[2025 Fuyun Attraction] Travel Guide for E'erqisida Canyon (Updated Jul)

Scenic Area Overview Koktokay Scenic Area is located in Fuyun County, Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang, and is a national 5A-level tourist attraction. It boasts spectacular natural landscapes, including the Irtysh Grand Canyon, Koktokay Lake, and Yileimu Lake, as well as rich geological culture and ethnic customs. Once a significant contributor to China's mining industry, it is now a coveted tourist destination. Best Time to Visit • Autumn: Late September to early October is the most beautiful season in Koktokay. The forests are ablaze with color, and the mountains and rivers along the Irtysh River create a mesmerizing autumn scene. The golden birch forests, set against the surrounding mountains and rivers, form a breathtaking picture, perfect for photography and sightseeing. • Summer: Koktokay in summer is lush and vibrant. The Irtysh Grand Canyon is filled with dense vegetation, while Koktokay Lake is surrounded by reeds and blooming flowers. Wild birds gather on the lake, creating a lively and picturesque setting, making it an ideal summer retreat. Transportation Guide • External Transportation: • By Air: Fly to Altay Airport, then take a shuttle bus to Fuyun County, and transfer to a vehicle bound for Koktokay Town. • By Train: Arrive at Beitun Railway Station, then take a passenger vehicle to Fuyun County before proceeding to Koktokay Town. • By Car: From Urumqi, drive along the G7 Jingxin Expressway, exit at Fuyun, and continue via National Highway 216 to Koktokay Town. The total distance is approximately 500 km, taking about 6-7 hours. • Internal Transportation: Shuttle buses operate within the scenic area, stopping at major attractions for visitors to explore before continuing their journey. Recommended Attractions and Itineraries • Irtysh Grand Canyon: The main attraction of Koktokay, this canyon features numerous rock formations resembling animals, such as Flying Peak, Camel Peak, Elephant Trunk Peak, and Sacred Eagle Peak, collectively known as the "108 Peaks." Among them, the 365-meter-high Amir Sara Peak—Sacred Bell Mountain—is particularly stunning. The canyon is also home to vast birch, poplar, and pine forests, as well as Red Leaf Valley, which turns golden and fiery red in autumn. Visitors can take a shuttle bus to the Sacred Bell Mountain viewing platform, stroll along the riverside trail, and explore Waterfall Gully for a closer encounter with nature. • Koktokay Lake: During summer and autumn, thousands of wild ducks, cranes, and geese thrive here. The emerald-green lake, surrounded by rolling mountains, forms a picturesque natural wildlife sanctuary. Visitors can enjoy the serene lake views and observe rare bird species. • Yileimu Lake: A man-made lake with crystal-clear water and tranquil surroundings, ideal for drifting and relaxation. Visitors can stroll along the lakeshore or try thrilling drifting activities. • Karaxiangar Earthquake Fault Zone: A testament to nature's power, this visible fault line inspires awe and reflection on life's fragility. It offers insights into geology and the wonders of nature. • No. 3 Mine Pit: A unique attraction, this historic mining site is one of the world's largest pits, having yielded rare metals for national development. Visitors can explore the pit, visit the Koktokay Geological Exhibition Hall, and learn about the hardships of past miners. One-Day Itinerary Arrive at Koktokay Visitor Center in the morning, purchase tickets, and take the shuttle bus to the Irtysh Grand Canyon. Visit Sacred Bell Mountain, stroll along the riverside trail, and admire the autumn birch forests before returning to the visitor center. Two-Day Itinerary Day 1: Follow the morning itinerary above, then explore deeper into the canyon, visiting Waterfall Gully and other spots. Stay overnight in Koktokay Town or nearby. Day 2: Visit Koktokay Lake and Yileimu Lake in the morning, then tour the No. 3 Mine Pit in the afternoon to learn about mining history before concluding the trip. Food Recommendations • Cold-Water Fish: Local rivers are home to delicacies like zander and perch, best enjoyed steamed, braised, or fried. • Xinjiang Cuisine: Try traditional dishes such as lamb skewers, pilaf, big plate chicken, and nang pit-roasted meat. • Dairy Products: Local specialties like yogurt curd and milk skin offer unique flavors. Accommodation Options • Koktokay Town: Offers hotels, guesthouses, and homestays with good amenities and proximity to the scenic area. • Within the Scenic Area: Limited lodging, mostly cabins, provides serene nights and morning views but at higher prices. Book in advance during peak seasons. Important Notes • Environmental Protection: Preserve the pristine landscapes by avoiding littering and damaging vegetation. • Safety: Follow park regulations, avoid undeveloped routes, and stay cautious near rivers and mountains. • Weather: Prepare for sudden changes, including rain and wind, by checking forecasts and packing appropriate clothing.

