Barikun, Hami, Xinjiang Travel Guide
A seriously underrated secret spot in the Eastern Tianshan Mountains! Explore the grasslands, salt lakes, and ancient city for just 500 RMB per person
Stop crowding Ili and Altay! Barikun is the true hidden gem of Xinjiang 🌿 Snow-capped mountains + grasslands + salt lakes + ancient city all in one place, fewer people, wild scenery, affordable prices, and every photo looks like a wallpaper-worthy masterpiece. After reading this, you’ll want to set off immediately✨
📅 Best time to visit | Avoid the crowds and peak times
✅ June to August: Grassland flower seas in full bloom 🌼 The ultimate summer cool spot, average temperature 22℃
✅ September to October: Golden autumn grass + salt lakes changing colors, like a painting come to life
✅ December to February: Winter wonderland ❄️ Skiing + frozen lakes, intimate and romantic
🚗 Complete transportation guide | Easy for beginners
· Self-driving (top choice): From Hami city to Barikun, about 2 hours. The G575 National Road is stunning, passing through the Eastern Tianshan canyon
· Shuttle bus: From Hami Bus Station to Barikun County, ticket price about 50 RMB, regular schedules
· Within the county: Taxi or car rental is most convenient, attractions are spread out, self-driving offers the most freedom
🏨 How to choose accommodation | The right stay means half the trip is won
✅ County town: Full facilities, convenient dining, cost-effective hotels 100-200 RMB, with floor heating for extra comfort
✅ Grassland yurts: Immersive Kazakh experience, watch the Milky Way at night 🌌, book in advance
✅ Avoid: Stay away from roadside solicited lodgings, book rooms at least 10 days ahead during peak season
🗺️ Classic 3-day 2-night itinerary | No detours, no pitfalls
Day 1: Hami → Barikun County → Barikun Ancient City
· Visit the 4A-rated Barikun Ancient City (free), photograph the Victory Gate, feel the weight of the Qing Dynasty military town
· Explore the Cultural and Historical Park, enjoy local specialties at the evening food street
Day 2: Barikun Lake → Barikun Grassland → Gaojiahu Wetland
· Barikun Lake (Pulai Sea): Free admission! Navigate to Swan Gate, salt lake reflecting snowy mountains, lakeside boardwalk perfect for photos
· Barikun Grassland (free): Xinjiang’s second largest grassland, horseback riding, yurt photography, watch the “Girl’s Pursuit” folk custom
· Gaojiahu Wetland: Lush water plants, flocks of migratory birds, pastoral scenes with snowy mountains in the background
Day 3: Strange Rock Mountain → Songshutang → Return trip
· Strange Rock Mountain: 10 RMB entrance fee, unique yardang landforms, a hidden gem for photos
· Songshutang: View the forest sea and snowy plains / pine meadows, enjoy beautiful scenery on the way back
🍖 Must-try foods | Taste the essence of Barikun
1. Lamb Stew Pancakes: Intangible cultural heritage! Pancakes soaked in lamb broth, so delicious you’ll lick the plate
2. Barikun Crispy Flatbread: Crispy outside, fragrant inside, a local favorite
3. Kazakh Milk Tea + Yogurt Dumplings: Refreshing and appetizing, authentic grassland flavor
4. Wild Mushroom Soup with Rice: Amazingly fresh, warm and comforting
🎒 Essential packing list | Don’t leave anything behind
✅ Sun protection trio: Sunglasses, hat, high SPF sunscreen (strong UV on the plateau)
✅ Warm jacket: Big temperature difference between day and night, bring a windbreaker even in summer
✅ Mosquito repellent: Many mosquitoes near grasslands and lakes
✅ Power bank: For endless photo-taking
✅ ID and discount cards (some attractions offer free entry)
💰 Money-saving and pit-avoidance tips | Pure fun without being ripped off
❌ Don’t take unlicensed taxis or buy overpriced souvenirs at attractions
❌ Always ask the price before horseback riding by the lake to avoid hidden fees
✅ Most core attractions are free, great value for money
✅ Eating in the county town is cheaper and more authentic than at scenic spots
💛 Warm tips
1. Respect Kazakh customs: Remove shoes before entering yurts, don’t step on thresholds, ask permission before taking photos
2. Protect the environment: Don’t trample grasslands or litter, be a civilized tourist
3. Weather changes quickly, carry rain gear
4. Take it slow in high-altitude areas, avoid strenuous exercise
Here you’ll find the vastness of grasslands, the clarity of salt lakes, and the gentleness of ancient cities—a healing destination for everything 🌨️
Save this guide, tag your travel buddy, and come to Barikun for a frontier adventure!