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8-Day North Xinjiang Tour with Kanas
Explore northern Xinjiang on this 8-day North Xinjiang tour with Kanas, featuring Kanas Lake, Hemu Village, Heavenly Lake, and Ghost City. Travel from Urumqi by private car with a personal guide and discover alpine lakes, colorful forests, wooden houses, and striking natural landscapes.
8 Days / 7 Nights
Classic North Xinjiang scenic route
Urumqi → Fuyun → Burqin → Kanas → Hemu → Karamay
Kanas Lake, Hemu Village, and Heavenly Lake
Private Car & Guide
Flexible travel with pickup service
Kanas, Hemu & Ghost City
Lakes, forests, villages, and dramatic landforms
What Makes This Journey Different
A Hong Kong–registered travel group
Backed by a Hong Kong group, with local teams across China.
Secure payments
Pay safely by Visa, MasterCard, Apple Pay, PayPal, or bank transfer.
24/7 support
Real human assistance before, during, and after your journey in China.
Custom experiences
Activities and pacing tailored to your interests and travel style.
8-Day North Xinjiang Tour Route Overview
| Days | Destination | Experience Focus |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Urumqi | Arrival in Xinjiang's capital city, Urumqi Airport pickup, hotel transfer |
| 2 | Urumqi → Fuyun County Town | Heavenly Lake, Tianchi Lake, Tianshan Mountains, snow capped peaks, mountain tour |
| 3 | Fuyun County Town → Burqin To | Keketuohai National Geopark, beautiful canyon, granite canyons, green Hu'erci River |
| 4 | Burqin Town → Kanas | Kanas Lake, Fish Pavilion, Kanas River, Moon Bay, Dragon Bay, Immortal Bay |
| 5 | Kanas → Hemu Village | Hemu Village drive, Hemu River, wooden houses, traditional lifestyle, local Tuvas culture |
| 6 | Hemu Village → Burqin Town | Early morning Hemu, Colorful Shore, natural scenery, free time in Burqin Town |
| 7 | Burqin Town → Karamay | Urho Ghost City, ghost town, Wuerhe Wind City, dramatic desert landforms |
| 8 | Karamay → Urumqi | Return to Urumqi Airport or train station, pleasant journey home |
Why You'll Love This North Xinjiang Tour
See the Emerald Beauty of Kanas Lake
Discover Kanas Lake, a legendary beautiful lake where the mountain lake lies among spruce forests, colorful forests, and snow capped peaks. This alpine lake in north Xinjiang is known for its changing colors, picturesque scenery, and peaceful atmosphere.
Explore the Beautiful Bays of Kanas River
Get closer to the Kanas River beyond the touristy shuttle bus route. Visit Moon Bay, Dragon Bay, and Immortal Bay, three beautiful bays famous for clear water and wonderful natural scenery, making this part of the mountain tour especially memorable.
Wake Up in Fairytale-Like Hemu Village
Experience fairytale like Hemu Village, where the Hemu River, wooden houses, and open meadows create one of the most charming scenes in north Xinjiang. In the early morning, mist drifts through the valley, while vast grasslands and distant peaks complete the view.
Step into Tuvas Culture
Visit Kanas Village and Hemu to discover the traditional lifestyle of the Tuvas people. A local family visit and music from a local Tuvas band offer a closer look at this unique culture.
Feel the Power of Ghost City
Explore Urho Ghost City, also known as ghost town or Wuerhe Wind City, one of the most dramatic Yardang landform areas in China. Its wind-carved rocks and open desert landscape create a striking contrast with Kanas Lake Hemu.
Real Moments in North Xinjiang
DescriptionExperience what this 8-day North Xinjiang tour with Kanas truly feels like — from the crystal-clear Kanas Lake to the peaceful Hemu Village and the dramatic landscapes of Ghost City. These real moments capture the natural beauty and culture of northern Xinjiang.
Itinerary Quick Look
Here is a suggested itinerary for this 8 day North Xinjiang tour with Kanas. We are happy to customize your Xinjiang tour according to your travel style, hotel preference, and pace.
Day 1 – Urumqi Arrival
Welcome to Urumqi, Xinjiang’s capital city and the capital city of this vast region. Your personal guide will meet you at Urumqi Airport or the airport or train station and transfer you to your hotel. If time allows, enjoy some free time to explore this fascinating city, or visit the Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar for a first taste of local life and Silk Road atmosphere.
