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Yan'erwo Scenic Area, located in the southern suburbs of Urumqi, Xinjiang, covers approximately 350 hectares and is Urumqi's only natural scenic forest. The area also houses the Urumqi Martyrs' Cemetery, covering over 700 mu. This cemetery commemorates the revolutionary martyrs of the Communist Party of China, including Chen Tanqiu, Mao Zemin, Lin Jilu, Qiao Guozhen, and Wu Maolin, who died in Xinjiang during the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. Yan'erwo Scenic Area serves as a "natural green air conditioner" for the capital city of Urumqi and a natural barrier against wind and sand. The scenic forest is primarily composed of white elm trees, followed by shrubs such as poplar, willow, and wild rose. Centenary trees account for 40% of the area.
Temperate continental climate, summer
Tianshan Mountain, Butterfly Valley, 1 hour
free
8:00-17:00 (Monday-Sunday, January 1st-December 31st)
Yanerwo Scenic Area in Urumqi, Xinjiang, is renowned for its diverse landscapes, including lakes, mountains, and forests. It holds ecological and recreational importance, providing a natural escape from the city and showcasing the region’s rich biodiversity and traditional cultural elements.
The scenic area is located about 40–50 km from downtown Urumqi. Visitors can take a taxi or arrange a private car for direct access. Some tour buses may also operate from Urumqi to Yanerwo, but public transport options are limited.
The park is generally open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit due to comfortable weather and colorful natural scenery.
Entrance fees are approximately 50–80 CNY per adult, payable at the ticket office. Tickets are usually purchased offline at the park entrance; some local travel agencies or online platforms may offer pre-booking options.
Advance booking is not strictly necessary except during national holidays or peak tourist periods. Booking 1–2 days ahead is recommended during busy seasons.
Visitors typically spend 3–5 hours exploring the main scenic spots and trails.
Guided tours may be available in Chinese, with limited English-speaking guides. Audio guides are generally not standard, but some travel agencies may provide them upon request.
Start at the main entrance, proceed to Yanerwo Lake for scenic views, then follow marked trails through forests and mountain areas, visiting cultural or historical spots along the way. End with panoramic viewpoints or a boat ride on the lake if available.
Night visits and light shows are generally not offered. Special seasonal activities may occur during holidays or festivals.
The scenic area is less crowded on weekdays and outside major Chinese holidays. Early morning visits provide a quieter experience for hiking and photography.
Basic facilities include public toilets, small restaurants or snack stands, water stations, rest areas with benches, and souvenir shops near the entrance.
Main trails are moderately accessible, but steep or uneven paths may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can enjoy easier paths and lake areas.
Cash is widely accepted, especially for small shops and food stalls. Mobile payments and cards may be accepted at major ticket offices or restaurants.
Halal options are common due to Xinjiang’s local culture. Vegetarian options may be limited but available in some restaurants.
