Hemu Village
Hemu Village is located in Burqin County, Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang, near Kanas Lake. It is one of the main settlements of the Tuva people and is the largest and farthest among the three remaining Tuva villages (Hemu Village, Kanas Village, and Baihaba Village). The traditional houses in Hemu Village are mainly built with logs, preserving a strong original and rustic atmosphere.
Hemu Village is best known for its fairy-tale autumn scenery, which attracts visitors with its golden birch forests, wooden houses, and peaceful village atmosphere. On July 28, 2019, Hemu Village was selected as one of the first batch of national key villages for rural tourism. In October 2019, it was included in the first "Small Town Aesthetic Model" list. Visitors can explore the lifestyle and culture of the Tuva people, experience the unique charm of this ancient village, and take beautiful photos.
Click the picture to enjoy the fairyland of Hemu village:
Features:
Chinese Name: 禾木村 [hémù cūn]
Location: About 30 kilometers east of Kanas Lake
Popular activities: sightseeing, photography, visit Tuva people's houses, explore about Tuva people's lifestyle and culture, hiking around the Hemu river
Suited to: everyone
Time needed: 5-6 hours
Recommended Xinjiang tours:
10 Days North Xinjiang Photography Tour
11 Days Northern Xinjiang Tour: Keketuohai, Kanas Lake and Turpan
Best Time to Visit Hemu Village
Hemu Village is suitable to visit throughout the year, with each season offering a different landscape and travel experience. Among them, September to October is considered the best time to visit, when the birch forests turn golden and the wooden houses, rivers, and mountains create a breathtaking fairy-tale scene. Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying green landscapes and outdoor activities, while winter offers a peaceful snow-covered village atmosphere.
🍂 September to October — Best Season for Autumn Scenery
Autumn is the most popular time to visit Hemu Village. During this period, the vast birch forests around the village gradually turn golden, creating a stunning contrast with the wooden houses, blue Hemu River, and snow-capped mountains in the distance. The morning mist, golden forests, and quiet village scenery make Hemu one of the best photography destinations in Xinjiang.
Minor downside:
Autumn is the peak travel season, so the village can be crowded and accommodation prices may be higher. Temperatures also drop quickly in the morning and evening, so warm clothing is recommended.
☀️ June to August — Green Landscapes & Outdoor Activities
In summer, Hemu Village is surrounded by green grasslands, forests, and flowing rivers. The pleasant weather makes it suitable for hiking, horseback riding, exploring the village, and experiencing the traditional lifestyle of the Tuva people. Compared with the colorful autumn scenery, summer Hemu offers a peaceful and refreshing natural atmosphere.
Minor downside:
The temperature difference between day and night is large, and warm clothes are still needed even in summer.
❄️ November to March — Snow-Covered Fairy-Tale Village
Winter transforms Hemu Village into a quiet snow-covered world. Wooden houses covered with snow, frozen rivers, and white birch forests create a magical northern landscape. Visitors can enjoy winter activities such as skiing, horse-drawn sledges, and experiencing the unique charm of Tuva culture in the snow.
Minor downside:
Winter temperatures can be very low, and heavy snow may affect transportation to the village.
🌸 April to May — Spring Awakening & Quiet Village Scenery
Spring is a peaceful season to visit Hemu Village. As the snow gradually melts, the grasslands begin to turn green, wildflowers start to bloom, and the village returns to life after winter. With fewer visitors compared with autumn, travelers can enjoy the quiet atmosphere, fresh air, and authentic lifestyle of the Tuva people.
Minor downside:
The weather can still be cool, especially in the morning and evening, and some mountain roads may be affected by melting snow.
How to Get to Hemu Village from Urumqi
Hemu Village is located in Burqin County, Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang. Since there is no direct public transportation from Urumqi to Hemu Village, visitors usually need to transfer through Kanas or Beitun City and then continue by road.
By Plane
Travelers can take a flight from Urumqi to Kanas Airport and then take a car to Hemu Village. The drive from Kanas Airport to Hemu Village takes about 2–3 hours.
Note: Kanas Airport is usually open from June to October every year.
