Midong District

Introducing Midong District

Midong District, located in the northeastern suburbs of Urumqi, lies within the city's economic zone, boasting a superior geographical location and convenient transportation. It borders Fukang City in Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture to the east, Shuimogou District and Dabancheng District to the south, Changji City, Wujiaqu City, and Xinshi District in Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture to the west, and Fuhai County in Altay Prefecture to the north.

There are abundant underground springs, plentiful water resources and fertile soil here. It has been known as the "hometown of rice" since ancient times. Today, "millions of acres of rice and beans show the charm of the Jiangnan water town, and thousands of snow-capped peaks set off the beautiful rural scenery."

The main tourist attractions include Tianshan Forest Park (autonomous region-level tourist attraction), Xiaxionggou, Xiamenzi Tourist Area (a national agricultural tourism demonstration site), Shirengou Scenic Area, Dongdaohaizi Desert Scenic Tourist Area, Dushanzi Rock Paintings, East and West Temples, and Tang Luntai Ruins.

Climate and best time to travel

Midong District is located in the heart of the Eurasian continent and has a temperate continental arid climate with hot summers and cold winters, with large temperature differences.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1 day

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Most Popular FAQs for Midong District

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

Midong District is part of Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang. It has historical significance due to its proximity to ancient trade routes and the Silk Road. The area has a diverse cultural heritage, influenced by Uyghur, Han, and other Central Asian cultures.

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

Midong District is located in Urumqi, the capital city of Xinjiang. You can get there by taxi, bus, or metro. The Urumqi Metro system connects key districts, including Midong, and taxis are readily available.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The attractions in Midong are open year-round, with the best times to visit being from April to October when the weather is more pleasant for outdoor activities. Summer months are popular for tourism.

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

Entrance fees for major attractions like the Urumqi International Grand Bazaar are free, while attractions such as the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Museum may have a small entry fee (around ¥20-¥40). Tickets can be bought on-site or online for some attractions.

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

Booking tickets in advance is recommended for popular sites during peak seasons, but generally, tickets can be bought on the day of your visit. For special events or festivals, booking 1-2 weeks in advance is ideal.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A 1-2 day trip is ideal for exploring Midong and its surrounding attractions. A visit to key spots like the Grand Bazaar, Xinjiang Museum, and Tianchi Lake can be completed in one day if time is limited.

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

• The Urumqi International Grand Bazaar for shopping and cultural experiences.
• Hongshan Park for panoramic views of the city and a relaxing nature escape.
• The Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Museum for a deeper understanding of the region's history.
• Heavenly Lake (Tianchi) for stunning natural scenery and outdoor activities.

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

Guided tours are available at popular sites like the Xinjiang Museum and Heavenly Lake. Tours are generally available in Mandarin, with some offering English-speaking guides during peak tourist seasons.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Hongshan Park provides the best panoramic views of Urumqi and the surrounding areas.
• Heavenly Lake offers breathtaking views of the Tian Shan mountains, perfect for photography.
• The Urumqi International Grand Bazaar is a vibrant spot for capturing local life and culture.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your day by visiting the Urumqi International Grand Bazaar to explore the markets. Then, head to the Xinjiang Museum to learn about the history. In the afternoon, visit Hongshan Park for scenic views and relax by Heavenly Lake if time permits.

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

There are no specific light shows in Midong, but the Grand Bazaar is beautifully lit at night, offering a lively atmosphere. Special tours are available for cultural experiences during festivals.

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

The area can get crowded during the summer months and national holidays. To avoid crowds, visit on weekdays, especially in the mornings before noon.

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

• Public toilets are available at most major attractions and parks.
• Food and water are widely available, with numerous restaurants and shops near the Grand Bazaar and parks.
• Rest areas are available in parks like Hongshan Park and near Tianchi Lake.

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

Most attractions in Midong are accessible for elderly visitors and children. Some outdoor sites like Tianchi Lake may involve hiking, which can be more challenging for those with mobility issues. The Grand Bazaar and Hongshan Park are generally accessible.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted in most places, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used in the area. Credit cards are accepted at major establishments, especially in the Grand Bazaar and hotels.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Local Uyghur restaurants serve kebabs, pilaf, and traditional dishes in the Grand Bazaar and surrounding areas.
• Cafes and international chains are available in shopping malls and near major attractions.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Halal food options are widely available in Midong due to the significant Uyghur population. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available, particularly in local restaurants and cafes.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Midong has a range of accommodations, from budget guesthouses to more luxurious hotels.
• For a more convenient stay near major attractions, consider hotels near the Grand Bazaar or Tianchi Lake.

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

• Tianchi Lake, a picturesque alpine lake in the Tian Shan mountains, is a popular day trip from Urumqi.
• Visit the nearby Kuitun City for historical sites and natural beauty.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops are plentiful in the Grand Bazaar, selling traditional Uyghur handicrafts, carpets, spices, and jewelry. You can also find dried fruits and nuts as popular food souvenirs.

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

• Taxis and ride-hailing services like Didi are convenient for continuing your journey to other parts of Urumqi or nearby cities.
• Long-distance buses and trains are available for travel to other regions of Xinjiang and beyond.