Zhaosu County Travel

Xinjiang Zhaosu — hometown of heavenly horses, city of rainbows. Explore the thousand-year glacier of Shata Ancient Trail, wander the golden rapeseed flower sea, feel the magnificent scene of thousands of horses galloping across the prairie.

1.2 million mu
Rapeseed Planting Area
2000 years
History of Heavenly Horse Domestication
July-Aug
Best Flower Viewing Period
12°C
Summer Average Temperature
Zhaosu County natural and cultural landscape
Zhaosu Rapeseed Flower Sea & Heavenly Horse River Bathing
A frontier painting composed of golden rapeseed fields and galloping steeds

Zhaosu County Three-Day Two-Night Heavenly Horse Journey

Travel through thousand-year-old trails, indulge in golden flower seas, witness the heroic posture of heavenly horses

Duration
3 Days 2 Nights
Main Destinations
Shata Ancient Trail, Rapeseed Flower Sea, Tianma Cultural Park
Suitable For
Hiking enthusiasts, photography buffs, horse culture lovers
Budget per Person
¥1600 - ¥2300
01
Ancient Trail Exploration
Shata Ancient Trail · Muzart Glacier
Highlights

Arrive in Zhaosu County, hike the initial section of Shata Ancient Trail, view the Muzart Glacier from afar, and experience the perilous path Xuanzang once traveled westward.

Attractions
Shata Ancient Trail
The most treacherous passage across the Tianshan Mountains along the Tang Dynasty Silk Road. Xuanzang passed through here westward. Remains include General's Tomb and prairie stone figures, ending at the 6995-meter Muzart Glacier.
Practical Info
Hiking Gear
  • Trekking poles
  • High-ankle hiking boots
  • Waterproof jacket
Safety Tips
  • Go with a guide
  • Stay away from glacial crevasses
  • Bring enough drinking water
02
Golden Ocean
Zhaosu Rapeseed Flower Sea · Prairie Stone Figures
Highlights

Spend the whole day immersed in the Zhaosu rapeseed flower sea for photography, visit the prairie stone figure sites, and wait for the spectacular Heavenly Horse river bathing in the evening.

Attractions
Zhaosu Rapeseed Flower Sea
China's largest contiguous rapeseed planting area. From July to August, millions of acres of rapeseed flowers and purple perilla intertwine in bloom, unfolding like a golden ocean reaching the foot of the Tianshan Mountains.
Heavenly Horse River Bathing
A unique spectacle in Zhaosu. Every evening, herdsmen drive horses across the river. The steeds gallop through the water, splashing wildly, showcasing the vigorous posture of the 'Heavenly Horse'.
Practical Info
Photography Tips
  • Wide-angle for flower sea
  • Telephoto for horses
  • Polarizer to enhance colors
Bloom Reminder
  • Peak in early July
  • Avoid strong midday light
  • Bring bee protection supplies
03
Hometown of Heavenly Horses
Tianma Cultural Park · Departure
Highlights

Visit Tianma Cultural Park in the morning to learn about the history of Ferghana horses. Shop for special horse-related products in the afternoon before departing.

Attractions
Tianma Cultural Park
China's first cultural park themed around 'Heavenly Horses'. Visitors can closely observe precious horse breeds such as Ferghana horses and Ili horses, and watch equestrian performances and horse races.
Practical Info
Cultural Experience
  • Equestrian performance
  • Riding experience
  • Horse culture lecture
Souvenir Recommendations
  • Horse oil skincare products
  • Horse sausage
  • Kumis (fermented mare's milk)

Must-Try Foods in Zhaosu County

Horse Sausage

A Zhaosu specialty made by stuffing horse meat and fat into horse intestines and smoking them. Sliced and steamed, it has a unique flavor and is an excellent winter nourishing food.

Kumis (Fermented Mare's Milk)

A traditional fermented drink of the Kazakh people, made from mare's milk. It tastes sweet and sour, aids digestion, and boosts immunity.

Wild Mushroom Stewed Free-Range Chicken

Made with wild mushrooms from the Zhaosu prairie and free-range chicken, slowly simmered. Rich in mushroom aroma, it's a mountain delicacy only available after summer rains.

Zhaosu County Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
  • July-August: Rapeseed flower season
  • June: Prairie wildflowers
  • September: Golden wheat waves
Must-Do Experiences
  • Heavenly Horse river bathing photography
  • Ancient trail hiking
  • Equestrian performance
  • Cycling through flower sea
Transportation Tips
  • Scattered attractions suggest hiring a car
  • Shata road has many curves
  • Arrive early for horse show seats
FAQ
  • Can I see Ferghana horses? → Special exhibition at the cultural park
  • How difficult is the hike? → Initial section suitable for general public
  • Accommodation options? → Boutique guesthouses and hotels available
  • Big temperature difference? → Summer daytime 25°C, nighttime 10°C

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