By Train
Travelers can take a train from Urumqi to Beitun City, then continue by car to Hemu Village. The journey from Beitun City to Hemu Village takes about 4–5 hours.
What to Explore in Hemu Village
Hemu Village is famous for its fairy-tale scenery, traditional wooden houses, golden birch forests, and peaceful natural environment. Surrounded by mountains, forests, grasslands, and rivers, the village offers different beautiful landscapes throughout the year, especially in autumn when the birch forests turn golden.
Golden Birch Forest — A Fairy-Tale Autumn Landscape
The birch forests around Hemu Village are one of its most iconic landscapes. After crossing the Hemu Bridge, visitors can reach the most famous birch forest area, where wild birch trees grow across the mountains and valleys.
During the golden autumn season, the forests are covered with yellow leaves, creating a stunning contrast between the golden trees, white wooden houses, and blue sky. Walking through the forest feels like entering a fairy-tale world, making it one of the best places for photography in Xinjiang.
Hemu Bridge — The Best Viewpoint of the Village
Hemu Bridge is one of the symbols of Hemu Village. This old wooden bridge has stood for more than 100 years and has experienced the impact of water from the Kanas Glacier.
Standing on the bridge, visitors can enjoy beautiful views of the Hemu River, birch forests, and traditional wooden houses on both sides. The clear river, green vegetation, and peaceful village scenery create a simple and natural atmosphere that represents the unique charm of Hemu.
Genghis Khan Viewing Platform — Overlook the Whole Village
The Genghis Khan Viewing Platform is one of the best places to admire the panoramic view of Hemu Village. The platform is actually a naturally formed alpine meadow, and from here visitors can overlook the entire village surrounded by mountains, forests, and rivers.
The best time to visit the viewing platform is early morning, when the village is often covered by light mist and the scenery is especially beautiful. Visitors can also choose to ride horses to the viewing platform for a more traditional and memorable experience.
Things to do in Hemu Village
Hiking around the Hemu river and Enjoy the village views
The Hemu River flows from the northeast to the southwest, and the primitive villages and the prairie are harmoniously and naturally integrated. Entering the Hemu River area, there are almost no traces of cattle and sheep along the way. August is also the season for villagers to plough grass. Only on the grass that has been plucked can you occasionally see a few cattle and sheep. Hemu village is a small village with hundreds of households. It is very primitive and natural, and the Hemu River flows quietly in the village. Small wooden huts and Kazakh yurts are scattered along the Hemu River. When the herdsmen return, the quiet villages are like a picture scroll. If you like hiking, you can take your time to enjoy the amazing view around the Hemu river and also can take some nice photos. From noon to evening, when the light is very good, the river water is very blue, and the leaves are golden; it is the best time for visitors to take some wonderful photos.
Visit Tuva people's houses & discover Tuva people's lifestyle
Hemu Village looks like a fairytale forest scene, there are wooden houses of Tuva people scattered. The wooden house still retains the true color of wood for many years and this kind of spire wooden house is completely built from logs. It has a flat roof in the room; the space between the flat roof and the spire is used to store food and feed, which is unique to the Tuva people. The architectural features can only be seen in the three Tuva settlements of Hemu, Kanas and Baihaba.
The wooden houses in Hemu Village are very distinctive, and this ancient village shows its own symbolic kingdom in silence. The wooden houses of Tuva people are golden in the sunset, and they are square, so the whole village looks angular. The zigzag and half-opened wooden fences are all pine wood, and after a long time, they have become warm golden yellow, with a maze-like style, and the grass and summer scenery with the smell of grass are pouring into sleep.
You can enjoy the peaceful village, blue stream, colorful forest, and snowy mountains in the distance. Meet the local ethnic people and their cattle and if you have enough time, you also can walk into a house of the Tuva people, who are regarded as the descendants of a mysterious old tribe from Mongolia. Meanwhile, discover their lifestyle and culture and chat with them to learn about their daily life. Moreover, you can visit a small museum of Tuva people's in a wooden house too. The pictures, the traditional clothes, and the articles of daily use will show you the history and the traditional lifestyle of the Tuva people.
