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At Chrysanthemum Terrace, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape while walking through fields of vibrant chrysanthemums. The area is perfect for photography, relaxation, and appreciating nature, especially during the blooming season in autumn. Hiking along nearby trails is also a popular activity.
Chrysanthemum Terrace is located in Gangou Township, southwest of Urumqi, at the northern foot of the Kalawucheng Mountains, a branch of the Southern Tianshan Mountains. It is a typical Tianshan grassland pasture, or in geographical terms, a gently sloping alluvial fan platform.
In spring and summer, the terraces are covered in golden chrysanthemums, a myriad of flowers vie for attention, and bees and butterflies flutter, creating a quintessential Tianshan grassland scene. Red deer often roam the dense forests, and after rain, mushrooms sprout from beneath the trees.
From April to October every year , the wild chrysanthemums will bloom and the fragrance will be overwhelming.
Recommended play time: 1-2 hours
10 yuan/person
All day
Chrysanthemum Terrace is famous for its stunning display of chrysanthemums, which bloom during the autumn months. It holds cultural significance as a symbol of resilience and beauty, celebrated annually by locals and visitors alike. The terrace is part of the broader ecological and horticultural efforts in Xinjiang.
Chrysanthemum Terrace is located in Urumqi, Xinjiang, and is accessible by taxi or private vehicle. Public transportation options are limited, so it's best to travel by car. Walking is possible for those nearby, but it's a bit far from central Urumqi.
The terrace is open daily, typically from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is in autumn, especially during the chrysanthemum blooming season, which usually lasts from late September to November.
The entrance fee for Chrysanthemum Terrace is modest, around 20-30 RMB. Tickets can be bought on-site at the entrance, as online ticketing is not commonly available for this attraction.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary. However, visiting early in the day or during the weekday can help avoid the crowds, especially during peak blooming season.
You can explore the Chrysanthemum Terrace in about 1-2 hours. This allows enough time to enjoy the flowers, take photographs, and relax in the surrounding environment.
The must-see highlights include the vast chrysanthemum fields, scenic viewpoints along the terrace, and the surrounding natural landscape. The terrace provides beautiful spots for photography, especially when the flowers are in full bloom.
Guided tours are available, typically in Chinese. It is recommended to inquire at the entrance for any availability of English-speaking guides, though English audio guides are not commonly provided.
The best viewpoints are from the elevated sections of the terrace, where you can capture panoramic shots of the chrysanthemum fields and the surrounding mountainous landscapes. Early morning or late afternoon provides the best lighting for photography.
Start at the main entrance, explore the chrysanthemum fields, and then walk along the elevated terrace for panoramic views. Take a few moments at the viewing platforms to capture photos, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere before heading back.
There are no night visits or light shows at Chrysanthemum Terrace. The best time to visit is during daylight, particularly in the morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler and the flowers are fully illuminated.
The terrace can get crowded during weekends and public holidays, especially during the chrysanthemum blooming season. Visiting on weekdays, early in the morning, or outside peak blooming times ensures a more peaceful experience.
The terrace offers basic facilities, including toilets and rest areas. There are no large restaurants or cafes on-site, but you can find some small food vendors at the entrance. It is recommended to bring your own water and snacks.
The terrace is generally accessible, though some areas may have uneven paths. Elderly visitors or those with mobility issues may find certain spots more challenging to reach, so it's best to plan accordingly.
Cash is commonly used, but mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are accepted at the entrance and food vendors.
There are no major restaurants inside the terrace, but Urumqi city center offers a variety of dining options, including local Xinjiang specialties like lamb kebabs and pilaf.
Urumqi offers a wide variety of halal food, especially in the city center. Vegetarian and vegan options are available at many restaurants, particularly those serving local Chinese or Xinjiang cuisine.
There are no hotels directly at Chrysanthemum Terrace, but accommodations are readily available in Urumqi. Options range from budget hotels to luxury ones like the Shangri-La Urumqi or Crowne Plaza Urumqi.
Nearby attractions include the Xinjiang Regional Museum, Heavenly Lake (Tianchi), and the Urumqi Botanical Garden. These can easily be combined in a day trip from Chrysanthemum Terrace.
While there are no dedicated souvenir shops at the terrace, Urumqi city offers a variety of souvenirs such as traditional Xinjiang carpets, silk, and hand-crafted items.
After visiting the terrace, the best transportation options are taxis or private vehicles to continue to nearby attractions. Public buses can also be taken to Urumqi city center for further exploration.
