2025 Yining Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

Xinjiang's summer is gifted by Ili! Snow mountains, grasslands, flower seas, lakes, forests... This place is as beautiful as God's overturned palette🎨" ——Just returned from Ili, and compiled this super detailed guide, including routes, accommodation, photography, and pit avoidance guide, it is recommended to collect! 📅 Itinerary (7 days and 6 nights) Day 1: Urumqi → Yining (high-speed rail 5h) - Arrive in Yining in the afternoon, visit **Kazanqi Folk Village** (blue town, super suitable for taking pictures📸) - Dinner recommendation: **Aierkasir** (hand pilaf + baked buns are amazing!) - Accommodation: Yining city (recommended **Tumalis Grand Hotel**, convenient location) **Day 2: Yining → Sailimu Lake → Guozigou Bridge → Huocheng Lavender** - **Sailimu Lake** (self-driving/chartered car around the lake, tickets 145 yuan, must-visit spots: **Songshutou, S-bend Highway, Swan Lake**) - **Guozigou Bridge** (free, cliff location navigation "Guozigou Observation Deck Resort") - **Huocheng Lavender** (best from mid-June to early July, recommended **Princess Jieyou Farm**, tickets 35 yuan) - Accommodation: Qingshuihe Town (convenient to go to Xiata the next day) **Day 3: Huocheng → Xiata Ancient Road** - **Xiata Scenic Area** (tickets + shuttle bus 80 yuan, a paradise for hiking lovers🏔️) - How to play: Take the shuttle bus to the **Hot Spring Hotel**, then hike/ride to **Xianhuatai** - Note: It is easy to rain in the afternoon, bring a jacket! - Accommodation: Zhaosu County (recommended **Zhaosu Hotel**) **Day 4: Zhaosu → Joan Kushtai** - **Joan Kushtai** (free, but need to book in advance!) - How to play: ✅ **Back Mountain** (drive to the middle of the mountain, then ride for 1h to the top of the mountain, the view is amazing) ✅ **Wusun Ancient Road** (light hike, along the stream is super healing) - Accommodation: Joan Kushtai Village (recommended **Shanye Homestay**, but it is difficult to book in peak season, you can stay in a yurt) **Day 5: Joan Kushtai → Kalajun Grassland → Tekes** - **Kalajun Grassland** (all-area ticket 275 yuan, "Human Body Grassland" is super shocking) - Go to **Tekes Bagua City** in the evening (drone aerial photography is super cool, Ferris wheel night view is average) - Accommodation: Tekes (recommended **Wanbang International Hotel**) **Day 6: Tekes → Nalati Grassland** - **Nalati Grassland** (self-driving 300 yuan/person, recommended **Air Grassland + River Valley Grassland**) - The internet celebrity bridge location is at the **Nomadic People** station, go early to queue up! - Accommodation: Nalati Town (recommended **Natila Yinqi Caolu Homestay**) **Day 7: Nalati → Duku Highway North Section → Urumqi** - **Duku Highway** (open from June to September, experiencing four seasons along the way❄️→🌿) - Must-stop spots: **Qiaerma Martyrs Cemetery, Hashlegen Daban (playing in the snow)** - Return to Urumqi in the evening and end the trip 🍖 Food recommendations ✅ **Yining City**: - **Aierkasir**: Hand pilaf, baked buns - **Gulan Danm Ice Cream**: Century-old shop, original flavor 9 yuan - **Liuxing Street**: Liuba Russian Rye Bread House ✅ **On the grassland**: - Lamb skewers (freshly slaughtered lamb, 5-10 yuan/skewer) - Kazakh milk tea (salty, with baursaki) 🚗 Transportation advice 1️⃣ **Chartered car/self-driving**: - Ili attractions are scattered, it is recommended that 4 people share a car (about 1000 yuan/day) - Only vehicles with 7 seats or less are allowed on the Duku Highway 2️⃣ **Money-saving method**: - Urumqi → Yining by high-speed rail (128 yuan), and sign up for a small group locally 3️⃣ **Note**: - Xinjiang has strict speed limits, don't speed when driving! - Gas stations require ID cards, passengers get off and wait 📸 Photo spots 1️⃣ **Sailimu Lake**: White dress + straw hat, take a "Little Switzerland" feel 2️⃣ **Joan Kushtai Back Mountain**: The light is soft in the evening, riding a horse is super cool 3️⃣ **Nalati Internet Celebrity Bridge**: No one before 10 am, take pictures as you like ### **⚠️ Pit Avoidance Guide** 1️⃣ **Weather**: The grassland weather is changeable, bring a **jacket + raincoat** 2️⃣ **Sunscreen**: Super strong ultraviolet rays, SPF50+ sunscreen is a must 3️⃣ **Accommodation**: Book Joan Kushtai and Nalati 1 month in advance during peak season! 4️⃣ **Cash**: Some grasslands have no signal, prepare 500 yuan in cash

Dear sisters, if this is your first time traveling to Yili, Xinjiang, you must take this comprehensive guide. I hope it will bring you great convenience during your trip. You’re welcome! This is a guide I carefully compiled after visiting Yili, Xinjiang eight times. Every time I travel, I carry my love for this land with me, explore every landscape with my heart, and taste every delicacy. This guide covers all aspects of travel routes, transportation, accommodation, food, etc. You must save it first so that you can take it out and read it whenever you need it (remember to read to the end, there are many practical details in it). Must-see attractions 🧩Sailimu Lake: It is known as "the last tear of the Atlantic Ocean", and the name sounds full of poetry. When you actually stand by the lake, you will be shocked by the scenery before you. The lake water is crystal blue, like a huge mirror, reflecting the surrounding snow-capped mountains. In spring and summer, the lakeside is like a colorful carpet covered by nature. Various wild flowers bloom, red, yellow, purple... colorful, making this place look like a fairyland. When I came here for the first time, I was deeply attracted by the dreamy scenery, as if I had entered a fairy tale world, and I didn’t want to leave for a long time. 🧩Turgen Apricot Blossom Valley: Every spring, this place is a sea of ​​pink. Apricot blossoms bloomed all over the mountains, as if covering the entire valley with a layer of pink gauze. When you stroll in this sea of ​​flowers, the faint fragrance of flowers will fill your nose, making you feel relaxed and happy. The snow-capped mountains in the distance look particularly majestic against the backdrop of the blue sky, and contrast beautifully with the sea of ​​flowers in front of you. It really feels like being in a fairy tale world. I remember one time when I went there, it happened to be raining in spring. The raindrops hit the apricot blossoms, and the petals fell one after another. The scene was breathtakingly beautiful. 🧩Nalati: Nalati Grassland is known as the "Grassland in the Sky". It is like a green pearl inlaid in the land of Xinjiang. In spring and summer, the grass here is green, like a huge green carpet. Herds of cattle and sheep graze leisurely on the grassland. They are like black and white pearls, dotted in this green picture. In winter, the grassland is covered with thick white snow, and the whole world becomes quiet and magnificent. Standing on this white snow, you can feel the tranquility and power of nature. 🧩Kazanqi: Kazanqi Folk Village is a landmark attraction in Yining City, which is full of rich Uyghur customs. When you walk into the village, you will see colorful buildings. Each house is like a work of art. Red, blue, and yellow, all kinds of bright colors are intertwined together, which is eye-catching. The bustling bazaar in the village is dazzling, and the dazzling array of goods makes people stop and choose. Here, you can also taste authentic ethnic cuisine, every bite is full of strong ethnic flavor, which will make you linger. 🧩Liuxing Street: Liuxing Street is a historical and cultural district in Yining City. The streets are distributed in the shape of a hexagonal star. This unique layout is full of exotic customs. When you walk along this street, it feels like you have traveled to another country. The buildings on both sides of the street are full of historical charm, and every brick and every tile tells a story of the past. This place is very suitable for taking photos, and you can take exotic photos with just a casual shot. Moreover, here you can also taste authentic Xinjiang cuisine. It is a unique experience to enjoy the food while feeling the cultural atmosphere here. 🧩Guozigou Bridge: It is one of the most dangerous canyon bridges in China. If you want to take a stunning panoramic photo of the bridge crossing the snow-capped mountains, you can set up the viewing platform at the "Guozigou Golden Summit". When you stand on the observation deck and overlook this majestic bridge, it is like a giant dragon spanning across the canyon, surrounded by continuous snow-capped mountains. The spectacular sight makes people marvel at human wisdom and the wonders of nature. ✅Popular routes in Xinjiang: 🎉️Day 1: When you arrive in Urumqi, check in to the hotel, put down your luggage and have a good rest. Afterwards, you can wander around the area and soak up the city's atmosphere. Urumqi has many special foods, such as baked buns, grilled lamb skewers, etc. You can find a local shop, taste these delicacies and start your food journey. 🎉️ Day 2: In the morning, you can go to the Urumqi Museum, where you can learn about Xinjiang’s history, culture and folk customs. Then head to Moon Bay of Sailimu Lake to enjoy the beautiful lake view. In the evening, you must go to watch the sunset over Sailimu Lake. When the afterglow of the setting sun shines on the lake, the water becomes sparkling and the scenery is beautiful. 🎉️ Day 3: Tour around Sailimu Lake and feel the tranquility and beauty of the lake. Find a suitable place by the lake, gather around the fire to make tea, sip the fragrant tea and admire the lake view. It feels so comfortable. Then head to Xinyuan. 🎉️ Day 4: Depart from Xinyuan and head to Turgen Xinghuagou to take as many photos as you want in the pink sea of ​​flowers. Then we went to Nalati to see the ice lilies, which bloomed in the ice and snow and looked particularly holy. Finally arrived at Nalati. 🎉️ Day 5: Go from Nalati to Kazanqi to experience the folk customs of the Uyghur people. Then go to Liuxing Street, stroll along this exotic street and taste authentic Xinjiang cuisine. 🎉️ Day 6: Go to Dushanzi Grand Canyon and feel the wonders of nature. Sit down at the Cliff Cafe and enjoy the beautiful view of the canyon while sipping your coffee. Then we will return to Urumqi along Duku Highway 1, ending this wonderful trip. Food Amway 🍱 ☑️Special snacks 🍱Baked buns, grilled lamb skewers, Naan, fried dough sticks, pulled noodles, mutton stewed cakes, yogurt rice dumplings, and the three cold Xinjiang delicacies (cold skin, cold noodles, and cold jelly). Each of these snacks has its own unique flavor. The baked buns have a crispy skin and delicious fillings; the grilled lamb skewers are fragrant and mouth-watering; Naan is an indispensable staple food in the life of Xinjiang people, with a crispy texture; Youtazi is oily but not greasy and has a soft texture; Latiaozi noodles are chewy and strong; the mutton stewed pancakes have tender mutton and the pancakes are full of soup, which is very delicious; the yogurt rice dumplings have a sweet and sour taste and a unique flavor; Xinjiang's three cool dishes are refreshing and delicious, and are a great choice for cooling off in summer. ☑️Xinjiang famous dishes 🍱Roasted whole lamb, grilled fish, big plate chicken, hand-pulled lamb, Naan wrapped with meat, spicy lamb trotters, peppery chicken, and pilaf. Roasted whole lamb is a traditional Xinjiang delicacy, with golden and crispy skin and tender and juicy meat; grilled fish is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, and tastes delicious; the big plate chicken has tender chicken, soft and glutinous potatoes, and is served with wide belt noodles, which is very satisfying; hand-pulled lamb is tender and has no smell of mutton; Nang Bao Meat The perfect combination of naan and meat, with a rich taste; the spicy lamb trotters are spicy and delicious, making people more and more addicted; the pepper and sesame chicken has tender chicken and a strong numbing flavor; the pilaf is full of grains and has a rich flavor. I hope this guide can help sisters who are traveling to Yili, Xinjiang for the first time, and make your trip full of wonderful memories!