Planning a trip to Xinjiang Urumqi and Tianchi Lake for the Qingming Festival holiday? This 2-day itinerary is just what you need! -------------------- 🛤️Route Suggestions DAY1️⃣：Tianchi Lake->Bogda Peak->Mayashan Hill->Kalamely Nature Reserve Explore the magnificent Tianchi Lake, gaze upon the towering Bogda Peak, conquer the majestic Mayashan Hill, and finally experience the unique wild beauty of the Kalamely Nature Reserve. DAY2️⃣：Koktokay Scenic Area->Irtysh Grand Canyon->Altay God's Bell Mountain->Irtysh River->Camel Peak->Husband and Wife Trees Immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Koktokay, marvel at the profound Irtysh Grand Canyon, admire the peculiar Altay God's Bell Mountain, embrace the tranquility of nature along the Irtysh River, and finally ascend Camel Peak to witness the legendary Husband and Wife Trees. -------------------- Must-Visit Attractions: Tianchi Lake ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: No. 501, Zhungeer Road, Fukang City, Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Opening Hours: 09:30-19:00, November 1, 2024 - March 31, 2025 Duration: 1 day The lake's surface is like a mirror, reflecting the spectacular Bogda Peak, surrounded by spruce trees, as if stepping into a fairyland. Koktokay Scenic Area ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: Koktokay Town, Fuyun County, Altay Region Opening Hours: 09:30-18:00 Duration: 1 day Here, you'll find beautiful canyon scenery, stunning autumn forests, and the unique God's Bell Mountain waiting to be explored. Mayashan Hill ⭐⭐⭐ Address: Tianchi Lake Scenic Area, Fukang City Opening Hours: 10:00-17:00 Duration: 2 hours Mayashan Hill is one of the spectacular alpine stone forests, with countless stone peaks resembling giant horse teeth, a true marvel of nature. -------------------- Travel Tips: 🍇 Compare prices for local products to avoid being overcharged. 🙌 Respect local customs and cultural differences. ✈️ Convenient transportation from the airport to the city center is available by taxi and subway. 📸 The lakeside of Tianchi Lake is a photography paradise, don't miss the opportunity to capture its beauty! -------------------- When in Xinjiang, don't miss the beauty of Tianchi Lake! Leave your footprints 👣 and take home wonderful memories~✨

