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At Zhaosu Tianma Cultural Park, visitors can explore the cultural exhibits dedicated to the Tianma (Heavenly Horses) and the region's history. The park offers scenic walks, cultural performances, and opportunities to learn about the traditions and history of the Yili region. Visitors can also enjoy the natural beauty, with horse-related attractions and themed activities. Don’t miss out on the horse shows or cultural festivals if visiting during the right season.
The Zhaosu Tianma Cultural Park is located on the Karkant Grasslands in Zhaosu County, Ili Prefecture, Xinjiang. With a total investment of approximately 61 million yuan, the park covers a total area of 43,000 square meters. Currently the best and most standardized internationally standardized grassland ecological racecourse in Xinjiang, it offers exhibitions of world-renowned horses, rides on Ili saddle horses, and is used for professional equestrian sports, training, and competitions. The construction of the Zhaosu Tianma Cultural Park serves as a continuation and dissemination of Zhaosu Tianma culture, further elucidating the concept of "Pastoral Zhaosu, Home of the Tianma."
Temperate continental climate, summer
Karkant Grassland, Zhaosu Horse Farm, 3 hours
70 yuan
Zhaosu Tianma Cultural Park is dedicated to the celebration of the Tianma (Heavenly Horse), a breed of horse highly revered in the region for its historical and cultural significance. The park also serves as a tribute to the ancient cultural ties between the Yili region and the nomadic tribes, showcasing horse culture as an integral part of local heritage.
Zhaosu Tianma Cultural Park is located in the Zhaosu County of Yili, Xinjiang. The best way to get there is by private car or taxi from Yili City. Public transportation options may be limited, so driving or hiring a local taxi is recommended. The park is situated about 1.5-2 hours from Yili City.
The park is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the summer months (June to September), when the weather is pleasant and many of the cultural events and horse shows take place. Early morning visits are ideal for avoiding crowds and enjoying cooler weather.
The entrance fee is approximately 50 CNY per person. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the park. While online booking might not always be available, you can check ahead for any special events that might require pre-booking tickets.
For regular visits, booking tickets in advance is not necessary. However, for peak seasons or special events like horse shows or festivals, it is advisable to book tickets a few days ahead to ensure availability.
You can fully explore the park in about 2 to 3 hours. If you plan to attend cultural shows or participate in activities like horse riding or performances, it might take longer, up to half a day.
The must-see highlights include the horse exhibitions, the cultural museum displaying Tianma horse history, and the scenic trails around the park. Visitors should also check out the performance areas where horse shows and cultural festivals take place.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin and possibly in English. Audio guides might be offered, but it’s best to check ahead. The guides can provide in-depth knowledge of the history and cultural significance of the Tianma horses and the region.
Great photography spots include the open fields where the horses graze, the scenic trails offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, and the performance areas during horse shows. The park’s natural beauty combined with the cultural aspects makes it a prime spot for photography.
Start by exploring the cultural exhibition area to learn about the history of the Tianma horses. Then, head to the open areas for scenic views and photography opportunities. Finish by visiting the horse show areas and attending any ongoing performances or activities.
Night visits are generally not available, but the park may host special events or performances during specific seasons. It is best to visit during the daytime to experience the cultural performances, especially the horse shows that typically happen in the afternoon.
The park tends to be less crowded during weekdays and non-peak seasons (outside of summer holidays and festivals). Weekends and public holidays can be busier, so try to visit on a weekday morning for a quieter experience.
The park has basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas. There are also small shops selling local snacks and water. For a more complete meal, it’s recommended to visit nearby restaurants after your visit.
The park is relatively accessible for elderly visitors and children, with smooth paths and easy access to main attractions. However, some areas with natural trails might be challenging for those with mobility issues. It is advisable to check the accessibility of specific areas before planning your visit.
Cash is commonly used, but mobile payment options such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are accepted in most areas. Credit cards might not be widely accepted, so it’s a good idea to carry some cash or use mobile payment options.
There are a few small local restaurants and cafes nearby that serve traditional Xinjiang cuisine, including lamb dishes, pilaf, and flatbreads. For a wider variety of dining options, you may need to travel to the nearest larger town.
Given the location in Xinjiang, halal food is widely available. Some vegetarian options can also be found in local restaurants, though the focus is generally on meat-based dishes, particularly lamb and beef.
There are several budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses in Zhaosu County, located a short drive away from the park. For more luxurious accommodations, you might need to travel to larger towns in the Yili region.
Nearby attractions include the Zhaosu Valley and several scenic spots in the Yili River area. You could easily combine a visit to Zhaosu Tianma Cultural Park with a trip to the nearby natural reserves or cultural landmarks in the region.
Yes, there are souvenir shops near the entrance of the park where visitors can purchase local crafts, such as traditional Xinjiang textiles, small horse-themed items, and locally made handicrafts.
The best options for continuing your journey after visiting are private cars or taxis. Public transportation may be limited, so consider renting a car or using a taxi to explore nearby attractions or return to the city.
