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Sleet4° / -3°Cloudy7° / -6°Clear7° / -6°Clear6° / -6°Looking for things to do in Hami? We provide up-to-date info on everything from must-see scenic spots to local hangouts.
Discover the most popular places to stay in Hami, complete with recommendations from fellow travelers and special hotel offers
Guest User: I reckon choice of decent hotel is limited in Hami so this property, though not really up to Hampton standard, deserves all the smilies, esp. when 1) it's a smoke-free room (hard to come by in this part of China) and 2) they gave me an upgrade. I also liked their breakfast and coffee. The shower sewage gave out foul smell so bad that I had to block it with a towel. The hotel didn't do anything about it though despite my complaint.
No. 1 Renmin Road
From SGD 54
Guest User: We stayed 1 night on our train journey through Xinjiang. Given the spread out layout of Hami, it was reasonably close to the train station. The staff was very welcoming and check-in (for foreigners) relatively straightforward. Our room was very spacious and the beds really comfortable. The bathroom was also impeccable. We enjoyed our stay here and would book again.
Building E, Bofeng Home Furnishing Plaza, Xinmin 4th Road, Liyuan District
From SGD 20
Guest User: The staff used B1 swimming pool wash facilities while I am using the sauna. This new 5 ⭐ hotel should improve. For 2 days I stayed for breakfast and they were all the same. Also 7:30 is not ready
No. 56 Yingbin Avenue
From SGD 75
Guest User: Very nice for the price. Close to everything we needed. Very big rooms:
No. 2 Qianjin East Road
From SGD 43
Guest User: Hami is not the best place to visit (these rooms surroundings are beautiful but the city has no interest). This hotel is a good option: it is old but clean and we can sleep well at night. The staff is very friendly.
No. 1 Jianguo North Road
From SGD 36
Guest User: It' Hotel bead curtain embroidered households, romantic boundless; Be hospitable and feel at home.
Building 1, Commercial Building, Yulong Community, Beijiao Road
From SGD 23
Guest User: Everything was perfect except the smoke. People smoke in the hostel and it smell strong. Meanwhile we recommend this place
No. 264 Qianjin East Road, Chengbei Subdistrict
From SGD 17
Guest User: Lele at the front desk provided excellent and thoughtful service. The hotel environment was comfortable, and the guest rooms were clean and tidy. The breakfast had a great variety and tasted delicious. The location is very convenient for getting around. Overall, my stay was fantastic. I will definitely choose Orange Hotel again the next time I visit Hami. Looking forward to seeing you again!
1st Floor, Section C, Building 1, 704 Building, No. 38 Guangchang North Road
From SGD 45
Solace Overland: Very spacious and clean room Breakfast spread is good Private parking is available, basement parking. Overall, a great experience staying with Ji Hotel.
Section 4-2, Wanhui International Shopping Park
From SGD 57
Guest User: This is a very good hotel but the staffs do need some additional training on registering foreigners on their system. We arrived at the hotel after 8pm after 6 hours of long drive and had the unpleasant experience of long check in process at the reception. The staffs were apologetic and obviously struggling to read foreigners' passport, we had to register our details ourselves in the end. Despite all this, the services of the staffs are good in general.
No. 109 Jianguo North Road
From SGD 48
Want to eat like a local? Don't miss out on these top Hami dishes and foodie spots.
Meeting the Yiwu Populus Euphratica Forest Ten-Thousand-Year Root Carving Area at sunset is a breathtaking sight! 🚙Recommended self-drive itinerary For a self-drive tour in the Yiwu Populus Euphratica Forest in Xinjiang, it is recommended to enter the park in the afternoon and visit in the order of the park's themes: 1,000-year → 3,000-year → 6,000-year → 9,000-year area → Ten-Thousand-Year Root Carving Area. 🍂What scenery can you see when visiting in autumn? 📍What can you see in the 1,000–9,000-year areas? If you visit in mid-to-late October, you can see the poplar trees in all areas changing from green → green and yellow mixed → golden yellow, which is perfect for taking great photos of the poplar trees. 📍What else can you see in the 9,000-year area? Arrive at the 9,000-year area 1–2 hours before sunset. The poplar trunks here have peculiar shapes, similar to the "Strange Tree Forest," and with the afternoon sunlight, you can take exotic-style photos. 📍What can you see in the Ten-Thousand-Year Root Carving Area? Then, arrive at the Ten-Thousand-Year Root Carving Area on time before sunset to wait for the breathtaking sight of the dead poplar wood and the sunset glow. This area only has dead wood. The scenic area uses artistic imagination based on the different shapes of some poplar trunks to create vivid and interesting root carvings; many trunks are also very elegant with just minor adjustments; and some trunks are kept in their original state, close to the initial appearance of this land. No matter in what form these poplar trunks are presented to visitors, at sunset, they are all a breathtaking sight of dead poplar wood and the sunset. 