"You don't know the vastness of China until you visit Xinjiang, and you don't know the beauty of Xinjiang until you visit Ili." Ili, this jewel of Xinjiang, awakens from its slumber every March. The land is gradually covered with greenery and flowers, like a beautiful scroll slowly unfolding. While other places are still in the grip of late winter chills, Ili can't wait to show the world its vibrant spring scenery, attracting countless travel enthusiasts like me to this romantic rendezvous with spring. 1. Travel Time The temperature in Ili gradually rises in March, but it's still a bit chilly. At this time, the apricot blossoms are just beginning to bloom, and the grasslands are starting to turn green, making it a good time to appreciate the spring scenery. However, be aware that occasional snowfall can occur in March, so be sure to check the weather forecast before traveling. 2. Itinerary - Day 1: Arrive in Yining → Liuxing Street → Kazanqi Folk Village - Morning: Arrive in Yining, take a short rest to acclimatize to the local climate and environment. You can stroll around the hotel and experience the laid-back atmosphere of the city. - Afternoon: Head to Liuxing Street, which is divided into six fan-shaped areas by six main roads. Each area has a public building at its center, forming a unique hexagonal street layout. Stroll through the colorful houses, and browse the handicraft shops and cafes lining the streets. Find a small shop, sit down, order a cup of fragrant milk tea, and savor the moment. - Evening: Visit the Kazanqi Folk Village, a Uyghur community that preserves traditional folk customs and architectural styles. Take a characteristic "ma's" (horse-drawn carriage) through the exotic streets and admire the blue and white houses along the way. As night falls, you can also sample local delicacies and experience the lively nightlife. - Day 2: Yining → Turgen Apricot Blossom Valley → Xinyuan - Morning: After breakfast, depart for Turgen Apricot Blossom Valley, the largest remaining wild apricot forest from the Middle Ages, covering over 30,000 mu (approx. 5,000 acres). In March, apricot blossoms bloom all over the mountains and plains. The pink and white flowers contrast with the emerald green grassland and the distant snow-capped mountains, creating a scene of breathtaking beauty. Take a stroll through the sea of flowers, take photos, and capture these beautiful moments. - Afternoon: Continue exploring the Apricot Blossom Valley, as the light at different times of day creates varying visual effects. You can also choose to have a picnic on the nearby hillside and enjoy nature's gifts. - Evening: Head to Xinyuan County for accommodation and savor local specialties such as hand-pulled rice and lamb skewers. - Day 3: Xinyuan → Nalati Grassland → Return Trip - Morning: Visit the Nalati Grassland. Although the grassland isn't completely green in March, you can already see patches of tender green. The distant snow-capped mountains complement the grassland. You can take a sightseeing bus to enjoy the scenery along the way or ride a horse across the grassland and experience the feeling of freedom. - Afternoon: Pack your bags and return home with wonderful memories. 3. What to Eat - Hand-pulled rice: Lamb, carrots, onions, and rice are simmered together, creating a fragrant dish with distinct grains of rice and tender, non-muttony lamb. - Lamb skewers: Freshly cut and skewered lamb is grilled over charcoal, sprinkled with cumin and chili powder. The result is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, bursting with flavor. - Nang pit meat: Marinated lamb is roasted in a nang pit. This unique roasting method gives the lamb a golden, crispy exterior and a juicy interior. - Yogurt zongzi: Soft and glutinous zongzi paired with rich yogurt and sprinkled with sugar or honey creates a sweet and sour treat that's perfect for cleansing the palate. 4. What to Wear The temperature difference between day and night in Ili in March is significant, so bring warm clothing. - Tops: Wear thick coats (such as down jackets or windbreakers), sweaters, or thermal underwear. - Bottoms: Wear fleece-lined jeans or sweatpants. - Shoes: Choose comfortable sneakers or snow boots for easy walking. - Accessories: Bring scarves, hats, and gloves for warmth and as photo props. 5. Where to Stay - Yining: It's recommended to stay in the city center for convenient transportation and access to various restaurants. Choose from chain hotels or unique guesthouses, with prices ranging from CNY 200 to 500. - Xinyuan: There are many hotels in the county seat with relatively affordable prices. You can find decent hotels for around CNY 150 to 300. 6. Tips - Book train tickets and hotels in advance, especially during peak tourist season, to avoid unavailability. - Ili has strong UV rays, so take sun protection measures, including sunscreen, sunglasses, and sun hats. - Respect local customs and habits in ethnic minority areas to avoid unnecessary conflicts. - Follow the horseman's instructions and pay attention to safety when riding. 🌄 The beauty of Ili is a natural, unadorned beauty that allows you to forget your worries and immerse yourself in this picturesque world. 🌸 This trip to Ili was like a beautiful dream, with every scene deeply etched in my heart. 🎉 If you love travel and nature, don't miss Ili in March. Come and experience the beauty of spring!

Starting from March, the temperature in Xinjiang ☁ continues to rise, the ice and snow ❄ gradually melt, and various flowers 💐 bloom one after another, which indicates that spring 🍀 in Xinjiang is about to come, and the next Xinjiang will be as beautiful as a painting. What can you see in Xinjiang during this period? Of course, you should go to the flower-viewing spot recommended by China National Geographic - Yili Xinghuagou to view the apricot blossoms! Believe me! ! ! The Hanging Apricot Garden in Yili in spring will surely amaze you throughout the spring. 🌸Recommended spring flower viewing route ⏰Time: 5 days and 4 nights 👣Route: Yili➕Nalati➕Sailimu Lake 🌸Day1⃣: Urumqi➟Sailimu Lake ice and snow begin to melt/Ice-topped flowers➟Sailimu Lake Starting from Urumqi, head all the way to Sailimu Lake🌅. At this time, the ice and snow of Sailimu Lake have just started to melt, and there are still some crystal clear ice cubes remaining on the lake surface, which reflect the newly blooming ice flowers, making it beautiful like a dream. Take a stroll along the lake or drive around the lake to feel the tranquility and beauty. · 🌸Day2⃣: Guozigou Bridge➟Nalati (Sky Grassland) Starting from Sailimu Lake, passing by the spectacular Guozigou Bridge, every shot is a blockbuster📸. Then we arrived at the Nalati Sky Grassland. The grass on the grassland had not yet turned completely green, but the snow-capped mountains in the distance, the dotted apricot blossoms and the vast grassland were intertwined, forming a beautiful spring picture. · 🌸Day3⃣: Turgen Apricot Valley➟Kazanqi➟Liuxing Street➟Yining In the morning, go to Turgen Apricot Valley, which is the essence of Yili apricot blossoms🌺. Apricot blossoms are blooming all over the mountains, and the pink sea of ​​flowers is like a dream world, making people feel as if they are in a fairy tale. Arrive in Yining in the afternoon🌇, first go to Kazanqi Folk Village to experience the strong Uyghur customs; then stroll around Liuxing Street, with its unique street layout and small shops full of literary and artistic atmosphere. Every shot you take is a retro blockbuster. · 🌸Day4⃣: Yining➟Daxigou Fushou Mountain Apricot Blossoms➟Kuitun Starting from Yining, head to Daxigou Fushou Mountain; the apricot blossoms here bloom in layers along the hillside🌷, contrasting with the green trees and streams in the mountains, which is beautiful. Strolling in the apricot blossom forest, breathing in the fresh fragrance of flowers, and feeling the beauty of nature. · 🌸Day5⃣: Dushanzi Grand Canyon➟Kenswat Reservoir➟S101 Baili Danxia➟Urumqi Check in at Dushanzi Canyon, the unique canyon landform makes people marvel at the uncanny workmanship of nature🏔. Go to Kenswat Reservoir to enjoy the beautiful scenery of lakes and mountains; drive along the S101 Baili Danxia Highway 🚙, enjoy the endless Danxia landforms along the way, and feel the magnificence and magic of nature.

Ili is truly a dream destination! With its snow-capped mountains, grasslands, and flower-filled valleys, the scenery is like something out of a fairy tale. If you're planning a trip to northern Xinjiang, this guide will help you explore Ili! Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Ili is from mid-March to late May. During this period, the weather gradually warms up, apricot blossoms and wild lilies bloom, and the grasslands turn green, creating breathtaking scenery. Transportation: - By Air: Fly directly to Yining Airport for convenience, although prices can be higher. For budget travelers, fly to Urumqi Diwopu International Airport and then take a bus or hire a car to Ili. - By Train: Take a direct train from Urumqi to Yining. An overnight sleeper is a good option, saving both time and accommodation costs. - By Car/Chartered Vehicle: Ili is vast and its attractions are spread out. Self-driving or hiring a car is the best way to explore the region in depth. Road conditions are generally good, but some mountainous areas have no cell phone signal, so prepare a satellite phone in advance. Itinerary: 🎈3 Days and 2 Nights: Day 1: Yining City Tour Upon arrival in Yining, visit the Kazantqi Folk Street to experience the rich Uyghur culture and taste local delicacies. In the afternoon, stroll along the Russian-style streets of Liuxing Street. Stay overnight in Yining. Day 2: Sayram Lake Day Trip Visit Sayram Lake in the morning and admire the stunning lake and mountain scenery. Enjoy panoramic views from the Songshutou Observation Deck. Return to Yining in the afternoon. Day 3: Nalati Grassland Visit the Nalati Grassland and experience its vastness and tranquility. Enjoy activities like horseback riding and archery. Return to Yining in the evening and conclude your trip. 🎈4 Days and 3 Nights: Day 1: Yining City - Sayram Lake Upon arrival in Yining, head to Sayram Lake to enjoy the beautiful scenery. Stay overnight by the lake. Day 2: Sayram Lake - Guozigou Valley - Yining Wake up early to watch the sunrise over Sayram Lake. Afterward, visit the Guozigou Valley and admire the canyon scenery. Return to Yining in the afternoon and explore Kazantqi and Liuxing Street. Day 3: Yining - Kalajun Grassland Visit the Kalajun Grassland, a World Natural Heritage site, and admire its magnificent scenery. Choose to hike or ride horses. Stay overnight in Tekes. Day 4: Tekes - Qiongkushtai Village - Yining Visit Qiongkushtai Village and experience the Kazakh herding culture at the foot of the Tianshan Mountains. Return to Yining in the afternoon and conclude your trip. 🎈5 Days and 4 Nights: Day 1: Yining City - Sayram Lake Upon arrival in Yining, head to Sayram Lake to enjoy the beautiful scenery. Stay overnight by the lake. Day 2: Sayram Lake - Guozigou Valley - Khorgos Port - Yining Wake up early to watch the sunrise over Sayram Lake. Afterward, visit the Guozigou Valley and admire the canyon scenery. In the afternoon, visit the Khorgos Port and experience the border town atmosphere. Return to Yining in the evening and visit the Ili River Bridge and Liuxing Street. Day 3: Yining - Kalajun Grassland - Tekes Visit the Kalajun Grassland, a World Natural Heritage site, and admire its magnificent scenery. Choose to hike or ride horses. In the afternoon, head to Tekes and explore the Bagua City. Day 4: Tekes - Qiongkushtai Village - Nalati Visit Qiongkushtai Village and experience the Kazakh herding culture at the foot of the Tianshan Mountains. In the afternoon, head to the Nalati Grassland and enjoy the grassland scenery. Day 5: Nalati - Yining After exploring the Nalati Grassland, return to Yining and conclude your trip. Tips: 1. Sun Protection and Warm Clothing: Ili experiences significant temperature differences between day and night in spring, so pack both warm clothing and sun protection. 2. Book in Advance: Book popular attractions and accommodations in advance, especially for Sayram Lake and Nalati Grassland. 3. Time Difference: Xinjiang is two hours behind Beijing time. The sun rises around 10:00 am. 4. Transportation Planning: Some mountainous areas have no cell phone signal, so plan your itinerary in advance and prepare a satellite phone. 5. Food Recommendations: Don't miss out on Yining's specialties like lamb skewers, hand-pulled rice, and Dapanji (big plate chicken). Ili is truly beautiful. Pack your bags and embark on a romantic spring adventure!

