Steppe Stone Statues Kazakh Culture Park is located in Zhaosu County, Yili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang, in the core area of the Zhaosu Steppe. It is a national 4A-level scenic area. The park covers approximately 2,000 mu, focusing on displaying the historical culture and folk customs of the Kazakh ethnic group, integrating Steppe stone statue culture, nomadic life experiences, and traditional handicraft exhibitions. It is the only comprehensive cultural park in Xinjiang themed around Kazakh culture.
The park features traditional Kazakh yurt clusters, a Steppe Stone Statues Exhibition Hall, a Folk Culture Museum, and a horse racing track. The exhibition hall displays over 30 ancient Steppe stone statues discovered in Xinjiang, while the museum houses more than 2,000 Kazakh cultural relics. Over 70% of the park remains as pristine grassland, preserving natural landscapes and serving as a key venue for experiencing Kazakh nomadic culture.
History and Culture
Steppe stone statue culture is a vital part of Eurasian nomadic civilization. Zhaosu County, known as the "Hometown of Steppe Stone Statues," has over 40 identified stone statue sites. Carved during the Sui and Tang dynasties, these statues served as tombstones for ancient nomads like the Turks, depicting warriors in armor with weapons and, in some cases, animal motifs—reflecting their religious beliefs and social life.
The Kazakhs, one of Xinjiang’s primary nomadic groups, have a rich heritage. The park showcases their migration history, nomadic lifestyle, traditional attire, music, dance, and cuisine. For example, "Aken Ballad Singing," a traditional Kazakh art form listed as a national intangible cultural heritage, is performed regularly here. Live demonstrations of yurt construction and horse tackle craftsmanship further preserve their ancient traditions.
Main Attractions
Steppe Stone Statues Exhibition Hall
The hall displays over 30 Steppe stone statues from various periods, including a replica of the renowned "Xiaohongnahai Stone Statue." The original (6th–7th century CE), 2.3m tall and 0.8m wide, depicts warrior facial features, armor details, and animal carvings—critical for studying ancient Turkic culture. Exhibits use graphic panels, relic displays, and multimedia to explain their historical and cultural context.
Kazakh Folk Culture Museum
Housing over 2,000 artifacts—traditional costumes, saddles, carpets, and musical instruments—the museum highlights craftsmanship like "Kurumchek" (yurt roof decorations) and "Shekmate" (embroidered wall hangings). A life-sized replica yurt recreates nomadic daily life.
Horse Racing Track and Kokpar (Goat-Tossing) Performance Area
Spanning 200 mu, the track hosts traditional sports like horse racing, kokpar, and "Kyz kuu" (Girl’s Chase). Weekly performances (Sat, Sun, holidays) feature kokpar, where riders compete to toss a goat carcass into a target, embodying nomadic bravery and teamwork.
Yurt Experience Zone
With 50 traditional yurts furnished for nomadic life, visitors can stay overnight and try activities like milking, making kumis (horse milk wine), and felt rolling. Evening events include grassland barbecues and bonfire song-and-dance performances.
Food
Hand-Pulled Mutton
Made with premium Zhaosu Steppe mutton, large chunks are boiled and served with salt or garlic paste. Tender and flavorful, this traditional dish averages 500g per serving, embodying Kazakh hospitality.
Kumis (Horse Milk Wine)
A fermented beverage (3–5% alcohol) with a tangy, slightly astringent taste, kumis aids digestion and is a summer staple. The park produces about 200 liters daily.
Baursak
Fried dough pastries made from flour, milk, and sheep oil, shaped like diamonds or circles. Crispy outside and soft inside, they weigh 200g per portion (¥15) and pair well with milk tea.
Naryn
Shredded boiled mutton on chewy noodles, mixed with broth and onions. A festive dish, it serves 400g per portion.
Tickets
High season (May–Oct): ¥80/person; Low season (Nov–Apr): ¥40/person. Prices are subject to the scenic area’s actual rates.
Opening Hours
High season: 08:30–20:30; Low season: 10:00–18:00. Extended to 21:00 during holidays and summer.
Tour Route
Recommended itinerary: Main Entrance → Steppe Stone Statues Exhibition Hall (1h) → Kazakh Folk Culture Museum (1.5h) → Horse Racing Track (2h) → Yurt Experience Zone (lunch & activities: milking, felt rolling, 2h) → Grassland Barbecue → Bonfire Party (1.5h).
Transportation
- By car: 120 km from Yining City via G577 (2.5h), then 15 km northwest via S237.
- By bus: Hourly buses from Yining Bus Station to Zhaosu County (¥35, 08:00–18:00), then a scenic area shuttle (¥10, 20min, departs 09:00, 11:00).
- Tourist Special Line: A special tourist bus route from Yining to the scenic area operates during summer (June - August), departing daily at 08:30 from the Yining City Tourism Distribution Center. The round - trip fare is 80 yuan, which includes the scenic area entrance ticket.
Must-See Attractions
- Steppe Stone Statues Exhibition Hall: Showcases 30+ statues (average height 2m, 500-year historical span).
- Kokpar Performances: 6 weekly shows (90min each) with 20+ riders.
- Yurt Experience Zone: 5m-diameter yurts accommodate 6–8 people, offering hands-on nomadic activities.
Tour Tips
- Summer: Bring SPF30+ sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and a light jacket (nighttime <10°C).
- Horseback riding: Wear long clothing, follow instructors, and rent gear (¥50/set if needed).
- Photography: Ask permission before shooting cultural performances.
- Kumis: Start with small servings and avoid drinking on an empty stomach.
Precautions
- Protect grassland ecosystems: No plant picking or vegetation damage.
- Stay in designated viewing areas during sports events; keep away from horses.
- No open fires in yurts; use designated barbecue zones and know fire safety locations.
- Respect Kazakh customs and avoid sensitive topics in yurts.
- Winter closures: Confirm facility availability in advance.