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Emin Minaret, also known as Sugong Tower, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Turpan, Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, China. Located just 2 kilometers southeast of Turpan city, this historical minaret is the tallest ancient tower in Xinjiang and holds deep cultural, architectural, and religious significance. Built in 1777 during the Qing Dynasty, the minaret was named after Emin Khoja, a local ruler and general of the Turpan region who was loyal to the Qing government.
The minaret rises from the desert floor with a distinctively elegant and simple design, constructed from sun-dried bricks and showcasing traditional Uyghur architectural styles. Standing at 44 meters (144 feet) high, it was originally used to call Muslims to prayer and remains a powerful symbol of Islamic influence in western China. Today, Emin Minaret is a popular attraction for travelers interested in history, architecture, and the ancient Silk Road.
Emin Minaret is conveniently located near Turpan city, and visitors can reach it easily by various means:
Turpan has a desert climate, characterized by long, extremely hot summers and short, cold winters:
The best time to visit Emin Minaret is between April and October, avoiding the extreme heat of midsummer.
The Emin Minaret is open to visitors daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Visiting earlier in the day is recommended to avoid both the heat and crowds, especially during peak travel season.
Emin Minaret is famous not just for its height and age, but for its unique cultural blend and historical context. As the tallest ancient minaret in China, it stands as a rare Islamic monument in a country known for Buddhist and Confucian landmarks. Its beautiful geometric brickwork and tapering cylindrical structure make it an architectural gem in the desert.
It also holds significance due to its location on the ancient Silk Road. Many traders and travelers passed through Turpan, and the minaret would have served as a religious and community center for Muslim merchants. Today, it remains a powerful symbol of Uyghur heritage and Islamic architecture in western China.
Entry to the Emin Minaret site usually requires a ticket. The approximate cost is:
The ticket includes access to the minaret's exterior grounds and the adjacent mosque complex, although visitors are not allowed to climb the minaret due to preservation efforts.
Facilities at the site include restrooms, souvenir shops, and information boards in Chinese and English. Guides may also be available for a deeper understanding of the minaret’s history.
The Emin Minaret was commissioned in 1777 by Suleman, the son of Emin Khoja, as a tribute to his father. Emin Khoja was an influential local leader who played a key role in stabilizing the region and maintaining loyalty to the Qing Dynasty. The minaret was built next to a mosque that served as a center of worship and education.
Architecturally, the minaret is made of baked brick and features intricate decorative patterns including geometric shapes and floral motifs. It rises in a tapering cone, with a base diameter of 10 meters and a height of 44 meters. The spiral staircase inside is not open to the public, but its design shows the influence of Central Asian and Islamic architecture.
The adjacent mosque has a wooden structure with a traditional flat roof supported by rows of columns. The site as a whole reflects the religious, cultural, and artistic traditions of the Uyghur people.
- Explore the Minaret Grounds: Walk around the base of the minaret and take in its scale and symmetry.
- Visit the Mosque: Admire the architecture and learn about local Islamic practices and history.
- Photography: Capture striking images of the minaret against the desert sky—especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset.
- Learn from Exhibits: Read the informational plaques and displays for insights into Turpan’s Silk Road history.
- Buy Souvenirs: Local vendors offer traditional Uyghur handicrafts such as scarves, pottery, and Islamic calligraphy.
- Try Local Snacks: Taste Turpan’s famous raisins and melons, available from nearby shops and street stalls.
- It is the tallest Islamic tower in China, standing at 44 meters.
- The minaret is built entirely of sun-dried mud bricks and wooden beams.
- It was constructed without nails or steel—an architectural feat of the 18th century.
- The structure leans slightly due to erosion, so climbing is prohibited for safety.
- Photography is allowed, but drones may require permission.
- Wear a hat or bring an umbrella—shade is limited in the area.
- Visit early in the day to avoid intense heat and crowds.
- Combine your visit with other nearby attractions like the Ancient City of Jiaohe or Karez Museum.
- Respect local customs—modest dress is appreciated, especially when visiting the mosque.
- Guided tours can enhance the visit with rich cultural and historical context.
