Ili Prefecture

The prefecture in the western part of Xinjiang is 56,000 square kilometers in size and shares the border with Kazakhstan. It has a frigid-temperate and semi-dry continental climate.

The area has fertile soil and plentiful water resources. The Ili River Valley is a main producer of grain, oil and livestock. Once an important stop on the north route, the area has many cultural relics. Tourist sites mainly include the Guozi Valley scenic Area, Kunes Grassland, the old city of Huiyuan and the ruins of the old town of Alimali.