The Ya’erhu Grottoes (also spelled Ya’er Lake Grottoes, ancient name: Xigu Temple) are an important Buddhist cave site near the Jiaohe Ruins in Turpan. A UNESCO World Heritage Site (as part of Jiaohe) and a National Key Cultural Relic Protection Unit.
Basic Info
Location: Cliffs of the Yarnaz Gully, 10 km west of central Turpan, ~800 m from Jiaohe Ruins.
History: Founded 5th century (Northern Liang Dynasty); used through the Gaochang Uyghur period (9th–13th centuries).
Caves: 22 caves in two tiers (upper: meditation; lower: living quarters).
Open: April 5, 2025 (after restoration); Cave 4 & Cave 7 open to public.
Style: Rectangular, vaulted chambers; Buddhist murals & multi-script inscriptions.
What to See
Cave 4 (Main Attraction)
Largest cave in Turpan (~100 m²).
Murals: Buddha’s Life Stories, thousand Buddhas, Uyghur donors.
Inscriptions: Chinese, Old Uyghur, Sogdian (Silk Road languages).
Cave 7: Smaller cave with well-preserved Buddha and donor murals.
Digital Experience: AR/VR to restore faded murals and lost statues.
Setting: Cliffs overlooking the Jiaohe plain; quiet and less crowded than Jiaohe itself.
Visiting Tips
Ticket: Free.
Hours: 10:00–19:00 (summer; winter shorter).
Best Time: Morning (cool, soft light for photos).
Combine: Pair with Jiaohe Ruins (walkable) and Flaming Mountain.
Highlights
Silk Road Crossroads: Art blending Chinese, Uyghur, and Sogdian influences.
Rare Inscriptions: Multilingual texts proving Turpan’s role as a multicultural hub.
Digital Restoration: High-tech brings faded art back to life.
Underrated Gem: Peaceful, authentic alternative to Turpan’s busier sites.