🌈Many of you have asked me how to enjoy Yili, Xinjiang, from March to May. Today, I'll give you a clear plan. Yili's beautiful scenery and delicious food are all in this post🥳 What to Do in Yili from March to May 🎈March: Yili is just beginning to awaken from winter. The temperature is still relatively low, but it has a unique charm. Although the grasslands haven't completely turned green, you can see snow-capped mountains and unmelted snow, a silvery-white world, perfect for taking winter blockbusters📸 🎈April: This is the best time to see apricot blossoms in Yili. Apricot blossoms bloom all over the mountains and plains, white and pink, like walking into a fairy tale world. Especially the Turgen Apricot Blossom Valley, it's breathtakingly beautiful😍 🎈May: The grasslands are completely green, and various wildflowers are also in bloom. The green meadows are dotted with colorful small flowers. The Kalajun Grassland and the Nalati Grassland are incredibly beautiful, with cattle, horses, and sheep grazing leisurely on the grasslands. It's so healing🥰 Temperature and Clothing from March to May ☁️March Weather: The temperature ranges from a few degrees below zero to more than ten degrees above zero. The snow hasn't completely melted yet, and it's still quite cold. 👔March Clothing: A thick down jacket is a must, plus warm sweaters, scarves, and gloves. Pants should also be thick and fleece-lined. Snow boots are also essential. Don't get cold🧣 ☁️April Weather: Around 10°–20°. It's still cool in the morning and evening, and sometimes it rains. 👔April Clothing: A jacket and fleece are very practical, paired with thermal underwear. This combination is both warm and convenient for activities, and you won't be afraid of rain💪 ☁️May Weather: Around 15°–27°. It's warm during the day, but the temperature difference between morning and evening is still quite large, and the weather is occasionally unstable. 👔May Clothing: You can wear pretty dresses and short sleeves during the day, but be sure to bring a jacket for the evening. Don't forget sun protection: hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are all necessary🌞 5-Day Yili Itinerary Apricot Blossom Viewing Route Day 1: Urumqi - Sayram Lake - Guozigou Bridge - Qingshuihe/Yining Depart from Urumqi in the morning, arrive at Sayram Lake, see the jewel-like blue lake water, then go to the Guozigou Bridge to admire the magnificent bridge and the surrounding scenery. Rest in Qingshuihe or Yining in the evening😴 Day 2: Qingshuihe/Yining - Turgen Apricot Blossom Valley - Nalati/Xinyuan Spend the whole day at the Turgen Apricot Blossom Valley, immerse yourself in the apricot blossoms, take photos, and check in. In the afternoon, head to Nalati or Xinyuan for accommodation🛏️ Day 3: Nalati/Xinyuan - Early Spring Snow-capped Nalati - Kazanqi Folk Village - Yining In the morning, go to the Nalati Grassland to experience the combination of snow-capped mountains and grasslands. In the afternoon, go to the Kazanqi Folk Village to experience the local folk customs. Return to Yining for the night. Day 4: Yining - Tekes Desert - Kuitun Go to the Tekes Desert to experience the desert scenery. Camel riding and sand sliding are super fun. Rest in Kuitun in the evening. Day 5: Kuitun - Dushanzi Grand Canyon - Urumqi (End) See the unique canyon landforms at the Dushanzi Grand Canyon, enjoy some exciting amusement projects, and then return to Urumqi to end the pleasant journey🎊 In-depth Grassland Tour Route Day 1: Urumqi - Sayram Lake - Guozigou Bridge - Qingshuihe/Yining Same as the first day of the apricot blossom route, enjoy the beautiful scenery of Sayram Lake and the Guozigou Bridge. Day 2: Qingshuihe/Yining - Kalajun Grassland - Bagua City - Tekes Go to the Kalajun Grassland to experience the vast grassland scenery. In the evening, go to Bagua City (Tekes) and stroll through the streets shaped like a Bagua. Day 3: Tekes - Nalati Grassland - Nalati Spend the whole day playing on the Nalati Grassland, take a sightseeing bus, ride a horse, and fully enjoy the beauty of the grassland. Day 4: Nalati - Bayanbulak - Hejing/Heshuo Go to Bayanbulak to see the beautiful wetlands and sunset. If you're lucky, you can even see the spectacle of nine suns🌄 Day 5: Hejing/Heshuo - Baluntai - Urumqi Enjoy the scenery along the way, and finally return to Urumqi to end the trip. Yili Cuisine 🍜Xinjiang cuisine is truly amazing. You must try Dapanji (Big Plate Chicken). The chicken is tender, the potatoes are soft and glutinous, and the noodles are coated in the sauce. One bite is super satisfying. There's also barbecue, sizzling with oil, sprinkled with cumin and chili powder, so fragrant😋 La Tiao Zi (pulled noodles), fried rice noodles, pilaf, and clear stewed mutton all have their own characteristics, and you must try them all. Don't miss the Nang Pit Meat and baked buns, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. One bite and your mouth will be full of fragrance. Pair it with a bowl of yogurt, which is both refreshing and delicious. The fruits in Yili are also very sweet: grapes, apples, and fragrant pears. You won't be able to stop eating them. Important Notes⚠️ 1. Be sure to bring your ID card. You need it for security checks everywhere in Xinjiang. You can lose anything but your ID card. 2. The distance between scenic spots in Yili is long, and the travel time is long. Bring some snacks, a power bank, and a U-shaped pillow so you won't be bored or tired on the road. 3. The weather in Yili is dry and the ultraviolet rays are strong. Moisturizing skincare products and high-SPF sunscreen are essential. You can also bring a few more facial masks. 4. Although most areas in Yili are not at high altitude and altitude sickness is rare, if you go to some high-altitude scenic spots, you should still pay attention to rest and avoid strenuous exercise. Friends, pack your bags and go to Yili to encounter the romance of spring!

When you go to Yining🕍🕍🕍, you must go to Liuxing Street to experience the local ethnic homestays🏡🏡🏡 and restaurants. And Gulandam Ice Cream🍦🍦🍦 must be your first choice. The design and layout of the restaurant are full of exotic style. Every chair🪑🪑🪑, every table and even every lamp💡💡💡 show the store's dedication to details. Eating the freshly selected ice cream🍦🍦🍦 here is definitely a pleasure. #100 Ways to Travel #Liuxing Street #Yining City

Yining in Ili is not just about grasslands and snowy mountains🏔️, it is full of cultural charm and is really worth a visit. My favorite old town in Yining is Hazanqi, 🐎 with the jingling horse carriages, a strong sense of nostalgia, blue and white colorful old houses, children all over the streets, and I even took photos with the locals, 😇 it was so much fun. Hazanqi Folk Tourism Area, ☝🏻 is not just a tourist attraction, it is a real old town area where locals live, free to enter, the place is quite large, and you can spend half a day wandering around. Here is the tour route🗺️, the map is at the end, you need to get 🐴 ready. 🔷Route North Gate--Visitor Center--Qianjin Street Area--Old Town Core Area--Return The residents of Hazanqi Street are distributed in the Qianjin Street area, the core area, and the Orchard Street area. ➡️ Enter from the North Gate, you can first go to the Visitor Center to use the restroom, here you can buy horse carriage tickets or sightseeing car tickets. ✅ The horse carriage and sightseeing car can only quickly tour the old town, stopping at 4 points to take photos📸, suitable for those with limited time. 🔹Qianjin Street I recommend walking around, entering from the North Gate, 🕍 you can wander around the Qianjin Street area, boldly walk into the alleys, there are many travel photo shops here, and fewer tourists. When you are tired, 🛻 find a tricycle on the road, 10 yuan per person, directly to the core area of the old town. (⚠️ The driver will tell you to take a car tour, also stopping at 4 points, be firm and say you only want to go to the old town to explore on your own.) 🔹Core Area The car will take you to Sainaimu Square, get off and you can freely wander the alleys. Many of the houses🏠 here have open doors, some even have signs at the door saying 'Visit Point', you can enter and visit. These are residential houses, each yard is very beautiful, with grape trellises, full of flowers, and fruit trees in front of the house. I met an old lady👵🏻, her granddaughters had just finished their exams, and they were very friendly and took photos📸 together. (The grandma didn't want to be photographed, remember to ask before taking photos❗️) On the way, a group of children invited me to pet their kitten🐱, it was so healing. 🍨 There are many handmade ice cream shops in Hazanqi, I randomly found a workshop with a garden to eat, 🍃 the environment was great. You can also see the ice cream being made, honestly, I don't recommend queuing at popular shops, choose the original flavor, it won't be too sweet, other flavors might be sweeter. After finishing this area, I found a tricycle and went back to the North Gate. (The car stops here) I didn't visit Orchard Street in the end, actually, you can continue to visit Orchard Street and leave from the South Gate. 🎈🎈🎈 More niche fun places on the homepage~ I am Xiao K who loves to travel, I have a 9-year-old child, and I love sharing travel guides, also passionate about discovering local places to take kids. ✈️✈️✈️ Recently working hard on updating Xinjiang travel guides.

