Bukhara is Uzbekistan's third-largest city with a population of approximately 250,000. Located within the Zeravshan River oasis and intersected by the Shahrud Canal, it covers 39,400 square kilometers. With over 2,500 years of history, it ranks among Central Asia's oldest cities.

As a pivotal Silk Road hub, Bukhara facilitated East-West trade and cultural exchange. Remnants of its historic trading domes still stand today. From the 7th century onward, Bukhara emerged as a major center of Islamic scholarship, evidenced by thousands of mosques, madrasas, and religious complexes.

The city retains exceptional medieval architecture, including: Sitorai Mohi Hosa (Emir's Summer Palace), Ark Citadel, Samanid Mausoleum, Po-i-Kalyan Complex, Ulugh Beg Madrasa and Mir-i-Arab Madrasa. Their structural integrity and decorative artistry, preserve ancient Central Asian craftsmanship. UNESCO has listed the historic center of Bukhara as a World Heritage Site.

On September 13, 2022, Kunming and Bukhara formally established sister-city relations.