[2025 Altay City Attraction] Travel Guide for Hualin Park (Updated Apr)

The Altay region, located at the northernmost tip of Xinjiang, borders Kazakhstan, Russia, and Mongolia. It is renowned for the magnificent Altai Mountains, pristine forests, lakes, and the unique Tuvan culture. Key scenic spots include Kanas Lake, Hemu Village, Baihaba Village, and Keketuohai National Geopark. Best Time to Visit • Autumn (mid-September to early October): The forests are ablaze with color, with golden birch trees mirroring the azure lakes—a photographer's paradise. • Winter (December to February): A fairytale world draped in white, a haven for skiing (e.g., General Mountain Ski Resort). • Summer (June to August): A summer retreat, with blooming grasslands ideal for hiking. • Spring (May): As the snow melts and wildflowers bloom, fewer tourists visit during this time. Transportation Guide How to Get There 1. By Air: • Kanas Airport (open during peak season, June to October): Direct flights to Kanas Scenic Area. • Altay Xuedu Airport: Open year-round, transfer from Urumqi, then take a bus to the scenic area (approx. 4 hrs). 2. By Train: Arrive at Beitun City Railway Station, transfer to a bus/charter a car to Altay (approx. 1.5 hrs). 3. By Car: Urumqi to Altay is about an 8-hour drive. You can visit the S21 Desert Highway and Ulungur Lake along the way. Local Transportation • Inter-Scenic Transportation: Shuttle buses are available between Kanas, Hemu, and Baihaba (tickets required). Private cars are not allowed to enter the core area during peak season. • Chartering/Carpooling: Flexible and convenient, recommended for 4–6 people. The cost is approximately CNY 500–800 per day. Recommended Itinerary (5–7 Days) Day 1: Arrive in Altay City • General Mountain Ski Resort (winter) or Birch Forest Park (autumn). • Enjoy local Kazakh cuisine for dinner. Hand-pulled lamb and baursaki (fried dough) are recommended. Days 2–3: In-depth Kanas Lake Tour • Kanas Three Bays: Shenxian Bay (morning mist), Yueliang Bay, and Wolong Bay. • Guanyutai: Climb to the top for a panoramic view of Kanas Lake and explore the legend of the "lake monster." • Tuvan Villages: Visit local homes and experience Tuvan culture, including the morin khuur (horsehead fiddle) and khoomei (throat singing). • Hiking/Horseback Riding: Explore the lakeside boardwalk or the Kuailehu (Happy Lake) trail. Day 4: Hemu Village • Sunrise and Morning Mist: Climb to the Harden Platform early in the morning for a breathtaking view of Hemu Village shrouded in mist. • Stroll through the Birch Forest: Golden in autumn like an oil painting, and a fairytale wonderland in winter. • Stargazing: With no light pollution, the Milky Way is clearly visible at night. Day 5: Baihaba Village (the First Village in the Northwest) • China-Kazakhstan Border Scenery: A border defense permit is required in advance (obtainable with your ID card at the Kanas transfer center). • Pristine Village: Wooden houses, cattle, sheep, and snow-capped mountains create a tranquil scene. Day 6: Keketuohai National Geopark • Irtysh River Grand Canyon: Unique rock formations and colorful forests in autumn. • No. 3 Mine: A meritorious mine of the People's Republic of China, learn about the history of rare metal mining. Day 7: Departure or Extended Trip • Optional: Ulungur Lake (winter fishing festival), Wucaitan (sunset Yadan landforms). Must-Try Highlights 1. Kanas Lake Cruise: Experience the changing colors of the lake up close. 2. Horseback Riding through Hemu: From Hemu to Meili Peak, experience the intersection of grassland and forest. 3. Horse-drawn Sleigh Ride (winter): A traditional mode of transportation, gliding through the snowy forests. 