If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into a real-life snow globe—wooden cabins, white-topped forests, frozen rivers steaming in the morning light—Hemu Village in Xinjiang is exactly where winter magic becomes reality. Every year from November to March, this remote Tuva village transforms into a “Chinese version of Scandinavia,” drawing photographers, adventurers, and snow lovers from around the world.
This guide gives you everything you need for a smooth, safe, and unforgettable winter trip to Hemu: transportation, must-see locations, itinerary suggestions, food, accommodations, photography tips, and crucial winter safety reminders.
Hemu Village
🚐 How to Get to Hemu in Winter
✈️ From Other Cities
You have two reliable routes for entering Hemu during winter:
1. Fly to Altay Airport
This is the fastest way.
• Land at Altay → transfer to the snowfield shuttle bus → direct arrival at Hemu Village.
• Roads are regularly cleared, but still expect icy sections.
2. Take a train to Beitun City
• From Beitun, hire a shared car or private transfer into Hemu.
• Stable and economical, especially in peak tourism months.
⚠️ Winter Self-Drive Warning
If you insist on self-driving:
• Four-wheel drive + snow tires are absolutely required
• You must hold a confirmed hotel reservation that provides a parking spot
• Never enter the village without checking: tire chains, antifreeze, fuel, and vehicle heating system.
🏞️ Top Must-Visit Spots in Hemu
1. Haden Observation Deck
Waking up at 6 AM in –30°C may sound painful, but the reward is unbelievable.
Sunrise slowly climbs over snow-covered rooftops as morning fog wraps around the valley.
If you’re lucky, you might witness the surreal “snow portal”—a natural light tunnel caused by fog and rising sun.
This is where legendary Hemu photos are born.
2. Hemu Bridge + Not-Frozen River
The river produces white steam in the cold, forming a fairytale-like scene.
Frost hangs like crystal chandeliers on the branches.
Stand on the bridge to capture the full panoramic view of the village—wallpaper material guaranteed.
3. Jikepulin Ski Resort – Asia’s Largest Powder Snow Resort
The snow here is unbelievably soft, resembling cotton candy.
Perfect for:
• First-time skiers
• Powder lovers
• Families
• Anyone wanting soft landings
Even beginners can enjoy gentle slopes with minimal fear.
4. Birch Forest Trail
Located below Haden Platform, this trail glows in the afternoon when the 3 PM sunlight cuts through the trees.
Toss a handful of snow for a photo—the snow sparkles like light beams.
The atmosphere is pure Nordic romance.
Hemu Village
❄️ Winter-Exclusive Experiences
🐎 Horse-Drawn Sled (≈ ¥50/hour)
Glide through snow forests while listening to horses stepping on soft snow.
Quiet, healing, and one of the most authentic Tuva experiences.
❄️ Throwing Water to Ice
Before 9 AM, pour hot water into the freezing air and create a beautiful frozen arc.
Wear bright-colored clothes for the most striking photos.
🔥 Wooden Cabin Fireplace + Milk Tea
Sit around the fire in a wooden lodge, sip hot Kazakh milk tea, and snack on baursak fried dough.
Outside is frozen silence; inside is a warm, cozy world.
🔥 Bonfire Night
Dance with friends under the winter sky.
Cold toes, warm hearts.
🏡 Where to Stay in Hemu
Old Village (Old Hemu)
Best for travelers who want to be close to scenic spots.
✔️ Near ski area and observation deck
✔️ Wooden lodges with traditional vibe
✔️ Middle section = best food options
Drawback: older facilities & limited soundproofing.
New Village (New Hemu)
✔️ Newer wooden cabins
✔️ Better heating, cleaner facilities
✔️ More affordable prices
Drawback: farther from sunrise & main attractions.
Recommendation:
If photography is your focus → Old Village
If comfort + quietness matters → New Village
Hemu Village
⚠️ Must-Know Safety & Survival Tips
1. Stay Warm (–30°C Is Normal!)
Prepare:
• Windproof down jacket
• Fleece-lined snow pants
• Insulated waterproof snow boots
• Ushanka / warm hat
• Thermal gloves
• Neck warmer or face mask
• Warmers for phone + pockets + feet
Even your phone may freeze—stick a heat patch on it.
2. Protect Your Devices
• Use insulated camera/phone covers
• Bring 2 power banks (cold weather kills battery life fast)
• Do not leave equipment exposed for long periods
3. Respect Local Culture
• Always ask for permission before photographing local residents
• Drones must be registered—unregistered drones may be confiscated
4. Watch Your Steps
• Don’t run—ice is invisible in many areas
• Don’t step onto frozen rivers unless locals confirm it’s safe
Snow may look solid but can hide dangerous cracks.
🧭 Recommended One-Day Winter Itinerary
Morning (9:00 AM)
Walk to Hemu Bridge → ride or hike up to Haden Platform
• Watch sunrise & morning fog
• The whole village covered in “milk fog” is breathtaking
Lunch
Try the famous local firepot .
A must-eat winter dish: lamb bones, potatoes, carrots simmered for hours.
Warm, hearty, unforgettable.
Afternoon
• Explore the village swings
• Rent a snow tube for fun
• Take photos in birch forests
Head to Sunset Viewing Deck 30 minutes before sunset—
Pink, purple, then blue tones fill the sky.
Evening
Bonfire party—dance, stay warm, and enjoy the winter night.
Hemu Village
🎒 Winter Photography Checklist
Essential items for Hemu winter photos:
• Touch-screen gloves
• Wool hat + scarf + mask
• High-waisted insulated snow boots
• Power banks
• Hand warmers
• Lens cloth (snow melts into droplets)
🧊 Final Notes for First-Time Visitors
• Don’t buy “internet-famous snow tubes”—local shops rent them cheaper
• Don’t rely on trendy cafés—local hot milk tea is warmer, tastier, and cheaper
• Don’t underestimate the cold: daytime sun can feel warm, but nights drop dramatically
• Wear a balaclava or face mask—cold wind can sting your skin within minutes
❤️ Why You Must Visit Hemu This Winter
Hemu in winter is not just beautiful—it’s cinematic.
Morning fog drifting across wooden rooftops, horses walking through snow, golden light slicing through birch forests… every corner looks like a Nordic fantasy.
Come for the snow, stay for the warmth: warm cabins, hot tea, friendly locals, and an atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else in China.
This winter, come to Hemu—where the world turns into a soft, silent, sparkling dream.
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