Step into the Cloudy Homeland｜Hemu Village in Kanas, Xinjiang

At the northernmost tip of Xinjiang, near the borders of China, Kazakhstan, and Mongolia, lies a secluded Tuvan village—Hemu Village.

Amid the morning mist, smoke curls from chimneys, wooden houses are scattered across the landscape, and herds of cattle and sheep roam freely. This is not a movie effect but a real-life paradise.

Standing on the Hadeng Viewing Platform, I gazed at the entire Hemu Village quietly nestled in the valley. In the distance, birch forests swayed in the breeze, and the morning light sprinkled like golden dust. At that moment, time seemed to stand still.

🌄 Why should you visit Hadeng Platform?

While Hemu Village is already stunning on its own, the panoramic view from Hadeng Viewing Platform is an absolute must-see for breathtaking scenery.

📍 Location: About a 30-minute walk or horseback ride to the summit
From here, you can overlook the entire village with a wide field of view, making it the best spot for capturing morning mist, sunsets, and starry skies. It’s recommended to visit during early morning or just before sunset for more layered and dreamy lighting effects.

🌿 The charm of Hemu Village goes beyond its scenery

This is a Tuvan settlement that preserves unique wooden architecture and the traditional lifestyle of herders. Free from the hustle and bustle of commercial tourism, it offers a sense of simplicity, tranquility, and a deep connection with nature.

At night, you can witness a sky full of stars, capturing the Milky Way’s sparkle without the need for filters. Autumn is especially magical—golden birch forests, emerald valleys, and blue-roofed wooden houses make you feel like you’ve stepped into a living oil painting.

✅ Tips:

Best visiting season: Mid-September to early October (peak autumn colors)
Consider booking a wooden cabin in the village to experience the most authentic lifestyle
Be mindful of the significant temperature difference between day and night in high-altitude areas; bring warm clothing and sunscreen.