4. Tuvan Bonfire Party: Listen to the suling (grass flute) and enjoy the Hei Zou Ma dance. Food Recommendations • Cold Water Fish Feast: Zheluo salmon (large red fish) and pike from Kanas Lake. • Kazakh Cuisine: Beshbarmak (boiled meat and noodles), milk tea, and horse sausage. • Xinjiang Specialties: Baked buns, pilaf, Dapanji (big plate chicken), and Kurt (dried yogurt). Accommodation Recommendations • Hemu/Kanas: Wooden guesthouses within the scenic area are preferred (e.g., Hemu Century-old House) for convenient sunrise and morning mist viewing. • Altay City: Many hotel options in the city center (e.g., Jindu Hotel) offer good value. • Winter Accommodation: Confirm heating availability in advance, as some guesthouses close during winter. Important Notes 1. Documents: Carry your ID card at all times. A border defense permit is required for Baihaba. 2. Temperature Difference: Large temperature differences between day and night. Bring a jacket even in summer, and down jackets and non-slip boots in winter. 3. High-Altitude Sun Protection: Strong UV rays, sunglasses and sunscreen are essential. 4. Respect Local Customs: Tuvans and Kazakhs avoid stepping on doorsills. Do not take photos of locals without permission. 5. Environmental Protection: Protect nature, do not litter. Budget Reference (per person) • Transportation: Round-trip airfare/train tickets CNY 2,000–4,000, car rental approximately CNY 300 per day. • Entrance Fees: Kanas + shuttle bus CNY 230, Hemu CNY 102, Keketuohai CNY 126. • Accommodation: Guesthouses CNY 200–600 per night, prices double during peak season. • Food: CNY 80–150 per day. Altay is a land of pristine wilderness and poetic charm. Whether you are chasing autumn colors, exploring winter snow, or immersing yourself in nomadic culture, you will experience the gifts of nature. Check the weather and scenic spot opening information before departure. Have a pleasant trip!

| Enter the Fairy Tale Birch Forest Park. I recently visited Birch Forest Park in Altay City and was left speechless by its beauty! Each season has its own charm, especially autumn and winter, when the forest is painted in layers of color and the ground is covered in gold. It's a photographer's paradise, so save this guide for your next trip.👇 📅Best time to visit: September to November, when the leaves turn golden and the weather is crisp and cool; December to February, when the snow-covered landscape looks like a scene from Frozen. Recommended visit time: 3–4 hours. 📍Location: No. 35 Jiefang Road, Altay City, Xinjiang. It's super convenient to take a taxi from the city center, and it only takes about 15 minutes to get there. 🎫Tickets: Free admission! It's a great value and you can enjoy the park without spending a dime. 📸Photo spots: Birch Avenue: The park's main road is lined with straight birch trees with white trunks and golden leaves. The sunlight creates a dappled effect, and you can easily take fresh, Japanese-style photos by standing in the middle of the road or leaning against a tree trunk. Lakeside boardwalk: The reflection of the birch trees in the lake is picture-perfect. Take a stroll along the boardwalk and use the lake and forest as a backdrop for stunning back or side profile shots. Fallen leaves area: The thick layer of fallen leaves looks like a golden carpet. Sit or lie on it and capture natural movements for a lazy autumn vibe. Wooden pavilion: The ancient-style pavilion surrounded by birch trees is a collision of Chinese aesthetics and autumn beauty. Wear a hanfu and take photos here for stunning results. This birch forest park is so beautiful, so grab your friends and go check it out!

