Songshutang
松树塘
A pine-forest pasture on the road over the Tianshan to Barkol, once a post station on the ancient route. Its dense spruce groves and open grassy slopes make it perfect for a photo stop.
Songshutang lies on the section of the Hami–Barkol highway that crosses the northern slopes of the Tianshan. It has long been a post station and military outpost on the ancient Tianshan route, and Qing-era stone inscriptions survive here. Along the road are dense Tianshan spruce forests and open grassy slopes. In summer, wildflowers cover the ground, and Kazakh herders often move their livestock through. Many self-drivers stop here to take photos, hike or set up tents for a picnic. Entry is free, and visitors can explore right by the road. It pairs well with Baishitou and Barkol in one trip. Mountain weather changes quickly, and in winter the roads can ice over, so drive with caution.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Tianshan Temple (East Tianshan Scenic Area)
- Dongheigou Site
- Barkol Grassland
- Dizang Temple (Barkol)
- Barkol Ancient City
- Dahe Ancient City
- Lanzhouwanzi & Xiheigou Sites
- Barkol Lake