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Jinghe, whose name "Jing" or "Jing" is a Mongolian transliteration meaning "cool," was once a key town on the northern route of the ancient Silk Road. It borders Wusu City in Tacheng Prefecture to the east, Bole City to the west, Nileke County and Yining County, both directly under the Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, to the south, and Tuoli County in Tacheng Prefecture to the north.
Jinghe County is primarily agricultural, with cotton being its leading industry. It is also a key production base for Xinjiang's goji berries, a popular specialty. Recognized as "China's Goji Berry Hometown," it has earned the reputation of "Jinghe Goji Berry is the Best in the World." Its goji berry products are exported to Southeast Asia.
Here you can find beautiful natural landscapes such as Bayingamen, Dulahong, Big and Small Lakes, historical and cultural relics such as Anfu City Ruins, Wusun Tumulus Tombs, Chahanmodun Stone Man, Lake Aibi, the largest inland saltwater lake in Xinjiang, and Ganjia Lake Haloxylon Ammodendron National Nature Reserve, the largest in Asia.
Jinghe County has a typical northern temperate arid desert continental climate, with a large difference in temperature between day and night in summer, dry weather with little rain, and frequent wind, sand and dust in spring.
Recommended play time: 1 day
Jinghe is located in the Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, and it is known for its rich Mongolian culture and scenic landscapes. The area is home to a significant Mongol population and has historically been an important part of the Silk Road, acting as a cultural and trade hub.
Jinghe is located in the western part of Xinjiang, near the border with Kazakhstan. To reach Jinghe, you can take a flight to Ürümqi, then take a bus or hire a taxi for a 6-hour drive to Jinghe. Public transport within Jinghe is limited, so taxis or private cars are the best options for getting around.
The best time to visit Jinghe is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October), when the weather is mild and the landscapes are most vibrant. There are no specific opening hours for the area, as it is an open destination for exploration.
There is no entrance fee for visiting Jinghe itself. Some attractions, like specific parks or cultural sites, may charge small fees, which can be paid on-site.
Booking tickets in advance is typically not necessary for general sightseeing in Jinghe. However, if you plan on joining a guided tour or staying at a popular yurt camp, it is advisable to book 1-2 weeks ahead, especially during peak tourist seasons.
2-3 days are recommended to explore the natural attractions, experience local culture, and enjoy the steppe and river landscapes. This allows time for hiking, photography, and relaxing in the area.
Guided tours are available through local operators, with most tours conducted in Chinese or Mongolian. English-speaking guides may be available, especially in larger groups, but it’s best to arrange this in advance.
Night visits are not commonly offered in Jinghe. However, the area is known for clear, starry skies, making it an excellent location for stargazing at night.
Jinghe is not a crowded destination. The least crowded times are during the winter months (December to February), when temperatures can be very cold. Spring and autumn are ideal for pleasant weather and fewer tourists.
Basic facilities like toilets and small rest areas are available. There are also small local eateries where you can try traditional Mongolian food, but it's best to carry extra water and snacks while exploring the area.
Jinghe’s main attractions, like hiking and visiting villages, may not be fully accessible for elderly or disabled visitors due to uneven terrain. However, children can enjoy the natural beauty and local experiences with adult supervision.
Cash is generally preferred in Jinghe. Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted in larger towns, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially when traveling to more remote areas.
Local restaurants and cafés offer traditional Mongolian cuisine, including meat dishes and dairy products. The options are limited, so it's best to explore the local food in small villages.
Halal food options are common in this region due to the local Muslim population. Vegetarian and vegan options are available but may be limited in remote areas.
Accommodation in Jinghe is typically basic, with local guesthouses and small hotels offering simple amenities. For more comfortable stays, consider traveling to larger towns in the Bortala area or Ürümqi.
Nearby attractions include the Yili River, various Mongolian cultural sites, and natural reserves. For a longer trip, you can visit the city of Ürümqi for more urban attractions and local history.
Souvenir shops in Jinghe offer traditional Mongolian crafts, including woolen goods, textiles, and handmade jewelry. Local markets are great places to buy these items.
After visiting Jinghe, you can continue by bus or taxi to Ürümqi, or rent a car for more flexibility. For longer trips, there are flights available from Ürümqi to other major cities in Xinjiang and beyond.