📍Other highlights in the scenic area The Wangong Mountain Observation Deck near the 1,000-year area is worth a visit. This is the highest point of the scenic area, where you can overlook the vast poplar forest without a drone, and also view the Karlik Glacier Group of the East Tianshan Mountains from a distance. Wangong = 'Naomao' in Mongolian. 🚙Self-drive travel tips 📱Navigation: Set to "Yiwu Populus Euphratica Scenic Area" 🎫Admission ticket: You can check various Xinjiang cultural tourism passes. The Yiwu Populus Euphratica Scenic Area may have discounts. After purchasing a ticket, you can enter the scenic area by car 🅿️Parking: There are parking lots at every major attraction in the scenic area ⏳Duration: It is recommended to arrange half a day to visit the Yiwu Populus Euphratica Scenic Area ⚠️Suggestion: Depart after lunch and manage your time well to arrive at the Ten-Thousand-Year Root Carving Area before sunset ▶️All photos are originally taken and produced by Mr. Dog and Cai Cai Juan Er ▶️The above content is summarized based on personal travel experience. Please forgive any omissions ▶️Due to time sensitivity, some scenes may change. Please refer to the current situation ▶️All attractions visited by Cai Cai Juan Er and Mr. Dog are accessible by sedan ▶️Address location information is provided by the website. Please leave a message if you need more detailed information 🔸🔹🔸 Follow Cai Cai Juan Er and Mr. Dog on a self-drive virtual tour to deeply explore niche travel destinations
The most beautiful spot in Jinci in autumn is hidden in the Wang Qiong Shrine✨ The shrine isn't large, featuring a three-bay hanging mountain roof, and there are two ginkgo trees in the courtyard in front. Once autumn arrives, the trees are laden with golden leaves that hang over the dark tiles inscribed with "Mountains High and Waters Long." When the wind blows, the leaves rustle down🍃, landing in the cracks of the blue bricks, on the threshold, and in the light of five hundred years. Wang Qiong was a Taiyuan native during the Ming Dynasty who served through the Chenghua, Hongzhi, Zhengde, and Jiajing reigns, eventually rising to the position of Minister of Personnel. Later generations often mention him alongside Yu Qian and Zhang Juzheng. He managed the Cao Canal and compiled the "Cao Canal Illustrated Records." While at the Ministry of War, he strongly recommended Wang Yangming, and later, he served as the Viceroy of the Three Frontiers and recovered Hami. After retiring to his hometown, he built the Jinxi Garden south of the Nanlao Spring and personally planted these two ginkgo trees—one male and one female, ten meters apart. After he passed away, the imperial court ordered the construction of this shrine. 📸 Photography tips: Be sure to wake up early and be among the first to enter the park, then sprint straight to the Wang Qiong Shrine🏃. Start with a wide-angle lens to capture the grand scene; there won't be many people within the first hour of opening, and you can use post-processing to remove any stray passersby. Once the crowds arrive, switch to low-angle shots and use a telephoto lens for close-ups~ Camera model: Canon R6 Lens: 10-20mm/70-200mm 📍 Location: South line of the Jinci Museum, south of Nanlao Spring and west of Jinxi Academy. You can see it directly from the Hall of the Holy Mother; just face the hall and walk to the left👀 🎫 Admission ticket: Full price 80 yuan Hours: Peak season (April–October) 8:30 AM–6:00 PM; off-season (November–March) 9:00 AM–5:00 PM Best viewing period: Late October–early November P.S. There is also a large ginkgo forest in the square in front of the Jinci Museum gate, which is also beautiful, though the trees are smaller🌳
Departing from Hami, the altitude drops and the temperature rises along the way. After a 4-hour drive, you arrive at Mazar Village. It is located in the southern valley of the Tuyugou Grand Canyon and is now the oldest Uyghur village in the Turpan region. Looking down from the highway, the village is nestled in the canyon. A narrow river flows through the village from north to south. Along both sides of the river, scattered Uyghur dwellings are built, giving the impression that the village grew right out of the valley floor. However, Mazar Village is more than just an ancient village. It is a witness to a millennium of change. It was a place where the Jushi Qian Kingdom and the Gaochang Kingdom existed, and where the monk Xuanzang stopped to lecture on scriptures during his pilgrimage. Most notably, over the past 1,700-plus years, it transformed from a major Buddhist site into a center of Islamic culture. So much history is packed into these few dozen ancient rammed-earth dwellings. This area has seen human activity since ancient times. During the Neolithic Age, indigenous people already lived here. The subsequently discovered Yanghai Tombs and Subeixi Ruins indicate that early agricultural civilization in Turpan developed right here. The village still preserves more than 20 cultural relics and historic sites. During the Western Han Dynasty, this area belonged to the Jushi Qian Kingdom. In the Wei and Jin periods, people began carving caves into the cliffs for meditation and creating Buddhist niches. This is how Tuyugou got its ancient name, "Dinggu." By the Western Jin Dynasty, it had already begun to become