Xinjiang Ancient Ecological Park

Xinjiang Ancient Ecological Park is situated in the northwestern part of Liyushan Park in Urumqi High-tech Zone. The park boasts China's largest exhibition base for Akhal-Teke horses (commonly known as Ferghana horses), a treasure trove of ancient tree fossils (Jurassic petrified wood), a collection of extraterrestrial stones (meteorites), and a reserve of rare Populus euphratica relics.

Highlights of Xinjiang Ancient Ecological Park

The Ferghana Horse Base

Equestrian Performances

The Ferghana Horse Base is a must-visit treasure of a scenic spot. Currently, the Ferghana Horse Base has more than 400 horses of various kinds, half of which are Ferghana horses. It is the largest comprehensive base in China for Ferghana horse breeding, display, training, performance competitions and equestrian fitness. Here, you can get up close to understand the habits and living patterns of Ferghana horses, touch and get close to them, feed them and ride them. You will understand the freedom and pride ingrained in the grassland people and feel the unique charm of horse culture.

If you still don't feel satisfied, there is a wonderful equestrian show at 5 p.m. every day. The show usually lasts 45 minutes and is divided into famous horse display and equestrian performance. Accompanied by the explanations of the commentator, there are also performances such as "Girls' Chase" and "Goat - Snatching" that demonstrate the superb skills of the riders and the tacit cooperation with the horses. The thrilling scene of galloping horses will feast your eyes.

Petrified Wood Forest

Petrified Wood

The petrified wood stored in the ancient ecological park is produced in the Shishugou Formation of Jiangjun Gobi in Qitai County, Junggar Basin, Xinjiang. It is a rare ancient fossil forest in the world with a high degree of silicification, wide distribution and good morphological preservation. The fossils are 145-175 million years old. There are nearly 300 petrified woods in the Xinjiang Ancient Ecological Park, which is the world's largest concentrated protection base for Jurassic petrified wood. According to experts, the current desert in Xinjiang was once lush and green, with forests everywhere and clear lakes 160 million years ago. These petrified woods are the best proof.

Populus Euphratica Forest

There are 350 ancient dead poplar trees in Xinjiang Ancient Ecological Park. Populus euphratica, known as the "hero tree in the desert", is a plant with unique charm and tenacious vitality. Populus euphratica can survive in extreme environments such as deserts, wastelands and rivers, and has strong adaptability to the environment.

Wild Horse Art Museum

Founded in 2008, the Wild Horse Art Museum houses over 600 oil paintings by renowned domestic and international artists. The collection mainly focuses on natural landscapes, Silk Road culture, and portraitures, showcasing diverse creative styles. With their delicate realism, these artworks leave a lasting impression on viewers.

Educational Value

The ancient Populus euphratica forest in the park is an iconic species of the arid zone ecosystem. Its growth characteristics reflect the hydrological changes and climatic adaptation mechanisms of desert oases in Xinjiang. By studying the growth characteristics of Populus euphratica, visitors can understand the vulnerability and adaptability of desert ecosystems.

Activities to do at Xinjiang Ancient Ecological Park

Equestrian Performances: Watch professional riders perform equestrian shows such as dressage and show jumping.

Traditional Horse Tack Making Workshop: Communicate with staff to participate in the simple crafting of traditional Kazakh or Mongolian horse tack (such as saddles and whips), learn leather sewing techniques, and listen to stories about the symbiotic culture between nomadic peoples and horses.