- Aksu city (also spelled Aksu or Aqsu) is a prefecture-level city located in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of China. It is situated in the southwestern part of Xinjiang, bordering Kyrgyzstan. Aksu is known for its agricultural production, particularly for growing cotton, wheat, fruit, and vegetables.
- The city has a rich history, with evidence of human habitation dating back thousands of years. It was an important stop along the ancient Silk Road trade route, connecting China with Central Asia and the Middle East.
- Aksu is home to a diverse population, with Uyghurs being the majority ethnic group. The Uyghur culture and traditions are prominent in the city, including their cuisine, music, and dance.
- Tourism is also an important industry in Aksu, with attractions such as the Kuqa Grand Canyon, Tianshan Grand Canyon, and Mysterious Stone City (Taklamakan Desert). These natural and historical sites attract visitors from China and abroad.
- In recent years, Aksu has also been in the news due to the controversial Chinese government policies targeting the Uyghur population. Reports of human rights abuses and the internment of Uyghurs in re-education camps have raised international concerns. However, access to the region is highly restricted, making it difficult for independent verification of claims.