a sacred Buddhist site. During the rule of the Qu family in Gaochang, large-scale construction of Buddhist temples and caves took place in Tuyugou, making it a major Buddhist center for the Gaochang Kingdom. Xuanzang, on his journey west, passed through Gaochang and also lectured here. According to the "Xizhou Tu Jing" (Records of Xizhou), the Tuyugou Grottoes were known as "Dinggu Temple" during the Tang Dynasty's Xizhou period. Various manuscript fragments have been unearthed from the Tuyugou Grottoes. Notably, the Heart Sutra translated by Xuanzang, which had been sealed away for a millennium, was discovered here, and a manuscript fragment of the "Great Tang Records on the Western Regions" was unearthed in 1981. These significant discoveries brought Tuyugou Village back into the public eye. After the late Tang Dynasty, Tuyugou successively came under the rule of regimes such as the Tibetan Empire and the Gaochang Uyghur Kingdom. Grotto art and various scripts and religious cultures coexisted for a long time. Buddhism, Manichaeism, Zoroastrianism, and Taoism were once popular here, making it a true cultural crossroads. In the late Yuan Dynasty, Islam was introduced to the Turpan Basin. In the early Ming Dynasty, the region gradually completed its religious transition. Buddhist temples declined, and Islamic culture took root. The village name "Mazar" means tomb or graveyard, or more accurately, the tomb of an Islamic saint or dignitary. It is a transliteration from Arabic, with the original meaning close to "holy place" or "place of pilgrimage." Therefore, Mazar Village can be understood as "the village built in front of the Mazar." During the Yongzheng reign of the Qing Dynasty, some residents moved to Guazhou with Emin Khoja; they returned to Tuyugou during the Qianlong reign. Afterward, it was long governed by local princes until the policy of replacing hereditary tribal leaders with appointed officials at the end of the Qing Dynasty. During the Republic of China era, administrative divisions were adjusted multiple times, and Mazar Village was eventually incorporated into Tuyugou Township. In 1958, the People's Commune was established, and this area belonged to the Hongxing Commune. In 1978, the place name was restored, and it was renamed Tuyugou Commune. In 1984, the township and village system was restored, and Mazar Village has continued as an administrative village to this day. The Tuyugou we see today is not just an ancient Uyghur village. It is more like history layered upon itself: prehistoric settlements, Buddhist grottoes, Silk Road post stations, yellow clay dwellings, and Mazar culture are all packed into this canyon.
The Tung Chung Coffee Festival has arrived! This is the final stop of the recent Coffee Voyage tour, featuring 12 coffee brands from Japan and Hong Kong. One stall even has a queue of over 30 minutes! Here’s a look at what’s worth drinking: ☕ here Kyoto - Catch 2014 World Latte Art Champion Junichi Yamaguchi performing live; their Latte is the perfect choice. ☕ ABOUT US COFFEE - Today's reigning queue king and a Kyoto roasting triple-crown winner! If you want a taste, I suggest heading straight to the line as soon as you arrive (I waited about 30 minutes). They have 15 bean varieties available; my favorite is "Ring Of Water" (#14). ☕ Direct Coffee Kyoto - My personal favorite! I absolutely loved the Finca Milan; the watermelon and honeydew aromas are very prominent, and the sweetness becomes even more noticeable as it cools. I couldn't help but spend some money, especially since this is the very last batch of Finca Milan. The vibes at this shop are absolutely top-tier 🤣 ☕ Kyoto Coffee - The Narino SP has a distinct shiso flavor with a honeyed finish that slowly reveals itself (though many people seem more focused on how handsome Barista Aki is). ☕ Finetime Coffee Roasters - Aeropress enthusiasts should definitely try the event-exclusive Geisha. ☕ Noda Coffee - Likely the only stall serving coffee cocktails 🙈. The "Plum Coffee Fizz" is very refreshing, and among their four special blends, I think the coconut one is worth a try. ☕ Studio Caffeinee - Try the "Pineapple Sausage" and "Ginger Pomelo Joy." The former is quite sweet, but it works well when eaten with the cheese slice on top; the latter has a very bold ginger kick lol. 📍Coffee Voyage 2026 (Citygate Outlets Stop) 📍Date: From now until October 25 📍Time: 11:00-18:30 📍Address: G/F and 2/F, Citygate Outlets (Near POPCORN, cdf Beauty, and the 2/F footbridge)
I. Why Barkol · "Xinjiang's winter isn't just about Kanas; wherever there's snow, it's a fairytale." Barkol is located at the northern foot of the East Tianshan Mountains. Snow-capped mountains are right before your eyes, and the Qing Dynasty city walls stand right in the county seat. You can snap great snow photos anywhere, and the best part is that it's truly uncrowded. · "Barkol is an absolutely overlooked travel treasure." Even the Junmachang Service Area on the way back to Hami is completely covered in snow, offering photo ops all along the way. · Great ice and snow season policies (2026 Ice and Snow Culture Tourism Season, every December–February): All scenic spots in the county are free, and hotels countywide offer discounts. Pulei Grand View Garden features a 500-meter ski slope, 