Xinjiang Journey

1️⃣ Why choose the Ili route? Xinjiang is vast, and for working professionals with limited vacation time, only one route can be chosen among the many options. In June, Ili is already lush and green, and the Dushanzi-Kuqa Highway (Duku Highway) has just opened with relatively light traffic, so we opted for the Ili route. 8-Day Ili Itinerary (Departing June 7) DAY1: Nationwide – Urumqi After arrival, since the sun sets late in Xinjiang, explore and dine around the hotel area. DAY2: Urumqi – S101 Hundred Miles Danxia – Kensiwate Reservoir – Anjihai Grand Canyon – Kuytun Today, it’s recommended to allocate ample time for Anjihai Grand Canyon. DAY3: Kuytun – Sayram Lake – Guozigou Bridge – Lavender Farm – Liuxing Street – Yining Today, reserve plenty of time for Sayram Lake, as traffic around the lake can be congested. Guozigou Bridge is a quick photo stop. DAY4: Yining – Yizhao Highway – Xiate – Zhaosu Today features only Xiate as the main attraction, a large scenic area requiring at least 4 hours. DAY5: Zhaosu – Ku’erdening – Nalati Town Today is also focused solely on Ku’erdening, with long driving hours that can be exhausting. DAY6: Nalati Town – Nalati Grassland – Bayin Town Nalati deserves a full day, haha! DAY7: Bayin Town – Northern Section of Duku Highway – Urumqi DAY8: Return from Urumqi (no actual itinerary, only includes airport transfer) On the evening of DAY7 after returning to Urumqi, the group tour ended, and we took a taxi with fellow travelers to Hetian Second Street, enjoying pilaf, kebabs, baked buns, etc. (Trip concluded on June 13) 4️⃣ Personal Additions: DAY8: Visits to Urumqi Grand Bazaar and Jinquan Mall. DAY9: One-day trip to Turpan, added due to sufficient time. This will be detailed in a separate post later. DAY10: Urumqi Museum, highly recommended. Returned to Beijing in the afternoon of June 16. 5️⃣ Xinjiang Travel Tips: With such a tight schedule, be mentally prepared for long hours of driving; Sun protection! Sun protection! Sun protection! Temperature varies between day and night, and some scenic areas are at high altitudes—bring a slightly thicker jacket; Rest well and stay energized for the adventure!