Sand Therapy Health Center

Turpan is called the Fire Land. In summer, the temperature is above 40 C (104 F). On the surface of the sand dunes, it reaches 80 C (176 F). Taking advantage of climatic and geographical conditions, the locals have created a special method of curing chronic diseases - sand therapy!

Sand therapy, also called sand burying therapy, is a comprehensive treatment combining the effect of heat, massage and magnetic treatments. It cures some chronic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, hemiplegy, high blood pressure and neurasthenia. Turpan has many sand therapy centers such as Sand Therapy Health Center, Shanshan Desert Park and Rukqin Sand Therapy Center.

Located in Shengya County, the Sand Therapy Health Center is affiliated with Turpan Uyghur Hospital. Here is a stabilized dune which is approximately 200 meters (0.1 mile) long, 80 meters (0.05 mile) wide and 10 meters (33 feet) high. It contains more magnetite sand than other sand dunes and is an ideal place to have sand therapy.

In summer, many tourists are attracted to this area. People lie or sit under colorful sunshades, or bury themselves in the sand and drink hot teas to dissipate perspiration. It seems that they are just enjoying themselves in the sand instead of curing their diseases. Some of them come here just to appreciate the spectacle of the Gobi. Under the glow of the sun, the sand dunes glitter with every hue, attracting even more tourists.

Near the sand dune are a hospital, hostels, canteens and other conveniences to make tourists feel very comfortable.

Tips
1. Those with any acute inflammation, tumor or hemorrhagic disease are forbidden to have sand therapy.
2. Sand temperature below 48 C (118 F) is best.
3. Bring sun-block cream (SPF 50+) to avoid sun burn.