Morning: A deep dive into Hami's cultural heritage 

A good way to start the day in Hami is with a visit to the Hami Museum. Although the visit only takes about three hours, the experience spans millions of years. Among its most remarkable exhibits are pterosaur fossils dating back more than 100 million years, including the world's first discovered three-dimensional pterosaur egg and embryo fossils. These rare finds make the museum a must-visit for anyone interested in natural history and archaeology. Visitors can also learn about the history and different varieties of Hami melon, the sweet, juicy and fragrant fruit named after the city.

In the museum, free guided tours are available, making the exhibits easy to follow even without much preparation. International visitors can also use Doubao, a China-developed AI assistant with real-time translation features, to better understand the commentary and enjoy a smoother experience.

The Muqam Heritage Center next door is also worth visiting. Muqam is a traditional performing art of the Uygur ethnic group in Xinjiang, combining singing, dancing, folk music and classical melodies into a richly layered cultural tradition. The various forms of Muqam performed across Uygur communities in the region were collectively recognized by UNESCO in 2005 as a "Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity." Live performances are held, offering interested visitors a closer look at local performing arts.

Afternoon: A relaxing escape from the heat 

With the midday sun at its strongest, the afternoon is best spent cooling off in the city while sampling Hami's local flavors. For lunch, Yiloulan Restaurant is a popular and reliable choice. It is a spacious, well-organized restaurant designed to accommodate large numbers of diners without making them feel crowded. Prices are reasonable, and the menu covers everything from the city's signature dishes to a wide variety of local snacks.

After lunch, two beloved local dessert shops make ideal stops for an afternoon break. Chun'ai Ice Cream, a long-established brand dating back to 1947, serves classic ice cream. The flavors are light and pleasantly balanced without being overly rich. Another local favorite is Ayixiamu Cake Shop, where the elegantly decorated seating area provides a cozy place to relax. Visitors can sample a selection of the shop's signature pastries and desserts.

Evening: History, street food and local life 

As temperatures begin to cool in the evening, Hami's historic sites and old streets become especially inviting. One of the city's most notable landmarks is the Hui Prince's Palace, the former residence of the Uygur princely rulers of Hami under the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). The complex blends Manchu, Han, Uygur and Mongolian architectural styles. A full visit takes about an hour, and visitors will often spot local residents nearby dressed in brightly colored traditional ethnic clothing.

Just across the road is the Hui Prince's Tomb, another landmark well worth exploring. The tomb is known for its distinctive architecture and offers free guided tours that provide deeper insight into the history of the rulers and the site's architectural design.

Only a short walk from the tomb lies Aletun Ancient Street, where local food stalls fill the air with the aromas of freshly prepared Xinjiang specialties. Roasted buns, lamb skewers and hand-grabbed lamb rice are among the local favorites. As night falls and the crowds gather, the atmosphere becomes lively yet relaxed, providing a fitting end to a day spent exploring the city.