Okaido

What are the most recommended things to do in Okaido?

Drive or cycle along Okaido to enjoy the desert and oasis landscapes of Hami.
Visit nearby scenic spots such as the Hami Gobi Desert and Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves.
Photography of sand dunes, mountains, and local villages.
Experience local Uyghur culture and traditional markets in nearby towns.
Hiking or walking short trails along scenic sections of the highway.

Introducing Okaido

The more than 500-kilometer route west from Dunhuang to Turpan constitutes the most legendary section of the Silk Road: the Dahaidao. This route, the most hidden of the 14 known ancient Silk Roads, was first used during the Han Dynasty. However, due to its harsh and dangerous geographical environment, its use ceased after the Tang Dynasty, and the Dahaidao gradually faded from public consciousness.

The Dahaidao, stretching approximately 500 kilometers in a straight line, is entirely uninhabited. Along the way, you'll find ancient castles, beacon towers, post stations, prehistoric human settlements, fossil mountains, mirages, herds of wild desert camels, and numerous other rare landforms.

Crossing the Dahaidao, you can fully appreciate the magic of the desert's natural ecology and experience the tranquility of the desert's "last piece of pure land."

Climate and best time to travel

The windy season is around the end of April and the beginning of October each year, so it is best to avoid entering during this period. The sea route is extremely hot and dry in the summer, so you must take precautions against the sun and heatstroke.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It takes 3 days to cross the road by car

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

Most Popular FAQs for Okaido

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

Okaido is a scenic route in Hami, Xinjiang, known for connecting desert landscapes with oasis towns. It provides access to cultural and natural landmarks and has historical significance as part of trade routes in the region.

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

Located in Hami, eastern Xinjiang, linking desert and oasis areas.
Accessible by car, taxi, or local tour buses; no metro service.
Walking is possible for short scenic sections or local villages.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Open year-round; spring to autumn is ideal for mild weather.
Avoid winter when roads may be affected by snow or strong winds.

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

There is no general entrance fee for Okaido itself. Tickets may be required for specific scenic areas or attractions along the route, available on-site or online via local tourism platforms.

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

Booking is recommended only for major attractions along the route; 1–3 days in advance is sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Half a day to one full day depending on stops, photography, and visiting nearby attractions.

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

Desert landscapes and sand dunes
Oasis towns along the route
Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves nearby
Hami melon fields and local villages

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

Guided tours are available via local travel agencies, mainly in Mandarin. English tours may be arranged for private groups.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Sand dunes with sunrise or sunset lighting
Oasis towns and local markets
Mountain passes and desert highways
Fields of Hami melons in season

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start from Hami city, drive along Okaido with stops at sand dunes, oasis towns, and cultural sites like Bezeklik Caves, then return or continue to nearby scenic areas.

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

Night visits on the highway are generally not recommended. Some local villages may offer cultural performances or festivals during summer.

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

Less crowded on weekdays and early mornings; summer weekends and Chinese national holidays are peak times.

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

Basic public toilets at major stops
Small restaurants and snack stalls in oasis towns
Water and basic supplies available at local shops
Limited souvenir shops at key locations

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

Accessible by car, but walking trails and dunes may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can enjoy shorter walks and scenic stops.