Kizilsu Kyrgyz Autonomous Prefecture, Autonomous prefecture in Xinjiang, China
Kizilsu Kyrgyz Autonomous Prefecture is an administrative region in western Xinjiang covering an area of about 71,000 sq km (27,400 sq mi). The territory comprises four administrative divisions with Artux serving as the regional capital.
The region was established as an autonomous territory in 1954 and reorganized as a prefecture the following year. This restructuring reflected the administrative reorganization of western Xinjiang following the founding of the People's Republic.
The Kyrgyz people maintain their traditional ways of life here, visible in local customs and daily practices. Uyghurs form the majority population, shaping the region's cultural landscape through their language, crafts, and social traditions.
The region sits in a mountainous and remote area of western Xinjiang, so visitors should prepare for limited infrastructure and high elevation. Artux is the administrative hub with basic services, though most districts remain sparsely populated.
The name Kizilsu comes from the Kezi River, meaning "red water" in the Kyrgyz language. This reference reflects the natural coloring of the waterways in this border region.
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