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At Shayidong Pear Garden, visitors can enjoy walking through rows of fruit-laden pear trees, participate in pear picking during harvest season, and take in the scenic rural landscapes. The area offers excellent opportunities for photography and leisurely strolls, especially during the blooming season. There are also local vendors where you can purchase fresh pears and other regional delicacies.
Located in Korla City, Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous County, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, the Shayidong Pear Orchard sits on the banks of the Kongque River. Here, visitors can enjoy fruit picking and savor Xinjiang's most famous fragrant pears. Korla's soil and water are ideal for the growth of fragrant pears, resulting in small, tender, sweet, and juicy pears, making them a signature fruit of Korla. At the Shayidong Pear Orchard, visitors can enjoy a variety of delicious fruits, including peach, apple, and apricot trees. Picking fruit yourself is a unique experience.
Temperate continental climate, summer
Peacock River, 1-2 hours
Shayidong Pear Garden is a significant agricultural site in Xinjiang, known for its high-quality pears grown in the fertile soil of Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture. The garden plays an important role in the local economy, contributing to both agriculture and tourism. The pears are a popular regional product, prized for their sweetness and size.
Shayidong Pear Garden is located in the Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture in Xinjiang. The most practical way to get there is by taxi or private car from nearby towns like Korla. There are no direct metro or bus routes, so arranging for private transportation is recommended for ease of access.
The garden is open year-round, but the best times to visit are during the spring when the pear trees bloom and in the autumn for the harvest season. Summer is also a good time, but it can be hot, so visiting in the early morning or late afternoon is recommended.
There is usually no formal entrance fee to visit the pear garden, as it is an open-air agricultural site. However, some specific activities like pear picking or guided tours may incur a fee. Tickets or arrangements for these activities can typically be purchased directly at the garden, either online or offline via local tour operators.
Booking tickets in advance is not generally necessary unless you are joining a guided tour or planning to participate in pear picking during the peak season. It is recommended to book a few days in advance during the harvest season to secure a spot for activities like picking or tours.
Exploring the Shayidong Pear Garden typically takes around 2 to 3 hours. This includes time for walking, photography, and enjoying the surroundings. If you plan to participate in pear picking or a longer tour, you may want to allocate more time.
The must-see highlights include the pear orchards, especially during the blooming or harvest seasons. The rows of fruit trees make for beautiful photographs, and the views of the surrounding rural landscape are also breathtaking. Visitors can also check out local produce stands and small farm shops for fresh pears and other local goods.
Guided tours are available, especially for those wishing to learn about the pear cultivation process and the local agricultural practices. Most guides speak Mandarin, and some may speak English. Audio guides are not commonly available at this attraction.
The best photography spots are among the pear trees, especially when they are in bloom or heavy with fruit. The rows of trees with their green or golden fruits set against the backdrop of Xinjiang’s desert and mountain landscapes provide stunning photo opportunities. Sunrise or sunset also offers soft lighting for perfect shots.
Start by exploring the central orchards and walking through the fruit-laden trees. If visiting in autumn, you can try pear picking. Then, head to the local farm stalls to sample or buy pears. Finally, enjoy the rural views and take some time to relax and photograph the surroundings.
Night visits or light shows are not typically available at Shayidong Pear Garden, as the attraction is more focused on daytime agricultural activities. However, the area is great for stargazing, especially in clear weather away from city lights.
Shayidong Pear Garden is generally not crowded, especially outside of the harvest season. Visiting in the early morning or on weekdays will offer a more peaceful experience. Peak visitation occurs during the blooming and harvest periods (spring and autumn), so it’s best to visit in the off-peak months for fewer crowds.
Basic facilities are available, including portable toilets and small rest areas. There are also food stalls selling fresh pears and local snacks, but it is advisable to bring your own water and snacks for a more comfortable visit.
The pear garden is located on agricultural land, which can be uneven and may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. However, the main walking areas are generally accessible, and children can enjoy the fruit-picking experience. It is best to inquire locally for accessibility options if necessary.
Cash is typically needed for smaller purchases in the area, but mobile payment options like Alipay and WeChat Pay are accepted by some local vendors. It’s advisable to carry some cash for food, souvenirs, or small activities like fruit picking.
There are no large restaurants or cafes inside the pear garden itself, but nearby Korla offers a range of restaurants, including local Uyghur eateries where you can enjoy dishes like kebabs, pilaf, and naan. Traditional Xinjiang cuisine is widely available in the area.
Yes, there are plenty of halal food options in the nearby towns, especially in Korla, where the local Uyghur population offers traditional dishes. Vegetarian options like vegetable stews, flatbreads, and salads are also available at many eateries.
Korla offers several accommodation options, including hotels like the Korla International Hotel and Golden Sunshine Hotel. For more budget-friendly stays, there are guesthouses and smaller hotels in the area. These are all located within a short drive from Shayidong Pear Garden.
Nearby attractions include the Kizil Caves and the Taklamakan Desert. Both can be easily combined with a visit to Shayidong Pear Garden for a full day of exploration in the Bayingolin region.
Yes, there are small souvenir shops around the garden and in Korla selling traditional Uyghur crafts, textiles, and, of course, fresh pears. You can also find local honey, dried fruits, and spices as popular items to bring back.
After visiting Shayidong Pear Garden, you can continue your trip by taxi or private car to nearby attractions like the Taklamakan Desert or the Kizil Caves. If you are traveling to Korla, taxis and local buses are available for a convenient journey back to the city.
