Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang Uighur Autonmous Region, is located to the north of Tianshan. The history of this city can be dated back to the Spring and Autumn Period. At that time Chinese ancestors lived in Tianshan Mountains drov their herds along the riverbanks of Urumqi. Due to the climate and the remote location, the city developed very slowly. By the time new China was established, only one two-story building could be been. Most buildings and houses were flat and rustic. Urumqi now has grown into a modern city, emerging asa a metropolis.

 Urumqi is growing more influential in the international market. Since the year 1992 the annual International Trade Fair, held at the beginning of September, attracts tens of thousands of businessmen from around the world. Xinjiang boasts advantafes in geographic and natural resources and using these as the fulcrum of development into the new century Xinjiang will not only be a popular investment opportunity but also a popular tourist destination.