Skiing in winter
The opening of the ski resort excited many local villagers. Due to the early snow season, long snow period and good snow quality, this once forgotten village in winter began to welcome a large number of tourists skiing here for the winter. Ski enthusiasts take snowmobiles to the ski resort. The modern snow play project combines the ancient Tuva culture, and the combination of the two makes Hemu Village the most interesting and suitable paradise for visitors. If you love skiing and winter, then Hemu Village is a wonderful place to visit.
Hemu Village Travel Tips
Prepare for Changing Weather
The weather in Hemu Village can change quickly due to its mountainous location. Even in summer, mornings and evenings can be cool, and the temperature difference between day and night is large. It is recommended to bring a light jacket or warm clothing, especially if you plan to watch the sunrise or stay outdoors for a long time.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Hemu Village offers many opportunities for walking and exploring, including the Hemu River area, birch forests, and viewing platforms. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially in autumn and winter when paths may become slippery due to rain, snow, or ice.
Book Accommodation in Advance During Peak Season
Autumn is the most popular season to visit Hemu Village, when the golden birch forests attract many travelers and photographers. If you plan to stay overnight in a wooden house or local guesthouse, it is recommended to book accommodation in advance, especially during September and October.
Prepare for Winter Conditions
Winter turns Hemu Village into a beautiful snow-covered destination, but cold temperatures and heavy snow may affect transportation. Visitors should prepare warm winter clothing, snow boots, and cold-weather equipment. In case of heavy snowfall, some areas may require local transportation such as horse-drawn sledges.
Respect Tuva Culture and Local Environment
Hemu Village is an important settlement of the Tuva people, who have preserved their traditional wooden houses and lifestyle for generations. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs, ask for permission before entering private homes, and help protect the peaceful atmosphere and natural environment of the village.
Travel Information
Opening Time: 08:30-20:00
Customer Service Phone: 0906-6326004 / 0906-6525380
Tickets:
Admission Fee: 100 CNY/PP
Ancient Village Protection Fee: 50 CNY/PP
Recommended Tours to Hemu Village
Hemu Village is located in Burqin County, Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang, near Kanas Lake. It is one of the main settlements of the Tuva people and is the largest and farthest among the three remaining Tuva villages (Hemu Village, Kanas Village, and Baihaba Village). The traditional houses in Hemu Village are mainly built with logs, preserving a strong original and rustic atmosphere.
Hemu Village is best known for its fairy-tale autumn scenery, which attracts visitors with its golden birch forests, wooden houses, and peaceful village atmosphere. On July 28, 2019, Hemu Village was selected as one of the first batch of national key villages for rural tourism. In October 2019, it was included in the first "Small Town Aesthetic Model" list. Visitors can explore the lifestyle and culture of the Tuva people, experience the unique charm of this ancient village, and take beautiful photos.
Click the picture to enjoy the fairyland of Hemu village:
Features:
Chinese Name: 禾木村 [hémù cūn]
Location: About 30 kilometers east of Kanas Lake
Popular activities: sightseeing, photography, visit Tuva people's houses, explore about Tuva people's lifestyle and culture, hiking around the Hemu river
Suited to: everyone
Time needed: 5-6 hours
Recommended Xinjiang tours:
10 Days North Xinjiang Photography Tour
11 Days Northern Xinjiang Tour: Keketuohai, Kanas Lake and Turpan
Best Time to Visit Hemu Village
Hemu Village is suitable to visit throughout the year, with each season offering a different landscape and travel experience. Among them, September to October is considered the best time to visit, when the birch forests turn golden and the wooden houses, rivers, and mountains create a breathtaking fairy-tale scene. Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying green landscapes and outdoor activities, while winter offers a peaceful snow-covered village atmosphere.
🍂 September to October — Best Season for Autumn Scenery
Autumn is the most popular time to visit Hemu Village. During this period, the vast birch forests around the village gradually turn golden, creating a stunning contrast with the wooden houses, blue Hemu River, and snow-capped mountains in the distance. The morning mist, golden forests, and quiet village scenery make Hemu one of the best photography destinations in Xinjiang.
