Hidden deep in the dense forests of Altay, Xinjiang, lies an ancient village known as "God's Private Reserve":Hemu VillageLog cabins with pointed roofs, wisps of smoke rising from chimneys, golden birch forests, and clear rivers intertwine to create a dreamlike and enchanting scene. Named one of "China's Most Beautiful Villages" by China National Geographic As the main settlement of the Tuva people in China, Hemu Village is not just a scenic spot, but also a living history.
Where is Hemu Village? Basic Introduction
Hemu Village is located in Burqin County, Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China.Kanas Scenic AreaLocated in the northeast, it is an important part of the Kanas tourist area. The village is situated in a mountain valley at an altitude of about 1,300 to 1,400 meters, surrounded by the Altai Mountains, with the Hemu River flowing quietly through it.
This small village, with only a few hundred households, is renowned for its pristine natural scenery and unique ethnic culture. It is hailed as "God's private reserve" because it is far from the hustle and bustle of the world and maintains its most original natural state; it is also known as "a photographer's paradise," attracting countless photography enthusiasts every year.
Hemu Village is one of the best-preserved and oldest Tuva villages in China. The village still retains its traditional way of life and folk culture relatively intact. In addition to the Tuvan people, Kazakhs also live in the village, and Russians have historically settled here. Diverse cultures blend harmoniously on this land.Who are the Tuvan people? What is their history and culture?
The Origins of the Tuvan People
The Tuva people are a transboundary ethnic group spanning Russia, Xinjiang (China), and Mongolia. There are several theories about their origins. One widely accepted theory suggests that the Tuva people are descendants of some Mongol troops left behind during Genghis Khan's westward conquests; other scholars believe they are the product of the fusion of ancient Turkic and Mongol peoples.
Within China, the Tuva people are mainly distributed in three villages: Hemu, Kanas, and Baihaba, with a total population of only about 2,000. The Chinese government officially registers them as a branch of the Mongolian ethnic group.
Mugelen: A Traditional Building That Breathes
The most iconic feature of Hemu Village is its log cabins with pointed roofs, which locals call "mugeleng." These houses are entirely constructed from logs sourced from dead or fallen trees, reflecting the Tuvan people's respect for nature. Most of the houses are buried in the ground to withstand the long, harsh winters of the Altai Mountains. The roofs are A-framed, made of planks nailed together and covered with dry moss, grass, and soil for insulation. The oldest wooden house is over a hundred years old and carries the rich historical memories of the Tuvan people. .
Lifestyle and Belief
The Tuvan people have traditionally relied on herding and hunting for a living, maintaining a semi-nomadic lifestyle.
| aspect | Features |
|---|---|
| livelihood | Animal husbandry is the main industry, with hunting as a secondary activity. |
| religious beliefs | The majority of practitioners are Tibetan Buddhism and Shamanism, with a minority practicing Islam. |
| Natural concept | All things have a spirit, and we should have reverence for mountains and forests. |
| Environmental awareness | Do not cut down living trees, only use dead or wind-fallen timber. |
Khoomei: A Miracle from the Throat
The music culture of the Tuvan people is highly distinctive. Khoomei, a unique throat singing style, allows singers to produce two or more vocal parts simultaneously, imitating the sounds of nature; it is listed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. The sur is a three-hole grass flute with a melodious and ethereal sound. The local "Horseshoe Band" blends Tuvan, Kazakh, and Russian instruments and musical styles, preserving the musical memory of this land.
The Tuvan people are also skilled in handicrafts such as embroidery, weaving, and carving, as well as making various distinctive ornaments and silverware. Regarding traditional festivals, Shagaa is the Tuvan Lunar New Year, with rich celebrations; Naadam is a summer pastoral festival, during which traditional activities such as throat singing performances, archery, wrestling, and horse racing are held.
Take you into the icy and snowy world of Altay in northern Xinjiang.