26 ice and snow sculptures, and night lighting. During festivals, there are folk activities like molten iron fireworks, winter fishing, and winter horse racing. · Low costs: Dining and accommodation in the county seat are cheaper than at scenic spots, and the per-person cost is far lower than on the Altay or Kanas routes. II. Quick Overview Location Barkol Kazakh Autonomous County, Hami City, Xinjiang (northern foot of the East Tianshan Mountains) Best time December–February (ice and snow season, with the most activities in January); June–August for summer grassland retreats; September–October for golden autumn Winter temperature Approx. -10°C to -25°C. It's dry, cold, and windy, but it's not too bad during the day when the sun is out Altitude The county seat is about 1,600–2,000 meters above sea level. Generally, there's no altitude sickness; just slow down your movements Tickets The ancient city, grasslands, and Barkol Lake are all free; Guaishi Mountain is CNY 10; during the ice and snow season, all scenic spots in the county are free Winter gear list: Long down jacket, snow boots (non-slip!), gloves, hat, scarf, and several hand warmers; sunglasses + high-SPF sunscreen (snow reflects UV rays very strongly), lip balm, and moisturizer; bring extra power banks (batteries drain quickly in low temperatures) and keep spare camera batteries close to your body to keep them warm; if driving, bring snow chains. III. How to get there ✈️ Flight Barkol Dahe Airport (DHH), opened in July 2025, is only 19 km from the county seat: Airport bus is CNY 2/person, approx. 30 mins (departs according to flight schedule); taxi is approx. 30 mins to the county seat; airport inquiries: 0902-7161000 🚄 High-speed train + shuttle bus Take the Lanzhou-Xinjiang High-Speed Railway to Hami Station → take a shuttle bus from Hami Passenger Station to Barkol County. Fare is approx. CNY 50, travel time is approx. 2–2.5 hours, with stable schedules 🚗 Self-driving (recommended) Hami city center → Barkol, take G575 National Highway for approx. 2 hours. You'll pass through the East Tianshan canyons, and the snow-capped mountains and pine forests along the way are attractions in themselves; in winter, roads may be icy after snow, so check road conditions and prepare snow chains before departure 🚕 Local transport Attractions are scattered; chartering a car for approx. CNY 150–200/day is the most worry-free option; taxis are convenient within the county seat IV. 3-day, 2-night classic itinerary (winter edition) Day 1 | Arrival + leisurely stroll through the ancient city · Morning: Depart from Hami (or fly directly to Dahe Airport), arrive in the county seat at noon, and drop off luggage at the hotel. · Afternoon: Explore the Barkol Ancient City scenic area (4A, free). Follow the city walls, visit Desheng Gate to climb the walls for panoramic shots, and see the Qing Dynasty granary, Dizang Temple/Xian'gu Temple, Songfeng Academy, and the Barkol Cultural Museum to experience the weight of this Qing Dynasty military town. · Evening: Hancheng Food Street. Be sure to try the braised lamb with pancakes. Day 2 | Ice and snow day (the highlight of the trip) · Morning: Pulei Grand View Garden (in the county seat, the main venue for the ice and snow season). 500-meter ski slope (accommodates 200+ people), snowmobiles, ice slides, and ice spinning tops. The park features 26 ice and snow works + a giant snowman + camel caravan snow sculptures (a tribute to Barkol as the "County of Ten Thousand Camels"). It's even more magical when the lights turn on at night. · Afternoon: Barkol Lake (Pulei Sea). Navigate to "Swan Gate". In winter, the lake is frozen with snow-capped mountains as a backdrop. Some wooden boardwalks are closed; be careful when walking on the ice. The winter version of the largest inland lake in the East Tianshan Mountains is very photogenic. · Evening: On the way back, stop by the Barkol Grasslands to watch the sunset over the "Golden Mountain," or go to Gaojiahu Wetland to see the pastoral snowfields. Day 3 | Snowfield return route (same photo spots as the posts) · Morning: Guaishi Mountain (CNY 10). Honeycomb-shaped strange rocks; climb to the top for a bird's-eye view of the snowfields and lake. · Noon: Songshutang. Beautiful scenery all the way through the forest and snowfields. · Afternoon: Return to Hami along G575/S303, passing by the Junmachang Service Area—this is the filming location for the "blue-toned" posts. After heavy snow, the entire service area is pure white, making for easy blue-and-white photos. VI. What to eat Food Braised lamb with pancakes Barkol's signature, intangible cultural heritage dish: Large chunks of wether lamb are stewed, covered with thin pancakes, and braised so the pancakes soak up the broth Approx. CNY 80/serving (2–3 people) Local hot pot Handmade meatballs, jiasha (fried meat/egg rolls), and lamb. Bubbling and fragrant during the ice and snow season CNY 60–100/pot Crispy steamed bun Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside. A daily staple for locals Approx. CNY 5/piece Hand-grabbed meat + yogurt Authentic lamb flavor, yogurt cuts the richness CNY 40–60/person Kazakh milk tea Made with brick tea, milk, and salt. Served with crispy steamed buns Approx. CNY 30/pot Mare's milk wine Fermented mare's milk, 3–5% alcohol, sweet and sour Approx. CNY 50/kg Yogurt balls, roasted grain porridge Grassland-style snacks/festive foods CNY 10–20 Note: Dining in the county seat is cheaper and more authentic than at scenic spots; some grassland yurt restaurants are closed in winter, so stick to the county seat. VII. Photo spots (guide to blue-toned photos) 1. Desheng Gate city walls: Afternoon, with the light behind you. City walls + snowfields + distant snow-capped mountains in one frame. 