Live Your Best Lives
At Zhaosu Horse Farm, visitors can enjoy horseback riding across the picturesque grasslands, exploring the natural beauty of Xinjiang's Yili region. Horseback riding experiences are tailored for different skill levels, from beginners to advanced riders. You can also visit the horse stables, learn about the breeding and care of horses, and interact with the local Kazakh culture. Photography of the horses and expansive landscapes is also a popular activity.
Zhaosu Horse Farm, located in Zhaosu County, Ili Prefecture, Xinjiang, is renowned for its Zhaosu Tianma (Sky Horse) breed and is one of the two core breeding farms for Ili horses. Ili horses are known for their handsome appearance, robust physique, strong disease resistance, tolerance to rough living, and adaptability, with stable genetics and production performance. Many of these horses are war horses. Zhaosu Horse Farm currently has over 7,000 horses, making it the largest horse farm in China with the most stallion breeds and the largest breeding scale. It is known as the "Home of the Sky Horse" and stands as a "Pearl of the Grassland" on the southwestern border of Ili Prefecture.
Temperate continental climate, summer
Zhaosu Grassland, 3 hours
free
All day
Zhaosu Horse Farm is a significant part of the Yili region, known for its history in breeding high-quality horses. The farm is culturally significant to the local Kazakh people, who have long been known for their horsemanship. The horses bred at the farm are renowned for their strength and endurance, making them essential in the region's traditional nomadic culture.
Zhaosu Horse Farm is located in the Zhaosu County of Xinjiang's Yili region. The farm is accessible by car from the city of Yining, which is about 90 kilometers away. Taxis and private vehicles are the most convenient transportation options to reach the farm. Public buses from Yining may also be available but could be less frequent.
The farm is generally open throughout the year, with the best time to visit during the summer months (June to August), when the weather is pleasant and the grasslands are at their most vibrant. Spring and autumn also provide a good climate for outdoor activities, while winter can be harsh and less suitable for horse riding.
There is no general entrance fee to visit Zhaosu Horse Farm, but activities such as horseback riding or guided tours may require a fee. These activities can be paid for on-site or through local travel agencies that offer packages for horse riding and other experiences at the farm.
It is not necessary to book tickets for general entry in advance. However, for popular activities like horseback riding, it is recommended to book at least a few days in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons (summer). Booking in advance ensures availability for these experiences.
Visitors typically spend around 2-4 hours exploring Zhaosu Horse Farm, especially if they participate in horseback riding or other activities. For a more immersive experience, such as interacting with the horses and learning about the local Kazakh culture, you may want to allocate a full day.
The must-see highlights of Zhaosu Horse Farm include the horse stables, where visitors can observe the breeding and care of horses. The surrounding grasslands provide beautiful landscapes for horseback riding and photography. The interaction with the local Kazakh people and learning about their traditional horsemanship is also a unique experience.
Guided tours are available at Zhaosu Horse Farm, with guides offering insights into the horse breeding process and the local culture. Tours are typically available in Mandarin Chinese, with some guides speaking basic English. Audio guides are not commonly provided.
Some of the best viewpoints at Zhaosu Horse Farm include the elevated areas that offer panoramic views of the grasslands, especially at sunrise or sunset. The horse pastures and traditional Kazakh yurts also make for excellent photo opportunities against the natural backdrop.
A suggested itinerary would begin with a visit to the horse stables to learn about the breeding process. Follow this with a horseback ride across the grasslands, taking in the views and natural beauty. Afterward, you can enjoy a traditional Kazakh meal or visit the local yurts to experience the culture. If time permits, spending the night in a yurt is a unique experience.
Night visits are not typically available at Zhaosu Horse Farm. However, the farm's remote location offers stunning stargazing opportunities. Light shows or special night tours are not offered, but camping or staying overnight in a yurt is a popular option to enjoy the peaceful nighttime atmosphere.
The farm can get busy during peak tourist seasons, particularly in the summer months. To avoid crowds, it is best to visit in the spring or autumn, when the weather is still pleasant but fewer tourists are around.
Basic facilities are available at Zhaosu Horse Farm, including public toilets and rest areas. Food is served at local restaurants, offering traditional Kazakh cuisine. There are no major shops, but small kiosks sell snacks and beverages. It is advisable to carry extra water and supplies if venturing far from the main area.
While the horse farm and its surrounding areas are generally accessible, the terrain can be uneven and may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can enjoy the farm, especially the horse riding experiences, but they should be accompanied by an adult. For those with mobility concerns, it’s recommended to check with the farm staff for assistance.
Cash is typically required at Zhaosu Horse Farm, but mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are becoming increasingly common. It is advisable to carry some cash, particularly if traveling to more remote areas where digital payment options might not be available.
There are a few local restaurants near Zhaosu Horse Farm that serve traditional Kazakh dishes, such as mutton, pilaf, and dairy-based foods. Some yurts on the farm may also offer meals for visitors who stay overnight.
Halal food options are available at the farm, as the local Kazakh cuisine caters to Islamic dietary preferences. Vegetarian and vegan options may be limited, but can usually be found at local restaurants.
Accommodation options near Zhaosu Horse Farm are limited, with most visitors staying in local guesthouses or in traditional Kazakh yurts at the farm itself. For more comfortable lodging, visitors can stay in Zhaosu County or nearby towns like Yining, which offer more hotel choices.
Nearby attractions include the Yili River Valley, known for its beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. The Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture also offers a mix of cultural and natural attractions, while the city of Yining provides a cultural experience with its traditional markets and scenic areas.
Souvenir shops at Zhaosu Horse Farm sell traditional Kazakh items such as woolen rugs, felt products, and silver jewelry. Visitors can also purchase local dairy products, dried fruits, and other regional specialties.
After visiting Zhaosu Horse Farm, taxis and buses are available for travel back to Yining or onward to Urumqi. Renting a car is a convenient option for those wishing to explore more of the Yili region.