Minor downside:
Autumn is the peak travel season, so the village can be crowded and accommodation prices may be higher. Temperatures also drop quickly in the morning and evening, so warm clothing is recommended.
☀️ June to August — Green Landscapes & Outdoor Activities
In summer, Hemu Village is surrounded by green grasslands, forests, and flowing rivers. The pleasant weather makes it suitable for hiking, horseback riding, exploring the village, and experiencing the traditional lifestyle of the Tuva people. Compared with the colorful autumn scenery, summer Hemu offers a peaceful and refreshing natural atmosphere.
Minor downside:
The temperature difference between day and night is large, and warm clothes are still needed even in summer.
❄️ November to March — Snow-Covered Fairy-Tale Village
Winter transforms Hemu Village into a quiet snow-covered world. Wooden houses covered with snow, frozen rivers, and white birch forests create a magical northern landscape. Visitors can enjoy winter activities such as skiing, horse-drawn sledges, and experiencing the unique charm of Tuva culture in the snow.
Minor downside:
Winter temperatures can be very low, and heavy snow may affect transportation to the village.
🌸 April to May — Spring Awakening & Quiet Village Scenery
Spring is a peaceful season to visit Hemu Village. As the snow gradually melts, the grasslands begin to turn green, wildflowers start to bloom, and the village returns to life after winter. With fewer visitors compared with autumn, travelers can enjoy the quiet atmosphere, fresh air, and authentic lifestyle of the Tuva people.
Minor downside:
The weather can still be cool, especially in the morning and evening, and some mountain roads may be affected by melting snow.
How to Get to Hemu Village from Urumqi
Hemu Village is located in Burqin County, Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang. Since there is no direct public transportation from Urumqi to Hemu Village, visitors usually need to transfer through Kanas or Beitun City and then continue by road.
By Plane
Travelers can take a flight from Urumqi to Kanas Airport and then take a car to Hemu Village. The drive from Kanas Airport to Hemu Village takes about 2–3 hours.
Note: Kanas Airport is usually open from June to October every year.
By Train
Travelers can take a train from Urumqi to Beitun City, then continue by car to Hemu Village. The journey from Beitun City to Hemu Village takes about 4–5 hours.
What to Explore in Hemu Village
Hemu Village is famous for its fairy-tale scenery, traditional wooden houses, golden birch forests, and peaceful natural environment. Surrounded by mountains, forests, grasslands, and rivers, the village offers different beautiful landscapes throughout the year, especially in autumn when the birch forests turn golden.
Golden Birch Forest — A Fairy-Tale Autumn Landscape
The birch forests around Hemu Village are one of its most iconic landscapes. After crossing the Hemu Bridge, visitors can reach the most famous birch forest area, where wild birch trees grow across the mountains and valleys.
During the golden autumn season, the forests are covered with yellow leaves, creating a stunning contrast between the golden trees, white wooden houses, and blue sky. Walking through the forest feels like entering a fairy-tale world, making it one of the best places for photography in Xinjiang.
Hemu Bridge — The Best Viewpoint of the Village
Hemu Bridge is one of the symbols of Hemu Village. This old wooden bridge has stood for more than 100 years and has experienced the impact of water from the Kanas Glacier.
Standing on the bridge, visitors can enjoy beautiful views of the Hemu River, birch forests, and traditional wooden houses on both sides. The clear river, green vegetation, and peaceful village scenery create a simple and natural atmosphere that represents the unique charm of Hemu.
Genghis Khan Viewing Platform — Overlook the Whole Village
The Genghis Khan Viewing Platform is one of the best places to admire the panoramic view of Hemu Village. The platform is actually a naturally formed alpine meadow, and from here visitors can overlook the entire village surrounded by mountains, forests, and rivers.
The best time to visit the viewing platform is early morning, when the village is often covered by light mist and the scenery is especially beautiful. Visitors can also choose to ride horses to the viewing platform for a more traditional and memorable experience.