🌏 Xinjiang, a place full of exotic charm, and Yining, is a dazzling pearl on this vast land. 💎 🎉 If you think only foreign landscapes can make your heart race, you are sorely mistaken! Yining, this dopamine-filled town, will definitely bring you surprises and emotions that are no less than those abroad. 🌈 🏠 Liuxing Street: Walking at the end of the rainbow Liuxing Street, a name you might not have heard of, but once you step into this street, you'll be attracted by the colorful houses, as if every step is on a rainbow 👣 Every door, every window, could be the start of a story. Next time you come to Xinjiang, remember to spend a day on this street, let it take you into a colorful dream. 💎 Must-visit spots: ①🍦 Gulandanmu Ice Cream: Sweet temptation On Liuxing Street, you definitely can't miss Gulandanmu's handmade ice cream. 🍨 For 10 yuan, you can have a big bowl of happiness, and you can add unlimited toppings! The rich milk flavor and the perfect combination of nuts, every bite is an ultimate pampering of your taste buds. ② 🍽️ Lanqiang Mian Feizi: Challenge your taste buds If you're a food adventurer, then Lanqiang Mian Feizi is definitely worth a try. 🥢 This local specialty might make your taste buds dance, its unique taste might take some getting used to at first, but for just 8 yuan, you can taste this authentic flavor. ③ 🍞 Russian Dali Bread: Bread can be crazy too In Yining, you can even taste Russian-style bread - Dali Bread. 🥐 I tried the pumpkin cheese flavor of Dali Bread, and it was so good that I couldn't help but pack some to savor on the road. ④🍽️ 🍖 Aibaoersake: The charm of Kazakh cuisine Aibaoersake is a distinctive Kazakh restaurant, if you don't want to sit down for a full meal, just order a Baoersake and Huludak to easily enjoy the delicious food. 🍽️ ⑤ 🎨 Agudoge Wazi: A little world of ethnic style Agudoge Wazi is not only a courtyard with a strong ethnic style but also a small exhibition hall for handicrafts. Here, you can enjoy various exquisite handicrafts while sipping on handmade drinks. 🏠 ⑥ 👜 Yigu House: A treasure hunting spot for retro fashion Yigu House is a distinctive vintage shop, although it's not large, it has plenty of good stuff! Whether it's small bag accessories or ethnic-style clothes, you can find your favorites here. 👗 🌆 🌃 Other charms of Yining 🍢 Han Street: Don't be fooled by the name, this is a gathering place for various local snacks, satisfying your taste buds. 🏡 Kazanqi Folk Village: There is a stronger sense of history and life here, colorful houses are as charming as Liuxing Street. 🌄 Yili River: In the evening, come to the Yili River to enjoy the sunset, the free scenery is just as breathtaking.

【Introduction】: How to explore the classic attractions of Northern Xinjiang in a short time and experience the unique charm of Xinjiang. Every day is very fulfilling~ 🛬【Itinerary】: D1: Your location - Urumqi - International Grand Bazaar D2: Urumqi - Tianchi Lake - S21 Desert Highway - Ulungur Lake Golden Coast Scenic Area - Colorful Beach - Burqin County D3: Burqin County - Kanas Scenic Area - Guanyu Pavilion - Kanas Village D4: Kanas Village - Kanas Three Bays - Hemu Scenic Area - Hemu Village D5: Hemu Village - Hemu Viewing Platform - World Devil City - Karamay D6: Karamay - Sayram Lake - Guozigou Bridge - Huocheng Lavender - Yining - Kazanqi Folk Village D7: Yining - Nalati Tourist Scenic Area (Sky Grassland + Valley Grassland) - Nalati Town D8: Nalati Town - Northern Section of Duku Highway - Dushanzi Grand Canyon - Urumqi D9: Urumqi - Autonomous Region Museum - Your location ⛺【Must-Visit Attractions】: Tianchi Lake, Kanas Scenic Area, Hemu Scenic Area, Sayram Lake, Nalati Tourist Scenic Area, and Duku Highway are classic attractions in Northern Xinjiang, showcasing the natural beauty of Xinjiang. Other attractions include landscapes along the way, such as highways, lakes, yardangs, bridges, flowers, streets, and canyons, enriching the types of scenery. While enjoying the scenery, you won't feel visually fatigued, and these spots are great for photography. 🍩【Must-Try Foods】: Urumqi/Karamay/Yining: Pilaf, baked buns, noodles, kebabs, naan Burqin County: Cold-water fish Sayram Lake: Whitefish Nalati Town: Whole roasted lamb 🏨【Accommodation Guide】: Urumqi: Three-star: All Seasons Hotel/Campanile Hotel... Four-star: Atour Hotel/Urumqi Hengyu International Hotel... Five-star: Urumqi Hantang Hotel/Urumqi Wanda Vista Hotel... Burqin County: Three-star: Burqin Hongyu Furui Hotel/Burqin Baishun Holiday Hotel... Four-star: Burqin Night Light City Holiday Hotel/Burqin Green City Grand Hotel... Five-star: Burqin Kanas Birch Forest Luxury Camp... Kanas Scenic Area: Old Village: Kanas Marmot Band B&B/Deep Mountain Leisure Villa B&B... New Village: Kanas An Encounter Hidden World B&B/Kanas A Litchi Tree Villa... Hemu Scenic Area: Old Village: Hemu Mountain Villa/Hemu Zanjue Guanshan Residence... New Village: Hemu Mountain Cottage B&B/Hemu Cezanne Art B&B... Service Area: Hemu Super 8 Hotel/Burqin Hemu Taoyuan B&B... Karamay: Three-star: Vienna Hotel/Starway Hotel... Four-star: Atour Hotel/Jinjiang Metropolo Hotel... Yining: Three-star: All Seasons Hotel/Orange Hotel... Four-star: Yining Colorful Flower City Hotel/Yining Cloud Hotel... Five-star: Yining Ili River Hotel/Yining Wenzhou International Hotel... Nalati Town: Three-star: Nalati Huashijian Garden Hotel/Nalati Borui Linyin Hotel... Four-star: Xinyuan Huahai Nalati B&B/Xinyuan Huahai Nalati B&B... Five-star: Ctrip Holiday Farm (Nalati Forest Park Joint Venture Store)... 🚌【Transportation Guide】: Xinjiang is vast, and there are no suitable buses to reach each attraction. Besides trains and planes, it is recommended to self-drive or hire a local car. 🧡【Tips】: The weather in Xinjiang changes quickly. It is hot at noon and cool in the morning and evening. Please bring different types of clothes, protect yourself from UV rays, and prevent colds. Urumqi·Xinjiang

May and June are the best months for tourism in Xinjiang. Snow-capped mountains, canyons, grasslands, streams can be seen everywhere, and flowers in the fields sway in the wind from time to time. But in addition to grasslands, Yili also has cold black canyons, colorful lakes, and vast deserts. Pack your luggage and start a colorful trip to Yili. [Yili Loop | 8 days and 7 nights in-depth tour]: D1: Arrive in Urumqi → Pick up at the airport → Free activities → Accommodation D2: Urumqi → S101 National Defense Highway → Dushanzi Grand Canyon → Sailimu Lake D3: Guozigou Bridge → Lavender Manor → Kazanqi National Village → Yizhao Highway → Zhaosu D4: Xiata Tourist Area→Tekes Bagua City D5: Tekes → Qiongkushitai → Kalajun Scenic Area → Xinyuan D6: Yili River Valley → Flower Sea Nalati → Sky Grassland → Bayinbuluke D7: Bayinbuluke → Duku Highway → Tangbai La Baili Art Gallery → Urumqi D8: Urumqi → Airport transfer 【tips】For details, please consult the guide Wei Xianzhi

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🚗🚗🚗Travel itinerary: Day1: Xinjiang International Bazaar → Honeycomb Hotel (Urumqi Xinjiang Agricultural University Store) Day2: Anjihai Grand Canyon → Jinghe County Wushe Homestay (Uyi Road Branch) Day3: Sailimu Lake → Yining City Qiezhan Courtyard Day4: Tangbula Prairie → Nileke Weilan Homestay Day5: Duku Highway → Kuitun Shangdong Lake Hotel Day6: World Devil City → Burqin Zexiang Hotel Day7: Kanas Scenic Area → Baihaba → Kanas Shanlan Boutique Homestay (Old Village Store) Day8: Hemu Scenic Area → Burqin Qinya Homestay Day9: Wuyi Beach → A Mountain Deer King Manor Day10: Keketuohai Scenic Area Day11: Fly home

Most of the walls and doors are painted blue by the locals. I feel like that I arrive at another city, such as Chefchaouen in Morocco. You should never miss the fruits in Xinjiang which are sweet and big.

"Xinjiang Traveling - Kazanqi": Exploring the most exotic native areas in Xinjiang "Recommended": [Fu 5] "Coordinates": Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture Kazanqi Folk Customs Area, Yixiang Street, Yining City "Features": 1The number of Uighurs in Kazanqili is the largest. This ethnic minority may live in a romantic soul. In this mysterious colorful alley, there are full of surprises everywhere. 2The few ethnic celebrities here like colorful colors, and blue is the main color of the houses they built for hundreds of years, so a household here has a different blue color. Although the blue is amazing, it is not dazzling, but with a fresh and quiet. 3In the early morning, a group of people started to sweep the street, just a wall, or a door, is the best setting. There are fewer laughs in the alleys, seeing the courtyards that you like, pushing open the door, asking if you can take a photo, the hosts are enthusiastic, and then they have these photos. 4 Finally ended the journey of this colorful alley in the arms of a very polite twin baby. "Attention": The residents here are also very friendly, but it does not mean that you can enter the courtyard of other people at will. It is best to get the owner's answer before you take a photo.

