Hongguangshan Tourist Attraction is located near Kazwan in the north of Urumqi, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. It is a national 4A-level ecological and cultural tourist park. With greening as the foundation, ecology as the guide, tourism as the support, and Buddhist culture as the soul, the scenic area integrates mountains, waters, forests, stones, and caves. It has distinct seasons and a pleasant climate, making it an ideal destination for leisure and vacation. Covering an area of 15,000 mu, the scenic area has built more than 24 kilometers of scenic roads, 132 kilometers of water supply pipe networks, planted 410,000 trees of over 50 varieties, and the greening area reaches 8,100 mu.
History and Culture
Named after its red soil, Hongguangshan was originally a barren mountain. In 2002, Urumqi called on all sectors of society to green and renovate the barren mountains around the city. Xinjiang Junfa Industrial Investment (Group) Co., Ltd. has successively invested more than 1 billion yuan. After 16 years of construction, it has been transformed into a large-scale ecological and cultural tourist park. In 2011, it was approved as a national 4A-level tourist attraction, becoming the "green lung" that regulates the air quality of Urumqi.
Main Attractions
Grand Buddha Temple
The Grand Buddha Temple complex was built in 2002 and completed in 2010. It is the largest Han Buddhist temple in Northwest China. On February 19, 2021, it was approved as an official Buddhist activity site and opened to the public on July 24. With a total land area of 14,795 square meters and a construction area of 2,506.34 square meters, it includes six main halls such as the Main Buddha Hall, Earth Treasury Hall, Samantabhadra Hall, Manjushri Hall, Avalokitesvara Hall, and Seven Treasure Buddha Hall, as well as the Bell Tower, Drum Tower, and two incense rooms. The architectural style is consistent with that of Han Buddhist temples in inland areas.
Golden Buddha Statue of Sakyamuni
The Buddha statue is 40.8 meters high and 14 meters in diameter, facing west. The Buddha's hand is 5.7 meters high, and the Buddha's ear is 2.6 meters high, visible from dozens of kilometers away. Construction began on July 19, 2002, and was completed in two years. It was sculpted from 98 tons of brass and serves as the iconic symbol of the temple.
King Kong Gate
The King Kong Gate is divided into four layers. The bottom layer features the Dragon Kings of the Four Seas, the second layer has powerful King Kong warriors, flying apsaras scattering flowers, and auspicious clouds swirling on both sides. At the top, there are two deer lying opposite each other with a golden Dharma wheel in the middle. The inner dome has murals of flying apsaras with graceful postures, symbolizing the splendid traditional Chinese folk art.
Hall of Five Hundred Arhats
The arhats in the hall are all carved from camphor wood, each with a unique posture, creating a spectacular atmosphere. In front of the hall, you can request a natal Thangka to pray for peace.
Eco-Landscape Forest
A large number of trees are planted in the scenic area, forming a dense eco-landscape forest with fresh air, making it a great place to get close to nature.
Statue Group of Journey to the West Mythology
The statue group themed on Journey to the West vividly presents mythological figures and scenes, full of cultural charm and fun.
Blue Light Lake
Covering an area of 70,000 square meters, the lake has clear water and beautiful surrounding scenery, making it a highlight of the scenic area.
Grape Corridor
There are three one-kilometer grape corridors in the scenic area. Strolling through them, you can enjoy the green vines and abundant fruits while feeling the gentle coolness.
Cuisine
Roasted Lamb Kebabs
A specialty of Xinjiang, made from fresh lamb marinated in special seasonings and grilled over charcoal, resulting in a crispy exterior and tender interior with a rich aroma.
Hand-Grabbed Rice
Cooked with rice, lamb, carrots, onions, and other ingredients, the rice is separate and distinct, the lamb is tender, and the vegetables add a rich flavor.
Roasted Nang
A traditional Xinjiang pastry made from flour, sprinkled with sesame seeds and other seasonings, and baked in a nang oven. It has a crispy crust and soft interior and can be stored for a long time.
Big Plate Chicken
The chicken is tender, the potatoes are soft and waxy, and paired with wide noodles, it is spicy and delicious, representing one of the most famous dishes in Xinjiang.
Tickets
The outer area of the scenic spot is free, while the core area (Grand Buddha Temple) requires a ticket of 40 yuan. Prices are subject to change according to the scenic area's regulations.
You can search for the official WeChat public account "红光山旅游景区" for the latest updates. As of May 27, 2025, online ticket purchasing is not available on the official account.
Opening Hours
Core Scenic Area: 10:00 - 19:00; Outer Area: 08:30 - 23:00. Hours are subject to change according to the scenic area's regulations.
Tour Routes
Route A (Leisure Sightseeing & Cultural Experience): South Gate → Mountain Gate → Golden Water Bridge → Asia-Europe Art Gallery → Hongguangshan Jade Museum → Western Buddha → Main Buddha Hall → Hall of Five Hundred Arhats → Jiuqu Royal River Landscape Waterfall → Grape Corridor (rest stop). The whole journey is 2 kilometers, taking about 120 minutes. You can enjoy vegetarian lunch at the Vegetarian Restaurant at noon.
Route B (Hiking & Fitness): South Gate → Mountain Gate → Blue Light Lake → Dome Sports Experience Hall → Capital Mansion → Behind the Hall of Five Hundred Arhats → Grape Corridor Ticket Office or Leisure Square (rest stop). The whole journey is 8.5 kilometers, taking 150 - 180 minutes. You can dine at the Vegetarian Restaurant at noon.
Transportation
- By Bus: Take Bus No. Nuanxin 1, 78, 532, or BRT Line 6 and get off at Hongguangshan Station.
- By Self-Driving: Navigate to the scenic area. It is adjacent to the Urumqi Convention and Exhibition Center, with two parking lots of 4,000 square meters and 15,000 square meters respectively.
Must-See Attractions
- Grand Buddha Temple: The largest Han Buddhist temple in Northwest China, with unique architectural style and profound Buddhist cultural heritage.
- Golden Buddha Statue of Sakyamuni: A giant 40.8-meter-tall Buddha statue with a solemn appearance, serving as the iconic landmark of the scenic area.
- Blue Light Lake: A 70,000-square-meter lake with clear water and beautiful surroundings, perfect for leisurely walks and photography.
Tour Tips
- Recommended visiting time: 2 - 3 hours for a general tour, 3 - 4 hours for a more in-depth experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the scenic area.
- Bring enough water and snacks to keep energized.
Precautions
- Abide by the regulations of the scenic area and do not climb the Buddha statues or enter restricted areas.
- Maintain silence and respect religious beliefs and customs in religious sites such as the Grand Buddha Temple.
- Protect the environment and do not litter.
- Take sun protection measures such as sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses during summer due to strong sunlight.