It was my second time to go to Keketuohai, and the song "The Shepherd of Keketuohai" had become famous all over the country. "The rain that night couldn't keep you, the wind in the valley accompanied me in crying..." Humming those moving melodies, I once again set foot on the land that means "green jungle" in Kazakh and "blue river bay" in Mongolian. The border town of "Keketuohai" is obviously not small, but it had no name on the map before the 1970s. It is as mysterious and little known as "Khekexili" on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. This is an area that has been classified as a highly confidential state secret since the founding of the People's Republic of China, but this mysterious forbidden area is actually a paradise located in the Altai Mountains. Keketuohai has the Irtysh River, the only river in my country that flows from east to west into the Arctic Ocean. Due to the magnitude 8 earthquake in 1931, a large canyon nearly 100 kilometers long was formed here. Then go to Keketuohai and stand in front of the majestic Irtysh Grand Canyon. It seems like a silent giant, guarding the tranquility and serenity of this land. On both sides of the canyon, there are many strange peaks and jagged rocks, which seem to tell the changes of the world over billions of years. I once again strolled along the winding Irtysh River. I liked the clear river water sparkling in the sun, like a blue ribbon connecting the scenery on both sides into a beautiful picture. Turning around Eagle's Beak Cliff, the smoke from the shepherd's cooking was drawing dotted lines on the tops of the spruce forest. The flock of sheep was like rolling moonlight across the meadow, startling a group of white-throated warblers, whose wings shook off the pine resin all over the mountain. The apricot blossom paper that was stuffed in the tree hole has long turned into spring mud, but one can still smell the sourness of the apricots when they are about to ripen. When the setting sun laced the Altai Mountains with a golden-rimmed Hada, I scooped a handful of snow water to moisten my throat and tasted the love song that had not yet melted from the depths of the glacier. Before going to Xinjiang, someone asked me to go to Nalati to look for the "beekeeper girl", but I wanted to meet "her" who came back by chance in Keketuohai. Could she be the girl singing in the title photo? "No one can sing a song as moving as you. There is no beautiful girl that I can't forget. The wine I brew can't make me drunk, but the song you sing makes me drunk."

| The Most Detailed Travel Guide. Keketuohai, this magical land located in the northeast of Fuyun County, Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang, is like a hidden gem in northern Xinjiang. With its magnificent granite canyons, the source of the Irtysh River, primeval forests, and the famous No. 3 Mine Pit, it integrates natural scenery and cultural history, attracting countless tourists to explore. Best Time to Visit 🌞Summer (June - August): The climate is cool and pleasant, with green grass and blooming wildflowers, making it an excellent summer resort. 🍁Autumn (September - October): The mountains and forests are ablaze with color, with golden and fiery red autumn leaves intertwined, as beautiful as an oil painting, making it a paradise for photographers. ❄️Winter (November - March): The snow-covered landscape is breathtaking, and you can also enjoy skiing at the Keketuohai International Ski Resort. Transportation Guide External Transportation ✈️Airplane: Arrive at Fuyun Airport, about 50 km from the scenic area, and then choose a chartered car or taxi to the scenic area. 🚗Self-driving: • From Urumqi, drive north along G216, passing through Fuyun County to the scenic area, the journey takes about 6-7 hours. • From Altay, it takes about 4 hours to arrive. 🚌Long-distance bus: Take a bus from Nianzigou Passenger Station in Urumqi to Fuyun County, the journey takes about 8 hours, and then transfer to the scenic spot shuttle bus. Internal Transportation 🎫 The ticket includes the shuttle bus fee, and major attractions such as the Irtysh Grand Canyon require a shuttle bus. In addition, some areas can also be explored on foot or horseback, allowing you to experience the charm of nature up close. Must-See Attractions Irtysh Grand Canyon ⛰️Mount Shenzhong: A landmark landscape, resembling a huge inverted bell, made of granite, majestic and spectacular. 💧Irtysh River: The only river in China that flows into the Arctic Ocean, with clear blue water winding through the canyon. 🌳Birch Forest: Golden in autumn, with sunlight pouring down, it feels like being in a fairy tale world, perfect for taking photos. Keketuohai No. 3 Mine Pit Known as the "Meritorious Mine Pit," it is rich in rare metals such as lithium and beryllium, and made great contributions to repaying the Soviet Union's foreign debt. You can also visit the mine exhibition hall to learn more about its mining history. Kokosuli (Wild Duck Lake) A beautiful wetland lake, with lotus flowers in full bloom in summer and many birds inhabiting it. Take a stroll along the lake and enjoy the tranquility. Lake Iremu A high-altitude lake with crystal-clear water reflecting the snow-capped mountains and forests, tranquil and beautiful, intoxicating. Kalazhola Waterfall A waterfall hidden in the canyon, with abundant water flow in summer. As you approach the waterfall, cool mist greets you. Tickets and Opening Hours 🎫Tickets: Peak season (April - October) approx. CNY 90, off-season approx. CNY 60. 🚌Shuttle bus ticket: approx. CNY 36-50 (priced according to different routes). 🕙Opening hours: 9:00 - 19:00 (subject to change depending on the season, it is recommended to confirm in advance before traveling). Accommodation Recommendations Inside the Scenic Area 🏠Characteristic homestays or yurts: Experience the unique Kazakh customs, prices range from CNY 200-500/night. ♨️Hot spring hotels: Some hotels have natural hot springs, where you can relax and unwind after a day of exploring. Fuyun County A wider range of choices, from budget hotels to high-end hotels, with prices ranging from CNY 150-800/night. Food Recommendations 🥩Kazakh cuisine: Hand-grabbed mutton, horse intestines, fragrant milk tea, baursaki (a kind of fried dough). 🍲Xinjiang specialties: Dapanji (Big Plate Chicken), baked buns, nang pit meat. 🍴Recommended dining spots: Restaurants in the scenic area or the local food street in Fuyun County. Things to Note Climate and Equipment • The temperature difference between day and night is large, so it is recommended to bring a jacket even in summer, and down jackets are essential in winter. • Don't forget sun protection, sunglasses, hats, and high-SPF sunscreen are essential. • If you plan to hike, remember to wear non-slip shoes and bring rain gear. Altitude and Health • The altitude of the scenic area is 1200-1500 meters, and altitude sickness is generally not a problem, but strenuous exercise should still be avoided. Environmental Protection and Safety • Protect the environment, please do not litter. • Rocks are loose in some areas of the canyon, follow warning signs and do not risk climbing. Cultural Respect • The local area is mainly inhabited by Kazakhs. Respect their customs and traditions, and always ask for permission before taking photos of people. Itinerary Suggestions (2-3 days) 2-Day Tour • Day 1: Arrive at Keketuohai → Visit No. 3 Mine Pit → Lake Iremu → Stay in a scenic homestay. • Day 2: Irtysh Grand Canyon (Mount Shenzhong, Birch Forest, Waterfall) → Hiking or horseback riding → Return to Fuyun County in the evening. 3-Day Tour • Day 1: Arrive at Keketuohai → No. 3 Mine Pit → Lake Iremu → Stay in a scenic homestay. • Day 2: Irtysh Grand Canyon (Mount Shenzhong, Birch Forest, Waterfall) → Hiking or horseback riding → Return to Fuyun County in the evening. • Day 3: Kokosuli Wetland → Experience nomadic life in the surrounding pastures. Nearby Attractions 🚗Kanas: About 5 hours by car. In autumn, you can combine Keketuohai and Kanas for a tour to experience the beautiful scenery of northern Xinjiang. 🏡Hemu Village: Experience the unique charm of Tuvan villages, enjoy skiing in winter, and admire the fairy-tale snow scenery.

