Hejing

Introducing Hejing

Hejing County, a county under the jurisdiction of Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, is predominantly Mongolian and is a Mongol-populated area. It borders Heshuo County to the east, Xinyuan, Gongliu, and Tekes counties to the west, Korla, Luntai, Kuche, Baicheng, and Yanqi counties to the south, and Urumqi, Changji, and Tacheng prefectures to the north. Hejing County boasts a long history, having been part of the Yanqi Kingdom during the Han Dynasty. Hejing County is a major tourist destination in Xinjiang, known as the "Homeland of Returning to the East" and the "Homeland of Swans." It boasts attractions such as Bayinbuluke Swan Lake, Asia's largest and China's only swan nature reserve; Bayinbuluke Grassland, my country's second-largest grassland; the Nine Bends and Eighteen Turns; Kuike Wusu Stone Forest; Gongnaisi Forest Park; and the Barentai Yellow Temple, Xinjiang's largest Tibetan Buddhist temple.

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Most Popular FAQs for Hejing

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Hejing is a small town in the Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture of Xinjiang, China, with a rich Mongolian heritage. It has historically been a crossroads for trade and culture, with connections to both Central Asia and the rest of China, due to its position along ancient trade routes.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Hejing is located about 600 km southwest of Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang. To get there, travelers can take a bus or private car from Urumqi. There are no metro services in Hejing, and public transport options are limited within the town.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Hejing can be visited year-round. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months (April to June, September to November) when the weather is milder and the natural landscapes are at their most vibrant.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There are no entrance fees to visit Hejing itself. However, specific attractions like cultural sites or natural parks may have a small entry fee. Tickets can usually be purchased on-site or through local travel agencies.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is generally not necessary to book tickets in advance for Hejing. However, for guided tours or visits to popular attractions, it is recommended to book a few days ahead, especially during peak tourist seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploring Hejing and its surroundings can typically be done in a day or two. If you are interested in hiking or spending more time in the countryside, you may want to extend your stay.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The main highlights of Hejing include its natural scenery, traditional Mongolian villages, and the nearby Tianshan mountains. Exploring the rural areas offers a glimpse into the local way of life and offers great opportunities for photography.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Hejing, particularly for those wanting to learn about the local Mongolian culture and the region's history. Most guides speak Mandarin, with some offering limited English-speaking services. Audio guides are generally not available.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Hejing offers stunning views of the Tianshan mountains and surrounding grasslands, making it an excellent spot for landscape photography. Best viewpoints can be found along hiking trails and in the Mongolian villages, where you can capture the essence of rural life.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A recommended itinerary includes starting with a visit to a local Mongolian village to explore the culture, followed by a hike in the surrounding mountains for panoramic views. Spending time in the countryside will allow you to fully appreciate the area's natural beauty.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Hejing is more suited to daytime activities, especially nature exploration and cultural visits. There are no night visits or light shows available, but evening walks in the local villages offer a peaceful experience.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Hejing is generally not crowded, as it is not a major tourist destination. The least crowded times are during the winter months or weekdays outside of the Chinese holiday season. Spring and autumn are the most popular times to visit.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Hejing has basic facilities, including toilets, small local food stalls, and shops. However, it lacks large restaurants or shopping centers. It is recommended to carry water and snacks for hiking trips.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Due to the rural nature of Hejing, accessibility can be challenging, particularly for elderly, children, or disabled visitors. The town has limited infrastructure, and hiking routes can be rugged, so extra care may be needed in those areas.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly used in Hejing, and mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are accepted in larger towns. However, it is advisable to carry cash, particularly for smaller transactions or when visiting rural areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several local Uyghur and Mongolian restaurants serving traditional food like lamb kebabs, pilaf, and dairy products. Dining options are basic but offer authentic local flavors.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Halal food options are widely available due to the majority Uyghur and Mongolian Muslim population. Vegetarian and vegan options can also be found, although meat dishes dominate the local cuisine.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Hejing has a few small guesthouses and inns offering basic accommodations. For more comfortable stays, you may need to travel to nearby towns or Urumqi, where more hotel options are available.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Tianshan mountains and other natural parks. Urumqi, the regional capital, is around 600 km away and offers more tourist attractions, including the Xinjiang Regional Museum and Heavenly Lake.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops in Hejing offer local handicrafts such as Mongolian textiles, woolen goods, and traditional jewelry. Other popular items include dried fruits, nuts, and local dairy products.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

The best transportation options to continue the trip from Hejing are by bus or private car to Urumqi, where you can catch a flight or train to other destinations in Xinjiang or China.