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

📍** Altay Travel Guide 🍃Altai is located in the northern part of Xinjiang and is known as the "Wonderland of Humanity". It is famous for Kanas Lake, Womu Village and other attractions, suitable for summer and autumn. 👇**Itinerary Recommendation:** 💞一。 **Kanas Lake**: A must-visit attraction with blue lake water, recommended hiking or boat tour, the three bays (Shenxian Bay, Moon Bay, Wolong Bay) can not be missed. 🌲2。 **Womu Village**: Tuva village, autumn layer forest dyed, early morning morning mist shrouded, suitable for photography. 🌾3． **Baihaba**: A quiet village on the China-Kazakhstan border, requiring a border defense permit. 🌲4。 **Cocoto Sea**: Peculiar granite landscape, especially beautiful in autumn. 🚗**Transportation:** ✈️- Air: Fly to Altay Airport, or first to Urumqi for transfer/charter. 🚘 - Charter car / self-drive: attractions are scattered, it is recommended to charter a car (about 800-1000 yuan / day). 🏠**Accommodation:** ✅ There are homestays in Hemu, Kanas, peak season (June-October) need to book in advance. ⚠️**Tips:** 🧥- There is a big difference in temperature between day and night, so prepare warm clothes. !!️- Respect the customs of local ethnic minorities. ✅ - Many tourists during peak season, it is recommended to travel during off-peak hours. 💞Altay is a secret land of nature and humanity, suitable for travelers who like scenery and tranquility!

Accommodation 🏠 If you go to Kanas, you must stay in a log cabin. It looks great in photos, and the area around the cabin is also very photogenic. I stayed at a guesthouse called Youzai Youzai, which was very nice! It even had a smart toilet, and the underfloor heating was adjustable. 📷 I mostly used the iPhone camera. You don't need a reflector in the snow! When the weather is good, the natural reflection of the sun on the snow makes your face look very clear, and you can take great photos without even trying. OOTD Hats, scarves, earmuffs, and sunglasses are essential for the atmosphere and warmth! It can be very cold when the wind blows on snowy days! But when the sun is out, it won't be too cold. Activities 🎿🐎 You have to ride a horse to Kanas Lake, or you can walk for about half an hour. Our guide helped us negotiate the price for the horse ride with the local herders. You can't come here and not try skiing! There is a ski resort in Hemu 🎿, which is very close to Kanas, but it wasn't open when I went, so I went to the ski resort in Koktokay.

🚗For those who want to come to Xinjiang from May to August: The consumption in Xinjiang will be higher than that in other cities, so if you don’t make a guide, you will really encounter a lot of pitfalls. When you go to Xinjiang for the first time, you must sum up everything and be prepared! Today, I will share these experiences and lessons for everyone to use as a reference! !I hope the sisters who are about to travel to Xinjiang can avoid lightning in time! I wish the sisters have a good time! 🙅If you are afraid that you will step into pitfalls when you come to Xinjiang, you can save it first. Although it cannot be said that you can avoid 100% of pitfalls, it is still possible to avoid 80-90% of troubles. Travel novices can rest assured to save it! All girls planning to go to Xinjiang from May to August should listen to my advice.. 😃Summer is the most beautiful season in Xinjiang. Those who plan to come to Xinjiang this year are in luck~ After staying in Xinjiang for 6 years, I compiled this super comprehensive "Xinjiang" guide today. It is recommended to collect it and copy the homework! ⚠Transportation upon arrival in Xinjiang ✈Airplane: Urumqi Diwopu Airport To get to the city, you can take the airport bus for 10 yuan, a taxi for 45 yuan, or take subway line 1. 🔅Kashgar Airport: Kashgar International Airport It's very close to the city. A taxi is 13 yuan (when taking a taxi, be careful not to negotiate with the driver, just ask him to use the meter. Especially at night, many drivers will ask for random prices. You won't lose money if you insist on using the meter) 🚅Train: You can take bus or ZFB taxi from Urumqi Station or Urumqi South Station to the city 〽Tips: It is recommended to go to Urumqi Station first. As the transportation hub of Xinjiang, Urumqi has convenient transportation. Regardless of group tour or self-driving, almost all bus sources depart from here. 🚘Self-driving: Suitable for experienced drivers who have enough time and rich driving experience, and wealthy people who are not afraid of fines for traffic violations 🚌Chartered car: High degree of freedom in itinerary, you can stop and go at any time, but the cost of chartering a car to travel in Xinjiang during the peak tourist season is indeed not low. 🌄【Inventory of Xinjiang Attractions】ㅤ 1️⃣Urumqi: Tianshan Tianchi, Hongshan Park, and International Grand Bazaar are waiting for you to exploreㅤ 2️⃣Kanas: Colorful Beach, Cocotuo Sea, