Hami Travel Guide: Unleash the Magic of this Hidden Gem!

👍Why you should visit: Seriously, Hami completely captivated me! It boasts breathtaking landscapes, vibrant West Asian culture, and a rich history just waiting to be explored. You'll regret missing out! 🌹Location: Situated in eastern Xinjiang, Hami spans the northern and southern slopes of the eastern Tianshan Mountains. It's a crucial passage between Xinjiang and inland China, bordering Jiuquan in Gansu, Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, and other regions. 🚴Getting there: - By air: Hami Airport is well-connected, with direct flights from many cities. From the airport, take the airport bus or a taxi to easily reach the city center. - By train: Rail travel is super convenient, with numerous trains from within Xinjiang and other parts of China. Hami Railway Station offers easy access to public transport and taxis. - By road: Self-driving or taking a long-distance bus is also a great option. The national highways and expressways are in excellent condition, offering stunning scenery along the way. It's like driving through a painting. 🏞️Must-see attractions: - Hami Museum: A treasure trove of history, showcasing artifacts from primitive society to the Ming and Qing dynasties. A visit here is like traveling through time, giving you a deep understanding of Hami's history and culture. - Tianshan Scenic Area: The natural scenery here is simply stunning, featuring mountains, forests, grasslands, and a variety of rare plants and animals. Every photo you take will be Instagram-worthy. - Aletun Ancient Street: This street preserves numerous Qing Dynasty residences and commercial buildings, exuding historical charm. When you're tired of exploring, stop by one of the characteristic restaurants along the street for authentic local cuisine. - Dahaidao Scenic Area: The unique Yadan landforms are truly spectacular. Every angle offers a perfect photo opportunity, making it a must-visit for photography enthusiasts. 🏷️Ticket prices: Prices vary depending on the attraction. The Hami Museum is generally free; the Tianshan Scenic Area has tickets for a few dozen yuan; Aletun Ancient Street is free to explore; and Dahaidao Scenic Area ticket prices vary based on the package, check the official website or ticket office for details. 🍜Food recommendations: - Hami melon: Hami's signature fruit, known for its sweet and juicy flavor. One bite will satisfy your sweet cravings. - Hand pilaf: A flavorful and nutritious dish made with mutton, carrots, and rice. - Grilled mutton skewers: Freshly cut and grilled mutton skewers seasoned with cumin and chili peppers. Tender on the inside and crispy on the outside, it's a true delight. - Nang bread: Available in various flavors, nang bread can be enjoyed as a main course or a snack. It's portable and has a long shelf life. 🛍️Shopping: The city center offers plenty of shopping opportunities, with local handicrafts, dried fruits, clothing, and more. Uyghur handicrafts are exquisite and make perfect souvenirs. Stock up on high-quality dried fruits like raisins and almonds as gifts. 🏠Accommodation: - High-end hotels: Offering comprehensive facilities, attentive service, and comfortable environments for a premium check-in experience. - Budget hotels and homestays: Affordable options that allow you to experience local culture. Some homestays feature unique ethnic decor. ❤️Other tips: - Hami has a dry climate, so remember to moisturize, wear sunscreen, and drink plenty of water. - Respect local religious beliefs and customs, especially in ethnic minority areas. - When visiting scenic areas like Dahaidao, check the weather and road conditions in advance, bring enough food and water, and drive carefully if self-driving.