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The Swan River Scenic Area is known for its serene natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy boat rides on the river, explore the surrounding wetlands, and watch the migrating swans. It’s also a great spot for bird watching, hiking, and photography, especially during sunrise and sunset when the landscape is at its most picturesque.
Located in Korla City, Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, the Swan River Scenic Area is a National 4A-level tourist attraction and a key scenic spot in Pear City, integrating leisure, tourism, and sightseeing. Spanning approximately 2,400 mu (approximately 1,000 acres), with 765 mu (approximately 1,000 acres) of water, the Swan River Scenic Area is divided into the Peacock River Scenic Belt, the Swan River Scenic Area, and the Hongyan River Scenic Area. It serves as a crucial water link between the Peacock and Dujuan Rivers. Along the scenic area, sculptures of Cen Shen, Ban Chao, Xiangli, and the River Map and Luoshu are among the cultural landmarks.
Temperate continental climate, summer
Sculptures of Cen Shen, Ban Chao, Xiangli, and the River Map and Luoshu , 1-2 hours
All day
The Swan River Scenic Area is an important ecological and wildlife reserve. It is known for its diverse bird species, particularly the swans that migrate to the area each year. The region holds cultural significance for local communities, with the river and wetlands playing a central role in the ecosystem and local livelihoods.
The Swan River Scenic Area is located in Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture in Xinjiang. The area can be accessed by taxi or private car from nearby cities, such as Korla. There are limited public transportation options, so renting a car or hiring a taxi is the most convenient way to get there.
The Swan River Scenic Area is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the migratory birds are present. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for photography and enjoying the peaceful environment.
The entrance fee typically ranges from 20 to 30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance on-site. Online ticketing options are limited, so it is recommended to buy tickets directly when you arrive.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance. However, during peak tourist seasons or holidays, booking a few days in advance may be beneficial to avoid long waits or full capacity.
Typically, 2 to 3 hours are sufficient to explore the Swan River Scenic Area. This allows time to enjoy the boat rides, explore the wetlands, and observe wildlife. If you're keen on photography or hiking, you might spend more time there.
The must-see highlights include the Swan River, where you can observe swans and other waterfowl, and the surrounding wetland areas that are rich in biodiversity. The scenic spots along the riverbanks offer great photo opportunities and tranquil views.
Guided tours may be available, but they are usually in Mandarin. English-speaking guides are rare, so it's helpful to use a translation app if needed. Alternatively, you can explore the area at your own pace if you prefer a more relaxed visit.
The best viewpoints are along the riverbanks, especially during sunrise and sunset when the light is perfect for capturing the reflection of the swans and the surrounding landscapes. The bridges and elevated platforms offer excellent vantage points for photography.
Start by exploring the river area and enjoy a boat ride to get close to the swans. Then, walk along the riverbanks to explore the wetlands. For those interested in hiking, there are trails that offer stunning views of the area’s flora and fauna.
There are no night visits or light shows available at the Swan River Scenic Area. It is primarily a daytime destination, best visited during daylight hours for wildlife observation and photography.
The area can get crowded during weekends and holidays, particularly in the summer months. To avoid the crowds, it's best to visit during weekdays or in the off-season (spring or autumn).
Basic facilities are available, including toilets and rest areas. There are no large restaurants or cafes within the scenic area, but small kiosks selling snacks and drinks may be available. It’s advisable to bring your own water and food if needed.
The Swan River Scenic Area is relatively accessible, though some areas may require walking along uneven paths. It may not be fully wheelchair accessible, but elderly visitors and families with children can still enjoy the main areas with some assistance.
Cash is typically needed, although mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are increasingly accepted. It’s recommended to carry cash for smaller transactions, especially in remote areas.
There are limited food options within the Swan River Scenic Area. However, nearby towns and villages offer local Uyghur restaurants where visitors can enjoy traditional meals such as kebabs, pilaf, and lamb dishes.
Halal food is widely available in the nearby towns due to the Uyghur influence in the region. Vegetarian and vegan options can also be found, especially in local eateries catering to diverse dietary preferences.
There are several guesthouses and hotels in the nearby towns of Bayingolin and Korla. Visitors can choose from budget to mid-range accommodations, with some offering traditional Uyghur hospitality.
Nearby attractions include the Tianshan Grand Canyon and Kanas Lake. These sites are easily accessible and can be combined with a visit to Swan River for a full day of sightseeing in the Xinjiang region.
Small souvenir shops inside and around the scenic area sell traditional Uyghur handicrafts, such as woven textiles, pottery, jewelry, and other local arts and crafts. These make great mementos from the visit.
After visiting the Swan River Scenic Area, taxis or private cars are the best way to continue your journey. The region’s public transportation options are limited, so it’s best to arrange transportation in advance if you plan to visit other nearby attractions.