A short holiday is coming up, and here's a 6-day Altay itinerary! It's super useful and will help you explore Altay. Save it now! -------- 🛤️ Itinerary: DAY 1: Altay Museum -> Birch Forest Park -> Xiaodonggou Forest Park -> Wuzhi Spring 📍 On the first day, explore Altay in depth, from the history and culture of the museum to the natural scenery. The itinerary is rich and colorful. DAY 2: Hemu Scenic Area 🌲 Spend the whole day immersed in the original natural scenery of Hemu and feel the tranquility and wonder of nature. DAY 3: Hemu Scenic Area -> Hemu Viewing Platform -> Kanas Scenic Area -> Kanas Three Bays 📸 Overlook the panoramic view of Hemu from the viewing platform, then head to Kanas to explore the beautiful scenery of the Three Bays, a paradise for photography enthusiasts. DAY 4: Kanas Scenic Area -> China-Kazakhstan Border Grand Canyon -> Baihaba -> Haba River Birch Forest 🌳 Cross the border, experience the grandeur of the canyon, and visit Baihaba and the birch forest. Every step is a scenery. DAY 5: Filming Location of "My Altay" -> Colorful Beach 🎬 Visit the filming location, relive the plot, and finally head to Colorful Beach to feel the charm of nature's colors. DAY 6: [Altay - Return] 🛫 Arrange a transfer to the airport according to your flight schedule, ending this unforgettable trip to Xinjiang. We look forward to seeing you again. -------- Must-visit attractions: 🌟 Kanas Scenic Area: Explore the mysterious lake monster and feel the charm of the ever-changing lake water. 🏡 Hemu Scenic Area: Immerse yourself in the simple and quiet mountain cabins and enjoy the embrace of nature. 🌈 Colorful Beach: In the evening, admire the colorful and magical scenery on the river beach, which is breathtakingly beautiful. 🍁 Baihaba: It feels like being in an autumn fairy tale, with golden wooden houses and reddish snow-capped mountains complementing each other. 🌅 Hemu Viewing Platform: Enjoy a panoramic view of Hemu and fully appreciate the magnificent sunrise. -------- 🎒 Travel Preparation: Altay January Travel Essentials 👚 Clothing: Warm down jacket, thick sweater, fleece pants, long cotton socks, waterproof snow boots. 🎩 Accessories: Windproof jacket, warm hat, scarf, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen. 💳 Documents: ID card, student ID, or driver's license, etc. 🔋 Electronics: Power bank, phone charger, camera, and spare batteries. 🍞 Food: Portable snacks such as nuts, nutrition bars, and a thermos with hot water. 💊 Medicine: Cold medicine, stomach medicine, band-aids, and other common medicines. 🎈 Others: Cash, portable tissues, U-shaped pillow, and personal toiletries. -------- Explore Altay, and we hope these tips can help you. Don't forget to like and save them for your next trip!

Urumqi-Kanas-Turpan, 8-day tour guide is here! The best route to explore Xinjiang without detours. Save it now! / 📅Itinerary: DAY1: Hongshan Park->Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Museum->Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar->Kanas Lake->Fairy Bay Tour Urumqi, then head to Kanas in the evening to explore the mysterious Kanas Lake and Fairy Bay. DAY2: S21 Desert Highway->Gurbantunggut Desert->Karamayli Nature Reserve->Devil City Scenic Area Travel along the S21 Desert Highway to experience the desert scenery, visit the Karamayli Nature Reserve, and finally arrive at the unique Devil City. DAY3: Hemu Scenic Area->Birch Park Visit Hemu Scenic Area to enjoy the tranquility of nature, then head to Birch Park for a walk in the woods. DAY4: Kanas Scenic Area->Birch Forest Explore Kanas Scenic Area in depth, discover the beautiful legends of Kanas, and stroll through the charming birch forest. DAY5: World Devil City Spend the whole day at World Devil City to admire its unique landforms and scenery. DAY6: Sayram Lake Visit the highland pearl Sayram Lake to enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the highland lake. DAY7: Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar Return to Urumqi and visit Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar again to experience the market atmosphere of Xinjiang. DAY8: Urumqi → 24-hour airport transfer service End your wonderful trip to Xinjiang with 24-hour airport transfer service. We look forward to seeing you again in beautiful Xinjiang! 🛫 / Travel essentials: 🎒 👕 Clothing: Down jacket, thermal underwear, thick sweater, fleece pants. Keep warm and windproof. 🎫 Documents: ID card, student ID, etc. Xinjiang has strict security checks, so keep them handy. 📸 Accessories: Charger, power bank, selfie stick. Capture beautiful moments. 🧴 Skincare: Sunscreen, lip balm, hydrating mask. Keep your skin hydrated. / The fireworks of Urumqi, the natural wonders of Kanas, and the fragrant fruits of Turpan. One trip, three experiences. Don't miss it! ❤

