The Emin Minaret (Emin Ta), just 2km east of Turpan, is both a mosque and minaret tower that was built in 1778 by the local Muslim ruler, Emin Hoja. Also known as Sugong Tower (Sugong Ta) after Emin’s Chinese name, the minaret was built in a simple Islamic style. It is circular, 44 meters in height, and 10 meters in diameter at the base. Unfortunately, the minaret is no longer open to the public in an effort to preserve the structure; however, you can view the surroundings from the roof of the mosque. As for the mosque, although it is rather bare inside, services are held every Friday and on holidays.
How to get there: Depending on how hot the weather is, you may be able to walk to the Tower. Just follow Jiefang Lu east out of the city for 30 minutes. However, many people stop off here on their minibus excursions outside the city. Hiring a minibus to see several sights outside Turpan should cost between RMB300-RMB500 for six people. Drivers cruise the streets of Turpan looking for customers.
Opening hours: Open during daylight hours.
Cost: Entry fee is RMB12.
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