In the early 20th century, Aurel Stein carried out several expeditions in the area including exploration of the ancient Niya ruins.

[10] In June 2015 in the lead-up to Ramadan, a beer festival was held in the county leading to condemnation from Dilxat Raxit, spokesman for the World Uyghur Congress.

[7] In September 2015, residents of the county were reported to be subject to new rules concerning unacceptable given names for Uyghur children.

[12] The northern part of the county is located in the Taklamakan Desert and consists of large areas of sand dunes.

As of 1997[update], on average, Minfeng experienced blowing dust or sand on 189 days in a year and visibility below 4,800 meters for more than half of winter and summer as well as for thirty to forty percent of spring.