China’s ski industry has seen explosive growth in recent years, and Xinjiang has quickly emerged as one of its brightest new stars. With long seasons, abundant snowfall, and stunning alpine scenery, the region stands out. Among its resorts, Hemu is quickly becoming a standout. Already a well-known tourist hotspot, Hemu offers far better infrastructure and amenities compared to newer areas like Keketuohai.
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About Me
Hi there! I’m Lorraine, a ski & snowboard instructor who works in Japan in winter and China in summer. Over the years I’ve guided many international skiers through China’s major resorts. Here’s a bit about my background:
- Vice Principal, Karoo Ice & Snow World Ski School, Shenzhen
- CSIA Level 3 Alpine Ski Instructor (Canada)
- CASI Level 2 Snowboard Instructor (Canada)
- NZSIA Free Ski Level 1 (New Zealand)
- NZSIA Children’s Instruction Certificate
- Avalanche Rescue Level 1 (Canada)
- Level 5 National Ski Instructor (China)
- Examiner for China’s Public Ski Technique Certifications
- Certified Boot Fitter (ski & snowboard)
Where Do We Teach/Guide?
My team and I offer ski/snowboard lessons in Mandarin, English, and Cantonese at locations including:
- China: Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Hong Kong, Chongli, Northeast China, Xinjiang, Chengdu
- Japan: Nagano (Hakuba, Karuizawa, Nozawa, Yuzawa), Niigata (Naeba), Hokkaido (Niseko, Rusutsu, Tokachi, Furano, Hoshino Resorts, Asahikawa)
- Overseas: Canada and Europe
If you’re looking for quality coaching, feel free to reach out! Even if we’re unavailable, we can connect you with trusted instructors.
Today, I want to shine a spotlight on the Hemu Jikepulin International Ski Resort — a destination so remarkable, it’s worth planning an entire trip around.
For international travelers heading to Xinjiang for skiing, those with a bit more time often aim to visit all three of the region’s premier resorts: General Mountain in Altay, Hemu, and Keketuohai.
If you’ve already experienced General Mountain and found yourself wanting more — craving bigger mountains and untouched backcountry powder — then Hemu is your next stop. It’s not only one of Asia’s top-tier ski destinations, but also a stunning winter wonderland that feels straight out of a fairy tale. In China, it’s known as “God’s private land” — and once you see it for yourself, you’ll understand why.
Book Your Xinjiang Ski/Snowboarding Journey Now
Everything about Xinjiang Hemu Jikepulingle Ski Resort
Hemu Jike Pulrin boasts a total of 108 ski slopes, with 103 currently open—making it the largest ski resort in Asia. But its appeal extends far beyond its size. From the Tajik-style village at the mountain’s base to the breathtaking summit of Yunxiao Peak, it delivers a seamless experience of “Ultimate Skiing and Unique Travel Experience.” Visitors are consistently wowed by the stunning scenery and exceptional snow quality.
Hemu Ski Resorts: Slopes Overview
Official Name: Hemu Jike Pulrin International Ski Resort
- Highest Elevation: 1,466 meters
- Vertical Drop: 1,466 meters
- Snow Season: November to March, open daily from 10:30 am to 5:30 pm
- Number of Slopes: 108, including 12 that meet FIS international competition standards
- Slope Length: The longest slope is 11.176 km, total ski slope length is 108 km; ski area covers 2.77 square kilometers; off-piste terrain exceeds 35 km; 8 slopes have a vertical of over 1,000 meters
- Cable Car: 3 magic carpets, 1 chairlift, 7 gondolas
What makes Hemu unique is that, unlike the rocky terrain found throughout Keketuhai, Hemu’s off-piste areas are free of stones. This means no worries about hitting rocks or scratching your skis or snowboard, providing a safer and more enjoyable off-piste experience.
Most visitors come for the superb powder snow. After a fresh snowfall, the slopes are covered in deep, untouched powder—perfect for skiing and snowboarding. However, since many slopes are quite gentle, snowboarding beginner may find it very difficult if they can’t ride a straight line yet. However, due to its stunning scenery, skiers and snowboarders of all levels are sure to have a fantastic time at Hemu!
Honestly, while Hemu’s powder snow is regarded as top-tier within China’s skiing community, I’ve always been spoiled by Hokkaido’s legendary powder…
Places like Niseko, Rusutsu, and Kiroro receive significantly more snowfall than Hemu. Furano, Tomamu and Asahikawa may not have that much snow, but their snow quality is exceptional!