| Ultimate Travel Guide Spanning North and South🗺️ 🌉 **Yangzhou**: The Famous City of Huai Left, A Charming Place of Bamboo West Yangzhou, a city brimming with poetry and romance, carries a thousand years of history and culture. Strolling through its streets and alleys, you can almost hear the whispers of time and feel the city's unique charm🎋. - **Must-Visit Attractions**: - **Slender West Lake**: A national 5A-level scenic area combining natural beauty with cultural landscapes. Here, you can admire iconic sights like the Long Dike Spring Willows, Five Pavilion Bridge, and White Pagoda, immersing yourself in picturesque lake and mountain views🌳. Recommended visit time: 3–4 hours. Ticket price: Peak season ¥100/person, off-season ¥70/person💰. - **Geyuan Garden**: Renowned for its seasonal rockeries, it’s one of China’s Four Great Classical Gardens. Using different stones and plants, the garden ingeniously recreates the scenery of spring, summer, autumn, and winter, offering breathtaking views at every step🧐. Recommended visit time: 2–3 hours. Ticket price: ¥45/person. - **Dongguan Street**: A historic cultural district with old-fashioned shops and traditional residences🏮. Here, you can savor Yangzhou’s specialty snacks, buy exquisite handicrafts, and experience the city’s lively atmosphere🔥. Visit time: 1–2 hours. Free entry🆓. - **Local Delicacies**: - **Yangzhou Fried Rice**: A signature dish with distinct grains of rice, mixed with eggs, ham, shrimp, and green peas—nutritious and delicious🥢. - **Lion’s Head Meatballs**: Tender, melt-in-your-mouth pork meatballs, a classic of Huaiyang cuisine🥘. - **Wensi Tofu**: Finely sliced tofu with chicken, ham, and a rich, savory broth🍲. - **Yangzhou Dried Tofu Strips**: Served either blanched or boiled, soft and fragrant, paired with ginger, shrimp, and other condiments🧂. 🏯 **Chaozhou**: The Coastal Cultural Hub, Capital of Cuisine Chaozhou, a city steeped in history and culture, boasts not only ancient relics but also mouthwatering delicacies🍜. - **Must-Visit Attractions**: - **Guangji Bridge**: One of China’s Four Great Ancient Bridges and the world’s earliest openable bridge🌉. By day, its pavilions exude classical charm; by night, it dazzles with lights. Recommended visit time: 1–2 hours. Ticket price: ¥20/person. - **Paifang Street**: A landmark lined with 23 historic archways, each telling a story📜. Packed with specialty shops and food stalls, it’s perfect for experiencing Chaozhou’s vibe. Visit time: 1–2 hours. Free entry🆓. - **Kaiyuan Temple**: One of Guangdong’s Four Great Temples, with grand architecture and ancient relics like Tang-era stone sutra pillars and Song-era bronze bells🏛️. Recommended visit time: 1–2 hours. Free entry🆓. - **Local Delicacies**: - **Chaozhou Beef Hotpot**: Freshly sliced beef, tender and flavorful, paired with satay or chili sauce🥩. - **Chaoshan Braised Goose**: Premium goose meat, marinated to a rich, savory perfection🦆. - **Oyster Omelette**: Crispy outside, tender inside, served with fish sauce and chili🦪. - **Yamujian**: A sweet dessert resembling oversized tangyuan, filled with sesame, peanut, or mung bean paste🥣. 🌿 **Pu’er**: The Fragrant Tea Capital, An Eco-Paradise Pu’er, famed for its tea, offers vast plantations, stunning nature, and ethnic culture🍵. - **Must-Visit Attractions**: - **Pu’er National Forest Park**: A biodiversity hotspot where you can spot rare wildlife like Asian elephants and gibbons🐒. Recommended visit time: 3–4 hours. Ticket price: ¥80/person. - **Jingmai Mountain Ancient Tea Forests**: A UNESCO site with millennia-old tea trees and Dai/Bulang ethnic villages🌱. Experience tea-picking and traditional tea culture. Recommended visit time: 1–2 days. - **Nakeli Tea-Horse Road Post**: A well-preserved relic of the ancient trade route🛣️. Learn about its history and the caravans’ legacy. Visit time: 1–2 hours. Free entry🆓. - **Local Delicacies**: - **Pu’er Ham, Papaya, and Chicken Stew**: A hearty, local-flavored dish🍗. - **Bean Soup Rice Noodles**: Soft rice noodles in rich bean broth, topped with sprouts, chives, and chili oil🍜. - **Spicy Ant Egg Salad**: A bold, tangy ethnic specialty🐜. - **Pu’er Tea Banquet**: Dishes like tea-infused ribs and tea-oil chicken, celebrating tea’s versatility🍴. 🕌 **Yining**: The Jiangnan of the Frontier, A Blend of Cultures Yining, a city of exotic charm, blends stunning landscapes with Uyghur and Central Asian influences🕌. - **Must-Visit Attractions**: - **Kazanqi Folk Tourism Zone**: A vibrant Uyghur neighborhood with colorful houses, horse-drawn carriage rides, and handicrafts🛍️. Recommended visit time: 2–3 hours. Free entry🆓. - **Six-Star Street**: A hexagonal district fusing Russian, Kazakh, and other cultures🎪. Explore cafés, restaurants, and artisan shops. Visit time: 1–2 hours. Free entry🆓. - **Ili River Bridge**: The perfect sunset spot, with dazzling reflections on the water🌇. Recommended visit time: 1–2 hours. Free entry🆓. - **Local Delicacies**: - **Baked Buns (Samsa)**: Crispy pastry filled with savory lamb and onions🥟. - **Pilaf (Plov)**: Fragrant rice with lamb, carrots, and raisins🍚. - **Big Plate Chicken**: Tender chicken, soft potatoes, and hand-pulled noodles in rich sauce🐔. - **Yogurt with Zongzi**: Sticky rice dumplings paired with thick yogurt and honey🥛.

You might be slightly unfamiliar with the name "Yining," but mention "Ili," and its distant, mysterious beauty is already deeply ingrained in your heart. In fact, Yining is the capital of the Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, a small border town with a population of about 580,000, quietly emerging as one of China's most captivating mid-to-long-distance travel destinations. From Nigmat's unique wedding in Kazanqi to Duan Yihong's jogging check-in by the Ili River Bridge; from Tong Liya inviting netizens to visit her hometown to Director He galloping across the internet on horseback... This city, historically known as "Ningyuan" and established in 1762, is once again radiating a mysterious, fresh, and dazzling charm in the era of social media! 📸【9 Must-Visit Attractions in Yining】: Kazanqi Folk Village: Experience rich ethnic customs Six-Star Street: Unique alley layout, full of exotic charm Hanren Street: A blend of tradition and modernity Ili River: Picturesque riverside scenery that soothes the soul Han Princess Memorial Hall: Learn history and honor ancestors Lavender Manor: Purple romance, dreamlike and enchanting Ili Museum: Explore the history and culture of Ili Silk Road Light Night Market: A feast of food and culture 🚗【Recommended Activities Around Yining】: 🥯 Bayandai Town Baked Buns: Taste the most iconic local baked buns, with over 5,000 sold daily—irresistibly delicious Xibo Cultural Park: Follow Tong Liya's footsteps to learn about Xibo culture and savor Xibo cuisine Yizhao Highway: Travel the "Little Duku Highway," admire vast seas of rapeseed flowers, and witness the grandeur of Huocheng Lavender: In mid-June, step into "China's Provence" and experience purple romance Huiyuan Ancient City: Visit historical relics from the Qianlong era's governance of Ili and feel the charm of the ancient city 🚗【Yining Cuisine】: 1. Mianfeizi (Restaurants: Blue Wall Mianfeizi, Gaolancui Trade Mianfeizi, Erdian Mianfeizi, Big Nose Old Xinhua Mianfeizi) 2. Grilled Meat (Restaurants: Hometown Grilled Meat, Hastam Special Grilled Meat) 3. Mixed Noodles (Restaurants: Dilixiati Mixed Noodles, Twin Mixed Noodles, Yesile Special Mixed Noodles, Zhuma Dry-Fried Noodles) 4. Pilaf (Restaurants: Uyghur Small Pot Pilaf, Nijat Uyghur Original Pilaf) 5. Buns (Restaurants: Aishanjiang Pan-Fried Buns, Guomao Baked Buns, Bayandai Unique Baked Buns) 6. Rice Noodles (Zanzan Rice Noodles, Zhencifang Xinjiang-Style Rice Noodles) 7. Ice Cream and Desserts (Yizihai'er Ice Cream, Gulan Danmu Ice Cream, Yimao Sugar Crispy Cake) 8. Others (Wusun Milk Tea Shop, Cai's Original Chicken Wonton, Yongxiangxing Spicy Cold Pot) Yining, a city full of surprises, awaits your exploration and discovery. Pack your bags, set off on your journey, and let Yining's beauty meet you unexpectedly!

1. Yili Hotel 🏛️ History Buffs' Pick: Century-old consulate ruins | Tsarist Russian architecture + ancient tree gardens, featuring an artificial lake, within walking distance to Liuxing Street/Yili River Cultural Depth | "A unique experience of living in a historical museum" (guest's words) 💥 Dealbreakers: Aging Facilities | Hard mattresses, outdated appliances (complaint: "transparent door handles offer zero privacy") Hygiene Red Flags | Severe drain odors, extremely poor soundproofing Price Trap | Low value for money during peak seasons, basic rooms not recommended 2. Narati Jinling Mountain Villa 🏞️ Prime Scenic Spot Location: Exclusive access to Narati Scenic Area | Valley grasslands view from windows, offers self-driving ticket purchasing service (no ticket scramble) Hidden Gem Experience | Some rooms have private hot springs, exclusive sunrise views over the grasslands 🚫 Critical Flaws: Hygiene Failures | Hair and cigarette ash residues found in multiple areas (frequent complaints) Facility Issues | Weak AC cooling, buffet described as "expensive and monotonous" (guest complaints) Lack of Amenities | No supermarkets or food delivery in the scenic area, bring your own snacks! 3. Jinling Mountain Villa Highlights: The only hotel in the scenic area that can purchase self-driving tickets for guests, spacious rooms Tips: Book self-driving tickets in advance to avoid missing out; hot springs require extra payment and may have limited capacity in winter; no food delivery or supermarkets in the scenic area, bring snacks 4. Kurdening Spruce Hotel 🌲 Top Choice for Secluded Getaway: Zero distance to the scenic area | Room rate includes Kurdening entry ticket, floor-to-ceiling windows face spruce forests Taste Sensation | "Clear broth noodles won over Cantonese taste buds! Homemade yogurt + jam is divine" (real praise) Solid Hardware | New facilities, spacious rooms, abundant breakfast 📶 Only Drawback: Signal Black Hole | Unstable 4G, WiFi too slow for videos (unsolvable base station issue) Early Breakfast | Ends early, no make-up if missed 5. Atour Hotel (Downtown Branch) 🚗 King of Convenience: Free airport shuttle | Available upon advance booking, Guangren County/Shanghai City branches close to Liuxing Street Clean Freaks' Dream | Spotless rooms, freshly boiled rich milk for breakfast Value for Money | High quality at 300+ during off-peak seasons 📍 Location Tip: Avoid remote branches! Specify "within 3km of Liuxing Street" Small room types not recommended (check room size at front desk)

The wellness facilities at InterContinental Hotel are themed "Lakeside Serenity," featuring an indoor swimming pool, fitness center, and more. Especially noteworthy is the pool design, which combines water curtains with lighting to create a very atmospheric vibe. Outdoors, there's a children's activity area equipped with slides, rocking horses, climbing ropes, and other play equipment to keep kids entertained for hours. For those seeking great value, we highly recommend the EVEN Hotel, which opened simultaneously right next to the InterContinental and serves as its perfect affordable alternative. At half the price of InterContinental (616/night), the EVEN Hotel doesn't compromise on quality. While InterContinental exudes sophistication, EVEN bursts with energy. The lobby features a fresh green color scheme, with open spaces designed to encourage social interaction and complimentary beverages. The hotel promotes a healthy travel concept, boasting a fully equipped fitness center and even exercise bikes placed in the lobby. Not just that, every guest room includes a dedicated workout area with wall-mounted foam rollers, yoga mats, and other fitness equipment. The entire hotel is infused with local character—from the stirrup-shaped room number plates at each door to the carpets and printed patterns found throughout public areas. EVEN also has its own restaurant, EVEN Eats, blending global cuisine with Xinjiang flavors to offer healthy light meals. Particularly photogenic is the pink spiral staircase here—a dreamy spot that's especially popular for Instagram-worthy shots.