Hey friends! Join us for an in-depth 5-day tour from Urumqi to Tianchi Lake, exploring the beautiful scenery of Xinjiang. This hassle-free tour is perfect for seniors, with a flexible itinerary that you can customize. -------------------- 🗓Itinerary: DAY 1: 🛫 Arrive in Urumqi, enjoy our local airport pick-up service, check into your hotel, and explore the city at your leisure. Experience the unique charm of Xinjiang! DAY 2: Tianchi Lake—Bogda Peak—Mayashan—Kalamaili Nature Reserve 🏞️ Visit the beautiful Tianchi Lake, marvel at the majestic Bogda Peak, climb the unique Mayashan, and explore the Kalamaili Nature Reserve, immersing yourself in the magnificence and mystery of nature. DAY 3: Koktokay Scenic Area—Irtysh Grand Canyon—Altay God's Bell Mountain—Irtysh River—Camel Peak—Couple Trees 🌲 Explore the Koktokay Scenic Area, trek through the Irtysh Grand Canyon, discover the legend of Altay God's Bell Mountain, admire the beauty of the Irtysh River, climb Camel Peak, and witness the romance of the Couple Trees. DAY 4: Dabancheng Wind Power Station—Karez Well Paradise—Grape Valley—Flaming Mountains Scenic Area 🔥 Visit the spectacular Dabancheng Wind Power Station, experience the fun of Karez Well Paradise, taste the sweet grapes of Grape Valley, and finally, witness the scorching heat and grandeur of the Flaming Mountains. DAY 5: 📯 End your delightful journey with our local airport drop-off service and head home. 🙏 Thank you for choosing Xinjiang, and we look forward to welcoming you back! -------------------- Things to Pack: 👕 Clothing: Long down jacket, thermal underwear, thick cotton pants, and snow boots. Xinjiang is very cold in February, so be sure to stay warm. 🎒 Accessories: Scarf, hat, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a portable charger. Charging facilities may not be readily available in scenic areas. 📄 Documents: ID card is a must. Bring your student ID and driver's license if you have them, just in case. -------------------- This Urumqi-Tianchi Lake tour promises an unforgettable experience and cherished memories! 🌄✨

