Tianshan safflower

Introducing Tianshan Safflower

Huocheng County, a county directly under the jurisdiction of Ili Prefecture in Xinjiang, lies in the open area northwest of the Ili River Valley. It is a border county primarily based on agriculture, with a combination of farming and animal husbandry. Huocheng's Tianshan safflower is primarily found in Sarbulak Town, Lucaogou Town, and Sangong Township.

The Tianshan safflower is a wild plant that grows on the gentle slopes of the Tianshan Mountains. It gets its name from the unsealed black-red ring at the base of its red flowers. The local Kazakh people call it "Kezgaledak," meaning "free, constantly migrating flower." It is primarily native to the Ili River Valley and blooms from May to June, with a maximum flowering period of about 15 days.

The Tianshan safflower, a vibrant flower unique to the Ili grasslands, outshines all other flowers during its peak bloom, its vibrant crimson blooms a symbol of beauty and freedom in Kazakh.

Climate and best time to travel

From May to June every year, the Tianshan safflower enters its peak flowering period. At this time, the safflowers all over the mountains burn like flames, forming a beautiful sea of ​​flowers, attracting many tourists to come and watch.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

【Recommended attractions】

→Muye Village, Lucaogou Town

There are thousands of acres of spring and autumn grasslands here. Every June, Tianshan red flowers bloom on this grassland, forming a beautiful grassland landscape with the snow-capped peaks in the distance and herds of cattle and sheep.

→ Tianshan Red Flower Viewing Platform, Group 3, Changshan Liangzi Village

Located on Township Road 147 in Lucaogou Town, it is a special viewing spot for Tianshan safflowers, allowing you to better appreciate the beauty of the flowers.

【Recommended Play Time】

The Tianshan safflowers typically bloom between 9:00 AM and 12:00 PM, so it's recommended to visit during this time to see them at their most beautiful. See and cherish them.

Tickets

Free and open

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for Tianshan safflower

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Tianshan safflower has been cultivated in the Ili region for centuries, valued for its medicinal properties, dyes, and culinary uses. The area highlights the agricultural heritage of Xinjiang and the importance of safflower in local culture.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Located in the Ili Prefecture, Xinjiang, visitors can reach the fields by taxi, private car, or local bus from Yili city. Some tour operators offer guided trips from nearby towns.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The safflower fields are best visited during blooming season, typically late summer (August to September). Fields are open during daylight hours, generally from 7 AM to 6 PM.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance fees vary depending on the specific farm or viewing area, typically between 20–50 RMB per person. Tickets are usually purchased onsite; some larger farms may offer online reservations.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

For popular viewing spots during peak bloom, booking a few days in advance is recommended, especially on weekends.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–3 hours is sufficient to explore the main fields, take photos, and visit small souvenir stalls.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Main safflower fields with dense blooming patterns.
• Designated photo spots with scenic mountain backgrounds.
• Local workshops or stalls showcasing safflower-based products.
• Festival areas if visiting during seasonal events.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are occasionally offered by local farms or travel agencies, mainly in Mandarin; English guides may be available through private tours.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Hilltops overlooking large expanses of safflower fields.
• Flower-lined pathways or river-adjacent fields.
• Sunset or early morning shots to capture optimal lighting.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start at the entrance and walk through the main viewing fields.
• Visit workshops or souvenir areas for local products.
• Follow marked paths to hill viewpoints for panoramic photos.
• End with a stroll along shaded paths or near streams if available.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are generally not available as the attraction is outdoors. Special tours may be organized during festivals but are seasonal.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The fields can be crowded during peak bloom on weekends. Weekdays and early mornings are the least crowded times.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic amenities such as rest areas, toilets, and small snack stalls are available at larger viewing farms. Carry water and snacks for smaller fields.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Most paths are walkable but may be uneven. Elderly and children can visit with care; wheelchair accessibility is limited.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly used. Some larger farms or shops may accept mobile payments like Alipay or WeChat Pay.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Nearby villages and farm areas may have small local eateries serving Uyghur cuisine. Larger tourist farms may offer cafes or tea houses.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Halal food is widely available; vegetarian options may be limited and should be requested in advance.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Accommodations range from guesthouses and boutique inns in nearby towns to hotels in Yili city, 20–30 minutes away by car.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture scenic areas.
• Yining (Ghulja) city cultural sites.
• Nearby rivers or small mountains offering hiking and photography opportunities.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops sell safflower products like oils, teas, crafts, and small dried bouquets.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Taxi or private car to nearby towns and Yili city.
• Local bus services connecting to scenic spots and city centers.
• Walking or cycling for short distances between nearby farms or fields.