Tucked away in the remote landscapes of northern Xinjiang, Wu Cai Tan, or Rainbow Beach, is a geological marvel that captivates visitors with its vibrant, multicolored hills and otherworldly scenery. Located near Burqin County in the Altay Prefecture, this stunning Yardang landform, shaped by centuries of wind and water erosion, is a highlight of Xinjiang’s natural wonders. Often visited en route to the famous Kanas Lake, Wu Cai Tan offers a unique blend of surreal beauty and serene isolation, making it a must-see for adventurers and photographers exploring China’s northwest. Here’s your comprehensive guide to planning a trip to Wu Cai Tan.
A Travel Guide to Wu Cai Tan (Rainbow Beach)
Why Visit Wu Cai Tan?
Wu Cai Tan, which translates to “Five-Colored Beach,” is a striking example of a Yardang landform, characterized by rainbow-like hills and peculiar rock formations sculpted by natural forces. The vibrant hues of red, yellow, green, and blue, created by mineral deposits and erosion, shimmer under the sunlight, offering breathtaking views that feel like stepping onto another planet. Separated by the Irtysh River, the north and south banks of Wu Cai Tan present distinct perspectives, with the south bank showcasing dramatic cliffs and the north offering gentler slopes. Its proximity to Kanas Lake and other northern Xinjiang attractions makes it an ideal stop on a broader regional adventure, perfect for those seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences.
How to Get There
Wu Cai Tan is located in Burqin County, approximately 24 kilometers from Burqin town, in Xinjiang’s Altay Prefecture. Reaching it requires travel to northern Xinjiang, with Urumqi as the primary gateway. Here’s how to get there:
To Urumqi: By Air: Fly to Urumqi Diwopu International Airport (URC), which connects to major Chinese cities like Beijing (4 hours, ~¥800–1500), Shanghai (5 hours, ~¥1000–2000), or Chengdu (3.5 hours, ~¥700–1200). International flights are available from Central Asian cities like Almaty or Bishkek. By Train: High-speed trains from Lanzhou (12–14 hours, ~¥400–600) or Xining (10–12 hours, ~¥350–550) arrive at Urumqi Railway Station. Regular trains are slower but cheaper.
From Urumqi to Burqin: By Air: Take a domestic flight from Urumqi to Burqin Kanas Airport (1 hour, ~¥500–1000). Flights operate seasonally, with more options from June to September. By Road: Drive or take a long-distance bus from Urumqi to Burqin (620 km, ~9–11 hours). Buses cost ~¥150–200, departing from Urumqi’s North Suburb Bus Station. Self-driving via the G216 Highway is scenic but requires preparation for long stretches with limited services.
From Burqin to Wu Cai Tan: Wu Cai Tan is a 30-minute drive (24 km) from Burqin town. Taxis (~¥50–80) or private drivers are the easiest options, as public transport is limited. Many tours to Kanas Lake include Wu Cai Tan as a stop, with shuttle buses from Burqin or Jiadengyu (the gateway to Kanas).
Tip: Join a guided tour from Urumqi or Burqin for convenience, especially if combining Wu Cai Tan with Kanas Lake or Hemu Village. Tours typically cost ¥800–1500 per person for 3–5 days, including transport and guides.
Best Time to Visit
June to September: The ideal time to visit Wu Cai Tan is during summer and early autumn, when temperatures are mild (15–25°C during the day) and the landscape is at its most vibrant. June to August offers clear skies, perfect for photography, while September brings cooler weather and fewer crowds.
Avoid Winter (December–February): Harsh winters (down to -20°C) make access difficult, and snow may dull the colors of the hills.
Photography Tip: Visit at sunrise or sunset for the best lighting, when the colors of the hills are most vivid against the golden or pink sky.
Weather Note: Northern Xinjiang has large temperature swings between day and night (e.g., 20°C daytime, 5°C at night in summer). Bring layers, including a jacket, even in summer.
Tickets and Opening Hours
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM–8:00 PM daily, though hours may vary slightly in off-season (check with local operators).
Ticket Price: ¥50–70 for general admission, including access to viewing platforms and walkways. Some tours may bundle the ticket with Kanas Lake entry (¥200–300 for combined sites).
Booking: Tickets are available on-site or through tour operators. During peak season (July–August), book tours in advance via platforms like China Discovery or Xinjiang Travel to secure spots.
