Autumn in Kanas is a golden poem. The morning mist of Immortal Bay, the S-shaped river channel of Moon Bay, the cooking smoke and birch forest of Hemu Village,
It forms the most brilliant autumn scene in northern Xinjiang.
Late September to mid-October is the most beautiful season of the year in Kanas. The birch forests turn dazzling gold, the larches turn orange-red, and the waters of Kanas Lake retain an almost unreal green, like a piece of jade scattered in the valley.
At six in the morning, I set off for Shenxian Bay, just for that wisp of morning mist. A thin mist rose from the lake, slowly flowing along the river, turning the distant mountains and forests into ink paintings. When the first ray of sunlight pierced through the clouds, the mist was dyed pale gold, and the whole valley seemed to awaken.
Walking along the boardwalk to Moon Bay, the river curves into a beautiful S-shaped curve. The trees on both banks reflect in the water, blue and gold intertwine, and every step looks like a natural oil painting. Further down is Wolong Bay, where the small island in the middle of the river resembles a resting dinosaur, playful and lively.
Leaving the lake area, we headed toward Hemu Village. This Tuva village is hidden deep within the birch forest, with wooden houses arranged in an orderly fashion, and smoke curling up at dusk. Climbing to the viewing platform behind the village, the entire Hemu tree is in full view, with golden canopies and deep brown rooftops forming a warm autumn scene.
Autumn in Kanas is not only a feast of colors but also a serene force. Here, you will unconsciously slow your pace, listen to the wind through the woods, watch clouds sweep across the lake, and feel the most generous gift from the northern frontier.
Route fragment
5 days and 4 nights
- Day 1: Arrive in Burqin, overnight at Jiadengyu
- Day 2: Kanas Lake boat tour and hiking to Fish Terrace
- Day 3: Morning mist tour of Shenxian Bay, Moon Bay, and Wolong Bay
- Day 4 A Day in Hemu Village: Birch Forest, Viewing Platform, and Tuva Homes Visit
- Day 5: Morning mist at Hemu, return to Burqin, return journey
