Homestay and Farm Stay Experience Guide
The correct way to stay amidst the scenery: choosing and managing expectations for Kanas log cabins, grassland yurts, and ancient city inns. The homestay and nomadic family experience guide is part of the Xinjiang travel pre-trip preparation series: it thoroughly addresses practical issues such as seasons and duration, documents and border permits, chartered cars and transportation, payment and internet, food and accommodation, so you can simply check them off before departure.
Types and Expectations
There are three types of characteristic accommodations in Xinjiang: the wooden cabin villages in Kanas-Hemu, the homestays and yurts on the Ili grasslands, and courtyard inns in the old city of Kashgar. Their common feature is “scenic perfection and simple facilities,” so do not expect the soundproofing, water pressure, or air conditioning of city hotels.
Key Points for Choosing a Room
When staying in cabins, check if there is a private bathroom and heating (it can be cold in the mornings and evenings in autumn); yurts are for public experience, suitable for one night to enjoy the starry sky, while for stays of two or more nights, opt for a standard room in a brick house; for a courtyard inn in the old city, look at the courtyard lighting and stairs, and choose the first floor for the elderly and children.
Booking and Prices
During peak season (July–September, early October), cabins are in high demand, so book 2–4 weeks in advance; most homestays only accept cash or bank transfer, and check whether breakfast and horseback riding fees are included; overnight stays in yurts cost 100–200 RMB per person, and packages including dinner and breakfast are more cost-effective.
Etiquette and Safety
Sit in the yurt according to the host’s guidance, and be careful not to get burned by the stove; temperatures in the pastoral areas drop sharply at night, so keep a coat by the bed; keep valuables on you, as cabin locks are simple.