Ili is an autonomous prefecture for Kazakh people in Xinjiang, one of 5 autonomous prefectures in the province. It is famous for its rich natural attractions, and the Ili River is one of them.

The Ili River drains the basin between the Tian Shan and the Borohoro mountains. Flowing into Lake Balkhash, the Ili forms a large delta with vast wetland regions of lakes, marshes and vegetation.