Zero Point of Inland Elevation in China

　　The Zero Point of Inland Elevation in Turpan is situated in Bayi Village, Yar Township, Turpan, Xinjiang. Its geographical coordinates are 89 degrees 11 minutes east longitude and 42 degrees 56 minutes north latitude. The “Zero Point” is 13 kilometers west of the Jiaohe Ancient City, 50 kilometers east of the Gaochang Ancient City, 2 kilometers north of the Sugong Pagoda, and 30 kilometers south of the lowest point of Ayding Lake.

　　The sign of the Zero Point of Inland Elevation is placed within a polygonal main structure topped with a circular roof. The main building is about 8 meters high and has an elegant and dignified appearance. The “Zero Point” sign was completed and opened to the public in 1993, and it is one of the patriotic education bases in the Turpan region of Xinjiang.

　　The “Zero Point” is a geographically unique location. The Turpan Basin is the lowest inland basin in China and the second lowest in the world, with an area of 4,050 square kilometers below sea level, delineated by the zero elevation contour line. Its lowest point is at an altitude of -154.43 meters. Establishing the inland elevation zero point in China holds significant scientific meaning, serves educational and popular science purposes, and plays an important role in promoting cultural exchanges between China and other countries as well as developing tourism.