Shanghe Wensu is a key project for rural revitalization in Altay's Lasite Township. It is also a new representative of homestays around Altay City. It was completed and put into operation in December 2022. The overall design style of the homestay is a magnificent solid wood style. The design inspiration for the space comes from the colors and expressions of the four seasons in nature. The designer wants to integrate this emotion into the living space, creating a warm and healing space atmosphere through the simplicity of natural things such as wood, stone, and grass. When designing the space layout, the designer focused on portraying the sense of belonging of "home." From the choice of handmade elements to natural materials, to the integration of local folk culture, all are creating an immersive experience of "slowing down." The materials will become more textured over time. Number of rooms: 32 Featured rooms: Sauna room/Family suite Homestay: Altay culture, nomadic feeling, winter features Winter special wine suite + Birch Forest Park tickets *2 + General Mountain Ski Resort transfer The homestay is 21 km from Altay Airport✈️40 minutes, 10 km from General Mountain Ski Resort, 20 minutes

To escape the scorching heat, the coolest summer resort in China must be Yili, Xinjiang Summer is good in every way except that it is too hot. People cannot stand the heat (especially during summer vacation, when I just want to take my kids out for a few months, find some cool place to play, and relax to escape the heat. The first stop for summer vacation must be Yili, Xinjiang: The average temperature in summer from July to August is 25°C, with a large temperature difference between day and night. Wear all kinds of pretty little skirts during the day, and put on a small jacket at night, which shows how comfortable the weather is 😌 Summer travel essentials: sun protection clothing, sun protection sunglasses, hats, beautiful 👗 There is no need to say how beautiful Xinjiang is! The former Ili, now Altay, has the conditions to go directly to the Northern Xinjiang Grand Loop! Popular summer resorts in northern Xinjiang: Ili, Altay, Kalajun, Tangbula, Bayinbuluke, Xiata, Hemu, Sailimu Lake Each attraction has its own unique features: 1. Kanas Scenic Area: The main attractions include Kanas National Nature Reserve, Kanas National Geopark, Jiadengyu National Forest Park, Baihaba Village and other famous natural landscapes in China and abroad. 2. Baihaba Village: It is a village where pristine natural ecology and ancient traditional culture coexist. It is a village with a relatively concentrated Tuva population in Altay, Xinjiang. It is a relatively well-preserved village inhabited by Tuva people and has a strong Tuva style. It is known as the No. 1 Village and No. 1 Outpost in the Northwest. 3. Birch Forest Park: It is divided into several small islands by the Kelan River. The islands are full of natural wildness. In autumn, the birch leaves are golden, the birch trunks are silvery white, and the birch branches are red with a hint of green, which is pleasing to the eye. 4. Jiadengyu National Forest Park: It is mainly composed of the main Altai Mountains and the two major branches of Mandiwansha Gangsala extending to the south. The terrain is narrow and steep, with steep cliffs, deep valleys and dangerous rapids, canyons, rivers and green trees interweaving into picturesque corridors. 5. The Sino-Russian Old Wharf Style Street: Also known as the Burqin Riverbank Night Market, it is a food street with a more Russian style. Since many tourists prefer to eat barbecue and drink beer by the river at night, there are more and more barbecue stalls on the riverside, making it a must-visit place for many tourists. Recommended Xinjiang delicacies in summer: pilaf, grilled lamb skewers, hand-pulled meat, fish head casserole, camel milk, special hot pot for homestay and camping, etc. But don’t miss any of the delicacies.