Introducing Yili Xinghuagou
Xinghuagou, located in Xinyuan County, Yili, Xinjiang, is home to the largest medieval wild apricot forest, spanning over 30,000 mu (approximately 1,000 hectares), thanks to the winter inversion climate of the mountain valley. From afar, the pink wild apricot blossoms resemble soft crimson clouds drifting across the mountains.
Across the mountainside and valleys, clusters of pink apricot blossoms spread out, creating a scene both majestic and captivating. Shepherds' flocks and horses roam the landscape, their blossoms a backdrop. Tracing the path to the vibrant world beyond the Great Wall, experience the wonders of nature.
Climate and best time to travel
It is usually in mid-April every year, when apricot flowers are in full bloom; or in June or July, when apricots are ripe.
Recommended number of days and locations for visiting
Xinghuagou Wild Apricot Forest
While the wild apricot forest in Xinghuagou has a long history, it only became a tourist attraction in the early 20th century. The lush green hillsides, covered in pink apricot blossoms, create a picturesque scene. From almost any angle, the vibrant colors create a breathtaking spectacle. Mid-April to early May is the best time to view the apricot blossoms, which bloom for only about seven days.
Nalati Grassland
One of Xinjiang's most famous grasslands, located on the northern slopes of Mount Narat, it has been a renowned pasture since ancient times. The scenic area offers sweeping views of river valleys, peaks, deep gorges, and forests, blending natural scenery with local customs. The best time to visit is from June to September, when the grasslands are lush green, wildflowers bloom, and the weather is pleasant. After June, the grasslands enter their prime season, offering a chance to experience Kazakh folk customs. Due to its early development, the scenic area boasts mature facilities, making for a comfortable and enjoyable visit.
Recommended play time: 2-3 hours
Tickets
30 yuan/person
Attraction opening hours
All day
Most Popular FAQs for Yili Xinghuagou
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
Xinghuagou (Apricot Blossom Valley) in Turgen, Xinyuan County, Yili is known for its ancient wild apricot forests — some say remnants from medieval times. It is part of the Yili River Valley, a lush region in Xinjiang with rich biodiversity, agriculture, and a tradition of seasonal floral tourism. The apricot blossoms there have become symbolic of spring in this region.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
- Xinghuagou is in Turgen Township (吐尔根乡), Xinyuan County, Yili Prefecture, Xinjiang.
- Nearest major hub is Yining (Ili) city. From Yining, one can travel by road (taxi or car) to Turgen.
- If flying: Yining Airport is the closest major airport, then continue by ground transport.
- The roads may be rural; having a car (private or tour vehicle) is common for accessing the valley.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- Opening hours: because it’s a natural area (forest/valley), public access is usually all day or dawn-to-dusk; there is no formal “closed” period for the valley itself.
- Best time: early to mid April is the prime period for apricot blossoms; timing depends on weather.
- If you miss apricot blossom season, late spring (May) might still have other wildflowers; summers are greener but less “blossom spectacle.” Winters are cold and many plants dormant.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
There appears to be no formal admission fee for Xinghuagou’s wild apricot forest portion; many visitors report free access for the scenic valley itself.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
No formal ticket booking seems required for entry into the valley forests. However, if part of a tour, or staying in local guesthouses or during peak blossom period, booking accommodation or guided tours ahead (weeks) is advised.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
- Half a day is sufficient if only visiting the apricot forest in Turgen and the immediate area.
- A full day (or more) if combining with nearby towns, folk villages, photography, sunrise/sunset, and relaxation.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- The wild apricot forest in Xinghuagou itself.
- Viewpoints along slopes where blossoms are dense and backed by hills or mountains.
- Nearby folk villages (e.g. Turgen villages) to see traditional homes and rural life.
- Sunrise / sunset spots in the valley, to catch light on blossoms.
- Complementary spots: that Turgan Apricot Gully, or other flower valleys of Yili for comparison.
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
Guided tours are usually available via local tour operators (Chinese / Mandarin; possibly with local Uyghur / Kazakh guides). There is no strong evidence of formal audio guides in multiple languages specifically for Xinghuagou.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- Hillsides with dense wild apricot trees, especially where blossoms back against snow-topped mountains.
- Valley floor near Turgen for wide-angle shots of fields + blooming forest + domestic animals.
- Edges of the forest with rural homes/yurts for contrast and cultural flavor.
- Sunrise facing east slopes, or sunset over western slopes.
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
- Start from Turgen Township entrance → hike or drive into apricot forest → stop at viewpoint slabs / planks set up for photography → visit nearby village(s) in Turgen → return via scenic road, stopping at multiple blossom-lined roads.
- If staying overnight, get up early for sunrise, stroll again in the morning. Also combine with other flower valleys or Yili attractions in same trip.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
No indication of formal light shows; since this is natural rural area, night visits are possible but amenities limited. Special photography or blossom-season tours are offered by tour agencies.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
- The blossom peak (early to mid April) draws many photographers and tourists, so weekends and public holidays are busiest.
- Weekdays are quieter. Early morning or later in afternoon also less crowded.
- If you go slightly before or after the peak bloom, you’ll have fewer people but still good scenery.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
Facilities are basic. Some local villages may have small shops or food stalls. Toilets may be basic. Water supply limited — better bring own water. Few rest areas; photography “checkpoints” may have simple platforms.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
Partially. Forest paths may be steep, uneven, or rough. The valley road may be passable by car. Elderly or people with limited mobility may find some viewpoints difficult. Bring support, go slowly.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted? Rural area: mobile payment (WeChat Pay / Alipay) widely used; some small vendors may accept only cash. It’s wise to carry cash.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
Near Turgen and Yining there are local restaurants and small guesthouse kitchens serving local cuisine (Xinjiang styles, pastoral food, noodles, kebabs). Very few formal cafés in the valley proper. Better to eat in Yining or in near villages.
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Yes — Xinjiang has Muslim majority/large Muslim population; many halal options available in Yining and villages. Vegetarian options more limited but possible (fruit, bread, vegetables, etc.).
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- Guesthouses or homestays in Turgen or nearby villages.
- Hotels in Yining city (Ili) are more formal and numerous. Stay in Yining if wanting more comfort.
- If planning longer trips, some tours offer stays in scenic or rural accommodations during blossom season.
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- That Turgan Apricot Gully (Xinghuagou) itself plus Turgen area.
- Daxi Gully (Daxi Gully Flower Valley) and nearby flower valleys.
- Narati Grassland (那拉提草原) for highland meadow scenery.
- Yili River Valley cities/towns (Yining), Six-Star Street (六星街), Kazan-Qi Folk Village.
- Other parts of Yili’s scenic flower-road routes.
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- Yes — in Yining city and market areas; in villages maybe small local craft sellers.
- Typical souvenirs: dried fruits, apricot-related products (jams, kernels, dried apricot flesh), local handicrafts, traditional Kazakh clothes / embroidery, maybe felt products.
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- Return to Yining and connect via bus, car, or flights to other parts of Xinjiang (Ürümqi etc.).
- Combine with road trips along the Yili River Valley flower routes.
- Continue to grasslands (Narati), lakes (赛里木湖), or mountain/forest regions further out.