InterContinental Huamei Resort Yining, Xinjiang is the first InterContinental brand hotel in Xinjiang, officially opening on July 1, 2025. Here's an introduction: - Location & Transportation: The hotel is located at No. 999 Binhe Avenue, Yining City, with convenient transportation, approximately 7.5 km from Yining International Airport. - Rooms & Design: The hotel features 220 guest rooms and suites ranging from 45 to 234 square meters. The design incorporates local indigo as the main theme, with custom furniture adorned with traditional wood carvings, complemented by Byredo premium amenities and immersive Bluetooth audio systems. - Dining Facilities: Four distinct restaurants are meticulously designed, including the high-end Chinese restaurant "Cai Feng Lou," inspired by "Silk Road fusion and nature's bounty," showcasing Central Asian flavors and multi-ethnic culinary delights. - Meetings & Events: With approximately 4,500 square meters of banquet and multifunctional meeting spaces, the pillar-free 1,000-square-meter Jinshan Ballroom offers flexible partitioning, equipped with oversized LED screens and smart conference systems. - Amenities & Services: The hotel includes a fitness center, indoor heated pool, yoga studio, and provides convenient travel services and cultural insights, offering customized exploration itineraries.

Ili Travel Guide (Latest Edition 2025) ------ I. Must-Visit Attractions 1. Nalati Grassland ◦ Features: One of the world's four major grasslands, integrating snow-capped mountains, forests, and grasslands. Wildflowers bloom everywhere in summer, and it's covered in silver in winter. Experience Kazakh folk activities like horse riding and archery. ◦ Highlights: Sky Grassland Observation Deck, Panlong Valley Trekking, Snow Lotus Valley Trekking. ◦ Admission: 135 RMB (includes shuttle bus), Opening Hours: All day. 2. Sayram Lake ◦ Features: Known as "the last tear of the Atlantic Ocean," with crystal blue waters, where the surrounding grasslands and snow-capped mountains complement each other. Lavender can be admired in summer, and the ice bubble spectacle is stunning in winter. ◦ Highlights: Lake-circling self-drive (78 km), Dianjiangtai panoramic view, Swan Habitat. ◦ Admission: 145 RMB (includes lake-circling shuttle bus), Opening Hours: 8:00-20:00. 3. Kalaqun Grassland ◦ Features: Kalaqun-Kuerdening Scenic Area is listed as a World Natural Heritage site. The grassland topography is distinct, with wildflowers like a sea in spring and summer, and colorful forests in autumn. ◦ Highlights: Xianhuatai Trekking, Lieyingtai Viewpoint, Canyon Rafting. ◦ Admission: 170 RMB (includes shuttle bus), Recommended duration: 4 hours. 4. Guozigou Bridge ◦ Features: Xinjiang's first cable-stayed highway bridge, spanning a canyon, forming a magnificent picture with Guozigou Waterfall, green mountains, and clear waters – a paradise for photography enthusiasts. ◦ Highlights: Bridge Observation Deck, Huocheng Lavender Farm (June), Hiking Boardwalk. ◦ Admission: Free (Observation deck charges 20 RMB). 5. Kazanchi Folk Tourism Area ◦ Features: A century-old Uyghur residential area in Yining City, with blue streets and horse-drawn carriages, offering a rich experience of ethnic customs and handicraft culture. ◦ Highlights: Horse-drawn carriage tour, handmade ice cream making, home visit experience. ◦ Admission: Free (some attractions charge a fee). ------ II. Special Experiences and Activities 1. Folk Culture ◦ Horgos Port: China-Kazakhstan border trade zone, where you can buy duty-free goods and experience the fusion of cross-border cultures. ◦ Grassland Naadam Festival (July-August): Participate in traditional activities like horse racing, wrestling, and 'Diao Yang' (goat snatching), and taste hand-grabbed lamb and mare's milk wine. 2. Nature Exploration ◦ Xiata Ancient Road Trekking: Traverse the ancient Silk Road, trek to the foot of the glacier, suitable for experienced outdoor enthusiasts. ◦ Wild Walnut Valley Trekking: Explore the Tertiary relict plant community, with red leaves covering the mountains in autumn. 3. Food Journey ◦ Yili Old City Food Street: Recommended are roasted buns, handmade pulled noodles, Naren, smoked horse sausage, etc. ◦ Liuxing Street Night Market: A century-old charming street area where you can taste Kvass, Gezili Xiang Nang, and Russian Lieba. ------ III. Classic Itinerary Routes 1. 3-Day Essential Tour ◦ Day 1: Yining → Kazanchi Folk Village (horse-drawn carriage tour) → Liuxing Street (food) → Overnight in Yining. ◦ Day 2: Yining → Sayram Lake (lake-circling self-drive) → Guozigou Bridge → Huocheng Lavender Farm → Overnight in Huocheng. ◦ Day 3: Huocheng → Nalati Grassland (Sky Grassland) → Return to Yining. 2. 5-Day In-depth Tour ◦ Day 1: Yining → Tekes Bagua City (climb Baguatai for panoramic view) → Overnight in Tekes. ◦ Day 2: Tekes → Kalaqun Grassland (Xianhuatai trekking) → Kuerdening (photography) → Overnight in Gongliu. ◦ Day 3: Gongliu → Wild Walnut Valley → Xiata Ancient Road (light trekking) → Overnight in Zhaosu. ◦ Day 4: Zhaosu → Zhaosu Heavenly Horse Cultural Park (horse riding experience) → Tekes → Return. ◦ Day 5: Yining → Huiyuan Ancient City (Lin Zexu Memorial Hall) → Hanren Street (handicraft shopping). 3. Photography Route ◦ Best Time: June (lavender), September (autumn scenery), Winter (snow scenery). ◦ Recommended Spots: Sayram Lake sunrise, Kalaqun Grassland flower sea, Qiongkushitai starry sky, Bayanbulak Nine Bends and Eighteen Turns sunset. ------ IV. Recommended Travel Times • June-August: Grasslands are at their greenest, lavender is in full bloom, suitable for summer escape. • September-October: Vibrant autumn colors, Kalaqun and Qiongkushitai are covered in colorful forests. • Winter (November-March): Pure snow scenery, can experience skiing and hot springs (e.g., Shawan Hot Spring). ------ V. Food Recommendations 1. Must-Try Snacks ◦ Roasted Buns: Crispy outside, fragrant inside, with rich lamb filling (Recommended: Ashe Liangfen Restaurant). ◦ Hand-Grabbed Lamb: Authentic flavor, served with onions and Piyazi (Recommended: No. 88 Old Delicious Lamb Ribs and Pulled Noodles). ◦ Naren: Traditional Kazakh noodle dish, noodles cooked in meat broth, seasoned with chili powder. 2. Special Main Courses ◦ Xinjiang Da Pan Ji (Big Plate Chicken): Yili improved version, more authentic with wide belt noodles (Recommended: Kashgar Time-Honored Brand). ◦ Mare's Milk: Fermented mare's milk drink, sour and sweet, refreshing in summer (Recommended: Herder's home in Kazanchi Folk Village). ◦ Russian Lieba: Traditional rye bread, served with jam and nuts (Recommended: Liuba Russian Lieba House). ------ VI. Transportation and Accommodation 1. Transportation ◦ Flights: Yining Airport (direct flights to Urumqi, Chengdu, etc.), Nalati Airport (direct flights to cities within Xinjiang). ◦ Self-drive: Duku Highway (open June-September), Yizhao Highway (open June-October), road conditions are generally good but pay attention to weather. ◦ Chartered car/Car-pooling: Recommended for 4 people to carpool, daily average cost about 500-800 RMB. 2. Accommodation ◦ Yining City: Yining Tianyuan International Hotel (near Ili River), Liuxing Street B&B (experience ethnic customs). ◦ Grassland Scenic Area: Nalati Muxinggu Starry Sky Tent, Tekes Lijie Special Inn. ◦ Winter Recommendation: Shawan Hot Spring Resort (wellness + skiing). ------ VII. Practical Tips 1. Altitude Sickness: Sayram Lake and Xiata are about 2000 meters above sea level; generally no altitude sickness, but avoid strenuous exercise. 2. Sun Protection and Insect Repellent: Strong UV rays, need SPF50+ sunscreen, sunglasses; many mosquitoes in grasslands, bring insect repellent. 3. Dressing Guide: Large temperature difference between day and night, bring a jacket even in summer; down jacket + non-slip boots needed in winter. 4. Cultural Respect: Remove shoes when entering mosques, do not casually photograph locals (especially women). 5. Environmental Protection Tips: Do not drive over grasslands, take your trash with you, protect wetland ecosystems. ------ VIII. Supplementary Niche Attractions • Qiongkushitai: Primitive village, wooden houses complementing snow-capped mountains, suitable for trekking and photography. • Gongnaisi River Valley: Autumn red leaf secret spot, suitable for camping and stargazing. • Huiyuan Ancient City: Site of the Qing Dynasty Ili General's Residence, rich in historical relics. ------

How to describe summer in Xinjiang? "Had I known Xinjiang earlier, why bother with the Alps?" I think this phrase perfectly captures the essence of traveling in Xinjiang during summer. Serene, healing, peaceful, and carefree—these words sketch the image of Ili; cattle, sheep, horses, spruce trees, snow-capped mountains, grasslands, wildflowers, and streams—these are the breathtaking views you'll encounter everywhere in Ili. 🗺 My Travel Itinerary (One-Week Highlights Version) Day1️⃣: Depart from your location - Arrive in Urumqi Day2️⃣: Urumqi - Lakeside walk at Sayram Lake - Sunset at Sayram Lake - Stay in Sayram Lake living area Day3️⃣: Circumnavigate Sayram Lake - Guozigou Scenic Platform - Lavender Farm - Liuxing Street - Yining Day4️⃣: Yining - Yizhao Highway - Xiate - General Bridge - Tianma Cultural Park - Tekes Bagua City Day5️⃣: Tekes Bagua City - Ku'erdening - Nalati Valley Grassland - Nalati Town Day6️⃣: Xinyuan - Nalati Sky Grassland + Panlong Valley Road - Tangbula Day7️⃣: Tangbula - Tangbula Hundred-Mile Gallery - Northern Section of Duku Highway - Urumqi Day8️⃣: Urumqi - International Grand Bazaar - Return trip Must-Visit Scenic Spots 【Xiate】🏔️ Xiate is arguably the crown jewel of Ili. The stunning Muzart Snow Mountain, grasslands, and spruce trees complement each other—isn't this the scene of my dreams? Standing here, you feel as if you've merged with nature, experiencing the tranquility and beauty of time. 【Nalati】🌲 The viral sky grassland bridge at Nalati, the S-curves of Panlong Valley Road, and the countless cattle and sheep grazing in the valley grasslands—each spot heals the soul. Strolling through, it feels like all worries are left behind, leaving only inner peace and contentment. 【Duku Highway】🚗 "Experience four seasons in one journey, different weather every ten miles"—how can you visit Xinjiang without traveling the Duku Highway? The snow-capped mountains, grasslands, and lakes along the way unfold like a scroll, refreshing the mind and making you feel as if you're in a fairyland. 【Ku'erdening】🐑 In Ku'erdening, riding a horse into the scenic area allows you to capture photos of the same charming wooden cabins under snow-capped mountains and cartoon-like clouds as seen in "Heidi and Grandpa." You must try horseback riding—feeling the breeze and admiring the surrounding beauty from atop a horse is simply incredible. 【Sayram Lake】🌊 "If you have no dreams, why visit Sayram Lake?" Sa Beining's remark, "You haven't truly lived if you haven't been to Sayram Lake," filled me with anticipation. When I finally arrived, I realized this was the lake of my dreams. Amidst the sea of flowers, I captured the photo of my life—a timeless memento of this beautiful journey.