2. Barkol Lake Swan Gate: Wooden boardwalk extending toward the frozen lake. Have the subject walk into the distance and shoot from a low angle. 3. Junmachang Service Area: Pure white snow + blue sky. This is the original photo spot for the "blue-toned" posts. Recommended time: 10:00 AM–12:00 PM for the clearest light. 4. Pulei Grand View Garden night session: Ice sculptures with colorful lights + snow sculptures. Use night mode and keep your phone steady. 5. General tips: Winter sunlight is strong and snow reflects light; lower the exposure compensation to preserve the texture of the snow; wear bright-colored (red/yellow) jackets to stand out against the blue-and-white snowfields. VIII. Tips and warnings · ❌ Do not take unlicensed taxis or buy overpriced souvenirs at scenic spots; ask for prices before riding horses by the lake/grasslands to avoid hidden costs. · ❄️ Snow chains are essential for winter self-driving. G575 may be temporarily restricted after snow; check road conditions before departure. If you have no experience driving in snow, chartering a car is recommended. · 🔋 Phones drain power very quickly in low temperatures; keep power banks close to your body to keep them warm. · 🧴 Don't be lazy with sunscreen: Snow reflects UV rays strongly; wear sunglasses to prevent "snow blindness." · 🏠 Respect Kazakh customs: Take off your shoes when entering a yurt, do not step on the threshold, and ask for permission before taking photos of people. · 🌡️ Large temperature difference between day and night. Indoor floor heating is dry; drink plenty of water and bring lip balm.
Mongolia is a land of vast open spaces filled with raw, majestic natural beauty. If you're looking for a unique and grand travel destination, we’ve rounded up 5 must-visit highlights, ranging from emerald grasslands and crystal-clear freshwater lakes to world-class deserts! 🐪🏔️ 1. Gorkhi-Terelj National Park 🌲⛰️ A wondrous start not far from the capital, known for its sprawling steppes flanked by strangely shaped granite peaks. A must-see is the famous "Turtle Rock," and you can experience the Mongolian nomadic lifestyle by staying in a traditional Ger surrounded by pristine nature. 2. Gobi Desert 🐪🌅 One of the world’s largest deserts with incredible biodiversity. Highlights include the "Singing Sands" of Khongoryn Els where the wind creates whispering sounds, the Flaming Cliffs where world-class dinosaur fossils were discovered, and Yolyn Am, a unique deep ice valley right in the middle of the desert like nowhere else. 3. Khuvsgul Lake 🌊💙 The "Blue Pearl of Mongolia," this is the country's largest and deepest freshwater lake. Its water is so clear it perfectly reflects the sky and surrounding pine forests. Beyond its summer beauty, it’s a world-class cultural and nature destination, especially in winter for the Khuvsgul Ice Festival held on thick ice—a dream atmosphere for many travelers. 4. Altai Mountains 🦅❄️ Known as the roof of the world in western Mongolia, this mountain range is snow-capped year-round. It’s home to the Kazakh people, who preserve the tradition of hunting with "Golden Eagles." The landscape is filled with glaciers, steep valleys, and alpine meadows that look like a painting. 5. Orkhon Valley 🐎📜 A UNESCO World Heritage site that serves as the historical and natural heart of Mongolia. It features the Orkhon River flowing through green pastures, the powerful Orkhon Waterfall, and remnants of ancient civilizations. It’s perfect for horseback riding and soaking in the true peace of nature. A trip to Mongolia isn’t just a vacation; it’s an adventure to witness the greatness of untouched nature. If you’re looking for a new experience, mark your map and get ready to go! 🎒✈️
If you want to experience what it's like to land on Mars, you must come to Hami Dahaidao. A vast and desolate no-man's-land, with bizarre Yadan Gobi landforms. Everywhere you look, the landscape is rugged and breathtaking. Standing here feels like stepping out of the real world, with an atmosphere that is truly immersive. 📍3-day, 2-night Mars Base road trip route D1 Hami City > Wubao Ghost City > Dahaidao Core Area ⚠️Be sure to fill your gas tank before departing. Navigation signals are very poor inside the Ghost City, and it's easy to get lost D2 Hongliutan Campsite > Tongtian Cave > Water Source > Mars Base ❗A 4WD off-road vehicle is a must. The washboard road is very bumpy; standard cars should proceed with caution D3 Pterosaur Canyon > Alien Ruins > Return to Hami ☀️Do not hike at noon in the summer. Surface temperatures can reach over 70°C, making heatstroke very likely 📸3 top-tier photo spots ▪️Tongtian Cave | At sunset, the rocks glow with pink and purple hues, perfect for stunning Mars-like photos ▪️Yadan group 3 km north of the Mars Base, desolate and magnificent, like an interstellar battlefield ▪️Water Source red rocks, bathed in the sunset, the rocks are coated in a layer of rose gold, absolutely stunning 📝Practical tips to avoid pitfalls ✅No gas stations for the entire 380 km. Be sure to stock up on enough water and dry food ✅Best time to visit is April–October; avoid traveling during the high heat of noon in July–August ✅Drones are prohibited in some areas; remember to register in advance before flying ✅Admission is 98 yuan/vehicle; save the scenic area rescue number, safety first in the no-man's-land 🚗Transportation advice In unfamiliar no-man's-land, it is best to find a local guide with a modified off-road vehicle for a safer trip
