Aksu River and Aksu River Valley in Xinjiang

The Aksu River (阿克苏河) is one of the most important tributaries of the Tarim River and the largest water source feeding it in Xinjiang. It is formed in Wensu County from the convergence of two major headwaters: the Kumarik River (库玛拉克河) in the north and the Toxkan River (托什干河) in the west. The river flows for about 224 km before joining the Tarim River system.

The name “Aksu” comes from the Uyghur language, meaning “White Water”, referring to the milky color created by glacial sediments carried from the Tianshan Mountains. The Kumarik River originates from the Khan Tengri Glacier (汗腾格里冰川), while the Toxkan River begins in the southern slopes of the Tianshan Mountains (天山山脉) in Kyrgyzstan.

After merging near Wensu, the river splits again in Aksu City into the New River (新大河) and Old River (老大河) before rejoining downstream and eventually flowing into the Tarim River. The Aksu River contributes more than 70% of the total water supply of the Tarim River basin.

Aksu River Valley Landscape

The Aksu River Valley (阿克苏河谷) stretches across western Xinjiang, forming a transition zone between the Tianshan Mountains and the Tarim Basin. It covers a vast alluvial plain of approximately 52,000 square kilometers.

The valley presents a dramatic landscape: snow-covered peaks in the north, fertile oases in the middle, and desert edges of the Taklamakan Desert (塔克拉玛干沙漠) in the south. The river is primarily fed by glacier meltwater and mountain precipitation, making it a lifeline for agriculture and ecosystems in southern Xinjiang.

The climate is dry and continental, with hot summers around 25–30°C and cold winters below freezing. Strong sunlight and large temperature differences between day and night are typical features of the region.

Tributaries and River System

The Kumarik River (库玛拉克河) and Toxkan River (托什干河) form the core system of the Aksu River.

• The Kumarik River flows from the northern glaciers of Tianshan and carries mineral-rich white sediment.
• The Toxkan River flows from Kyrgyzstan into Xinjiang and passes through Aheqi and Wushi counties.
• After merging, the river supports a wide agricultural belt and irrigates major oasis cities such as Aksu.

Downstream, the river system supports one of the most important ecological corridors in Xinjiang, sustaining farmland, wetlands, and desert vegetation.

Main Scenic Highlights Along Aksu River Valley

Wensu Grand Canyon (温宿大峡谷)

Known as the “Tianshan Mystery Canyon (天山神秘大峡谷)”, this red sandstone canyon features towering cliffs and surreal rock formations. It is one of the most photographed canyon landscapes in China.

Tomur Peak National Forest Park (托木尔峰国家森林公园)

Home to Tomur Peak (托木尔峰) at 7,435 meters, the highest peak of the Tianshan Mountains. The park includes glaciers, alpine forests, grasslands, and is a top destination for trekking and photography.

Aksu Wetland Park (阿克苏河湿地公园)

A peaceful urban wetland area featuring reed beds, bird habitats, and beautiful sunset views over the river.

Kizil Thousand-Buddha Caves (克孜尔千佛洞)

One of the earliest Buddhist cave complexes in China (3rd–8th century), predating Dunhuang by nearly 300 years. It is a major cultural and religious heritage site.

Subashi Ancient Temple Ruins (苏巴什佛寺遗址)

Located near Kuqa, this ancient Buddhist site reflects the history of the ancient Kucha Kingdom (龟兹古国) and is closely linked to the journey of the monk Xuanzang.

Ecological and Cultural Value

The Aksu River Valley is known for its unique “mountain–plain–desert” ecosystem. The river supports extensive irrigation agriculture, especially apple orchards, vineyards, and cotton fields.

The region is also rich in wildlife such as wild birds, foxes, and deer. Cultural heritage includes Kucha civilization (龟兹文化) and Dolan culture (刀郎文化), with many traditional villages along the river.

Key Scenic Areas Along the River

Dolan Tribe Scenic Area (刀郎部落)

A cultural village in Awati County featuring poplar forests, traditional Dolan music, folk performances, and local cuisine such as roasted lamb and handmade yogurt tea.

Shayan Poplar Forest Scenic Area (沙雁洲景区)

Located along the upper Tarim River, this area is famous for its vast poplar forest (胡杨林) and golden autumn scenery from mid-October to early November.

Xianglong Lake Scenic Area (祥龙湖风景区)

A unique landscape combining water systems, gardens, and desert surroundings, often described as a “desert Jiangnan.”

Dolang River Scenic Belt (多浪河景观带)

A green corridor flowing through Aksu City, popular for walking, night views, and seasonal flower fields.

Best Time to Visit

• Spring (April–May): Flower blooms, mild weather, fewer tourists
• Summer (June–August): Green oases, fruit harvest, ideal for escaping heat
• Autumn (September–October): Golden poplar forests, photography season
• Winter (December–February): Snow landscapes and quiet desert scenery

Transportation Guide

• By Air: Aksu Hongqipo Airport (AKU), direct flights from major Chinese cities
• By Train: Aksu Railway Station connects with Urumqi (about 5 hours)
• By Road: Self-driving from Urumqi via Duku Highway offers spectacular scenery

Within the valley, self-driving or private car rental is highly recommended due to the wide distribution of attractions.

Local Cuisine and Specialties

Famous local products and food include:

• Aksu Ice-Sugar Heart Apple (阿克苏冰糖心苹果)
• Walnuts, dates, grapes, and cotton products
• Hand-pulled lamb, roasted whole lamb, and spicy chicken dishes
• Naan bread baked in clay ovens
• Local yogurt tea and milk-based desserts

Suggested Travel Routes

3-Day Classic Route:
Day 1: Aksu City – Dolang River Scenic Belt
Day 2: Dolan Tribe – Shayan Poplar Forest
Day 3: Wensu Grand Canyon – Departure

5-Day Deep Route:
Includes Tomur Peak National Forest Park, Subashi Ruins, and extended desert forest exploration.

Travel FAQs (Aksu River Valley)

1. Is Aksu River the same as Tarim River?

No. The Aksu River is one of the main headwaters of the Tarim River and contributes the largest water volume among its tributaries.

2. Will visitors experience altitude sickness?

No. Most of the valley lies at 1000–1500m, which is safe for most travelers. Only high mountain areas like Tomur Peak require caution.

3. How many days are recommended?

3 days for highlights, 5 days for a deeper exploration of canyon, desert, and forest landscapes.

4. Is it suitable for family travel?

Yes. The region has stable transportation, safe environment, and gentle terrain in most scenic areas.

5. When is the best time to see golden poplar forests?

From mid-October to early November, when the Shayan Poplar Forest (沙雁洲胡杨林) turns fully golden.