Things To Do
in Shihezi
Shihezi is a well-planned city located in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region of China. It was established in the 1950s as a military settlement and has since developed into a thriving industrial city. The city is known for its agricultural production, particularly cotton and grain, supported by a network of irrigation systems.
Shihezi also boasts modern infrastructure, including well-maintained roads and public facilities.
- "Ni hao" - Hello
- "Xie xie" - Thank you
- "Zao an" - Good morning
- "Zai jian" - Goodbye
- "Shen me" - What?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Tianshan Mountain Range. Enjoy a hiking trail that offers breathtaking views and fresh mountain air.
Visit the Xiangshan Scenic Area to relax by the lakes and enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by nature. Capture photos of the beautiful landscapes and serene environment.
Wind down by enjoying a local dinner at a popular restaurant. Try Shihezi's delicious regional dishes and soak in the evening atmosphere.
Visit the Shihezi Museum to learn about the city's rich history and cultural significance. The exhibits will guide you through ancient artifacts and local traditions.
Have lunch at a nearby noodle shop and then explore the nearby local market. Engage with vendors and experience everyday life in Shihezi.
End your day by attending a local cultural performance or festival if available. Enjoy the vibrant music and dance that reflect the area's heritage.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich agricultural resources and a strong agricultural economy due to fertile land.
- Strategic location in Xinjiang, providing access to Central Asia and serving as a trade hub.
- Diverse cultural heritage with a mix of ethnic groups, offering a unique social experience.
- Growing infrastructure with development in transportation and facilities.
- Pleasant climate with distinct seasons, especially favorable for agriculture.
- Geographical isolation can limit access to major urban centers and services.
- Relatively underdeveloped industrial sector compared to other regions in China.
- Limited international exposure may affect business opportunities and tourism.
- Environmental challenges, such as water scarcity and pollution, especially in industrial areas.
- Social issues pertaining to ethnic diversity and regional governance may lead to tensions.
Best Activities in Shihezi
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning natural beauty of the Dushanzi Grand Canyon, featuring unique rock formations and picturesque landscapes for hiking and photography.
Enjoy outdoor activities such as walking, picnicking, and taking in the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and lake at Hong Shan Park.
Partake in boating, fishing, or simply relaxing by the peaceful waters of Shihu Lake, surrounded by lush greenery and nature.
Tours
Uncover the best of Shihezi with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Shihezi
Visit one of these nice places.
A popular park with beautiful scenic views and photo opportunities of Shihezi city.
Offers stunning natural views and photo opportunities of the Tianshan Mountains and Tianchi Lake.
Food in Shihezi
Shihezi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular Uyghur dish featuring hand-pulled noodles stir-fried with meat, vegetables, and rich spices. Try it at Uyghur restaurants like Zhayirim or Karamay Restaurant.
Must-Try!
A Xinjiang specialty consisting of tender chicken, potatoes, and spices stewed in a large plate. This dish can be savored at Bibimbap House.
Indulge in a variety of grilled skewers including lamb, chicken, and vegetables at the local street food stalls near South Gate Square.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Shihezi better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the vibrant Shihezi Night Market to sample an array of street foods such as samsa (savory pastries), roasted lamb skewers, and naan bread. The market is teeming with local flavors and is a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Shihezi, it's important to show respect to elders by using proper titles and addressing them politely. It's also customary to defer to their opinions and decisions, particularly in public settings.
When visiting someone's home or attending social gatherings, it's customary to show appreciation for the hospitality extended to you. It's polite to bring a small gift, such as fruit or pastries, as a token of gratitude.
During meals, it's important to observe proper dining etiquette, such as not sticking chopsticks upright in a bowl, not tapping the bowl with chopsticks, and not wasting food. Additionally, it's polite to wait for the host to begin eating before starting your meal.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Shihezi with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Shihezi
Ensure a smooth experience
In Shihezi, China, tipping is not a common practice. It is generally not expected or required to tip in restaurants, hotels, or for other services.
Payment in Shihezi, China is predominantly done through cash or mobile payment methods such as Alipay and WeChat Pay. Credit card acceptance may not be as common, especially in smaller establishments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Shihezi.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Shihezi with pleasant temperatures and blooming flowers. Enjoy various outdoor activities and local festivals.
Hot and humid weather, but a great time to experience the Nanshan Grassland with lush greenery and traditional nomadic cultural events.
Cool and comfortable weather, perfect for exploring the natural scenery, hiking, and enjoying the autumn colors.
Cold and dry, but a good time to experience winter sports and festivals, and to enjoy the unique beauty of snow-covered landscapes.
Shihezi at Night
Hiking in Shihezi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A famous mountain range nearby offering a variety of hiking trails with stunning views, rich biodiversity, and opportunities for both novice and experienced hikers.
A local park featuring scenic walking paths and trails, perfect for light hiking and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
Located near Shihezi, this area offers expansive hiking opportunities in the desert landscapes and unique geological formations.
A beautiful area with picturesque lake views and surrounding mountains, ideal for hiking and enjoying nature.
Experience the vast open plains and rolling hills, with various trails that offer a unique hiking experience within the steppe ecosystem.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Shihezi through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Shihezi by plane.
The largest airport serving Ürümqi, the capital of Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, located about 200 kilometers from Shihezi.
An airport located in Karamay, Xinjiang, approximately 150 kilometers from Shihezi.
Located near the city of Alar, this airport is around 250 kilometers away from Shihezi and serves the Tarim Basin region.
Situated in Bayingol, this airport is around 300 kilometers from Shihezi and serves flights within Xinjiang.
This airport is located in Aksu, Xinjiang, approximately 380 kilometers from Shihezi, catering to regional flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The dominant ethnic group in Shihezi, comprising the majority of the population.
An ethnic minority group, primarily residing in Xinjiang, including Shihezi.
Another ethnic minority group, known for their Islamic faith and cultural practices.
A small ethnic group primarily found in certain regions of Xinjiang.
A minority group with a small presence in Shihezi, historically linked to Mongolia.
The Soul of Shihezi
Discover the essence of Shihezi through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is widely popular in Shihezi, with many local courts and teams participating in competitions.
Soccer is a favorite sport in Shihezi, with a strong youth following and organized leagues.
Table tennis is a common pastime among residents, with numerous clubs and public tables available for play.
Badminton enjoys popularity in Shihezi, with recreational and competitive play available across the city.
Running is a popular activity in Shihezi, with many parks and tracks for fitness enthusiasts and competitive events.
Martial arts, including traditional Chinese styles, are practiced by many residents, fostering both fitness and cultural appreciation.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shihezi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While beef and lamb are predominant in many local dishes, vegetarian and vegan travelers can find options at restaurants like Yuan Xiang Zhai, which offers a diverse selection of meat-free dishes.
Visitors requiring gluten-free options should communicate their dietary needs clearly when dining out. Some local eateries are accommodating and can customize certain dishes to be gluten-free upon request.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Shihezi with these cultural adventures.