Snow Country Adventure: Winter in Koktokay When the winter wind sweeps across Xinjiang, Koktokay becomes a fairy tale world sealed in ice and snow, waiting for every traveler to arrive. Stepping onto this silver-white land is like entering a fairyland. The rolling mountains are covered with thick snow, like sleeping dragons shining coldly in the sunlight. In the forest, every tree is adorned with crystal-clear icicles, and the branches are bent under the weight. Occasionally, a gust of wind blows, and the falling snowflakes dance in the air like elves. Koktokay Ski Resort is undoubtedly a paradise for snow lovers. The "Gem Avenue," with a drop of over 1,000 meters, winds down like a white dragon, attracting countless brave souls to challenge it. Whether you're a speed demon or a beginner, you can find your own joy here. The wind whistles in your ears, the snow flies under your feet, and the figures racing down the white slopes create a dynamic picture. Leaving the ski resort, take a stroll along Lake Irtysh. The blue water contrasts with the white snow, like a giant sapphire set on white silk. In the distance, smoke rises from scattered villages, adding a touch of warmth to the cold winter day. The No. 3 Mine, a "natural geological museum," looks even more mysterious and profound under the snow. The traces of time and snow intertwine, telling stories of the past. In the Irtysh Grand Canyon, clear rivers flow under the ice, and the rocks on both sides of the canyon are outlined by snow into various shapes. A billion years of geological changes are frozen into a magnificent picture by the snow. Winter in Koktokay is a feast of ice and snow, a wonderful journey of intimate contact with nature. Here, every step leaves a deep snow print, every glance captures a beautiful picture, making people linger and indulge in this dreamlike world of ice and snow.

Due to time constraints, I only went to the Irtysh Grand Canyon in the geological park with a group tour. As soon as I entered the scenic spot, the popular song "The Shepherd of the Cocoto Sea" kept playing on the loudspeaker. I usually don't feel like listening to it here. Especially feeling. Shenzhong Mountain is like an inverted stone bell, with solitary peaks standing proudly, which is amazing. There is no sea in the Cocoto Sea, and the Irtysh River is the only outflow river in my country that flows from east to west into the Arctic Ocean. Here you can enjoy special mountain scenery, water scenery and strange rocks. If you have enough time, it would be nice to hike for a while.

🌈Hiking Irtysh Grand Canyon Guide🌈 📍Attraction Introduction: The Irtysh Grand Canyon is located in Fuyun County, Altay Region, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, and is part of the Keketuohai scenic area. The Irtysh River runs through the entire scenic area, and there are many spectacular natural landscapes in the canyon, such as towering cliffs, unique rocks, and crystal-clear rivers. 🚗Transportation: It is recommended to drive or charter a car to get there. 🌄Hiking Route: Starting from the entrance, follow the winding path deeper into the canyon. Along the way, you will pass spectacular cliffs, unique rocks, and the clear flowing Irtysh River, which is really breathtaking! There are many viewing platforms along the way, and you must check in at each one, as each angle offers a different kind of beauty. 🎒Equipment Suggestions: Be sure to wear comfortable hiking shoes👟, bring enough water and food to replenish energy, as well as sun protection products, warm clothing, etc., because the weather in the canyon is changeable. 🌟Must-See Highlights: 👉The canyon's landscape, carved by nature, is awe-inspiring. 👉The babbling river water, as if telling ancient stories. 🥾Although the hiking process can be a bit tough, when you see those incomparable beauties, everything is worth it!💝