These 3 Xinjiang 22℃ plateau cool summer spots are the right way to beat the August heat I just saw the 2026 national summer climate resource map released by the China Meteorological Administration. Nalati Scenic Area, Burqin County, and Barkol Kazakh Autonomous County were all selected as plateau cool summer zones. As someone who just completed the Ili loop, I have to say: August in Xinjiang is truly a natural air-conditioned paradise. The wildflowers on the grasslands are in full bloom, the temperature is comfortable, and I’m sharing a genuine travel record for everyone. 🌿 Nalati: breathe fresh air on the “sky grassland” Nalati’s average summer temperature is around 20℃, truly warm in winter and cool in summer. · How to enjoy: Don’t try to do too much on your first visit. The sky grassland (Tianjitai → Tianmutai → Nomad’s Home) is a must-see, with snow-capped mountains, spruce trees, and meadows all in one view, offering an extremely wide panorama. If you’re with elders or kids, add a river valley grassland route. It’s gentle and easy, plus you can visit the Wusun ruins to feel the history. · Ticket info: Main entrance ticket is 95 yuan (valid for 48 hours), sky grassland shuttle is 40 yuan, river valley grassland shuttle is 24 yuan. The park is open from 8:30 AM to 7:00 or 8:00 PM. Plan a full day to explore deeply; don’t rush. · Feel: At over 2,000 meters elevation, the UV rays are strong but the breeze is cool. A thin long-sleeve shirt is perfect at noon, but bring a windbreaker for mornings and evenings. 🚡 Burqin Hemu: take the cable car to 2,800 meters at Yunxiao Peak for cool air Burqin County benefits from high altitude, with average summer temperatures not exceeding 24℃. The Jikepulin Yunxiao Peak cable car goes straight to the 2,800-meter summit, where the climate is cool and comfortable, and you can even see the rare sight of snow in both winter and summer. · Cable car tips: Tickets cost 188 yuan per person (20 yuan for children 7 and under). From the Hemu visitor center, it’s about a 10-minute ride to the Jikepulin East District service hall, then transfer to the cable car. The one-way ride takes about 25 minutes. It’s best to reserve 2–3 hours at the top to fully enjoy the breeze. · Operating hours: Tickets sold from 8:50 AM to 8:00 PM, last departure at 8:10 PM. Don’t arrive at the last minute. · Real feel: It’s blindingly sunny at the base, but the 12℃ wind at the summit mixed with snow air instantly refreshes you. Bring a thick jacket. The summit paths may have icy patches that are slippery. 🎵 Barkol: grassland electronic music + RV supplies, summer escapes can be trendy too Barkol is also a plateau cool summer zone, with average summer temperatures not exceeding 24℃ thanks to its high altitude. · Weekend parties: According to the Barkol County Culture, Sports, Radio, TV, and Tourism Bureau, every weekend in August features events like electronic music festivals and boxing championships, each with a different theme. The grassland night breeze and music waves create a unique experience. · RV friendly: Multiple RV campsites like Barkol Lake and the Caragana flower sea are equipped with new energy vehicle charging stations and 24-hour restrooms. Visitors driving electric cars don’t need to worry about charging and can start having fun right away. · Temperature reminder: The grassland has a big temperature difference between day and night. Remember to bring a windbreaker to the electronic music events so you don’t catch a cold while having fun. 🚗 Some honest tips about itinerary and travel · Route advice: Fly into Yining or Urumqi, then take a charter or self-drive around the Ili loop for the most comfortable experience. In August, wildflowers bloom on the grasslands. Plan 5–8 days for an in-depth trip. Don’t rush to cover 600 km in one day—you won’t get the true meaning of “summer escape.” · Dressing formula: short sleeves + sun protection shirt + thin down jacket or windbreaker. These three are your essentials. The UV rays are no joke. · Pitfalls to avoid: Nalati self-driving requires advance booking on “Zhiyou Nalati” and is limited daily. The Hemu Yunxiao Peak cable car is not recommended for people with heart disease, high blood pressure, or acrophobia. Barkol weekend event schedules are subject to final announcements by the local culture and tourism bureau. Confirm before you go. Xinjiang’s summer is not for “enduring” but for “breathing”—breathing in the 22℃ grass-scented breeze is more healing than any air-conditioned room. If you’re planning a long summer escape in August, these 3 officially certified plateau cool destinations are worth adding to your list.
