The Red Hill in Urumqi

Hongshan, also known as Hongshan Park (Red Mountain Park), is located in Shuimogou District in the heart of Urumqi. It is a National 4A Tourist Attraction and one of the city's most recognizable landmarks.

The mountain is composed mainly of reddish-brown conglomerate and sandstone. From a distance, its elongated form resembles a giant red dragon lying across the city, which is how it acquired the name “Hongshan,” meaning “Red Mountain.” The mountain itself is not particularly high, with a relative elevation difference of only a little over 100 meters, and its hiking paths are generally gentle and easy to walk.

For local residents, Hongshan is a popular place for everyday recreation, while for visitors, it is one of the best viewpoints for seeing Urumqi from above. The mountain has long been regarded as a symbol of the city. The historic Hongshan Pagoda, built during the Qing Dynasty, stands dramatically on the summit, and its silhouette against the setting sun is celebrated as one of Urumqi's traditional “Eight Old Scenic Views.”

From the summit, visitors can enjoy an expansive panorama of Urumqi. On clear days, the city's skyline can be seen together with the distant snow-capped peaks of Bogda Mountain, creating a distinctive contrast between modern urban architecture and the surrounding Tianshan landscape.

Main Highlights

Hongshan Pagoda

Hongshan Pagoda is the park's central landmark. Built during the reign of the Qianlong Emperor of the Qing Dynasty, it is a six-sided, nine-tier solid brick pagoda that has stood exposed to the elements for more than two centuries on the edge of the Hongshan cliffs.

It is one of the oldest surviving structures in Urumqi and one of the park's best photography locations, particularly around sunset when the evening light illuminates the red mountain and historic pagoda.

Yuantaolou Scenic Pavilion

The Yuantaolou Scenic Pavilion stands near the summit. This three-story pavilion is designed in the architectural style of a Qing Dynasty tower, and climbing to its upper levels provides an approximately 360-degree panorama of central Urumqi.

When visibility is good, the snow-covered peaks of Bogda Mountain can be clearly seen in the distance, making this an excellent viewpoint for combining the city skyline with the Tianshan Mountains.

Lin Zexu Memorial Statue and Anti-Drug Monument

The park contains a memorial statue of Lin Zexu, together with a large bronze anti-drug cauldron. These monuments commemorate Lin Zexu's service and frontier activities in Xinjiang and add an important historical and educational dimension to the park.

Grand Buddha Temple

The Grand Buddha Temple is a Buddhist temple belonging to the Chinese Mahayana tradition. With red walls, mature trees, and a relatively quiet atmosphere, it provides a peaceful contrast to the panoramic viewpoints and recreational areas of the park.

Visitors entering the temple should observe appropriate religious etiquette and maintain a quiet atmosphere inside the main halls.

Lake and Seasonal Scenery

An artificial lake is located within the park, with clear water, surrounding willow trees, and boating opportunities. The abundant vegetation also gives Hongshan different seasonal appearances: flowers and greenery dominate in spring and summer, while the trees take on warm autumn colors later in the year.

At sunset, the reddish mountain slopes become even more vivid under the evening light. As darkness falls, the city lights gradually illuminate below, creating an especially attractive nighttime panorama from the summit.

Practical Information

Admission and Opening Hours

Entry to Hongshan Park is free and does not require a reservation. The Yuantaolou Scenic Pavilion charges a separate admission fee, while the Grand Buddha Temple can be visited free of charge. Sightseeing vehicles, boat rides, and amusement activities are additional paid services.

From April to October, the summer opening hours are 07:00–23:00. From November to March of the following year, the park is open from 08:00 to 21:00.

Allow approximately 2 hours for a standard visit. If you plan to stay for sunset and the nighttime cityscape, allow around 3 hours.

Transportation

Hongshan Park is conveniently accessible from central Urumqi. Take Metro Line 1 to Xinxing Street Station, from which the park can be reached on foot. Multiple city bus routes also stop near Hongshan Park.

Taxis are a convenient option from other parts of the city. Parking facilities are available for visitors arriving by car, although spaces can become limited during peak periods.

Hongshan Park is well suited to a Urumqi city sightseeing itinerary and can easily be combined with the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Museum and the Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar for a full-day exploration of the city's history, culture, architecture, and local atmosphere.

Travel Tips

Hiking and Clothing

The mountain trails are generally gentle and not particularly demanding, but comfortable flat-soled walking shoes are still recommended.

Winds can become noticeably stronger near the summit in the evening. Even during summer, visitors planning to watch the sunset should bring a light jacket.

During the daytime, ultraviolet radiation at the summit can be strong, so remember to use sunscreen and bring sun protection.

Best Time for Photography

The period around sunset is the best time for photography. The red mountain slopes, historic Hongshan Pagoda, Urumqi skyline, and distant snow-capped mountains can all appear in the same frame, producing one of the most distinctive cityscape views in Urumqi.

The transition from sunset to nighttime is also worth experiencing, as the city lights gradually come on beneath the darkening sky.

Temple and Safety Etiquette

Help protect the park's vegetation and do not break branches or damage plants. When visiting the Grand Buddha Temple, respect Buddhist religious customs and remain quiet inside the main halls.

The summit viewpoints can become crowded, particularly around sunset. Take care when taking photographs and never climb over safety railings or barriers.