🌿Yining Secret｜Stay at Wuyou Courtyard and dream a gentle dream of the old town🌙 ✨【Open the window and step into a vivid painting of Uyghur charm】✨ Hidden in the old town of Yining, Kazanqi, lies the Wuyou Courtyard. 🚶【A 5-minute walk to indulge in exotic culinary delights】🚶 ✔ The bustling Han Street Bazaar fills the air with tantalizing aromas. Sizzling baked buns, honey-wrapped yogurt rice dumplings, and fragrant pilaf waft through the streets. ✔ Copperware shops chime with melody, flower hat stores burst with vibrant colors, and handmade carpets hold the mysteries of the universe. ✔ Turn a corner and meet an Uyghur grandmother under her century-old mulberry tree. 💫【The host of the homestay is dedicated to pampering guests】💫 ✅ Free private parking (a delight for self-driving travelers) ✅ Garden camping area + ambient lighting = a private starlit dinner ✅ Valet parking + car-hailing service (a lifesaver for the directionally challenged) ✅ Luggage storage (free your hands for endless shopping) ✅ Hidden gems: morning bird songs and playful fish 🌙【At Wuyou Courtyard, live life like poetry】🌙 When the aroma of baked naan mingles with the chirping of birds in the courtyard, Sit under towering sycamore trees with a cup of coffee or tea, Watch Uyghur children ride bicycles past blue walls, And suddenly understand— True travel isn’t about checking off attractions, It’s about immersing yourself in the lives of locals. Location: No. 208, Qianjin Street, Yining City, Wuyou Courtyard 💰Average cost: 150+ per person (a fairy tale stay at a great value!)

A Flavor Lab Hidden Behind Red Brick Walls and Arched Windows Who would have thought that by Yili's West Bridge, there's such a magical little eatery! Jingmen Roast Duck's red brick walls paired with large arched glass windows, old Beijing palace lanterns swaying in Yining's evening breeze🕯️—the moment you step in, you're greeted by the staff's enthusiastic welcome: "Our roast duck does magic tricks~" 🍗 Must-Try Fiery Trio 🥵 【Soul-Shocking·Tempting Duck Head】 Glittering with tempting oil sheen✨ upon serving, sprinkled with sesame and scallions like gold dust. The first bite—OMG! The numbing spiciness hits hard!! The duck skull is fully marinated, even the cartilage bursts with flavor. A double assault from Xinjiang chili skins and Sichuan peppercorns—so spicy it'll make your eyes water and nose run, yet you'll keep licking your fingers! 【Carb Bomb·Pigeon Noodles】 This isn't just noodles—it's a chili feast🌶️! The pigeon meat is tender enough to burst with juices, and even the quail eggs soak up the spice. After mixing, every bite challenges your taste buds to the limit! Pro tip: Keep tissues handy for sweat, but you won't be able to stop😭 【City Duo·Signature Roast Duck】 The duck skin is so crispy you could play it as an instrument🥁—the "crunch" is the soundtrack of joy! Special shoutout to Yining's local wheat pancakes🫓, chewier than Beijing's thin wrappers. Wrapped with duck meat, sweet bean sauce, and garlic-vinegar paste—it's a north-south flavor party in your mouth! 🍧 Spice Relief Showdown 【Millet Cake】 The savior arrives‼️ Icy two-layer rice cake stuffed with sweet beans, dusted with osmanthus sugar—just the right sweetness💫 to rescue your spice-numbed tongue in seconds! 【Divine Duck Soup】 This seemingly plain white broth hides big secrets! Slow-cooked with red dates, goji berries, and radish—one sip and the umami makes your eyebrows dance💃. Downing three bowls is totally doable~ 💡 Treasure Tips ✔️Best seat: By the window! Munch duck heads while watching Yili's sunset🌅 ✔️Hidden hack: Dip roast duck pancakes in pigeon noodle chili sauce—surprisingly perfect match! ✔️~80-120 RMB per person, remember to book ahead! This place completely shattered my stereotypes about "Beijing-style roast duck"—who knew north-south flavor collisions could spark such brilliance✨! Rumor has it there's even a heavenly pairing of milk tea with roast duck—definitely trying that next time!

Summer in Northern Xinjiang is like God's spilled palette🎨! Endless emerald grasslands, wildflowers blanketing the mountains💐, gem-like lakes💧, fairytale wooden houses🏡... Even the wind carries the scent of freedom! 🔥 Just completed this Xinjiang loop with kids—RV camping + Duku Highway + starry grasslands—absolutely breathtaking! Perfect for summer family trips! Why is this route legendary? Here's why... ⬇️⬇️⬇️ ✔️Scenery to die for! Canyons, lakes, grasslands, snow-capped mountains, flower seas, highways... All of Xinjiang's highlights in one trip!🌈 ✔️Unforgettable experiences! RV camping⛺️, stargazing🌌, ethnic culture, food🍖, snow play❄️, family activities... Unique and diverse! ✔️Cultural immersion! Military reclamation, Kazakh, Uyghur... Feel the multicultural charm!💃 ✔️Comfy stays! Hotels + camping, perfectly balanced~ 🏨⛺️ Itinerary Highlights D1: Meet in Urumqi! ✨ Arrive in "Urumqi," check in at the hotel, and explore freely!🏨 Stay at "Hampton by Hilton Urumqi Convention Center," gear up + briefing session—rest well for the adventure ahead!😴 Excitement levels maxed out! D2: Canyon Wonders! Military Heritage + BBQ Feast! 🚌 Urumqi → Shihezi → Anjihai Grand Canyon → Kuytun Shihezi Military Star Experience: Relive the heroic era of reclamation!💪 Shawan foodie stop: Must-try authentic Xinjiang BBQ!🍖 Juicy, tender, drool-worthy!😋 Anjihai Grand Canyon: OMG! Jaw-dropping! Nature's palette🎨—standing on the cliff edge is equal parts thrilling and awe-inspiring!🤯 🏨 Overnight at "Kuytun Runjin International Hotel," cozy! D3: Sayram Lake Paradise! RV Camping + Stars!🌌 🚌 Kuytun → Sayram Lake (RV camping) Sayram Lake: A fairyland on earth!💧 Sapphire waters + snow-capped peaks🏔️—tear-inducing beauty! Fun activities: Water quality test🔬 + lakeside RV afternoon tea☕️ + family kite-flying🪁 Instagram spots: Sayram Lighthouse💡 + running through West Sea Grassland🏃‍♀️ + epic S-curve road photos!📸 Forest hike: Become woodland explorers🌲 ✨Highlight: RV camping under starry skies🌌—the Milky Way feels within reach! Tears of joy!😭 D4: Lavender Fields + Exotic Vibes! 🚌 Sayram sunrise → Guozigou Bridge → Huocheng → Yining Sayram sunrise: Golden rays on the lake🌅—breathtaking! Must-see! Guozigou Bridge: A dragon spanning the valley🐉—majestic! Jieyou Princess Lavender Farm: 💜 A purple sea of romance! Fragrant and photogenic!📸 Kazanqi Folk Village: Immersive Uyghur culture! Home visits, treats🍇, and warm hospitality!🥰 Six-Star Street: Free exploration📸—colorful alleys full of stories! 🏨 Overnight at "Yining Tianyuan International Hotel," pure bliss~ D5: Nalati Grassland Celebration! Kazakh Culture!🐎 🚌 Yining → Nalati Grassland (RV camping) Nalati secret RV tour: Deep into the grasslands, owning the wilderness!🌿 Nomadic afternoon tea: Milk tea + hand-torn meat🥩—live like herders! Kazakh family visit: Singing, dancing💃, and unforgettable hospitality! Grassland carnival: Tug-of-war🤼‍♀️, board games, kite-flying🪁, frisbee🥏... Wild fun! ✨Another night under stars: Bonfire stories🔥—magical vibes!🌌 D6: Duku Highway Hero's Journey! Scenic Drive + Snow Play!❄️ 🚌 Nalati → Qiaoerma → Tangbula → Duku Highway North → Kuytun Qiaoerma Martyrs' Cemetery: Pay respects to heroes🙏 Tangbula "Hundred-Mile Gallery": 🏞️ Every step a postcard! Duku Highway North: A heroic road! Rugged and majestic🏔️—views for days! Summer snow fights!❄️ Build snowmen☃️ and scream with joy!🤣 🏨 Back to "Kuytun Runjin," sweet home~ D7: Canyon Finale! Duku Stories! 🚌 Kuytun → Dushanzi Grand Canyon → Urumqi Duku Highway Museum: Learn the epic road-building tales📚—moving! Dushanzi Grand Canyon: Nature's masterpiece!🪚 Deep and dramatic—a grand finale!🤩 🚌 Return to Urumqi, hearts full of memories! D8: Farewell, Xinjiang!👋 ✨ Free time in Urumqi—shop for souvenirs🎁 and head home content!🏡 【Private Car Tours】【Custom Trips】【Family Groups】Available! How to book this trip? 👇👇Tap "Chat Now" below to get your personalized plan!

