How to get to Fuyun

When planning a trip to Fuyun, located in the picturesque Altay Prefecture in northwest China, you are embarking on a journey to an amazing land of geological parks and rugged natural beauty. This remote yet hospitable city serves as a main starting point for eco-tourism enthusiasts, and when deciding how to get to Fuyun, travelers can use the local airport or choose an overland route by bus or car.

The fastest and most convenient way to reach your destination is by air. The city is served by its own Fuyun Koktokay Airport (FYN), which is located relatively close to the centre. Arriving here allows travelers to immediately find themselves in close proximity to the region's main natural attractions, bypassing long overland transfers.

Since the airport is regional, there are no direct international flights to Fuyun. For tourists arriving in China from abroad, it is most convenient to plan a route with a transfer in Urumqi — the administrative centre of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. The flight from Urumqi takes about an hour, making this the optimal option in terms of time.

As an alternative, you can consider flying to the neighbouring city of Altay, but this will require an additional transfer by car or bus. Therefore, to save energy and time, it is recommended to search for tickets specifically to Koktokay Airport.

Rail connections make the trip to Fuyun accessible and comfortable. The city has a station accepting passenger trains, opening up excellent opportunities for land transport enthusiasts.

The most popular option is a direct train from Urumqi. The journey takes approximately 9–10 hours. Travelers often choose overnight trains to sleep during the journey and arrive at their destination rested in the early morning. This is a practical solution that allows saving on one night in a hotel.

Additionally, the railway connects this location with the city of Altay, which is convenient for those planning a grand tour of the northern region and wishing to visit several places in one trip.

A bus journey through northern Xinjiang is not just a transfer, but an opportunity to witness the shifting landscapes of deserts and mountain ranges. The most popular and fastest route leads from the city of Altay: comfortable scheduled buses cover the distance of about 300 kilometres in approximately 3–4 hours. A no less picturesque road awaits those traveling from Burqin County, known for its colourful sunsets; travel time on this route is usually around 5 hours.

For lovers of challenging routes and cross-border adventures, there is a rare opportunity to get to Fuyun from the Mongolian city of Khovd. This path through the Takeshken (Takshiken) border crossing will take a whole day due to the great distance and customs formalities, but it offers a unique experience of crossing the wild steppe expanses of Asia. It is recommended to purchase tickets for all intercity trips at bus station ticket offices in advance, especially during the high tourist season.

Traveling by car gives you the freedom to explore the rugged landscapes of Dzungaria at your own pace. The shortest and most convenient route leads from Altay: a high-quality highway stretching about 300 kilometres allows you to reach the destination in 3–4 hours. Slightly more time, about 4.5–5 hours, will be required for the trip from Burqin, which is separated from the destination by approximately 360 kilometres of scenic road.

Those ready for a real expedition can set off from Mongolian Khovd; this route of over 400 kilometres will require 8–10 hours, taking border crossing into account. Renting a car with a driver is common in the region, which eliminates navigation hassles, with the average cost of an intercity transfer usually starting from 600–800 RMB.

A trip to Fuyun requires careful preparation, given its remote location and the harsh climate of northern Xinjiang. To ensure your journey is comfortable and surprise-free, we have compiled several important recommendations to help you enjoy the beauty of this region.

1. Clothing and Climate: The weather in the region is extremely changeable. Even in summer, temperature drops between day and night can be significant, so layering is your best friend. Be sure to bring a warm windproof jacket and comfortable footwear. If you are traveling in winter, prepare for extreme cold: thermal underwear, a down jacket, and insulated trousers are vital.
2. Transport: In the city itself, you can get around inexpensively by taxi, but public transport is not well developed. To visit remote natural attractions, such as the Koktokay Geopark, it is most convenient to arrange with private drivers or join organised tours.
3. Finances: In China, and in Fuyun specifically, international payment cards are rarely accepted. The main payment methods are Alipay or WeChat Pay apps, to which you can link a foreign card. It is also recommended to carry a supply of cash RMB, especially for payments in small shops or remote villages.
4. Health and Safety: The climate here is quite dry, and the sun in the mountains is very active. Do not forget to use sunscreen and moisturizers. Assemble a first aid kit with basic medicines (for colds, stomach upset, painkillers), as it may be difficult to communicate in local pharmacies without knowing the language.
5. Connectivity and Language: English is practically not spoken in Fuyun. It is vital to download an offline translator with voice input and text recognition via photo to your smartphone in advance. Also, take care of a VPN or roaming service to access your usual messengers and maps.
6. Local Etiquette: This is a multi-ethnic region home to Kazakhs, Uyghurs, and Han Chinese. Show respect for local traditions and Islamic customs; dress modestly and behave with reserve. Always ask for permission before photographing local residents, especially the elderly.
7. What to Avoid: Do not drink tap water; buy only bottled water. Also, do not underestimate distances and road complexity: avoid planning routes with a very tight schedule, as the weather may make adjustments to travel times.
8. Additional Tip: If your trip falls during the cold season, remember that phone and camera batteries drain instantly in the frost. Keep gadgets in warm inner pockets and be sure to bring a powerful power bank.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid everyday difficulties and fully focus on exploring the unique landscapes and cultural richness of Fuyun. Proper preparation is the key to ensuring your adventure leaves only pleasant memories.