Two canyons are often mentioned together on the northern foothills of the Tianshan Mountains: Dushanzi Grand Canyon and Anjihai Grand Canyon. The former is near Dushanzi District in Karamay City, while the latter is located in the Anjihai area of Shawan City; the two sites are approximately 70 kilometers apart.
Both were carved by water through gravel layers, creating dense gullies. The Dushanzi viewing platform is more developed, while Anjihai offers a wilder view with minimal railings along the edge.
I. Dashanzi Grand Canyon
The scenic area features observation decks and boardwalks. From the edge, you can see gullies stretching into the distance. The walking area is compact; one hour is enough. Ideal for a quick stop while passing by.
Do not descend from the valley floor. The soil near the edge is loose, and crossing the boundary to take photos is hazardous. During strong winds, the platform may sway; please secure your belongings.
II. Anjihai Grand Canyon
Anjihai Grand Canyon feels more natural, with viewing areas consisting mostly of open roadside spaces and no railings. Its ravines display richer layers and color variations, making them especially captivating in the afternoon side light on sunny days.
No guardrails are present, so exercise extra caution near the edge, especially when traveling with children. After rain, the dirt road becomes muddy and can cause standard sedans to skid.
- Dushanzi: Features boardwalks and viewing platforms; 1 hours to explore.
- Anjihai: Wild overlook. Stay clear of the edge for safety.
- Distance: approximately 70 km; driving time: 1.5 hours
- Recommended lighting: From mid-afternoon to two hours before sunset
3. How to perform a sequence operation
When driving the northern section of the Duku Highway, stop for about an hour at Dushanzi Grand Canyon near the starting point. Anjihai is best scheduled on routes heading west from Urumqi, combined with a day trip to Shawan and Kuitun.
If you want to visit both locations, we can arrange a trip starting from Urumqi, passing through Anjihai to Dushanzi. Stay overnight in either Dushanzi or Kuqintu, then enter the Duku Highway the next day. This route avoids backtracking.
4. Trade-off Between the Two Locations
Short on time and want to visit just one spot? Choose Dushanzi: It features boardwalks, parking, and a clear entrance. You can see it all in an hour—perfect as a stop before starting the Duku Highway.
Choose Anjihai for impactful shots: rugged terrain with rich layering and color, plus fewer crowds. Accept dirt roads and unguarded edges. Always assess safety boundaries yourself; avoid the edge if traveling with children.
Neither site is a walk-in canyon; viewing areas are at the edge. Wear non-slip shoes and avoid loose soil. When it's windy, stay well back from the edge.
Accommodation and dining options in the Dushanzi urban area are well-developed, making it an ideal stopover before entering the Duku Highway. The Anjihai area is mostly rural with limited dining choices; we recommend having meals in Shawan or Kuitun instead.
See the overall plan for Northern Xinjiang atNorthern Xinjiang Route, see the Duku Pass opening hours atDuku Highway opening dates。
Both canyons are near wind-prone areas; hats and light jackets may blow away. Hold your phone steady when taking photos. The side lighting around sunset adds depth to the ravines, creating more layered visuals.
If you only have half a day, choose the site closer to your accommodation and save time for the scenery along the way. In Xinjiang, the road itself is the landscape. Refer to the following for the shape of the other canyon:Wensu Grand Canyon Attractions PageCompare
Mobile signal is weak in the Anjihai section. Save screenshots of your return route and gas station locations in advance. After rain, do not attempt to drive on dirt roads down to the gully edge, as vehicles may get stuck.
Both viewpoints are free or have a minimal fee; check on-site signage for details. If charged, request a receipt. If time permits, stop at the river park in Kuitun on your way back to stretch your legs and relax—great for unwinding after long drives.
Ticket policies differ at the two locations. Dushanzi is managed as a scenic area, while Anjihai is mostly open for free viewing; please follow on-site signage. Erosion along the canyon edge occurs rapidly—do not climb undeveloped slopes. See below for North Xinjiang itinerary combinations.Northern Xinjiang RouteFor the overall Duku Highway itinerary, seeSelf-driving tour on Duku Highway。
