Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, Autonomous prefecture in northern Xinjiang, China.
Ili is an autonomous prefecture in northern Xinjiang that extends across wide plains, high mountains, and river valleys. The landscape shifts between endless steppes, forested slopes, and fertile valleys that stretch toward the borders with Kazakhstan, Mongolia, and Russia.
The region came under the control of different empires from the 6th century and experienced many shifts of power through Turkic, Mongol, and Chinese dynasties. In 1954 the area received the status of an autonomous prefecture within the People's Republic of China.
The prefecture takes its name from the Kazakh communities who have lived here for centuries and still maintain their nomadic traditions. In many villages you can see yurts standing beside modern houses, and weekly markets sell carpets, felt crafts, and hand-carved wooden objects made following old patterns.
The prefecture sits along several international border crossings that lead into Kazakhstan and other neighboring countries, making cross-border travel easier. Visitors should note that distances between towns and sites are often long and require multi-day stays.
The prefecture holds some of the largest gold deposits and copper mines in all of Xinjiang, which are still actively worked today. These mines have shaped the economy of the region for decades and attract workers from different parts of the country.
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