Things to do in Hemu Village
Hiking around the Hemu river and Enjoy the village views
The Hemu River flows from the northeast to the southwest, and the primitive villages and the prairie are harmoniously and naturally integrated. Entering the Hemu River area, there are almost no traces of cattle and sheep along the way. August is also the season for villagers to plough grass. Only on the grass that has been plucked can you occasionally see a few cattle and sheep. Hemu village is a small village with hundreds of households. It is very primitive and natural, and the Hemu River flows quietly in the village. Small wooden huts and Kazakh yurts are scattered along the Hemu River. When the herdsmen return, the quiet villages are like a picture scroll. If you like hiking, you can take your time to enjoy the amazing view around the Hemu river and also can take some nice photos. From noon to evening, when the light is very good, the river water is very blue, and the leaves are golden; it is the best time for visitors to take some wonderful photos.
Visit Tuva people's houses & discover Tuva people's lifestyle
Hemu Village looks like a fairytale forest scene, there are wooden houses of Tuva people scattered. The wooden house still retains the true color of wood for many years and this kind of spire wooden house is completely built from logs. It has a flat roof in the room; the space between the flat roof and the spire is used to store food and feed, which is unique to the Tuva people. The architectural features can only be seen in the three Tuva settlements of Hemu, Kanas and Baihaba.
The wooden houses in Hemu Village are very distinctive, and this ancient village shows its own symbolic kingdom in silence. The wooden houses of Tuva people are golden in the sunset, and they are square, so the whole village looks angular. The zigzag and half-opened wooden fences are all pine wood, and after a long time, they have become warm golden yellow, with a maze-like style, and the grass and summer scenery with the smell of grass are pouring into sleep.
You can enjoy the peaceful village, blue stream, colorful forest, and snowy mountains in the distance. Meet the local ethnic people and their cattle and if you have enough time, you also can walk into a house of the Tuva people, who are regarded as the descendants of a mysterious old tribe from Mongolia. Meanwhile, discover their lifestyle and culture and chat with them to learn about their daily life. Moreover, you can visit a small museum of Tuva people's in a wooden house too. The pictures, the traditional clothes, and the articles of daily use will show you the history and the traditional lifestyle of the Tuva people.
Skiing in winter
The opening of the ski resort excited many local villagers. Due to the early snow season, long snow period and good snow quality, this once forgotten village in winter began to welcome a large number of tourists skiing here for the winter. Ski enthusiasts take snowmobiles to the ski resort. The modern snow play project combines the ancient Tuva culture, and the combination of the two makes Hemu Village the most interesting and suitable paradise for visitors. If you love skiing and winter, then Hemu Village is a wonderful place to visit.
Hemu Village Travel Tips
Prepare for Changing Weather
The weather in Hemu Village can change quickly due to its mountainous location. Even in summer, mornings and evenings can be cool, and the temperature difference between day and night is large. It is recommended to bring a light jacket or warm clothing, especially if you plan to watch the sunrise or stay outdoors for a long time.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Hemu Village offers many opportunities for walking and exploring, including the Hemu River area, birch forests, and viewing platforms. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially in autumn and winter when paths may become slippery due to rain, snow, or ice.
Book Accommodation in Advance During Peak Season
Autumn is the most popular season to visit Hemu Village, when the golden birch forests attract many travelers and photographers. If you plan to stay overnight in a wooden house or local guesthouse, it is recommended to book accommodation in advance, especially during September and October.
Prepare for Winter Conditions
Winter turns Hemu Village into a beautiful snow-covered destination, but cold temperatures and heavy snow may affect transportation. Visitors should prepare warm winter clothing, snow boots, and cold-weather equipment. In case of heavy snowfall, some areas may require local transportation such as horse-drawn sledges.
Respect Tuva Culture and Local Environment
Hemu Village is an important settlement of the Tuva people, who have preserved their traditional wooden houses and lifestyle for generations. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs, ask for permission before entering private homes, and help protect the peaceful atmosphere and natural environment of the village.
Travel Information
Opening Time: 08:30-20:00
Customer Service Phone: 0906-6326004 / 0906-6525380
Tickets:
Admission Fee: 100 CNY/PP
Ancient Village Protection Fee: 50 CNY/PP
Recommended Tours to Hemu Village
