Live Your Best Lives
Shaya County is located in the northern Tarim Basin, bordered by the Tianshan Mountains to the north and the vast desert to the south. It was a crucial route along the ancient Silk Road and a vital component of the ancient Kucha Kingdom. The Tarim River, China's largest inland river, runs west to east through the northern part of the county.
Shaya County boasts a vast territory and unique landforms. It boasts the Hade-4 Oilfield, China's first billion-ton desert oilfield, and over 2 million mu (approximately 1.5 acres) of well-preserved pristine poplar forests. Natural poplar trees are distributed along the Tarim River, which runs over 220 kilometers through the central and northern parts of the county.
Shaya County belongs to the warm temperate desert edge climate zone, with abundant sunshine all year round, scarce precipitation, dry climate, and large temperature difference between day and night.
Recommended play time: 1-2 days
Shaya is a historic town in southern Xinjiang, located along the ancient Silk Road. It has been a key site for trade and culture between Central Asia and China. The area is also known for its agriculture, particularly the cultivation of melons and cotton.
Shaya is located in Aksu Prefecture, Xinjiang, China. It can be accessed by bus or taxi from the city of Aksu, which is about 50 km away. There is no metro service in the area, so taxis or private vehicles are the most convenient mode of transport.
The town is accessible year-round, but the best times to visit are in the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild and comfortable for outdoor activities.
There is no general entrance fee for visiting Shaya. However, some attractions such as desert excursions or cultural performances may have entry fees, which can be paid on-site.
Advance booking is generally not required unless you plan to participate in a special tour or cultural event, in which case booking 1-2 weeks ahead is recommended.
Most visitors spend a full day in Shaya exploring its natural landscapes, local culture, and villages. A more extended stay may be needed if you plan to visit surrounding agricultural sites or take part in desert activities.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, Uyghur, and sometimes English. Audio guides are not widely available, but local guides provide insightful tours of the area.
Night visits and light shows are not available, but stargazing in the desert is a popular evening activity due to the clear skies.
Shaya is generally not crowded, and the least crowded times are weekdays during the off-peak months, such as late autumn or winter.
Basic facilities such as toilets, food stalls, water, and rest areas are available in and around the town. Local shops offer snacks, drinks, and traditional handicrafts.
The town and surrounding areas are mostly accessible, but some parts of the desert and farms may require walking on uneven terrain, which could be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors.
Cash is commonly used in Shaya, and mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted in larger shops and restaurants. It's advisable to carry cash for smaller purchases.
There are several local Uyghur restaurants offering traditional dishes like kebabs, pilaf, and naan bread. A few small cafes provide local tea and snacks.
Halal food is widely available in Shaya, and vegetarian options such as vegetable pilaf and salads can be found in local restaurants.
There are guesthouses and small hotels in Shaya. For more luxurious accommodations, travelers may prefer staying in Aksu, which is nearby.
Nearby attractions include the ancient city of Aksu and its historical sites. The surrounding desert and nearby villages are also worth visiting for a combined day trip.
Souvenir shops sell traditional Uyghur textiles, carpets, spices, and jewelry. Popular souvenirs include embroidered fabrics and local pottery.
After visiting Shaya, the best way to continue your trip is by taxi or bus to Aksu, where there are further transportation options, including trains and flights.
