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In Zhaosu, visitors can enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the Tian Shan Mountains, take a hike or walk along the pristine grasslands, and explore local Kazakh culture. Horseback riding is popular, as is visiting the unique yurts. The nearby Ili River provides opportunities for fishing and boating. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity to experience rural life in Xinjiang.
Zhaosu County, once part of the Wusun Kingdom, has left behind many historical sites through its vicissitudes of life. These include the legendary Xiate Ancient Road, the magnificent Muzart Glacier, the Xiate Hot Springs, which attract visitors from all over the world, the "Monument to the Pacification of Junggar Lege Dengzhi" inscribed by Emperor Qianlong, and the Kule Kordek Water Curtain Cave, home to towering ancient pines, a carpet of wildflowers, and a vibrant scene of bees and butterflies.
Zhaosu County, known for its celestial horses, which soar to Kunlun Mountains and travel to the westernmost point, has been named "China's Celestial Horse Hometown" by the Ministry of Agriculture. It is home to the tomb of Princess Xijun of the Han Dynasty, the legendary Xiate Ancient Road, the Xiate Hot Springs, which attract visitors from all over the world, and Shengyou Temple, Xinjiang's largest Tibetan Buddhist temple. Zhaosu County is also known as "China's Rapeseed Hometown" and "China's Brown Cattle Hometown" for its abundant natural resources.
Temperate continental climate, spring, summer and autumn are the best seasons for travel
Recommended play time: 1 day
Zhaosu is a town in the Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture of Xinjiang. It is historically significant for its ethnic diversity, with a large Kazakh population. The region is rich in natural resources and is known for its traditional herding culture, especially horse breeding and yurts. Zhaosu's landscape, nestled between the Tian Shan mountains and vast grasslands, makes it a key location for experiencing Central Asian culture and nature.
Zhaosu is located in the Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture in Xinjiang, China. It can be reached by bus or private car from the larger city of Yining, which is about 100 kilometers away. There are no metro or subway systems in Zhaosu, so taxis or buses are the primary modes of transportation.
Zhaosu is an open destination with no fixed operating hours. The best time to visit is in the summer and early autumn (June to September) when the weather is mild and the grasslands are lush and green. Winter months can be very cold, and some areas may be inaccessible due to snow.
There is no entrance fee for visiting Zhaosu as it is a natural and rural area. However, some specific attractions like cultural sites or horse riding experiences may require a fee. Tickets can typically be bought onsite when visiting such activities.
For most outdoor activities in Zhaosu, such as horseback riding or guided tours, booking in advance is not required. However, it is a good idea to book certain experiences or accommodations during the peak summer season to ensure availability, especially for group tours or special events.
To explore the main highlights of Zhaosu, such as the grasslands, local culture, and scenic spots, 2 to 3 days is usually sufficient. If you are interested in more in-depth cultural experiences or trekking in the surrounding mountains, you might want to extend your stay by an extra day.
The must-see highlights in Zhaosu include the vast grasslands, the Tian Shan Mountain range, and the local Kazakh villages. Horseback riding is a popular activity, and the Ili River is a scenic spot for relaxation and photography. The region is also known for its colorful traditional yurts and nomadic lifestyle.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, and some tour operators may offer tours in English for international visitors. Audio guides are generally not available in the area, so it’s recommended to arrange a tour guide in advance if you need language support.
Some of the best photography spots are along the Ili River, from the top of the Tian Shan Mountains, and across the expansive grasslands. The colorful yurts and traditional Kazakh villages provide unique opportunities for cultural and landscape photography.
Start with a visit to the local Kazakh villages to learn about the culture, then head to the grasslands for horseback riding and a peaceful stroll through the open spaces. Finish the day by heading to the Ili River for a scenic sunset view or boat ride. A short trek into the Tian Shan Mountains is a must for outdoor enthusiasts.
There are no light shows or night visits in Zhaosu. The region is known for its natural beauty, and the focus is on daytime activities such as horseback riding, hiking, and exploring the traditional lifestyle.
Zhaosu is generally not crowded except during the peak summer season (June to August). The least crowded times are during the spring and autumn months, particularly in April, May, and September, when the weather is still pleasant but fewer tourists visit.
Basic facilities such as public toilets, food vendors, and rest areas are available, but there are limited shops in Zhaosu itself. It is advisable to bring water and snacks with you, especially if you plan to spend the day exploring remote areas.
Zhaosu is a rural destination with limited infrastructure, and some areas, particularly the grasslands and mountain trails, may be challenging for elderly visitors or those with mobility issues. However, the main village areas and roads are accessible for children and elderly visitors.
Cash is still commonly used in Zhaosu, though some larger establishments may accept mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay. Credit cards are rarely accepted, so it’s advisable to carry cash with you.
There are a few local eateries in Zhaosu offering traditional Kazakh and Xinjiang cuisine, including lamb dishes and noodles. More options are available in nearby Yining, where you can find a wider selection of restaurants and cafes.
Yes, Zhaosu offers halal food options, as it has a significant Kazakh Muslim population. Vegetarian options may be limited, but many local dishes feature vegetables alongside meat, and you can request vegetarian alternatives at most restaurants.
There are a few guesthouses and small hotels in Zhaosu, but the larger and more comfortable accommodations can be found in Yining, which is a short drive away. Some rural homestays offer unique cultural experiences for visitors.
Nearby attractions include the beautiful Yining city, the Kanas Lake, and the Altai Mountains. A day trip to these locations is feasible from Zhaosu and offers a variety of natural landscapes and cultural sites.
Souvenir shops in Zhaosu are limited, but you can find traditional Kazakh handicrafts, including felt products, jewelry, and embroidered items. Local textiles and woolen products are also popular souvenirs.
After visiting Zhaosu, you can travel to Yining by taxi or bus for more transportation options, including flights and trains. From Yining, you can also access other regions of Xinjiang and Kazakhstan.
