How to Explore Burqin: He Di Night Market and Stopover on the Way to Kanas

Most visitors head to Burqin to start their journey into Kanas the next day. It's about a two-hour drive from Jiadengyu, offers more affordable accommodation and dining than the scenic area, and features a lively riverside night market in the evening. Use it as a transit stop and spend half a day exploring—the pace is just right.

Location and Role of Burqin

Buerjin is located in western Altay, with the Irtysh River flowing along its edge. To the north lie Kanas and Hemu; to the west is Wucangtan; to the east is Altay City. Most Northern Xinjiang loop tours stop here for one night before heading into the mountains early the next morning.

The county town is small; you can walk its main street in just 15 minutes. Accommodations range from chain hotels to homestays, with prices significantly lower than in Jiadengyu—though rates do rise during peak season.

How to explore Hedong Night Market

The night market runs along the river, opening at dusk. Grilled fish, roasted meat, yogurt, and kvass are a common combination. Cold-water fish from the Irtysh River have firm flesh. Grilled fish is sold by the piece—always confirm the weight and price before ordering.

The night market is crowded; please keep an eye on your belongings. Seafood and cold-water fish vary widely in price, so don't rely solely on the signage. For lighter meals, try tossed noodles or soup rice. Use this as a general guide for dining at Xinjiang night markets.How to explore the Xinjiang night markets。

Daytime highlights

The city features several historic buildings in Russian style. The area around the pier and the Sino-Soviet Shipping Memorial is great for a stroll. Watching the sunset from the Ertix River Bridge is also lovely, but it's windy—stay warm.

If time permits, head to the Five-Color Beach in the afternoon for sunset, then return to the county town for a night market. The drive takes about 30 minutes. Sunset times vary by season; in summer, it's after 9 PM. You can adjust the visit based on your schedule.How should I schedule the sunset visit to Wucantai?。

Which district are you staying in?

Hotels near the night market offer convenient dining options but can be noisy at night. Those on the main street or near the bus station are quieter and provide a convenient route for departures the next day. If driving, confirm parking availability; spots may be limited during peak seasons.

For trips with elderly and children, prioritize hotels with elevators and breakfast. While homestays often feature attractive courtyards, confirm soundproofing and hot water availability in advance. For a comprehensive comparison of accommodation types, see the guide below.How to choose accommodation in Xinjiang。

Time to enter the mountain on Day 2

The drive from Burqin to Jiadengyu takes about two hours. During peak season, traffic is heavy; we recommend departing before 7 AM. After entering the scenic area, you must transfer to shuttle buses. Including wait times, you may not reach the lakeside until noon. For sunrise mist photography, it's best to stay within Hemu or Kanas Scenic Area.

Fill up the tank before departure; gas stations are scarce in the mountains. Bring a jacket, as there is a large temperature difference between day and night. For Kanas entry tickets and shuttle services, refer to:How are Kanas National Park tickets and shuttle bus fees charged?。

What to eat suggestions

Besides the night market, noodle shops and grab-and-eat restaurants in county towns are better suited for main meals. When ordering grilled fish, choose the size based on your party: one medium-sized fish is enough for two or three people. Kvass tends to be sweet; if it's your first time, start with a small cup.

Breakfast typically consists of baozi, milk tea, and noodles. Eat a full meal before heading into the mountains. Dining options in the mountains are limited and expensive, so bring some snacks and water.

Accommodation in Burqin is most limited during July and August; book early to secure a room near the night market. If driving, confirm whether parking is free, as some hotels have limited spaces. Seafood stall prices at the night market vary widely—check the price tags before ordering. Grilled fish is priced by weight; verify the amount before asking the vendor to prepare it. It gets windy along the river at night, so bring a jacket. Fill up your gas tank before heading into the mountains the next day, as stations are scarce there. Pack only essentials for one night; leave larger luggage in your car or at the hotel. If visiting Hemu, expect over three hours from Burqin—start early. Stock up on water and snacks at county supermarkets, where prices are lower than at scenic areas. If traveling with children, be mindful of the crowds at the night market and hold their hands. Confirm your route for the next day before returning to the hotel.

Use Burqin as a transit hub rather than a focal point for a more relaxed experience.

Stroll through the night market first to decide what to eat, so you know the prices and portion sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to travel from Burqin to Kanas?Approximately 2 hours to Jiadengyu (longer during peak season). Shuttle transfer is required upon entering the scenic area. We recommend departing early.

Is one night in Burqin enough?Yes. Afternoon arrival, evening market stroll, and hiking the next day is a common pace. If you want to visit Wucaitan, plan for the late afternoon.

Buerjin is a great choice for your first night on the Northern Xinjiang Loop. You can easily schedule the night market, Colorful Danxia Landform, and mountain entry all in one day.Altay Travel RoutesRefer to or viaOnline SupportDescribe the date.

Supplementary Note: Compiled by the itinerary consultant of Xinjiang China International Travel Service (Xinjiang CITS). Please note that tourism information for northern Xinjiang and Kanas, including seasonal updates and road conditions, may change. For details on itinerary pacing and vehicle arrangements, please consult a local travel agency advisor online.