Dongbaiyanggou offers a peaceful escape with its natural beauty and historical sites. Explore the surrounding desert landscape, enjoy photography opportunities, and experience the unique geological formations. It’s also a great spot for hiking and discovering ancient ruins or cultural sites in the area.

Dongbaiyanggou, located in the Tianshan District of Urumqi, Xinjiang, 56 kilometers from the city center, is a famous summer resort in the southern suburbs of Urumqi. Sometimes, the valley is bathed in a drizzle of rain, with mist shrouding the forested peaks, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. Other times, the rain clears and the sun rises, creating a picturesque scene of clouds and mist. Dongbaiyanggou is a natural wonderland of mountains, waters, ancient trees, and unusually shaped rocks. The scenic area boasts boulders in the riverbed, peaks facing each other, towering ancient trees, lush forests, and luxuriant grasses. Tourists and locals frequently hike here to connect with nature.
Temperate continental climate, summer
Green Mountain Villa, 1-3 hours
20 yuan
10:00-21:00 (Monday-Sunday, January 1st-December 31st)
Dongbaiyanggou is a historically significant site located in the desert region of Xinjiang. It has cultural and archaeological importance, particularly related to the ancient civilizations that once lived in the area. The area contains remnants of old structures and ruins that speak to the region's rich history.
Dongbaiyanggou is located in the desert area of Urumqi, Xinjiang. It is accessible by taxi or private car, as public transportation may not directly reach the site. For those near the city center, a taxi ride is the most convenient option.
The site is open year-round, though it is best to visit during the cooler months from April to October. The best times to visit are in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy the scenic desert views.
There is no specific entrance fee for visiting Dongbaiyanggou. It is a free public site, but fees may apply for guided tours or special access areas. Tickets for any additional services can be purchased on-site.
No, booking tickets in advance is not required as the site is generally open to the public. However, if you plan to take a guided tour, it is recommended to book a few days in advance to secure a spot.
It will take around 1-2 hours to fully explore Dongbaiyanggou, especially if you take time to enjoy the natural landscape, take photos, and visit the nearby ruins or historical sites.
The key highlights of Dongbaiyanggou include the ancient ruins, geological formations, and desert landscapes. The nearby cliffs and rock formations offer excellent opportunities for photography.
Guided tours are available in Chinese. English-speaking guides may be harder to find, so it’s recommended to arrange a guide in advance if needed. Audio guides are not typically available.
The best photography spots are the scenic desert landscapes, ancient ruins, and the rock formations surrounding Dongbaiyanggou. The view from the top of the cliffs offers stunning panoramic views of the area.
Start by exploring the ruins and historical sites, then take a short hike to the cliffs for the best views of the desert and surrounding landscapes. Enjoy the serene environment before returning to the base area.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Dongbaiyanggou. It is best to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the desert environment and the surrounding natural beauty.
Dongbaiyanggou is typically not crowded, except during peak tourist seasons. The least crowded times to visit are early mornings or weekdays, especially during the off-peak months from November to March.
Basic facilities like toilets are available at the entrance. However, there are no food vendors or shops inside the site, so it's recommended to bring water, snacks, and other essentials with you.
The site is generally accessible for most visitors, though the terrain can be challenging in some areas, especially for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can enjoy the site, but some parts may require hiking or walking on uneven surfaces.
Cash is typically required for any minor purchases at the site, though mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly accepted in the surrounding areas. Cards are rarely accepted.
There are no restaurants or cafes inside Dongbaiyanggou. However, you can find a variety of dining options in Urumqi's city center, ranging from local Xinjiang specialties to international cuisine.
In Urumqi’s city center, you will find vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options, particularly in areas with a significant Uyghur population.
There are no accommodations directly near Dongbaiyanggou. However, Urumqi offers a range of hotels, from budget options to luxury accommodations, which are about an hour's drive from the site.
Nearby attractions include the Xinjiang Regional Museum, which offers insight into the region’s history and culture, and the Hongshan Pagoda, which is a prominent historical site in Urumqi. Both can be combined in a day trip with Dongbaiyanggou.
There are no souvenir shops at Dongbaiyanggou. However, you can find local handicrafts and souvenirs in Urumqi, including Uyghur textiles, jewelry, and traditional artifacts.
After visiting Dongbaiyanggou, taxis are the best way to continue your trip. You can also take a bus or drive to nearby attractions such as the Xinjiang Regional Museum or other scenic spots around Urumqi.