Koktokay is not a sea, it's just a river named Irtysh that flows westward into the Arctic Ocean. Koktokay Scenic Area, also known as Xinjiang Koktokay National Geopark, is located in Fuyun County, Altay Region, northern Xinjiang. The scenic area consists of four parts: the Irtysh Grand Canyon, Kekesuli, Iremut Lake, and the Karakax Earthquake Fault Zone. In 2012, Koktokay Scenic Area was promoted to a national 5A-level tourist attraction. The No. 3 mine pit of Koktokay made an outstanding contribution to the new China at that time.

The Irtysh Grand Canyon in Fuyun County is the source of clear streams. The Irtysh River is the only river in China that flows into the Arctic Ocean, entering the Ob River and flowing into the Arctic Ocean. There are three major rivers in the whole of Siberia: the Ob River, the Yenisei River, and the Lena River. In comparison, the Ob River basin has a more developed economy and is an oil-producing region in Russia.

🚏The third station in northern Xinjiang, drove nearly 500 kilometers this day, 🚕from Keketuohai to Wuhai Beach, until this moment of sorting out, I found that the Eerqisi River I visited in the morning, met again at sunset! It's amazing! 🌏🚏《Shepherd of Keketuohai》 After breakfast, go to the Eerqisi Grand Canyon in Keketuohai, granite geological structure, wind and rain erosion and water cutting, forming many deep gorges and canyons. 🧣🧥The temperature in the canyon is a bit low, the scenic area is 1200-1500 meters above sea level, continental cold and dry climate, cold in winter and cool in summer, ❄️Its lowest temperature is second only to Mohe in Heilongjiang, known as the second cold pole in China, be sure to wear warm clothes when entering the scenic area. 🪐Keketuohai tourist area (5A), composed of Eerqisi Grand Canyon, Kekesuli, Yiremute Lake, and Karaxingel earthquake fault zone. 📝They all say that Keketuohai has no sea, so what does Keketuohai have? In 1930, Keketuohai was discovered to be a rich mining area, directly under the central management in 1955. In 2005, it was approved as a national geological park. In 2021, a song "Shepherd of Keketuohai" brought it into the ears of the audience, imagining the free and easy herding in Keketuohai and the beautiful love story of the shepherd with the music. In March 2023, Keketuohai was determined to be the second batch of national ski tourism resorts. Keketuohai has no sea, but it has rich mineral resources, is a national geological park, and is now a ski resort. 🌎🚏The mottled Wuhai Beach (4A) at sunset A must-pass place to Kanas, and a must-see Wuhai Beach. Wuhai Beach is 480 meters above sea level, and the Eerqisi River passes through it, with different styles on both sides of the river. 🌳The opposite bank is lush, 🪨this side is smooth sandstone. The Eerqisi River wanders in the colorful sandstone, reflecting the sky, flowing with fresh ink colors, and slowly flowing into the Arctic Ocean. 🌈The colorful rock layers are formed by water erosion and wind erosion, the uneven river banks form uneven contours, and the rock layers are composed of red, earthy red, light yellow and light green sandstone, mudstone and gravel rock composed of colorful hills. 👉The colors are rich at sunset, colorful, and it is a must-see scenic spot! Keketuohai Scenic Area Ocoa Sea Breeze Scenic Area Location: 5 kilometers west of Keketuohai Town, Fuyun County, Altay Region Ticket: Adult 116 (ticket + shuttle bus), student 71, 60-64 years old 71, 65 years old and above 13 Opening hours: 09:00-19:30 Wuhai Beach Scenic Area Location: About 24 kilometers northwest of Burqin County, Altay Region Ticket: Adult 45, student 22, 60-64 years old 22, 65 years old and above 0 Opening hours: 09:00-19:30 (closing time varies with season)