Jiaohe Ruins: Travel back to the heart of the Silk Road
Updated 18:12, 27-Sep-2020
Yarnaz Valley, 10km west from the city of Turpan in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China. /CGTN

Yarnaz Valley, 10km west from the city of Turpan in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China. /CGTN

The history of this ancient city stretches back about 2,300 years. /CGTN

The history of this ancient city stretches back about 2,300 years. /CGTN

It is one of the oldest earthen cities still in existence. /CGTN

It is one of the oldest earthen cities still in existence. /CGTN

The city was built on a large islet nestled between two deep river valleys and named Jiaohe, which translates to "where two rivers meet." /CGTN

The city was built on a large islet nestled between two deep river valleys and named Jiaohe, which translates to "where two rivers meet." /CGTN

All of the buildings are made from packed earth and they have remained in good condition thanks to an extremely dry climate. /CGTN

All of the buildings are made from packed earth and they have remained in good condition thanks to an extremely dry climate. /CGTN

Strolling down Jiaohe's central avenue at dusk rewards visitors with great sunset views. /CGTN

Strolling down Jiaohe's central avenue at dusk rewards visitors with great sunset views. /CGTN