hotan Prefecture. The prefecture is also home to many festivals and events throughout the year, including the Hotan Jade Festival and the Hotan Cultural Festival.

Administrative divisions

Hotan Prefecture is divided into one city and six counties, including Hotan City, Lop County, Minfeng County, Niya County, Qira County, Shufu County, and Shule County. The prefecture is governed by the Hotan Prefectural Government, which is responsible for the administration of the region.

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, the population of Hotan Prefecture was approximately 2.3 million people. The prefecture is home to a diverse range of ethnic groups, including Uyghurs (70.02%), Han Chinese (23.66%), Kazakhs (2.21%), and Kyrgyz (0.45%). The population of Hotan Prefecture is primarily concentrated in the urban areas, with Hotan City being the largest city in the region.

Category:Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region