Aksu

China

Thursday, October 16, 2025

Sunrise

6:50 AM

Sunset

5:58 PM

About

Located in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of China, Aksu is a city of rich history and culture. It boasts stunning natural scenery, including the Taklimakan Desert and the Tianshan Mountains. Visitors can explore ancient ruins and tombs, as well as modern museums and parks. The city is known for its apricot orchards and traditional textiles, making it a popular destination for shopping and cuisine. With a warm and welcoming atmosphere, Aksu is a must-see destination in western China.

30 Best Places to Visit

1. Aksu Canyon

This stunning natural wonder offers breathtaking views of towering cliffs and winding rivers.
2. Tianshan Grand Canyon

One of China's most awe-inspiring geological formations, this deep and rugged canyon is dotted with waterfalls and pools.
3. Kuqa Grand Mosque

This ancient mosque is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture, with intricate carvings and colorful tiles.
4. Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves

Dating back over 1,500 years, these caves feature some of the earliest Buddhist art in China.
5. Tianshan Mountains

A unesco World Heritage Site, this majestic mountain range offers stunning hiking and skiing opportunities.
6. Aksu Ancient City

This well-preserved ancient city dates back over 2,000 years, giving visitors a glimpse into China's rich history.
7. Tahtakoruk Lake

This azure lake nestled in the mountains is a popular spot for swimming, boating, and picnicking.
8. Baicheng Beach

This tranquil beach on the banks of the Tarim River is a great place to relax and enjoy the sun.
9. Kaidu River

This mighty river runs through the heart of Aksu, offering stunning views and opportunities for fishing and boating.
10. Gougedale Glacier

This magnificent glacier is one of the largest in China, and can only be accessed by a challenging hiking trail.
11. Kyzyl Su - Red Water Lake

This lake is famous for its bright red water, caused by mineral deposits in the surrounding mountains.
12. Aksu Museum

This fascinating museum showcases the history and culture of the Aksu region, with exhibits on everything from textiles to antiques.
13. Shusheng Temple

One of Aksu's oldest and most revered temples, Shusheng is famous for its intricate wood carvings and colorful frescoes.
14. Awat Grasslands

These vast, rolling meadows are home to nomadic herdsmen and their flocks of sheep and horses.
15. Tianshan Grand Glacier

This spectacular glacier sits atop the Tianshan Mountains, and can be accessed via a scenic cable car ride.
16. Aksu City Park

This beautiful park is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors, with lush gardens, fountains, and pavilions.
17. Tuzimu Karez

This ancient irrigation system is an engineering marvel, bringing water to the dry, desert-like Aksu region.
18. Kelpin Lake

This serene lake is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and pristine forests, making it a popular spot for hiking and camping.
19. Aksu Grand Bazaar

This bustling market is a great place to shop for local crafts, such as carpets, silk, and embroidery.
20. Pazartesi Market

This weekly market is a lively and colorful affair, with vendors selling everything from fruits and vegetables to spices and fabrics.
21. Baytulla Mosque

This magnificent mosque features a unique blend of Central Asian and Chinese architecture, with intricate brickwork and elaborate domes.
22. Kutamengguo Ruins

These ancient ruins are all that remain of a once-thriving Silk Road city, offering a glimpse into the region's rich cultural past.
23. Subashi Ruins

These ruins are the remains of an ancient Buddhist monastery, featuring beautifully preserved frescoes and carvings.
24. Rugui Bridge

This imposing stone bridge was built over 1,200 years ago, and is considered one of China's oldest surviving bridges.
25. Abakh Khoja Tomb

This mausoleum complex is the final resting place of a famous Sufi leader, and is considered a masterpiece of Islamic architecture.
26. Aksu Landform Geopark

This unique park features a variety of rock formations and geological wonders, including towering eroded pillars and natural arches.
27. Karakax River

This pristine river offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, as well as opportunities for fishing and boating.
28. Aksu Wetland Nature Reserve

This protected area is home to a variety of rare and endangered plant and animal species, including the endangered Bactrian deer.
29. Jihan Dawan Mosque

This mosque is a testament to the multi-ethnic and multi-religious history of the Aksu region, blending elements of Chinese, Islamic, and Buddhist architecture.
30. Kizilsu International Ski Resort

This world-class ski resort offers modern facilities and a variety of challenging slopes, making it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts.