Live Your Best Lives
Visit Hemu Bridge to enjoy the stunning scenery and photograph the beautiful surroundings. The bridge, located over the Xiate River, offers panoramic views of the river and the valley. It is a peaceful spot to relax, take in nature, and enjoy the beauty of Xinjiang's landscapes. The area is great for hiking, sightseeing, and nature walks.
Hemu Bridge, located in Burqin County, Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang, lies within the Kanas Scenic Area. It's the only way to enter Hemu Village and a vital connection to the outside world. Spanning the Hemu River, the bridge has stood within the village for over a century. Under the bridge flows the perennially flowing Hemu River, its clear, clean waters reflecting the surrounding reeds and nourishing the people. The green vegetation surrounding the bridge, nourished by the water's vapor, creates a thick, rich lushness, making it the perfect spot for photographing the Hemu River and appreciating the beauty of the birch forest.
Temperate continental climate, summer
Hemu River and Hemu Grassland: 1 hour
Included in the 60 yuan ticket for Hemu Scenic Area
All day
Hemu Bridge is an iconic structure in Xinjiang, known for its picturesque setting and historical significance. The bridge spans the Xiate River, providing access to the Hemu Valley, which is an important area for local communities. The area has a rich history of cultural exchange and offers visitors a glimpse into traditional life in the region.
Hemu Bridge is located in the Hemu Valley, Xinjiang, which is around 40 kilometers from the town of Kanas. Visitors typically reach the bridge by taxi, car, or local tours. Public transport options are limited, so hiring a car or joining a tour group is the most convenient way to get there.
The bridge itself is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the summer and autumn months when the weather is mild, and the scenery is at its most vibrant. The ideal visiting hours are during daylight, from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, to enjoy the views and take photos in natural light.
There is no entrance fee for visiting Hemu Bridge itself. However, visitors may need to pay for local transportation or tour packages that include the bridge as part of a larger sightseeing tour. Tickets for local tours can be purchased either online or offline, through travel agencies or local guides.
Booking tickets for transportation or tours in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons (summer and autumn). Booking 1-2 days ahead is usually sufficient for individual travelers, while group tours may require earlier reservations.
Exploring the Hemu Bridge and its surroundings takes about 1 to 2 hours. However, if you plan to hike around the valley or take photos, you may want to allocate more time, up to 3 hours.
The main highlight is the Hemu Bridge itself, offering breathtaking views of the Xiate River and the surrounding valley. The surrounding natural scenery, including mountains and rivers, is also a must-see. Visitors can take scenic walks along the riverbanks and explore the local flora and fauna.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin and occasionally in English, depending on the availability of local guides. Audio guides are not typically offered, but a knowledgeable local guide can provide insightful information about the area’s history and culture.
The best viewpoints are from the bridge itself, where visitors can capture panoramic views of the river and surrounding landscapes. The riverbank and nearby hills also offer great opportunities for photography, especially during sunrise or sunset.
The recommended route includes walking along the bridge to admire the views, followed by a stroll along the riverbank to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. If you have more time, consider hiking up the nearby hills for a higher vantage point of the valley.
Night visits are not available as the area is generally a daytime attraction. There are no light shows or special nighttime tours, but the scenery is best enjoyed during daylight hours.
The area can get crowded during peak tourist seasons (summer and autumn), especially on weekends and holidays. To avoid crowds, it is best to visit early in the morning on weekdays or during the off-season (spring or late autumn).
Basic facilities such as public toilets are available near the bridge. There are no large restaurants or shops at the bridge itself, but visitors can find local food stalls and small shops nearby, especially during peak tourist season.
The bridge and surrounding areas are accessible for children and elderly visitors, but some parts of the terrain may be challenging for people with disabilities due to uneven surfaces. It is recommended to be cautious when walking around the valley.
Cash is widely accepted in the area, but mobile payment platforms like Alipay and WeChat Pay are also commonly used in Xinjiang. Cards are not widely accepted, so it is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases.
There are no large restaurants or cafes directly at Hemu Bridge, but there are small food stalls and local restaurants in nearby areas, particularly in the town of Kanas, where visitors can enjoy regional Xinjiang cuisine.
Yes, you can find halal food options in the local restaurants nearby, as Xinjiang has a significant Muslim population. Vegetarian and vegan options may be more limited but are available in some places.
There are several guesthouses and hotels in Kanas, around 40 kilometers from Hemu Bridge. Visitors can find both budget and mid-range accommodations in the town. It is also possible to book local homestays in nearby villages for a more authentic experience.
Nearby attractions include the Kanas Lake, known for its pristine beauty, and the Kanas Nature Reserve, which is rich in biodiversity. These can easily be combined in a day trip with Hemu Bridge.
Souvenir shops are available in Kanas and nearby towns, selling items such as traditional Uyghur handicrafts, textiles, local honey, and dried fruits. These make great souvenirs from the region.
The best transportation options to continue your trip include hiring a taxi, using local buses, or booking a ride with local tour operators. For those continuing to other destinations in Xinjiang, local buses and long-distance trains are available from Kanas.
