Qiemo County Travel

Xinjiang Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, Qiemo County — An oasis on the southern edge of the Taklamakan Desert, known as the "Home of Jade" in China. A 4-day 3-night in-depth tour featuring desert expedition, riverside sightseeing, jade market visit, and local cuisine.

330,000km²
Desert Area
2000+ Years
Jade Mining History
280 Days
Annual Sunshine
120km
Qarqan River Length
Panoramic view of Taklamakan Desert in Qiemo
Taklamakan Desert Scenery
The second-largest shifting sand desert in the world, with magnificent rolling dunes

Qiemo County Four Days Three Nights In-Depth Tour

Desert crossing, riverside stroll, jade exploration — experience the unique nature and culture of Qiemo

Duration
4 Days 3 Nights
Main Destinations
Taklamakan Desert, Qarqan River, Qiemo Jade Market, Qiemo Museum
Suitable For
Adventure Seekers, Cultural Explorers, Photography Enthusiasts
Per Capita Budget
¥1,600–¥2,200
01
Desert Expedition
Taklamakan Desert · Camel Ride · Desert Camping
Trip Highlights

Arrive in Qiemo County, head to the edge of the Taklamakan Desert, experience camel riding, and enjoy desert camping & stargazing in the evening.

Attraction
Taklamakan Desert
The second-largest shifting sand desert in the world, with diverse dune formations — a paradise for desert adventure and photography.
Practical Info
Accommodation
  • Desert Camping Tent
  • Qiemo County Hotel
  • Desert Edge B&B
Food Recommendations
  • Whole Roasted Lamb
  • Tandoor Meat
  • Desert Date (Russian Olive)
Travel Tips
  • Bring sufficient drinking water
  • Sun protection & sand shielding
  • Follow the guide's instructions
02
Riverside Scenery
Qarqan River · Oasis Sightseeing · Eco Photography
Trip Highlights

Explore the Qarqan River riparian zone all day, visit desert oases, and capture unique ecological landscapes.

Attraction
Qarqan River Scenic Belt
A vital river on the southern edge of the Taklamakan Desert, forming bead-like oases along its banks — the lifeline of the desert.
Practical Info
Experiences
  • Riverside Hiking
  • Oasis Visit
  • Ecological Photography
Specialties
  • Desert Rose (mineral)
  • Populus Wood Carving
  • Qiemo Red Dates
03
Jade Culture
Jade Market · Processing Demo · Souvenir Shopping
Trip Highlights

Visit the Qiemo Jade Market, learn about jade mining and processing history, and select high-quality Qiemo jade products.

Attraction
Qiemo Jade Market
An important jade trading center in Xinjiang, featuring locally sourced dark jade, yellow jade, and sugar jade of high quality.
Practical Info
Shopping Tips
  • Buy from licensed vendors
  • Ask for authentication certificate
  • Bargain politely
04
Cultural Experience
Qiemo Museum · Departure
Trip Highlights

Visit Qiemo Museum in the morning to learn about local history and jade culture. Return in the afternoon per your flight/train schedule.

Attraction
Qiemo Museum
A professional museum showcasing Qiemo's history, culture, and jade mining & processing heritage, with rich collections and elegant exhibitions.
Practical Info
Departure Tips
  • Confirm your ticket in advance
  • Pack souvenirs for check-in
  • Check documents & belongings

Qiemo County Must-Try Foods

Whole Roasted Lamb (Qiemo Style)

Local premium lamb slow-roasted in a tandoor oven — crispy skin, tender and juicy meat with a unique aroma.

Desert Date (Russian Olive)

A wild fruit from desert areas, sweet-sour in taste and rich in nutrition — a characteristic Qiemo snack.

Qiemo Red Dates

Thanks to abundant sunshine and large diurnal temperature variation, Qiemo red dates are high in sugar and prized as a nourishing tonic.

Qiemo County Travel Tips
Best Travel Time
  • Apr–May: Pleasant climate
  • Sep–Oct: Cool & comfortable autumn
  • Avoid Jul–Aug high heat
Must-Do Experiences
  • Camel riding in the desert
  • Qarqan River sightseeing
  • Jade market treasure hunting
  • Taste local roasted lamb
Budget Reference
  • Tickets: Approx. ¥150
  • Accommodation: ¥300–¥500/night
  • Dining: ¥80–¥120/day
  • Transport: Approx. ¥400
  • Total: ¥1,600–¥2,200
FAQ
  • Is desert travel safe? → Yes, with a professional guide
  • What's special about Qiemo jade? → Fine texture, warm luster
  • Can you swim in Qarqan River? → Strong current, not recommended
  • Is transport convenient? → Chartered car or guided tour recommended