Xinjiang offers some of the best powder snow—mostly because many Chinese travelers can’t go abroad, so they stick to domestic destinations. Traditional Chinese resorts like those in Northeast China or Chongli don’t quite match Xinjiang’s snow quality, which fuels some hype… But combining sightseeing and scenery makes a trip worthwhile for those seeking a different kind of winter experience.
Find Your Perfect Terrain in Hemu
No matter your skill level, I’ll help you discover the slopes that are right for you. Let’s find your zone!
First-Timer? Start Here.
If you’re new to skiing or snowboarding, head straight to the Western Zone at the Base Center (雪具大廳西區）. The magic carpet area is the perfect, stress-free place to find your snow legs and build confidence from your very first run.
Ready to Level Up? (Beginners & Intermediates)
Take the gondola to Feiyun Terrace (飛雲台). From there, cruise down either Qinggeli (青格里道) or YeKaXia (野卡峽道). These runs offer gentle, scenic slopes that are ideal for honing your skills while surrounded by stunning mountain views.
For the Thrill-Seekers (Advanced/Experts)
Your playground is the Eastern Zone. Ride the cable car to Yunzhao Peak (雲霄峰) for steep, challenging trails and breathtaking 360-degree vistas. Heads up: This area is serious business, with many off-piste slopes exceeding 30 degrees. It’s an adrenaline rush for experts, but could be intimidating if you’re not fully prepared.
Don’t-Miss Photo Op: The Sunset Run
No matter your skill level, make time for the famous Keketao Trail (可可托海道). Trust me, skiing this intermediate trail from the summit just 15 minutes before sunset is pure magic. The changing light paints the snow and peaks in unforgettable colors. Pro tip: Check the sunset time in advance so you don’t miss it!
Chasing Hemu’s Legendary Powder
Let’s be real: the deep, dry powder is what makes Hemu legendary.
Powder for Beginners: Dip your toes into off-piste skiing at Jingquan Valley (淨泉谷). Its gentle, manageable terrain lets you safely experience the incredible feeling of floating on fresh snow.
Powder for Experts: For the ultimate challenge, head from the summit into Lingyun Valley (凌雲谷) and Rainbow Valley (彩虹谷). These zones are steep, wide, and will deliver the intense, backcountry powder experience you’re chasing.
⚠️ Critical Safety Notice: Off-Piste & Avalanche Risk
Please Read This Carefully.
Hemu is a true wild snow paradise, but that freedom comes with very real avalanche risks.
- Know the Zones: The trail map clearly marks avalanche hazard areas. Pay close attention to them.
- Gear is Mandatory: Since 2023, anyone venturing out-of-bounds must carry an avalanche safety trio: transceiver, probe, and shovel.
- My Strong Recommendation: Bring your own gear. Local rental options are limited, often overpriced, and the quality can be unreliable. Your safety is not the place to compromise.
Gear Tips
- Renting at the Resort? Use our snowboard size calculator and ski length calculator to find your perfect fit before you go. This ensures you get the right equipment and avoids the shop giving you something unsuitable.
- Bringing Your Own Gears? Ship your skis or snowboard at least two weeks early to make sure they arrive when you do.
Sightseeing Tips
While the skiing is world-class, don’t miss the chance to explore Hemu itself—it’s a breathtaking winter wonderland straight out of a postcard.
- Hemu Village (禾木村): Personally, I find Hemu Village most magical right after a fresh snowfall. With a blanket of pristine powder and woodsmoke curling from the log cabins, the whole scene is incredibly serene and romantic—it feels like stepping into a fairy tale.
- Hemu Bridge (禾木橋): For the best photos, head to Hemu Bridge around sunrise. The river valley is often filled with a low-hanging mist, and when the morning light hits, the atmosphere is absolutely stunning.
- Viewing Platform (觀景台）via Horse-Drawn Sleigh: A horse-drawn sleigh ride up to the viewing platform is a must for a classic, picture-perfect view over the snow-covered village. It’s a fantastic experience!
- Yuanjiang Bridge 援疆吊橋: For a more rustic and photogenic spot than the main bridge, seek out the Yuanjiang Bridge. It’s my personal, hidden-gem recommendation for truly unique photos.
