Let’s go to Keketuohai! Turn all unhappiness into happiness.
Keketuohai Scenic Area is located in Fuyun County, Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang. It is a national 5A-level tourist attraction and a world geological park. Here, the surging Irtysh River runs through the Irtysh Grand Canyon, with granite peaks of various shapes on both sides; the Hohhot Wetland has shimmering waters, swaying reeds, and flying migratory birds; the Iremu Lake is tranquil and deep, and breathtakingly beautiful surrounded by mountains; and there is also the Karaxengger earthquake fault zone, which is rare in the world. Not only that, the No. 3 ore vein has witnessed a special period of history. The hot spring health care and special ice and snow activities in winter can also bring a different experience. It is a tourist destination where nature and humanity complement each other.
🚗Transportation Guide:
You can fly to Urumqi first, and then take a train or car to Fuyun County. It takes about an hour to drive from Fuyun County to the scenic area. You can also take a train from Urumqi to Fuyun County, and then transfer to local transportation. If you drive by yourself, you can enjoy the magnificent scenery of Xinjiang along the national or provincial roads.
📅Best time to play:
Spring and autumn are the best seasons. In spring (April to June), everything comes back to life and wild flowers bloom; in autumn (September to October), the forests are colorful and the climate is pleasant.
🌟Must-visit attractions:
- Irtysh Grand Canyon: The Irtysh River, the only river in China that flows into the Arctic Ocean, runs through it. The river meanders in the canyon, and the mountains on both sides are undulating. There are also pictographic rocks such as Shenzhong Mountain, Camel Peak, and Elephant Trunk Peak. It is a good place for hiking and photography.
- Kekesuli: Also known as Wild Duck Lake, it is a natural swamp wetland with rich aquatic plants. A large number of migratory birds inhabit it every summer and autumn. There are more than 20 reed islands in the lake, which are super beautiful for taking photos.
- No. 3 Ore Vein: One of the largest mines in the world, it is more than 100 meters deep and hundreds of meters long and wide. It once repaid one-third of the country’s debt to the former Soviet Union. There are 84 kinds of minerals coexisting here, and it is known as the "natural exhibition hall" of rare metals.
- Geological Museum: Located in Longmen Square, it displays the geological resources, history of changes and various mineral specimens of the Keketuohai area. It is a must-see for those who want to understand geological culture.
🏠Accommodation recommendation:
- Snow Cube: 2,400 meters above sea level, next to the lower station of the gray cable, you can really slide in and out, and get on the ski slope in 1 minute. The room has floor heating, smart toilet, humidifier, washing machine, as well as all-day butler service and pick-up from the ski equipment hall.
- Fanghua Coco: Located on a 2,200-meter-high mountain, next to the cable car station, with a snow trail just outside the door, solid wood style design, and a full atmosphere.
- Story of Youth: Located in Keketuohai Town, 24 kilometers away from the ski resort, there is a free shuttle bus from the hotel to the ski resort, with a variety of room types, some with kitchens and washing machines, suitable for long-term stays or family trips.
- Iremu Lake Sanbaisuo: Located on the shore of Iremu Lake in Keketuohai Town, the scenery is beautiful. There is a pick-up service during the snow season, and there are restaurants, KTVs and gyms.
🍱Food recommendations:
- Xinjiang specialties: Try the authentic lamb skewers, big plate chicken, and pilaf. The tender lamb and rich soup are so satisfying.
- Local snacks: The snack stalls in Fuyun County and Keketuohai Town, such as baked buns, naan pit meat, and cold noodles, have authentic taste.
⚠️Notes:
- Climate: There is a big temperature difference between day and night in Xinjiang, so bring enough warm clothes and a thick coat even in summer.
- Safety: Be careful during outdoor activities and avoid taking risks in rivers and canyon areas.
- Environmental protection: Protect the environment, do not litter, and keep the scenic area beautiful.
- Sun protection: The ultraviolet rays in Xinjiang are strong, so bring sunscreen, sunglasses and a sun hat.
- Hydration: In dry climates, always carry plenty of water.