Xinjiang has always been famed as the kingdom of fruits. The fruits produced in Xinjiang are of the top quality in China. The various preserved and fresh fruits, nuts and the deep processed fruit products have been laid on the tables over the world.
Located on the center of Eurasia, Xinjiang has typical continental climate featured by less rainfall. However, the region is rich in snow melting water which is beneficial to the irrigating farming. What’s more, Xinjiang enjoys the long sunshine duration and large temperature difference. The geographical and climatic conditions are suitable for the growing of fruits.
Featured Fruits
Grapes
As far as Xinjiang fruits are mentioned, the grape may be the first thought that comes to your mind. The planting history of grapes in Xinjiang can be dated back to 2,000 years ago. There are over 500 kinds of grapes growing in Xinjiang. Apart from the large scale vineyards on the suburb, you can even find grape trellis in family courtyards.
Among these grapes, seedless white grapes in the elliptic shape with thin skin, are crystal-clear, crisp, and juicy. Fresh grapes contain more than 24 percent of sugar, while raisins contain 75 to 80 percent of sugar.
Hami Melons
Hami melon is also known as the sweet melon, for the inside flesh of Hami melon is sweet and crisp. Besides, the melon is easy to preserve and visitors can enjoy the delicious fruit all the year round. The sweet and tasty Hami melons are reputed as the “king of melons.” One melon contains a great amount of vitamins, four to seven times of those in watermelons, six times of those in apples.
Figs
Figs, or literally “no-flower fruit” by the Han people, are called Anjir by the Uygurs. It has the pistillate and male flowers hidden in the bag-shaped receptacles. The flowers cannot be seen from outside except the fruit, hence the name.
Apricots
Apricots are tasty, juicy, and full of nutrition. The pulp of apricots contains the anti-cancer Vitamin B17, while bitter apricot kernels can help stop coughing and moisten intestines.
Fragrant Pears
Mainly produced in Korla, Aksu, Kashi, Hotan and Turpan in Northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, fragrant pears are tasty, refreshing and sweet, with a thin skin.
Flat Peach
The flat peach is one kind of the peach family. It bears the same flowers and leaves as other ordinary peaches, except with flat fruits that have yellow-brown skin and yellow flesh. Flat peaches are not only beautiful in appearance but also more delicious.