Burqin---A Unique Russian Fairy Tale Town

Burqin is located in Burqin County, Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang. It is the source of the Burqin River, the largest tributary of the Irtysh River, and is named after the Burqin River. It is the gateway to the Kanas Scenic Area and Hemu Scenic Area, a small town full of European charm, with fairy-tale Russian-style buildings everywhere. The Old Sino-Russian Wharf Style Street★★★, formerly the Sino-Russian shipping wharf, is now a street with Russian-style buildings. The houses on both sides are colorful, and there are Russian Matryoshka sculptures at the entrance and in the middle of the street. There is also a Russian-style pedestrian street, a mini version of the Arc de Triomphe, and other photo spots. The three main features are cold-water fish, Russian grandmother Gina's "Kvass," and yogurt. You can photograph the buildings during the day, and the lights look even better at night. Be sure to visit the park across the street, with beautiful windmills, lighthouses, and viewing platforms. The Russian buildings on the other side are also beautiful. Strolling along the riverbank at dusk, the golden reflections are stunning! Burqin Tower Bridge★★★: The night view is particularly beautiful, especially when photographed from the lawn below the bridge and the middle of the bridge. The viewing platform by the river also offers great shots of the bridge and its reflection. You can locate it by searching for Burqin People's Government, and there is a small Niukern yogurt shop nearby, which is also delicious and worth a try. Irtysh River★★: The Burqin River flows into the Irtysh River, which then flows west into Lake Zaysan and turns north into the Arctic Ocean. Therefore, the Irtysh River is the only river in China that flows into the Arctic Ocean. In the afternoon, you can watch a sunset over the Irtysh River, with pink evening clouds reflecting on this colorful small town, which is truly breathtaking. Riverbank Night Market★★: Located by the Irtysh River and next to the Style Street, all these places are very close to each other. The specialty pike here is a must-try. Four Seasons Food Plaza★★★: A place where locals go to eat. Here you can taste various Burqin delicacies, including Xinjiang naan, grilled pike, grilled lamb skewers, grilled buns, stuffed meat, various milk slices, and milk curds.