Highlights of the film:
0:00 Stunning Aerial View: The Snow-Covered Mountains of Altay
0:22 Hemu Village: Cozy wooden houses surrounded by snow
0:32 Morning mist and birch forest in Hemu
0:37 10-Day Complete Itinerary Map Revealed
A suggested 10-day itinerary for Altay, Northern Xinjiang (based on video content):
Day 01: Arrival in Urumqi (Airport pick-up)
Day 02: Urumqi – S21 Desert Highway – Burqin
Day 03: Burqin – Hemu
Day 04: Hemu – Kanas (Wolong Bay, Moon Bay, Fairy Bay) – Jiadengyu
Day 05: Jiadengyu – Burqin
Day 06: Burqin – Urho World Devil City – Kuitun
Day 07: Kuitun – Sayram Lake – Qingshuihe
Day 08: Qingshuihe – Dushanzi Grand Canyon – Jinghe/Shawan
Day 09: Jinghe – Urumqi
Day 10: Airport transfer in Urumqi
When is the best time to visit Hemu? A complete guide to its scenery in all four seasons.
Hemu Village boasts unique beauty in all four seasons, each showcasing a different charm. The best time to visit is from June to October each year. Mid-September to early October is widely considered the most beautiful time of year in Hemu, especially the "golden 15 days" from September 16th to 30th. .
Spring: Snow melts and wildflowers bloom (March to May)
| Features | illustrate |
|---|---|
| landscape | As the ice and snow melt and everything comes back to life, snow-capped mountains, frozen lakes, and grasslands coexist. |
| Flowering period | Wildflowers bloom in late April and early May, creating a beautiful scene. |
| weather | It's still quite cold, and there might be snow, so please bring warm clothing. |
| Advantages | During the off-season for tourism, there are fewer tourists and accommodation prices are cheaper. |
Summer: A summer paradise, lush and green (June to August)
| Features | illustrate |
|---|---|
| landscape | The grasslands are lush and green, with wildflowers blooming everywhere. |
| climate | With its cool and pleasant climate and average temperature of 15 to 25°C, it is a popular summer resort. |
| Activity | The best time for hiking, horseback riding, and folk cultural activities |
| tourists | July and August are peak tourist seasons, so advance booking is recommended. |
Autumn: A photographer's paradise, a golden fairytale (September to October)
This is the most beautiful season in Hemu Village. The birch forests turn a brilliant golden yellow, a tapestry of colors as vibrant as an oil painting. The morning mist and rising smoke are iconic features of Hemu. It's a paradise for photographers, offering countless opportunities for stunning shots. However, due to the large number of tourists, it's essential to book your accommodation in advance.
Winter: A fairytale snow country, covered in silver (November to February of the following year)
A fairytale-like snowscape, blanketed in silver and adorned with icicles. Visitors can enjoy snow activities such as skiing, snowmobiling, and horse-drawn sleigh rides.Jikpurin Ski ResortIt's located within the scenic area. However, temperatures may drop to -30°C, many guesthouses will be closed, and heavy snow may block roads, so be prepared.
What are the must-see attractions in Hemu Village?
Harden Observation Deck: The best spot to watch the sunrise
Located on the hillside on the east side of the village, this spot offers the best panoramic view of Hemu Village. In the early morning, the village is shrouded in mist, with wisps of smoke rising from chimneys, creating a scene like a fairyland. In the evening, the golden sunset bathes the entire village in a mesmerizing interplay of light and shadow. If you plan to watch the sunrise in the early morning, be sure to bring a flashlight, as the mountain path is quite steep and non-slip shoes are recommended.
Hemu Bridge: The Soul Landmark of the Village
Located in the center of the village, an ancient wooden bridge connects the two banks of the Hemu River. The Hemu River flows crystal clear beneath the bridge, and the birch forest along the riverbank sways in the wind, making it one of the best spots to capture iconic photos of Hemu Village.
Birch forest: the most beautiful golden ocean in autumn
Located south of Hemu Village, the vast primeval birch forest turns golden in autumn. From September to October, sunlight filters through the trees, creating mesmerizing light and shadow effects, making it an excellent setting for photography.
Hemu River: A Jade River Flowing Through the Village
A river meanders through the village, its clear, emerald-green waters creating a breathtaking scene with the log cabins, meadows, and Kazakh yurts. You can stroll along the riverbank, relax, take photos, and feel time slow down.
Da Meili Peak: A Secret Realm to Explore on Horseback
It requires horseback riding and takes about 2 to 3 hours. The pyramid-shaped peaks are snow-capped year-round, and in autumn, the snow-capped mountains and golden forests create a spectacular sight.
How much are the tickets to Hemu Village? What are the discount policies?
The prices below are reference prices for 2024-2025; actual prices are subject to the scenic area's announcements. It is recommended to book 3 days in advance during peak season.Kanas Original WebsiteImplement online ticket booking with real-name registration.