22℃ in Xinjiang is the true cheat code—Narat and Burqin summer cool test proves why these 45 top summer destinations nationwide are well deserved On July 9, the China Meteorological Administration released the 2026 national summer climate resource map. Xinjiang made the list with 4 spots, including Narat Scenic Area and Burqin County, classified as "plateau cool type" with average summer temperatures not exceeding 24℃. My friends and I just finished this route in mid-July. Honestly, while it was 38℃ inland, we were wearing light down jackets in Narat. This is truly a "dimension-lowering summer escape." Here’s a detailed rundown of the Narat + Hemu Yunxiao Peak + Barkol route for you to copy. 🌿 Narat: a mountain with four seasons is no exaggeration The name means "the place that sees the sun first" in Mongolian. The aerial grassland sits at an average altitude of 2,200 meters, with river valley grasslands between 1,600 and 1,800 meters. In one afternoon, you can go from sunburned skin → cool under spruce trees → freezing at the foot of snow-capped mountains. This is the "one mountain, four seasons" experience. Ticket info first (to avoid wasting money): · Main entrance ticket 95 CNY per person, valid for 48 hours, can be used on two separate days · Aerial grassland shuttle 40 CNY, river valley grassland shuttle 24 CNY, Panlong Valley shuttle 40 CNY, each sold separately, no bundles · Reservation: use the "Smart Travel Narat" mini program. Panlong Valley self-driving limited to 300 vehicles daily, book 1–3 days in advance Best 2-day itinerary: · Day 1 aerial grassland: visitor center → Tianjitai (panoramic view + snow mountains, sunrise sea of clouds spot) → Tianmutai (beekeeper sculpture, Kazakh song and dance at 11 AM) → nomad family (popular wooden bridge, horseback riding 80–100 CNY/hour) → Xuelian Valley (add 60 CNY for shuttle, 3,000 meters altitude at snow mountain foot, mild altitude sickness warning) · Day 2 river valley grassland + Panlong Valley: Tawu Sani "one mountain, four views" (snow ridge + spruce + grassland + river), free sheep herding shows at 11 AM and 5 PM; Panlong Valley self-driving 300 CNY per vehicle, winding aerial photography route, so few people it feels like a private booking 💡 Late July is peak wildflower season on the grasslands, August has the thickest grass perfect for camping. June 15–July 10 is actually the golden period with fewer visitors and more flowers, but I couldn’t get time off then… 🚡 Hemu Yunxiao Peak: 188 CNY for 2,800 meters of 12℃ mountain breeze Burqin County’s Hemu Jikepulin Resort opened for summer on May 27 and had welcomed 187,000 visitors by mid-July. It’s basically the hottest new destination in Altay this summer. Cable car stats are impressive: 4,930 meters long, 1,466 meters vertical drop, 25 minutes one way to 2,800 meters at Yunxiao Peak, where the temperature is nearly 8℃ lower than the base. The fun part in July is that the snow on the peak hasn’t melted yet, while wildflowers bloom halfway up. Seeing "winter and summer in one frame" in person is much more striking than in photos. Practical info (lessons learned): · Ticket price: 188 CNY per adult, 20 CNY for children 7 and under, uniform price online · Hemu visitor service center ticket sales 8:50 AM–8:00 PM, departures 9:00 AM–8:10 PM; last return from east hall to visitor center at 10:00 PM · Buy cable car tickets at the left window of the service center; the right window sells scenic area tickets + shuttle tickets, don’t queue at the wrong place · Mountain top temperature is at least 10℃ lower, bring a light down jacket or windbreaker. Some melting ice patches on the peak require anti-slip footwear · Not recommended for people with heart disease, high blood pressure, or fear of heights Here’s the classic route in Hemu village: morning mist at Harden viewing platform → Hemu Bridge → birch forest → afternoon Yunxiao Peak cable car → sunset at Hongbas grassland. No suitcases allowed in the scenic area; 20-inch soft bags + waterproof shoe covers are the minimum. If renting an electric scooter, helmets are mandatory. One of our friends got stopped and had to write a self-criticism for not wearing one—social death level max. 🎵 Barkol weekend electronic music: a striking contrast on the grassland Heading east from Burqin, you can detour to Barkol, where every weekend from July there’s an electronic music festival + boxing championship, with a different theme each week. The RV camp has new energy charging stations and 24-hour restrooms, very family- and group-friendly. This route is relatively niche, with an order of magnitude fewer people than Narat, perfect for those wanting to escape the noise. 🗺 Ili 8–10 day loop: the most reliable long route right now If you have time, this tested itinerary after landing in Yining is: Yining → Sailimu Lake (lake loop + Chaoke starry sky camp) → Huocheng lavender (peak bloom mid to late June) → Kalajun → Narat (2 days) → Bayinbuluke nine bends and eighteen turns → Duku Highway → return to Yining 8–10 days covers Ili Valley + Narat + southern Duku Highway thoroughly. The Duku Highway fully reopened on June 1 this year, and the Narat-Bayinbuluke section is open 24 hours, so self-driving travelers can go with confidence. ⚠ You can fly into Yining or Urumqi. From Urumqi, you’ll need a car rental or self-drive and an extra day of travel. July and August are peak season. Book accommodations in Narat town and old Hemu village at least 10 days in advance, especially on weekends. Some straightforward truths · Narat’s day-night temperature difference can reach 15℃, with 25℃ during the day and 5–8℃ in the early morning and evening. A light down jacket is not a luxury but a necessity · UV index is extremely high. Use high-SPF sunscreen + hat + sunglasses + lip balm or you’ll peel in 3 days · Prices in Hemu scenic area are high. Stock up on bottled water and snacks in Burqin town first · Rent horses only at the official nomad family ranch, ignore roadside herders who often overcharge A 22℃ summer in Xinjiang is not marketing hype. It’s the reality you feel the moment you step off the plane. The snow mountain breeze in Narat + the 2,800-meter snow patches at Hemu + the electronic beats in Barkol—only Xinjiang can bring these three together in one summer. 📌 Information updated to July 2026. Tickets and flights are subject to official real-time updates. The Duku Highway may be temporarily closed due to weather; check "Xinjiang road conditions" before departure. Narat
