Karamay River Scenic Area

　　Karamay River Scenic Area The Karamay River, also known as the "River That Runs Through the City." It enters from the northeast of the urban area, starting at the Jiulongtan Scenic Area. The river winds through the city and flows southwest into the Ayikule Reservoir. It has a total length of 8.51 kilometers, a width of 15 meters, and a water depth of 1.8 to 2.3 meters. The Karamay River is a miraculous river that brings greenery and vitality to this oil city suffering from water scarcity. On August 8, 2000, the Karamay River was completed and opened to water flow. The river is broadly divided into five scenic sections from east to south.

　　The first is the Jiulongtan Ancient-style Architecture and Waterfall Scenic Area. The waterfall is created by utilizing the natural gravity of the water level drop in the Fengke Canal. The Jiulongtan Waterfall features a central outlet combined with eight large side nozzles. Nine streams shoot out together, mimicking the image of nine dragons spouting water. The nine water jets soar through the air before crashing into the deep pool—thunderous and spectacular.

　　The second is the Junggar Scenic Area. This section extends from south of Junggar East Road to Ashan Road, covering a total area of approximately 168,800 square meters. Centered around Children’s Park and excelling in landscape design with hills and waters, it highlights the ambiance of spring, symbolizing that children are the spring of the earth and the future of the motherland. Children’s Park faces Heiyoushan Park on the north bank of the Karamay River across the water, complementing each other beautifully. The linear green spaces on both sides of Children’s Park are mainly planted with vegetation, featuring lush lawns dotted with colorful flower clusters. Small green squares are adorned with petroleum culture-themed sculptures, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

　　The third section is the Kunlun Scenic Area, spanning approximately 204,600 square meters. It primarily features the Kunlun Mini Garden and a fishing area. Structures include an observation greenhouse, floral sculptures, shaded corridors, combined flower stands, various pavilions, and stone carvings. The whole area is characterized by its summer scenery and serves as an ideal leisure spot for escaping the heat.

　　The fourth section is the Central Scenic Area, located east of Friendship Bridge, with a green space of 2.6 hectares. It includes 3,111 trees and 418 shrubs. The Central Scenic Area consists of a main archway gate and extended corridors on both sides, designed in the architectural style of the Han Dynasty. The integration of “rings, wedges, corridors, gardens, and woods” reflects the landscaping philosophy of “people-oriented, green-focused, nature-following, and feature-highlighting.” In 2002, a “Water Has Come” sculpture was installed east of the main gate, along with five relief pillars on the opposite side depicting Karamay’s petroleum history. The water area of the Central Scenic Area houses a large colorful light fountain and a water screen movie. The main fountain jets water up to 30 meters high. When night falls and the lights illuminate the spraying fountains, groups of visitors enjoy the harmonious blend of water and sky, listen to soft background music, lie on the green grass, and experience the bliss of returning to nature.

　　The final highlight—the pièce de résistance of the Karamay River—is the West City Scenic Area. Stretching from Friendship Bridge to the entrance of Ayikule (West Moon Lake), it covers a total area of 198,000 square meters. Centered around the West City Mini Garden and featuring autumn scenery, the area boasts numerous plant sculptures, the majestic Friendship Bridge, modern European-style pavilions, high-rises along both riverbanks, and a variety of colorful foliage and fruit trees—creating a delightful autumn symphony. The Karamay River is famed for its many bridges. Along its 8.51-kilometer waterway, there are 20 uniquely designed bridges—16 for pedestrians and non-motorized vehicles, and 4 for motor traffic. These include stone arch bridges, concrete bridges, and steel structure bridges, each with its own distinct construction. Every bridge has its own beautiful name: Kunlun Bridge, Junggar Bridge, Victory Bridge, West Ring Bridge, Brightness Bridge… Friendship Bridge is the crown jewel among them—a cable-stayed bridge with a main span of 249.05 meters and an approach bridge of 563 meters. Serving as the gateway to central Karamay, it boasts a unique style—both grand and exquisitely crafted—and is the smallest cable-stayed bridge in the world. Visitors can explore the Karamay River by driving along the riverside road, strolling on foot, or taking a boat or yacht cruise. As you take in the full splendor of the Karamay River, you’ll also witness the beautiful and magnificent green corridor of this desert oil city.

　　Address: No. 42, Tianshan Road, Karamay District

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