Your First Visit to Hutubi County, Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture: A Comprehensive Guide 🌄✨
Hey travel lovers! 👋 Are you ready to explore the charming Hutubi County in Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture? I've got you covered with this ultimate travel guide, perfect for first-timers like you! 🌟
Day 1: Historical & Natural Wonders 🏰🌳
Morning:
- Beiting Ancient City Ruins Park: Start your journey at this historical site, once the residence of the Northern Ting Commander-in-Chief. It's free to enter, and the early morning light adds a serene ambiance. Don't miss the iconic twin towers for a historic photo op! 📸
Afternoon:
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Beiting Wetland Park: Adjacent to the ruins park, this wetland is perfect for a leisurely stroll and bird-watching. Bring your binoculars to catch a glimpse of the local avian residents! 🐦
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Thousand Buddha Caves: Head over to these ancient Buddhist grottoes, charging a small fee of 20 yuan per person. The backlighting on the Buddha statues creates a mesmerizing effect, especially in the afternoon. 🧘♀️
Dinner & Night Stay:
- Enjoy a hearty meal at a local restaurant and stay at Hutubi County Hotel for a comfortable night's rest. 🛌
Day 2: Dinosaur Discoveries & Ancient Granaries 🦖🌾
Morning:
- Changji Dinosaur Museum: Get up close with dinosaur fossils, including the mighty Tyrannosaurus Rex. Tickets cost 30 yuan, with discounts for children. Plan for about 1-2 hours of exploration. 🦕
Afternoon:
- Qing Dynasty Grain Barn: Step back in time at this historic grain storage facility from the Qianlong era. It's free to visit, and the horse-drawn cart and soldier statues at the entrance make for great photos. 🚜
Dinner & Night Stay:
- Return to Hutubi County for dinner and another night at your hotel.
Day 3: Natural Oasis & Rock Art 🌳🎨
Morning:
- Hutubi County Century Park (AAAA Attraction): This urban oasis is a must-visit. Enter from the south gate and capture stunning views at Guanhaitingtao and the scenic reservoir. It's best to visit in the afternoon to beat the heat. 🌳
Afternoon:
- Kangjia Shimenzi Rock Art Scenic Area: Just a half-hour drive from Century Park, these rock paintings etched into the丹霞 mountains are breathtaking. Tickets cost 30 yuan, and visiting around 2 PM avoids the crowds. 🖌️
Dinner:
- Savor local cuisine at Ruilong Business Hotel, famous for its juicy kebabs and delicious huangmian (yellow noodles) with grilled meat. 🍖
Day 4: Wildlife Adventure & Ancient Trails 🐺👣
Morning:
- Wild Wolf Valley: Visit the world's largest wolf conservation base. Tickets are 45 yuan, and early morning visits allow you to participate in wolf den cleaning and feeding. Don't miss the horse-riding experience in the afternoon! 🐎
Afternoon:
- Cheshi Ancient Road: Trek from Wuxing Ranch to the Hydrological Station, a 42-km journey filled with historic sites and scenic beauty. It's best to go on a sunny day for optimal views. 🌄
Dinner:
- Enjoy a meal at a local herdsman's yurt near Wild Wolf Valley for an authentic taste of Hutubi.
Day 5: Art & Nature's Wonderland 🖼️🏞️
Morning:
- Xindi Town Stone Art Museum: Admire exquisite ancient stone artifacts. Tickets are 15 yuan for adults and 10 yuan for students. It's a great place for photo ops. 🖌️
Afternoon:
- Tianshan Tianchi Scenic Area: A short drive from the museum, Tianchi offers breathtaking scenery. Tickets are 155 yuan for adults and 107.5 yuan for students. Take a boat ride around the lake or hike the 12-km trail for an unforgettable experience. 🏞️
Dinner & Night Stay:
- Stay at a hotel near Tianchi for convenience and enjoy a farewell dinner celebrating your unforgettable trip. 🎉
Foodie Finds in Hutubi 🍴
- Spicy Numbing Chicken: Hutubi is the birthplace of Xinjiang's famous spicy numbing chicken. Don't miss out on this crispy, flavorful dish! 🍗
- Grilled Mutton Kebabs & Huangmian: A classic combination you must try. 🍖🍜
- Big Plate Chicken: Tender chicken and soft potatoes in a spicy, fragrant sauce—pair it with "pita noodles" for an ultimate meal. 🍲
Where to Stay 🏨
- Ruilong Business Hotel: Centrally located, with comfortable rooms and friendly service. Plus, it's close to many attractions and dining options. 🌟
Tips 💡
- Summer in Hutubi can be hot, so bring plenty of sunscreen and water.
- Purchase tickets online in advance for discounts and to avoid queues.
- Respect the local culture and environment when taking photos.
- Choose activities suitable for your age and fitness level.
Happy travels, and enjoy every moment in Hutubi County! 🌈🎒
Feel free to adapt this guide to suit your preferences and make your Hutubi adventure truly unique! 🚀