What to See and Do
Wu Cai Tan is compact but packed with visual splendor. Here’s how to make the most of your visit:
Explore the Rainbow Hills: Walk along designated boardwalks and viewing platforms to admire the multicolored hills, formed by wind and water erosion over millennia. The south bank offers dramatic, steep cliffs, while the north bank features gentler slopes and wider views across the Irtysh River.
Photography: The vibrant colors and unique rock formations make Wu Cai Tan a paradise for photographers. Use a polarizing filter to enhance the hues, and avoid midday when harsh sunlight can wash out colors.
Irtysh River Views: The Irtysh River, one of the few rivers in China flowing toward the Arctic Ocean, adds a serene contrast to the rugged hills. Take time to enjoy the reflections of the landscape in the calm waters, especially at dusk.
Combine with Nearby Attractions: Kanas Lake (100 km away): A fairy-tale alpine lake surrounded by forests and mountains, known as “Oriental Switzerland.” It’s a 2-hour drive from Wu Cai Tan and a must-visit. Hemu Village (120 km away): A picturesque Tuva and Kazakh village with wooden cabins and stunning autumn foliage, ideal for hiking and cultural experiences. Karamay Ghost City (300 km away): A surreal Yardang landscape with wind-carved rock formations, often paired with Wu Cai Tan on longer tours.
Hiking and Exploration: While Wu Cai Tan itself has limited hiking trails due to conservation efforts, nearby areas like Kanas offer comfortable hikes for all levels. Ask your guide about short trails around Burqin for more outdoor adventure.
Where to Eat
On-Site: Wu Cai Tan has basic kiosks selling snacks like naan, kebabs, and bottled drinks (~¥10–20). Options are limited, so bring your own snacks or a packed lunch for a picnic.
In Burqin: The town offers Uyghur and Kazakh restaurants serving local specialties like lamb pilaf (shouzhuafan), hand-pulled noodles (laghman), and roasted mutton (~¥20–50 per dish). Try Burqin Night Market for street food, including samsa (lamb-stuffed pastries) and fresh watermelon.
Tip: Xinjiang portions are generous, so order conservatively to avoid waste. Vegetarians should confirm dishes are meat-free, as mutton is a staple.
Where to Stay
Wu Cai Tan is typically a day trip, with most visitors staying in Burqin or Kanas. Options include:
Burqin Town (24 km away): Burqin Kanas Hotel (3-star): Comfortable rooms with modern amenities, ~¥200–400/night. Local Guesthouses: Budget-friendly at ~¥100–200/night, often with basic facilities. Book via Ctrip or Trip.com.
Kanas Scenic Area (100 km away): Kanas Lake Hotel: A mid-range option near the lake, ~¥300–600/night, ideal for combining with Wu Cai Tan. Yurts: Traditional Kazakh yurts offer a cultural experience (~¥150–300/night), available in Jiadengyu or near Kanas.
Urumqi (620 km away): For those starting or ending their trip, Hilton Urumqi (5-star, ~¥600–1000/night) or Ibis Urumqi (budget, ~¥150–250/night) are reliable choices.
Note: Many hotels in Xinjiang may not accept foreigners due to registration rules. Confirm with booking platforms or tour operators in advance.
Tips for a Great Visit
Dress for the Weather: Wear sturdy shoes for uneven terrain, and bring layers for chilly evenings. A hat and sunscreen are essential for summer sun.
Respect the Environment: Stick to designated paths to preserve the fragile Yardang landscape. Avoid touching or climbing on the formations.
Security Checks: Xinjiang has frequent ID checks, especially in tourist areas. Carry your passport and visa at all times, and avoid photographing security personnel.
Connectivity: Mobile signals may be weak at Wu Cai Tan. Download offline maps (e.g., Maps.me) and carry a power bank.
Cultural Sensitivity: Respect local Uyghur and Kazakh customs, such as dressing modestly and asking permission before photographing people.
Plan a Multi-Day Itinerary: Combine Wu Cai Tan with Kanas Lake, Hemu Village, and Karamay Ghost City for a 5–7 day northern Xinjiang tour. The Duku Highway (open July–September) is a scenic route to explore en route.
Final Thoughts
Wu Cai Tan (Rainbow Beach) is a hidden gem in Xinjiang’s vast and diverse landscape, offering a surreal escape into nature’s artistry. Its vibrant hills, shaped by time and the elements, create a visual spectacle that lingers in the memory long after your visit. Whether you’re chasing stunning photographs or seeking a moment of tranquility in China’s wild northwest, Wu Cai Tan delivers an unforgettable experience. Pair it with the region’s other wonders, embrace the journey, and let Xinjiang’s raw beauty captivate your senses.
Happy travels!