Sayram Lake, known as "the last tear of the Atlantic," is like a sapphire embedded in the northwest land. The clear lake water reflects the snow-capped mountains, blue sky, and grasslands, creating a breathtakingly beautiful scene. To have a perfect trip here, a carefully planned guide is essential. Classic Recommended Itineraries Short 2-Day Essence Tour Day 1: Arrive at Sayram Lake, check into a lakeside guesthouse and rest. In the afternoon, take a walk along the lakeside trail, feel the tranquility of the water, and wait for sunset to see the evening glow dye the lake surface with dreamy colors. Day 2: Wake up early to watch the sunrise, then start a lake circuit tour, visiting various unique spots. Depart in the afternoon to return or head to the next destination. In-Depth 4-Day Exploration Tour Day 1: Departure point - Urumqi, adapt to the environment and taste local cuisine. Day 2: Urumqi - Sayram Lake, afternoon lake tour to enjoy the lake and mountain scenery. Day 3: Re-enter Sayram Lake for an in-depth visit to unvisited spots, then head to the lavender fields. Arrive in Yining by evening and stroll along Liuxing Street to experience exotic vibes. Day 4: Yining - Guozigou Bridge - Huocheng, admire the perfect blend of bridge architecture and natural scenery, learn about local folk culture, then return. Best Time to Visit and Arrangements The sunrise and sunset at Sayram Lake are absolutely unmissable moments: - Summer: It is recommended to arrive before 7 AM to wait for the first ray of sunlight to leap over the lake; watch the sunset after 7 PM when the afterglow turns the snow mountains and lake golden. - Winter: You can wait for sunrise around 9:30 AM to feel the tranquility of the frozen lake; enjoy the sunset before 5 PM, where blue ice and evening glow weave a fairy-tale scene. If time allows, it is recommended to spend two days: focus on sunset viewing on the first day, then wake early on the second day to watch the sunrise and explore deeply, leaving no regrets. Transportation Guide Self-driving Navigate directly to Sayram Lake Scenic Area, with picturesque scenery along the way, like being in a natural gallery. The self-driving ticket in the scenic area is 143 RMB per vehicle (24 hours), allowing you to park anytime for photos and control your itinerary freely. Public Transport 1. High-speed train + bus: Take the high-speed train to Bole Station (ticket about 122 RMB), then transfer to a bus to Sayram Lake (ticket 30 RMB), suitable for solo travelers. 2. Car rental/carpool: Contact local drivers in advance, who can provide pick-up and drop-off services at Bole Station, accompany you around the lake, and return you to the city, convenient and worry-free. Tickets and Ways to Tour - Self-driving/carpool: Adult tickets are 145 RMB per person, must be purchased in advance through official channels, and exchange for paper tickets at the visitor center before entering. Do not navigate directly to the East Gate to avoid entry issues. - Non-self-driving: You can choose the scenic area shuttle bus, which stops at various attractions along the way, suitable for a relaxed tour. Specific ticket prices are subject to scenic area announcements. Must-Visit Attractions 1. Moon Bay The distant snow mountains stand tall, the lake surface mirrors the sky and mountains, and the grassy shore extends like a green carpet. It is recommended to shoot from a low angle to capture the crescent shape outlined by the shoreline; using a drone for an aerial view better showcases its grandeur. 2. Kele Yongzhu This is one of the water sources of Sayram Lake, where clear spring water gushes from rock crevices, forming a unique stream landscape. Wildflowers dot the shore, and the lake water and snow mountains complement each other, perfect for fresh and natural portrait photography. 3. West Sea Grassland The vast grassland connects with the blue lake, with cattle and sheep leisurely wandering. In spring and summer, wildflowers cover the hills like a fairy tale; in autumn and winter, golden and snowy white intertwine, showing a different kind of desolate beauty. 4. Waterside Beach This is a habitat for swans, where you can watch swans playing in the water up close and interact with them for photos. Meanwhile, the road at Waterside Beach, along with the lake and snow mountains, forms an excellent background. Shooting road scenes in the soft morning light creates a full atmosphere. 5. Pine Tree Head Viewing Platform Located on the east side of Sayram Lake, it is an excellent spot for panoramic views. Standing here, you can see the lake and mountains in full view, with the Guozigou Bridge spanning the valley in the distance, forming a magnificent landscape combination with Sayram Lake. Food and Accommodation Recommendations Specialty Food - Kazakh-style cuisine: Taste authentic hand-pulled meat and roasted lamb, tender and juicy, paired with local naan bread for full flavor. - Lake fresh dishes: Although fishing is prohibited in Sayram Lake, nearby restaurants offer fresh cold-water fish such as high white salmon, delicious steamed or braised. - Xinjiang specialty snacks: Classic foods like baked buns, big plate chicken, and yogurt zongzi are also not to be missed, available in Yining or nearby scenic area restaurants. Accommodation Suggestions - Lakeside guesthouses: Recommended to stay in characteristic guesthouses around Sayram Lake, where you can see the lake view right from the window. The scenery in the morning and evening is especially charming, but booking in advance is necessary. - Yining city center: If you want to experience richer nightlife, you can choose to stay in Yining, which has convenient transportation and diverse accommodation options. Travel Tips 1. The temperature difference between day and night in the scenic area is large, so bring a thick jacket whenever you go. Windproof clothing is also recommended in summer. 2. UV rays are strong, so be sure to take sun protection measures, including sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. 3. Protect the ecological environment by not littering or damaging plants. 4. When driving, control your speed as some road sections have many curves; when hiking, choose suitable shoes and avoid dangerous areas. Bring this guide and step into the stunning picture of Sayram Lake to feel the poetry and romance bestowed by nature!

Xinjiang, a place of breathtaking beauty all year round Snow-capped mountains, vast grasslands, lush forests🌲, crystal-clear lakes🌊, and flocks of sheep and horses leisurely roaming—every frame captured feels like a scene from a movie📽️ ⛺【Must-Visit Spots】: ✅Sayram Lake: The lake's waters🌊 are a mesmerizing azure, surrounded by snow-capped mountains🏔️, verdant grasslands🌿, blooming flower fields🏵️, and graceful swans🦢—it's a dreamlike paradise! ✅Xia Ta: While it’s all grassland scenery, Xia Ta is undoubtedly a hiker’s paradise. ✅Kazanqi: Stepping into this blue-hued fairytale world💙 feels like wandering through a storybook. Stroll through its alleys and soak in the slow-paced, relaxed way of life. 🛬【Travel Itinerary】: D1. Arrival in Yining D2. Yining → Sayram Lake → Huocheng Lavender Fields → Jinghe D3. Jinghe → Dushanzi Grand Canyon → Tangbula Hundred-Mile Gallery → Overnight in Tangbula D4. Tangbula → Nalati → Zhaosu D5. Zhaosu → Xia Ta → Zhaosu Heavenly Horse Bathing River → Zhaosu Rapeseed Fields → Zhaosu D6. Zhaosu → Yizhao Highway → Kazanqi → Ili General’s Mansion → Yining D7. Departure from Yining 🏨【Accommodation Tips】: ▪️During peak season, accommodations fill up quickly—book in advance. ▪️Towns offer plenty of hotels and guesthouses; choose based on your preferences. 🧡【Tips】: 👉Apply sunscreen for extended outdoor activities. 👉Xinjiang has significant temperature differences between day and night—pack layers.

Yili is located in the northwest of Xinjiang, ❤️ known as the "Jiangnan beyond the Great Wall," featuring magnificent landscapes such as snow-capped mountains, grasslands, lakes, and flower seas 🦋, blending Kazakh and Uyghur cultures. --- ### **1. Best Travel Time** - 💞**April-May**: Apricot and wild apple blossoms bloom, perfect for photography. - ❤️**June-August**: Lavender blooming season (mid-June to early July), the grasslands are the greenest, ideal for summer retreats. - ❤️**September-October**: Colorful autumn scenery, great for hiking and self-driving. - 💗**Winter (November-March)**: Sailimu Lake’s blue ice and snowy landscapes, fewer tourists. --- ### **2. Must-Visit Attractions** 1. **Sailimu Lake** - 💗 Known as "the last drop of the Atlantic," wildflowers bloom in June-July, and blue ice cracks can be photographed in winter. - 💗 Recommended to drive or cycle around the lake, with the best light in early morning or evening. 2. **Nalati Grassland** - ❤️ The "Sky Grassland" offers three-dimensional scenery, wildflowers bloom in summer, and skiing is available in winter. 3. **Kalajun Grassland** - 💗 A World Natural Heritage site, famous for its "human body grassland" curves, perfect for photography. 4. **Shata Ancient Trail** - ❤️ A hiking paradise with views of the Muzart Glacier, recommended for horseback riding or light hiking. 5. **Qiongkushitai** - 🌃 A primitive wooden house village, suitable for hiking the Wusun Ancient Trail, with stargazing opportunities at night. 6. **Huocheng Lavender** - 💗 Blooms from mid-June to early July, the Princess Jieyou Manor and surrounding free flower fields are great for photos. 7. **Guozigou Bridge** - 💗 Excellent for aerial photography, can be combined with a Sailimu Lake trip. 8. **Tekesi Bagua City** - 💗 The world’s largest Bagua layout city, stunning drone footage. 9. **Zhaosu Grassland** - ❤️ The hometown of Tianma (heavenly horses), with rapeseed flowers and snow-capped mountains in July. 10. **Duku Highway** - ❄️ Opens June 1st, featuring magnificent snow mountains, canyons, and grassland scenery along the way. --- ### **3. Transportation** - ❤️**Flight**: Fly to Yining Airport (direct flights from Beijing/Shanghai/Chengdu) or transfer via Urumqi. - 🚘**Self-driving**: SUV recommended; some sections of Duku Highway and Yizhao Highway require four-wheel drive. - 🚘**Car rental with driver**: 7-seater business vans cost about 800 RMB/day, suitable for families or small groups. - ❤️**Public transport**: Direct shuttle buses to scenic spots (e.g., Yining-Sailimu Lake round trip 150 RMB), but with limited schedules. --- ### **4. Food Recommendations** - *💗*Hand-grabbed mutton*: Boiled lamb with onions, recommended at Ailekasier Restaurant. - ❤️*Jiao Ma Chicken*: Erzi Wawa Jiao Ma Chicken (local chain). - *💖*Grilled buns*: Black Ram themed restaurant. - *💗*Ice cream*: Gulan Danmu (a century-old brand). - ❤️*Night market snacks*: Hanren Street grilled lamb kidneys, Liuxing Street grilled goose eggs. --- ### **5. Notes** 1. **Documents**: ID card and border pass (for Horgos Port) are essential. 2. **Sun and cold protection**: Strong UV in summer requires sunscreen and sunglasses; large temperature differences in mountainous areas require windbreakers. 3. **Environmental protection**: Smoking is prohibited on grasslands; carry out all trash. 4. **Accommodation**: Book homestays in advance during peak season (June-August). 5. **Cultural etiquette**: Respect local customs, such as not stepping on the threshold of Kazakh yurts. --- ### **6. Recommended Itineraries** - **5-day classic tour** Day 1: Yining (Kazanqi Folk Village + Liuxing Street) Day 2: Sailimu Lake circle + Guozigou Bridge Day 3: Shata Ancient Trail hiking Day 4: Kalajun Grassland + Tekesi Bagua City Day 5: Qiongkushitai or Huocheng Lavender. - **7-day in-depth tour** Add Duku Highway, Nalati Grassland, Zhaosu Tianma Festival, etc. --- Yili offers a rich and diverse travel experience, ❤️ whether it is natural scenery or cultural charm, it is worth exploring.