The dry, desert air carries the faint scent of sun-warmed earth as you stand before a landscape defined by its resilience. Here in Hami, the stark beauty of the northern frontier is balanced by an abundance of natural resources and a deep history rooted in the trade of melon, wine, and minerals.
Ancient Tombs and Desert Wonders
Explore the historical layers of the region through these unique sites:
- Tomb of Hami king: This site features architecture typical of four distinct styles. It serves as a resting place for nine generations of royalty alongside three Arabian preachers.
- Hami Museum: Located on the first floor of Culture Central, this museum houses two mummies whose hair and blood vessels remain preserved due to the region's immediate dehydration and dry climate.
- Ghost City: Experience a landscape sculpted by thousands of years of strong winds and arid conditions to create a unique geographic specialty.
High Altitude Escapes
Escape the desert heat for the cooler elevations of the Tian Mountain range:
- Songshutang: Located two hours north of Hami, this destination serves as both a summer retreat and a skiing destination. The ski runs are well-suited for beginners. While here, you can enjoy local cheese and fresh mushrooms found after rainfall in the Tian Mountain.
- MingShaoShan: A short drive from Songhutang, this unpolluted small town offers clear skies where thousands of sharing stars are visible at night.
Local Flavors and Regional Character
Hami is renowned for its agricultural heritage, particularly its sweet Hami melons. The region has been a producer of these fruits since the Han dynasty. For those seeking a change of pace from the city's atmosphere, the nearby mountains offer a different lifestyle where evening BBQ culture is a staple of the local nightlife.
Start planning your journey into the heart of Xinjiang by booking a trip to Songhutang to experience the contrast between the desert plains and the mountain peaks.