Regular ticket price
| Ticket Type | Tickets | shuttle bus | total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult ticket | 50 yuan/person | 52 yuan/person | 102 yuan/person |
| Student tickets | 25 yuan/person | 52 yuan/person | 77 yuan/person |
| Senior/Child Tickets | – | – | 26 yuan/person |
preferential policies
The half-price discount applies to minors aged 6 to 18, full-time undergraduate students and below (with student ID), seniors aged 65 to 69 (with ID card), people with disabilities of level 4 to 6 (with disability certificate), and people with military disabilities of level 7 to 10 (with military disability certificate).
Free admission applies to children under 6 years old or under 1.2 meters tall, seniors over 70 years old (with ID card), people with disabilities of level 1 to 3 (with disability certificate), active military personnel (with officer's/soldier's ID card), and people with military disabilities of level 1 to 6 (with military disability certificate).
Combined tickets and winter specials
If you plan to visit Kanas, Hemu, and Baihaba scenic areas at the same time, you might consider buying a combined ticket. The Kanas scenic area entrance fee is 185 yuan per person (including shuttle bus fare), while Hemu plus Kanas costs approximately 245 yuan per person (entrance fee plus ancient village protection fee plus shuttle bus fare).
During the winter, the Kanas Scenic Area launched a "one-ticket-for-all" policy: 100 yuan can be used for 3 days, including Kanas, Baihaba and Hemu attractions, and real-name online reservation is required.
How to get to Hemu Village? A complete guide to transportation options.
Plane plus chartered car plan
Fly from various locations to Urumqi Diwopu International Airport, then transfer to...Altay Snow Capital Airport(Approximately 1.5 hours), then take a chartered car or share a ride to Hemu Village (approximately 3 to 4 hours).
Train plus charter car option
Take an overnight train from Urumqi to Beitun City (about 10 hours), then hire a car to Hemu Village (about 4 to 5 hours).
Self-driving options
The classic route is from Urumqi via National Highway G217 and Provincial Highway S232 to Burqin, and then to Hemu Village.
| Section | distance | time |
|---|---|---|
| Urumqi to Burqin | Approximately 600 kilometers | Approximately 7 to 8 hours |
| Burqin to Hemu Village | Approximately 130 kilometers | Approximately 2 to 3 hours |
| Full process | Approximately 730 kilometers | Approximately 9 to 11 hours |
The good news is that the Ahe Highway was fully opened to traffic in 2025, with two-way traffic and toll-free access, making it the best choice for driving to Hemu.
It is important to note that Private cars are generally not allowed to drive directly into Hemu Village. They need to stop at the Hemu Village ticket station, then transfer to a scenic area shuttle bus to the Hemu Transfer Center, and finally take a shuttle bus into the village. .
Transportation within the scenic area
| Transportation | illustrate |
|---|---|
| shuttle bus | Frequent service, running continuously, already included in the ticket package. |
| horse riding | Horseback riding is available to various scenic spots. However, if you ride a horse into the village, you will need to pay an additional 60 yuan for the return shuttle bus. |
| on foot | The village can be explored on foot, and there is a dedicated trail leading to the viewpoint. |
Recommended hiking routes
| route | distance | time | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jiadengyu to Hemu | Approximately 30 kilometers | Approximately 10 hours | Classic hiking routes |
| From Kanas Lake to Hemu | Approximately 40 kilometers | 2 days | You can stay overnight at Xiaohei Lake. |
Where to stay in Hemu Village? Accommodation Guide
Hemu VillageThere are three main accommodation areas, each with its own unique features.
Hemu Old Village
The atmosphere is lively, dining options are convenient, it's close to major attractions for experiencing the local nightlife, and it's closest to the viewpoint. The downsides are relatively basic accommodations and it can be noisy during peak season.
Hemu New Village
The houses are newer, the facilities are better, and the environment is relatively quiet. The downsides are the higher price and the slightly farther location from the main attractions, requiring a shuttle bus to reach the old village.
Hemu Mountain Villa / Entrance Service Area
The best hotel in the village, with standardized services. The downside is that it's the most expensive and the atmosphere isn't as rustic as the old village.
