Keketuohai Scenic District

Keketuohai Scenic District is located northeast of Fuyun County in Altay Prefecture, northern Xinjiang, serving as a key attraction for visitors exploring the Kanas loop route. The area features deep valleys, crystal-clear rivers, and steep, picturesque mountains in a breathtaking natural setting. Expansive birch, poplar, and pine forests thrive between the canyons, making fall the ideal season to visit when golden foliage creates a stunning contrast with the snow-capped peaks behind them. This harmonious blend of mountains, forests, and waterways makes it a prime location for fall photography.

The Keketuohai Scenic District in the broad sense refers to a vast area near Keketuohai Town, comprising four sections: Kekesuli, Yileimu Lake, the Karaxian Geer Earthquake Fault Zone, and the Eerqisi Grand Canyon. Kekesuli, Yileimu Lake, and the Karaxian Geer Earthquake Fault Zone are located along the route to the grand canyon. These areas are not developed attractions but are open to visitors free of charge, offering brief sightseeing opportunities en route. The Eerqisi Grand Canyon serves as the main attraction of the entire Keketuohai Scenic District, which is typically what visitors refer to when mentioning the area.

Keketuohai Scenic District (also known as Eerqisi Grand Canyon Scenic Area) is the source of the Eerqisi River, a famous waterway in northern Xinjiang. The attraction spans approx. 20 km, featuring over a dozen scenic spots along the riverbank including birch forests, Shuimogou, Shenzhong Mountain, and hot springs. A shuttle service operates within the attraction, offering round-trip tickets from the main gate to Shenzhong Mountain (one-way 17 km). The shuttle operates like a bus, making several stops where visitors can explore nearby attractions before boarding the next vehicle. From Shenzhong Mountain, it's another 6.5 km hike to the hot springs in the canyon's depths. Those preferring not to walk can take the attraction's patrol vehicle instead.

Key attractions along the route from the park entrance to Shenzhong Mountain include Birch Forest, Shuimo Valley, Red Leaf Valley, and Shenzhong Mountain. The path features numerous peculiar peaks and rock formations, with the stunningly clear Ertix River flowing through the middle – perfect for an immersive exploration experience.

The birch forest near the attraction entrance and the red-leaf valley by the Stone Gate parking area are perfect for fall viewing, with leaves turning either golden or fiery red, creating a spectacular display. During fall, the mountains behind the forest begin to accumulate snow, resembling beautiful snow-capped peaks. The interplay of colorful leaves, rivers, and snowy mountains makes it an ideal time for stunning photography.

Shuimogou is best visited in summer. A short walk west leads to vast grasslands that burst into colorful wildflower blooms during the season, earning one area the name Hundred Flowers Meadow. Shenzhong Mountain, a striking granite peak standing steep and solitary, serves as the park's iconic landmark with its unique rock formations.

Inside Shenzhong Mountain, you'll find attractions like Elephant Trunk Peak, Camel Peak, and Divine Eagle Peak, where you can admire peculiar rock formations and mountain waterfalls. The highlight is the Jiland Hot Spring deep in the canyon, with water at approx. 39°C – close to body temperature for maximum comfort. If you have the stamina, we recommend hiking from Shenzhong Mountain to the hot spring to enjoy every scenic view along the way, followed by the ultimate relaxation of soaking in the thermal waters after your trek.

Average visitors typically spend approx. half a day exploring before heading back to Fuyun County or Keketuohai Scenic District for accommodation, then continue toward Kanas or Urumqi the next day. Travelers who prefer hiking or in-depth exploration can stay overnight within the attraction, with local herders' yurts available near Shimen parking area, Shenzhongshan parking area, and the hot springs. The campsite near the hot springs also offers free camping space for visitors with their own equipment, allowing flexible choices based on personal preferences.