Located in the Altay Mountains of northern Xinjiang and within Kanas Nature Reserve, Hemu Village is one of the three remaining habitats of the Tuva people, who maintain a traditional nomadic lifestyle centered on grazing animals and hunting.
Surrounded by towering mountains and lush birch forests, the village is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, especially in autumn when the birch forests turn golden.
Every year, thousands of nature and photography enthusiasts visit to admire the serene views of traditional wooden houses, misty mountains, and peaceful countryside.
Fast Facts of Hemu Village
• Location: Kanas Nature Reserve in the Altay region, Xinjiang, China
• Travel essentials: Accommodations and restaurants are available in the nearby town of Jiadengyu.
• Area: Approximately 5 square kilometers.
• Recommended Time to Go: June to Mid-October.
• Time Needed: 1-2 days exploring the village and surrounding area.
• Highlights: Traditional wooden houses, breathtaking scenery, horseback riding, and cultural experiences.
• Suited to: Travelers interested in experiencing traditional life in China's remote regions.
What to See and Do in Hemu Village
As a popular scenic and cultural destination, Hemu Village offers numerous attractions and activities.
Discover Secrets of Tuva People’s Wooden Houses
Upon arrival, visitors are struck by the wooden houses that serve as homes for the Tuva people. Legend has it that they are descendants of soldiers who accompanied Genghis Khan. The Tuva people communicate using their rare language and sustain themselves through hunting and herding. Their homes, constructed from logs and stones with birch bark roofs for waterproofing, reflect their unique culture. Notably, many houses are partially underground to withstand harsh winter temperatures.
Explore the Surrounding Birch Forest
The lush mountains surrounding Hemu Village feature a vast birch forest that changes colors with the seasons. In summer, the leaves are green, while autumn transforms them into a golden sea. A leisurely walk through this forest reveals a natural wonderland filled with wildflowers, mushrooms, squirrels, deer, and various birds—making it a must-see for photographers and nature lovers.
Experience Tuva People’s Culture
Visitors can immerse themselves in the Tuva people's culture by staying in their traditional wooden houses. Local families are hospitable and welcome guests to learn about their religion, rituals, food, and music. Traditional instruments like the horse-head fiddle and mouth harp can be experienced firsthand.
Enjoy Views of Hemu River and Hemu Bridge
Hemu River flows through the village and is crucial for local life. Its color varies with weather conditions—from light green to deep blue—creating a vibrant scene populated by fish and birds. The ancient Hemu Bridge offers panoramic views of the village and surrounding landscapes.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Hemu Village is from June to early October when wildlife is abundant and temperatures are pleasant. September showcases breathtaking autumn colors as birch leaves turn golden. For those seeking fewer crowds yet still pleasant weather, May and October are also recommended.
How to Get to Hemu Village
1. By Flight: Fly from Urumqi Diwopu International Airport to Burqin Kanas Airport (approx. 1 hour 40 minutes), then take a 2-hour shuttle bus to Hemu Village (CNY 100).
2. By Long-Distance Bus: Three daily buses run from Urumqi to Burqin County (approx. 6 hours; CNY 148-185), followed by a bus from Burqin County to Hemu Village (3-4 hours; CNY 50).