It must be said that Xinjiang is really a great place. The beauty of Xinjiang is a gift from nature! If you want to see all the landscapes of Xinjiang in one trip You must go to Yiwu + Nalati! 🌲 Yiwu | A condensed version of Xinjiang’s grandeur The ancient poplar forest standing for thousands of years Growing stubbornly in the barren Gobi Desert A glance reveals a millennium of awe, understanding the magnificent power of life At the foot of the snow-capped mountains blooms a sea of flowers Clear streams flow gently and heal Desert and flower sea coexist, desolate yet romantic, breathtakingly beautiful ☁️ Nalati | The cloudland paradise of Ili Endless sky-high grasslands Rolling snow mountains, forest meadows, wildflowers everywhere The wind waves through the grass, cattle and sheep scattered on the hills This is Xinjiang’s gentlest and most healing side Half is the vast poplar secret realm Half is the healing cloudland grassland This is the magnificent Xinjiang Mountains, rivers, lakes, seas, desert flower seas, grassland starry skies—all here All the healing scenery is waiting here for you to explore🌿
There will be washboard-like sections, but it won't affect traffic; you can drive slowly without any problems. The first half is paved and in good condition, allowing for unrestricted driving. The scenery is magnificent and breathtaking, well worth a road trip; a true masterpiece of nature.
M68***90Not many people have heard of the Populus euphratica forest in Hami and Yiwu, but that doesn't diminish its beauty. Because it's not as famous, it doesn't attract as many visitors as other Populus euphratica forests, giving it a more peaceful and tranquil feel. You can relax and stroll through the forest, observing and appreciating the various postures of the Populus euphratica trees, and taking photos. Driving in allows you to slowly experience the 3,000, 6,000, and 9,000-year-old Populus euphratica forests.
Eddie黄The Hami Hui King's Palace, located in Huicheng Township, Hami City, Xinjiang, was the residence of the Uyghur leader of Hami during the Qing Dynasty. Construction began in 1705, commissioned by the first Hui King, Ebedula, and designed and built by Han Chinese craftsmen. Destroyed by war in 1931, it was rebuilt on its original site in 2004. The palace blends architectural styles from Han, Manchu, Mongolian, and Uyghur ethnic groups, earning it the nickname "Little Forbidden City of the Western Regions." It contains buildings such as the Prince's Platform and the Military Review Platform, and serves as important material evidence for the study of Xinjiang's history and culture during the Qing Dynasty.
M83***34Barkol Singing Sand Mountain is a sand mountain in the territory of Barkol Kazakh Autonomous County, Xinjiang. In the desert or sand dunes, due to the influence of various climatic and geographical factors, fine sand particles mainly composed of quartz are formed. Due to wind vibration, sand sliding or mutual movement, many sand particles rotate in the airflow, and the holes on the surface cause the "diabolo" effect, which produces a buzzing sound. The Singing Sand Land is mainly desert in western China. These sand dunes are piled up into mountains, so it is also called Singing Sand Mountain.
M29***62I came here three years ago, and this is my second time. It's still free. The lake is relatively dry now, with little water, but the scenery is still beautiful. There are toilets in the parking lot and some small shops selling food. There are two horse riding fields nearby.
卖萌剪刀手The Hami Museum and the Muqam Heritage Center are adjacent to each other, both free to enter and without ID checks, making the experience much better. The museum has two floors, showcasing the historical changes of Hami from ancient times to the present. Walking around and learning was very rewarding. "Muqam" is a transliteration of the Uyghur word for "classical music," referring to a large-scale comprehensive art form integrating song, dance, and music. Unfortunately, the performance ended when we left the museum. 😇
大 牛This is a commercial street full of exotic atmosphere. Basically, you can taste Xinjiang's specialties such as lamb skewers, baked buns, yogurt, Hami melon... here, but the prices are not cheap. It is still a good idea to take a look around when you come to Hami.
qdu***08A great place for a relaxing vacation, returning to nature ~ Harmony between man and nature
帅的人一哥Starting from Hami, crossing the East Tianshan Mountains, and driving east along National Highway 335 for about an hour, you will arrive at the Colorful Lake. The lake is rich in minerals, and the lake water will present different colors in different weather and light, like a dream, hence the name. There are also a large number of special algae and plants by the lake, which are even more colorful and unforgettable.
行走地球的猫The alpine grassland is very beautiful when the grass turns yellow against the blue sky in autumn. There are herds of cattle and sheep, and most importantly, there are very few people. It feels great to enjoy a large grassland alone.
qdu***08
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