Skiing Paradise in China: Hemu Village, Xinjiang

Nestled deep in the Altay Mountains of northern Xinjiang, Hemu Village is a dream destination for winter sports lovers and nature photographers alike. Known as one of China’s most beautiful villages, Hemu transforms into a pure white wonderland every winter. With its soft powder snow, breathtaking scenery, and authentic Kazakh culture, it has become one of the best emerging ski destinations in Asia—perfect for those who seek both adventure and serenity.

Where Is Hemu?

Hemu Village (禾木村) lies in Burqin County of Altay Prefecture, near the border with Kazakhstan, Mongolia, and Russia. It is one of the “three magical villages” of the Kanas area—alongside Baihaba and Jiadengyu—and is often called the most beautiful village in China.

Hemu Village

Located at an altitude of over 2,000 meters, Hemu is surrounded by snow-covered pine forests and mountain ranges that stretch endlessly. In winter, the entire landscape becomes a pristine snowfield, attracting professional skiers, snowboarders, and travelers who want to experience a true northern fairyland.

Why Hemu Is a Hidden Gem for Skiers

World-Class Snow Quality
Hemu enjoys a long snow season from November to April, with snow depths reaching up to 1.5–2 meters. The dry continental climate ensures fine, powder-like snow, making it ideal for skiing and snowboarding. This kind of natural snow texture is often compared to Japan’s Hokkaido—light, dry, and perfect for carving turns.

Diverse Terrain
Hemu’s terrain is naturally varied—rolling hills, gentle slopes, and steep descents—offering something for every skill level, from beginners to experts. Skiers can enjoy backcountry runs through birch forests, or test their skills on challenging mountain slopes near the Hemu River valley.

A Blend of Sports and Scenery
Unlike commercial ski resorts, Hemu offers a skiing experience immersed in untouched nature. You can ski through open valleys, glide past log cabins, and pause to see herds of horses trotting across the snow. It’s a destination where sport meets landscape photography, where every turn reveals a postcard-perfect view.

The Unique Charm of Hemu in Winter

🏠 Traditional Log Cabins
Hemu’s wooden houses, built by the Tuva and Kazakh people, are the soul of the village. In winter, their rooftops are covered in snow, and smoke rises gently from chimneys—a scene reminiscent of a fairy tale. Many of these cabins have been transformed into cozy guesthouses with heating, Wi-Fi, and traditional Kazakh meals.

🦌 Ethnic Culture and Warm Hospitality
The Tuva and Kazakh people who live here have preserved their ancient nomadic culture. Visitors can experience horseback riding through snow, taste local milk tea and hand-grabbed mutton, and enjoy folk music performances by the fireplace. It’s a rich cultural layer that makes your skiing trip much more than just sport—it’s an immersion into frontier life.

🌌 Northern Lights and Starry Skies
Thanks to its remote location and clear air, Hemu offers some of China’s best stargazing opportunities. On lucky winter nights, travelers have even spotted aurora-like lights over the Altay peaks—a breathtaking sight for photographers.

Hemu Ski Resort: What to Expect

The Hemu International Ski Resort, officially opened in recent years, has quickly gained fame among Chinese and international skiers.

Resort Features:

• Over 10 km of ski trails, ranging from beginner slopes to expert runs.

• A 1,000-meter gondola lift providing stunning panoramic views of the Altay Mountains.

• Professional ski equipment rental, training centers, and safety patrols.

• Snowmobiles, tubing areas, and sledding zones for families and non-skiers.

The resort focuses on maintaining harmony with the natural environment, so you can ski without the crowding typical of large commercial resorts.

How to Get to Hemu

By Air:

• The nearest airport is Altay Airport (AAT), with flights from Urumqi (about 1.5 hours).

• From Altay city, you can reach Hemu by car or shuttle bus in 4–5 hours.

By Train:

• Alternatively, take a high-speed train from Urumqi to Burqin or Beitun, then transfer by car to Hemu (around 3 hours).

Winter Travel Tip:
The roads to Hemu are often covered in snow from November to March, but the scenic drive is part of the adventure. Make sure to join a guided winter tour or rent a 4WD vehicle for safety.

Best Time to Visit

For those who prefer a balance of good snow and accessibility, mid-January to early March is the best time to visit Hemu.

Beyond Skiing: Other Winter Activities

• Horseback Riding on Snowfields – Experience the traditional nomadic lifestyle.

• Snow Trekking & Photography Tours – Capture frozen rivers, foggy forests, and village rooftops.

• Hot Springs near Burqin – Relax after skiing in natural thermal water.

• Kazakh New Year Festival (Nauryz) – Celebrate with locals in late March with music, food, and dancing.

These experiences make Hemu not just a ski resort, but a winter cultural journey.

Travel Tips

• Dress in layers: Temperatures can drop to -30°C, so wear thermal clothing, down jackets, and snow boots.

• Book accommodation early: The number of lodges is limited, especially during Chinese New Year.

• Stay connected: Local SIM cards may have limited signal—download maps offline before arrival.

• Respect local customs: Always ask before photographing villagers or entering private homes.

Why Choose Hemu Over Other Ski Destinations

Hemu is ideal for travelers seeking authentic winter scenery, cultural immersion, and world-class snow quality—all without the commercial crowds.

Conclusion

Hemu Village is more than a ski destination—it’s a place where nature, culture, and tranquility meet. Whether you come for skiing, photography, or a peaceful winter retreat, Hemu will captivate you with its untouched beauty and warm hospitality.

For those who love off-the-beaten-path adventures, this hidden gem in Xinjiang might just be your next winter paradise.