Day 2 – Urumqi to Fuyun County Town | Heavenly Lake
Begin your journey and drive north from Urumqi to visit Heavenly Lake, also known as Tianchi Lake, in the Tianshan Mountains or Heavenly Mountains. This famous mountain lake sits high above sea level and features picturesque scenery with forested slopes and snow capped peaks. The beautiful lake is one of the best-known highlights near Xinjiang’s capital city, and its calm waters often show magical colors reflected from the sky and surrounding mountains. After this relaxing mountain tour, continue to Fuyun County Town for the night.
Day 3 – Fuyun County Town to Burqin Town | Keketuohai National Geopark
Travel from Fuyun County Town to Keketuohai National Geopark, a place of granite cliffs, rivers, and stunning landscapes. The park is known for its beautiful canyon, granite canyons, colorful forests, and the green Hu’erci River. You will also learn about the famous mine here and its historical importance, including the mine’s contribution to China in earlier decades. Later, continue to Burqin Town, the gateway to Kanas Lake Hemu.
Day 4 – Burqin Town to Kanas | Kanas Lake and Tuvas Family Experience
After breakfast, travel from Burqin Town to Kanas Lake, one of the most iconic sights in northern Xinjiang. Head up to Fish Pavilion for a wider view of the lake, where the mountain lake lies among forests and peaks. Instead of relying only on the touristy shuttle bus, spend time exploring the famous beautiful bays of the Kanas River, including Moon Bay, Dragon Bay, and Immortal Bay. These places are known for their picturesque scenery, calm water, and rich natural setting. Later, enjoy a Tuvas cultural experience in Kanas Village, where a local family visit offers insight into daily life and traditional lifestyle.
Day 5 | Kanas to Hemu Village | Hemu River and Village Life
Today’s Hemu Village drive brings you from Kanas to beautiful Hemu Village. Along the way, enjoy changing views of forests, rivers, and open valleys. In the village, see the famous wooden houses, meet local residents, and discover more about Tuvas heritage. A walk along the Hemu River reveals peaceful village scenes, grazing animals, and open space that feels far removed from city life. Surrounded by vast grasslands, birch groves, and mountain views, Hemu is a highlight of this 8 day North Xinjiang tour with Kanas.
Day 6 – Hemu Village to Burqin Town | Early Morning Views and Colorful Shore
Get up in the early morning to enjoy the quiet magic of Hemu, when soft mist hangs over the valley and smoke rises from the village. Depending on the season, you may also spot migratory birds in the wider natural area. Afterward, depart for Burqin Town. On the way, stop at Colorful Shore, also known as Wucaitan, where the riverbank landscape changes dramatically from green vegetation to dry Yardang terrain. This contrast creates wonderful natural scenery and some of the most unusual photo opportunities in north Xinjiang. In the evening, enjoy free time in Burqin.
Day 7 – Burqin Town to Karamay | Urho Ghost City
Leave Burqin Town and continue toward Karamay. On the way, visit Urho Ghost City, also called Wuerhe Wind City, the best-known Yardang landform area in this part of north Xinjiang. The rock formations, wind sounds, and desert-like openness make it feel completely different from the lakes and forests earlier in the trip. This area is often described as a dramatic ghost town, shaped by time and natural forces. The route also reveals oilfield landscapes that show another side of Xinjiang.
Day 8 – Karamay to Urumqi and Departure
Today you return to Urumqi for your departure. Your guide and driver will escort you comfortably back to Urumqi Airport or the railway station for your onward flight or train. We hope this journey through Kanas Lake, Hemu Village, Heavenly Lake, Keketuohai National Geopark, and Urho Ghost City leaves you with unforgettable memories and a pleasant journey home.
Hotel Options & Location
We select clean, quiet, and well-located hotels to keep transfers short and rest quality high. Exact hotel names are confirmed after booking and tailored to your style.
- 4-star comfort in the best locations (standard).
- 5-star / star hotel upgrades or boutique hotels on request.
- Family rooms or connecting rooms available (subject to availability).
Tip: Share your preferences (location, breakfast, gym/pool, quiet rooms) and we’ll recommend the best match.
Tour Price & Inclusions
From US$2,379
per person
Tour Code:XJ-8D-KNS
- Indicative price for a private tour (2 adults) with well-located 4-star hotels.
- Price includes basic travel insurance and a complimentary translation device for easy local interaction.
- Final pricing depends on travel dates, group size, room type, and hotel level (boutique / star hotel upgrades on request).