*Heads-up: Try to avoid the viewing platform at sunrise—it is brutally cold! I could feel the chill coming up right through the soles of my boots, and these are the same ones that kept me warm in Japan and Northeast China!*
Hemu Winter Transportation Tips
Now, let’s talk about how to get to Hemu and what you need to know for the trip.
How to Get to Hemu from Other China Cities
There are two common starting points for a trip to the Hemu Jiapulin Ski Resort:
- Travel from other ski resorts in Northern Xinjiang (like General Mountain or Koktokay).
- Travel directly from other cities in China, straight to Hemu.
Going Directly to Jiapulin: First, fly to Ürümqi, then take a connecting flight to Kanas. Hemu is located within the Kanas scenic area, and an entrance ticket is now required. If you have the “Taihua Card” (泰滑滑）ski pass, it grants you free entry to the scenic area.
The More Common Route: Most skiers first go to General Mountain in Altay (it’s much cheaper and has direct flights from cities like Guangzhou/Beijing, bypassing Ürümqi). After skiing there, they arrange a carpool or private car to Hemu. There are also buses available from General Mountain or Koktokay.
Getting Around In Hemu
There are no ride-hailing apps like DiDi in Hemu. You can ask your hotel or a restaurant to call a car for you, but be aware that drivers often set their own (high) prices.
The main tourist village is very small, located about 6 km from the ski resort. Most accommodations sell tickets for the ski resort shuttle bus.
Ski Resort Shuttle Bus: Departs hourly for 15 RMB per trip.
- From Hemu Village to Ski Resort: 10:30, 11:30, 12:30
- From Ski Resort to Hemu Village: 16:30, 17:30, 18:30
A private car from the village to the resort costs around 100 RMB.
Potential Problems and Solutions
A Critical Warning: Regardless of your chosen route, the road from the Kanas scenic area entrance to Hemu Village is extremely challenging in winter—icy, slippery, and prone to avalanches or closures due to heavy snow. A trip that takes 5 hours in summer can easily take 10 hours in winter.
Avoid Self-driving! Unless you have extensive experience driving on icy/snowy roads in China, it is not advisable. If you must, a 4WD vehicle with snow tires is essential, and you must fill up your gas tank before entering the scenic area, as there are no gas stations inside.
Tips: Heavy snow often blocks mountain access, which can lead to food shortages in Hemu as supplies can’t get in. Small supermarkets can sell out of everything. It’s wise to bring some extra snacks and supplies.
The Best Method: Book your transport and accommodation in advance and maintain communication with them for updates on road conditions.
Is the hassle worth it? The difficult access is precisely why Hemu has retained its pristine, untouched beauty. Once you arrive, you’ll feel the stunning scenery makes it all worthwhile!
Hemu Accommodation Tips
Hemu has always been a popular tourist destination, so accommodations are often in high demand. Be sure to book well in advance! This is especially critical during Chinese holidays like Spring Festival and New Year, when finding a room can be nearly impossible.
Official Hotel is NOT A GREAT OPTION!: The ski resort has an official partner hotel called Hemu Mountain Lodge. Note that even this “official” hotel is not ski-in/ski-out. It’s about 4 km from the slopes, located between the village and the resort. It’s known for being pricey with fairly basic amenities and isn’t the most convenient option.
Village Accommodations: There are many other hotels and guesthouses in Hemu Village itself, which often offer better value for money. The village can be divided into two parts:
- Old Village: Offers great location convenience. You can walk to most restaurants and photo spots. Accommodations are often traditional, characteristic wooden cabins, but don’t expect luxury interiors.
- New Village: Features newer, more modern lodging conditions. However, it’s farther from the central area, lacks the authentic village atmosphere, and you’ll need to rely on cars or hotel shuttles to get around.
Xinjiang Hemu Ski Tours & Travel Concierge Service
Xinjiang is a region of incredible beauty, offering a truly unique skiing experience. However, with limited information available and many variables to consider, planning a trip here can be challenging—even for travelers from mainland China.
To help you enjoy a smooth and worry-free ski trip to Xinjiang, we’ve partnered with trusted local experts to offer a Xinjiang Ski Concierge Service. We’ll handle all the details, so you can focus on experiencing the real Xinjiang.
Talk to us to book your Xinjiang ski instructors, guide, accommodation, and transportation
The Bottom Line
Hemu demands a bit of a journey, but it pays you back with a top-tier ski trip and unreal views.
Feel free to ask any questions below. Ski safe, and see you on the snow!