October! Six ancient towns and villages in China, white birch forest in Hemu, Altay.

Hemu Village, located in Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang, is nestled at the foot of the Altai Mountains, in the valley south of Kanas Lake. It is the northernmost village in western China and one of the six most beautiful ancient towns and villages in China. It is not only a great place to admire the golden birch forest in autumn, but also a place where Tuvans have lived for generations and where the most complete ethnic traditions are preserved. Entering Hemu is like opening a living scroll of history and culture. 【Historical Background】： Hemu Village has a long history and was an important passage on the ancient Silk Road. It was once under the jurisdiction of many ancient dynasties, leaving behind a rich cultural heritage and historical sites. The Tuvans who live here are an ancient ethnic group with their own unique language but no written script. Their culture is mainly passed down orally from generation to generation. Most Tuvan herders believe that their ancestors are descendants of soldiers left behind by Genghis Khan during his westward expedition. Every household hangs a portrait of Genghis Khan in their home. With their unique ethnic identity and lifestyle, the Tuvans have thrived on this land, forming a unique Tuvan culture. 【Cultural Background】： Tuvan culture is full of mystery and charm. Every year in early June, Hemu Village holds the Ao Bao Festival, which is their grand festival. It includes religious ceremonies to worship the sky, earth, mountains, and ancestors, reflecting the Tuvans' reverence and worship of nature. In the lives of the Tuvans, ecological views are a precious spiritual wealth accumulated over generations. They revere and worship mountains, rivers, grass, trees, stones, fire, and other natural objects. In addition, the Tuvans are good at riding and archery, skiing, singing and dancing, and love to drink. Every household brews milk wine, which is not only a necessity of life but also a symbol of their hospitality. 🕘【Opening Hours】： Hemu Scenic Area is open all year round, but the best time to admire the white birch forest is from September to early October. It is recommended to spend 2-3 days here to fully experience the local natural scenery and folk customs. 💴【Ticket Price】： Ticket prices are adjusted according to season and policy. Please refer to the official website or local tourism information center for specific prices. ⛺【Activities】： White Birch Forest Stroll: Admire the golden white birch forest in autumn and experience the wonders of nature. Scenic Viewpoint: Stand on the scenic viewpoint and overlook the entire Hemu Village and white birch forest, taking in the stunning autumn colors. Folk Culture Experience: Visit the traditional Tuvan houses, learn about their lifestyle and cultural traditions, taste authentic Tuvan cuisine, and enjoy ethnic song and dance performances. Horseback Riding Adventure: Ride a horse through the grasslands and forests, experience a different kind of outdoor adventure fun. 🚌【Transportation Guide】： It is recommended to take a plane or train to Urumqi, then transfer to a plane to Altay Airport, and then take a bus or rent a car to Hemu Village. 👉【Itinerary】： Day 1: Arrive in Hemu Village, arrange accommodation, and take a stroll in the white birch forest in the afternoon to experience the tranquility and beauty of autumn. Day 2: Climb the scenic viewpoint to admire the scenery, visit the traditional Tuvan houses, experience folk customs, and attend a bonfire party in the evening to dance with the Tuvans. Day 3: Go horseback riding or hiking through the surrounding primeval forests and grasslands, experience the grandeur and mystery of nature, and return to your accommodation in the evening to prepare for your return trip. 🧡【Pre-trip Preparation】： Warm clothing: The temperature difference between day and night in the plateau region is large, so please bring enough warm clothing. Sunscreen: The sun is strong during the day, so please bring sunscreen, sun hats, etc. Hiking shoes: Wear comfortable hiking shoes for easy walking on forest trails and grasslands. Camera: Don't forget to bring your camera to record this unforgettable golden feast and the unique charm of Tuvan culture. Hemu Scenic Area