Recommended accommodation
| Accommodation Name | type | feature |
|---|---|---|
| Hemu Tuwa Residence Boutique Homestay | Featured B&Bs | Tuva tribal-style wooden houses with complete facilities |
| Hemu Taoyuan Homestay | High-end homestays | Panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows, stargazing rooms, and an on-site coffee and water bar. |
| Hemu Starry Sky Resort Hotel | Resort Hotel | Located in the entrance service area, with complete facilities |
| Hemu Xiao · Yuxiao Boutique Mountain Residence | Boutique Hotel | Modern facilities, equipped with elevators, underfloor heating, and smart home technology. |
Price Reference
| Class | Price range |
|---|---|
| Bed/ Hostel | 20 to 50 yuan per bed |
| Standard Room | 100 to 200 yuan per night |
| Boutique Homestay | 300 to 500 yuan per night |
| High-end hotels | 600 to 1000 yuan/night |
During the peak autumn season from September to October, accommodation is in very high demand and prices can increase by 2 to 3 times. It is essential to book 1 to 2 weeks in advance. Some guesthouses do not provide disposable toiletries, so it is recommended to bring your own.
What to eat in Hemu Village? Food recommendations
The cuisine in Hemu Village is mainly Xinjiang specialties, consisting primarily of beef, mutton, and dairy products.
Must-try food
| gourmet food | illustrate |
|---|---|
| Roasted Lamb | Hemu's signature dish, with its crispy skin and tender meat, is perfect for sharing. |
| Kebab | Classic Xinjiang flavor, tender and delicious meat, fragrant with cumin. |
| Hand-grabbed rice | Rice, lamb, and carrots blend perfectly |
| Mixed noodles | The chewy ramen noodles paired with stir-fried vegetables make for a very generous portion. |
| Baked buns | Crispy crust, juicy filling |
| Naan | Xinjiang's traditional staple food, can be eaten as a snack |
| milk tea | A traditional Tuvan beverage, savory and mellow. |
| dairy | Yogurt, cheese, and other fresh and delicious treats |
Hemu rice is grown in the high mountains of the area and has a fragrant and sticky taste; Hemu grapes are sweet and are a local specialty.
Restaurants within the scenic area are relatively expensive, with a simple meal costing approximately 50 to 80 yuan per person. It is recommended to bring your own convenience foods and snacks, and book in advance.Burqin CountyWhen purchasing supplies, consider whether meals are included when choosing accommodation.
What should you be aware of when visiting Hemu Village? Practical tips
Pre-trip checklist
Booking tickets in advance is crucial. During peak season, visitor limits apply, and reservations must be made at least 3 days in advance via the Kanas Original Travel website using your real name. Accommodation bookings, especially in autumn, should be made at least 1-2 weeks in advance. Pay close attention to weather changes; high-altitude areas are prone to unpredictable weather, so be particularly mindful of snow and ice warnings. If traveling to border areas such as Baihaba, a border permit is required in advance. Some shops within the scenic area may not support electronic payments, so it is advisable to prepare cash.
Health and Safety
The temperature difference between day and night is significant (reaching 15 to 20°C), so please adjust your clothing accordingly. The altitude is approximately 1300 to 1400 meters; altitude sickness is generally not a concern, but rest is still necessary. Mosquitoes are plentiful during certain seasons, so it is recommended to bring mosquito repellent. Avoid bringing large suitcases, as transfers within the scenic area are inconvenient.
Respect local customs
Hemu Village is inhabited by Kazakhs and Tuvans; please respect local customs and traditions. It is best to obtain permission from locals before taking photos, and do not trespass on private property.
environmental protection
Do not litter; protect the ecological environment. Do not pick flowers or plants; do not disturb wild animals. Abide by all regulations of the scenic area.
Winter Special Tips
Temperatures can drop as low as -30°C, requiring an extremely high level of cold resistance. Some sections of the route will require snowmobile or hiking. Many guesthouses are closed during the winter, so it's essential to confirm in advance. It is recommended to choose a group tour with a reputable travel agency and prepare sufficient cold-weather gear, hot drinks, and high-energy foods.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tourism in Hemu Village
What are the differences between Hemu Village and Kanas? Do I need to visit both?
How long should I spend in Hemu Village?
Can I drive into Hemu Village?
Does Hemu Village have cell phone signal? Is it possible to access the internet?
What is the best season to visit Hemu?
Is it convenient to travel from Burqin to Hemu?
How much are the tickets to Hemu Village?
What are the accommodation options like in Hemu Village?