- Domestic flights and/or high-speed train tickets are arranged based on the confirmed itinerary.
Comfort-first private touring
Private guide & driver in each city — flexible pace.
Designed around you
We tailor sights, timing, and hotel level to you.
Clear pricing, no surprises
Inclusions confirmed before you book.
What’s Included
Private air-conditioned vehicle with professional driver for all scheduled transfers
English-speaking local guide for all included sightseeing
All entrance tickets and activities listed in the confirmed itinerary
Domestic flights and/or high speed train tickets between itinerary cities (as per plan)
Hotel accommodation with daily breakfast (4-star standard; boutique hotels / star hotel upgrades optional)
Government taxes and service charges
24/7 support while you are traveling
What’s Not Included
International flights to and from China
China visa fees (if applicable)
Meals not specified in the itinerary (many lunches are included; dinners often flexible)
Personal expenses and optional experiences
Booking & Payment Details
- Deposit: 20% to confirm your booking. The deposit is refundable within 48 hours after confirmation if plans change.
- Balance: Due 15–20 days before arrival, or upon confirmation for late bookings.
- Payment methods: Visa, MasterCard, Apple Pay, PayPal, or bank transfer.
- Changes: Free minor itinerary adjustments up to 14 days before the trip starts.
- Cancellation: Flexible cancellation policy. Specific terms will be confirmed based on travel dates and hotel selection.
Customize Your Journey (Optional)
This is a fully flexible private tour. Let us know how you’d like to adjust the itinerary — our travel specialists will take care of every detail.
Popular customization options include:
Adjusting the travel pace or adding rest time
Extending the journey or adding nearby destinations
Upgrading hotel standards or choosing scenic stays
Accommodating dietary preferences and special requests
Simply share your ideas, and we’ll tailor the journey to match your travel style.
Visa-Free & Travel Tips
- Visa-Free Entry to China — check if your passport is eligible.
- How to Visit China Without a Visa — 144-hour transit options.
- eSIM & Mobile Payments in China — WeChat Pay, Alipay and bank cards.
- China Weather by Month — plan around seasons and festivals.
Plan Your 8-Day North Xinjiang Tour with Kanas
Tell us your travel plans — we’ll create a personalized North Xinjiang tour with Kanas, including Kanas Lake, Hemu Village, Heavenly Lake, Keketuohai, and Ghost City, with private travel, flexible pacing, and handpicked stays.
- Reply within 24 hours
- Private tour only
- No forced shopping
FAQs About This 8-Day North Xinjiang Tour with Kanas
How many days do I need for a North Xinjiang tour with Kanas?
For a comfortable trip covering Kanas Lake, Hemu Village, Heavenly Lake, Keketuohai National Geopark, and Ghost City, 8 days is ideal. It gives you enough time to enjoy the scenery, cultural experiences, and long-distance travel without feeling rushed.
What are the main highlights of this 8 day North Xinjiang tour with Kanas?
The main highlights include Kanas Lake, Kanas Lake Hemu, Hemu Village, Heavenly Lake, Urho Ghost City, Keketuohai National Geopark, Moon Bay, Dragon Bay, and Colorful Shore. Together, they show the rich natural beauty and diversity of northern Xinjiang.
Is this Xinjiang tour suitable for first-time visitors?
Yes. This Xinjiang tour is very suitable for first-time travelers because it combines famous landmarks, natural scenery, and cultural experiences in one smooth route. Starting from Urumqi, Xinjiang’s capital city, it gives a well-rounded introduction to north Xinjiang.
What is accommodation like in Kanas and Hemu Village?
Accommodation in Kanas Village and Hemu Village is simpler than in major cities, but it is comfortable, clean, and full of local character. Many travelers enjoy staying near the traditional wooden houses, which adds to the atmosphere of the trip.
Are there long drives on this North Xinjiang itinerary?
Yes, travel distances in north Xinjiang can be long, but this route is designed to balance driving and sightseeing. Scenic stops, beautiful landscapes, and overnight stays in places such as Fuyun County Town and Burqin Town help make the journey more comfortable and interesting.
Can this Kanas tour be customized?
Yes. We can customize this 8 day North Xinjiang tour with Kanas based on your arrival city, hotel preference, activity level, and interests. You can also extend the trip to other destinations such as Sayram Lake, Dushanzi Grand Canyon, Anjihai Grand Canyon, or even combine it with southern Xinjiang for a longer regional journey.
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