Yamen Grassland
Yamenzhi Grassland, nestled in Cele County, Hotan Prefecture, Xinjiang, is a high-altitude meadow at the foothills of the Kunlun Mountains. Known locally as "Yamen Caochang," it spans 1,200 square kilometers and serves as a vital pasture for Uyghur nomads. The grassland thrives from June to August, when alpine flowers blanket the terrain and snow-capped peaks frame the horizon. Historically, it lay along the Southern Silk Road, linking Hotan’s jade caravans to Central Asia. Today, it offers visitors a blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and adventure activities.
Historical Overview
Yamenzhi’s history dates to the Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE), when it served as a rest stop for Silk Road traders transporting Hotan jade. Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE) records mention Uyghur tribes grazing livestock here, while 19th-century British explorers documented its role in regional trade. In 1985, it was designated a protected cultural landscape, preserving its nomadic heritage. The grassland remains central to Uyghur identity, with annual festivals celebrating equestrian skills and traditional pastoral life.
Geographical Layout
The grassland sits at 2,500–3,000 meters above sea level, bordered by the Kunlun Mountains to the south and the Taklamakan Desert to the north. Its ecosystem includes:
- Alpine Meadow Zone: Lush grasslands with wildflowers (June–August).
- River Valley: The Yamenzhi River winds through the meadow, sustaining willow and poplar groves.
- Nomadic Camps: Seasonal Uyghur settlements with felt yurts and livestock pens.
Key landmarks include the "Seven Stars Stone" (a prehistoric rock formation) and the reconstructed Tang Dynasty caravan serai.
Major Attractions
- Nomadic Yurt Stays: Experience Uyghur hospitality in traditional felt tents, with meals of kumis (fermented mare’s milk) and nang (flatbread).
- Horseback Treks: Guided rides to Kunlun Mountain viewpoints (2–4 hours).
- Wildflower Fields: Photograph carpets of gentian and edelweiss (July–August).
- Yamenzhi River Rafting: Gentle floats through willow-lined gorges (May–September).
- Khotan Jade Market: Visit nearby markets in Cele County to purchase raw nephrite jade.
Suggested Itineraries
-
Half-Day Classic Route (3–4 hours):
Hotan City → Yamenzhi Grassland Entrance → Nomadic Yurt Village → Wildflower Fields → Return
Highlights: Cultural interaction and scenic photography. -
Adventure Route (Full Day):
Morning: Horseback trek to Kunlun Mountain foothills.
Afternoon: Rafting on Yamenzhi River and visit to Tang Dynasty serai ruins.
Evening: Sunset yurt dinner with Uyghur music. -
Cultural Immersion (2 Days):
Day 1: Learn yurt-building and wool-weaving with nomadic families.
Day 2: Attend a sheep-herding demonstration and explore nearby jade mines.
Ticket Purchase
- Admission: Free entry; horseback tours ¥200–400/person (2–4 hours).
- Guided Tours: ¥300–600/group (includes transportation and nomadic homestay).
- Permits: None required for day visits; overnight stays require local village approval.
Transportation
- By Car: 1.5-hour drive from Hotan City via G315; parking ¥10/day.
- By Bus: Take Bus 8 from Hotan to Cele County (¥15, 1 hour), then taxi to grassland (¥30).
- By Taxi: Direct ride from Hotan Airport (1.5 hours, ¥200–250).
Best Time & Tips
- Optimal Season: June–August (wildflower bloom); avoid October–April (cold, snow).
- Essentials:
- Sun protection (hat, SPF 50+ sunscreen).
- Warm layers for evening temperatures (10°C–15°C).
- Cash for nomadic crafts (no card payments).
- Cultural Sensitivity: Ask permission before entering yurts; avoid pointing at livestock.
- Prohibited Items: Drones (require permits), loud music near camps.
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Reviewed on April 29,2025
Shopping on Nanjing Road in Shanghai was just amazing! It's truly the "First Commercial Street of China", where tradition and modernity blend perfectly. You can find awesome souvenirs and experience the trendy vibes in cool stores. The neon lights at night are just spectacular, shining bright like Times Square in New York. The food here is incredible too. I had a feast for my taste buds. Shanghai, I'll definitely be back!
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Reviewed on May 29,2025
Our 2-day Zhangjiajie tour was beyond spectacular! As someone who’s visited Beijing and Shanghai for work, this trip revealed China’s wild, magical heart. Day 1 in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park felt like stepping onto Pandora—I’m a huge Avatar fan, and Yuanjiajie’s floating peaks left me breathless. The misty pillars and lush valleys like pure movie magic!
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For fellow Avatar lovers and adventure seekers: Don’t miss this bucket-list experience! 10/10 would return.
A Well-Traveled Film Buff, May 2025
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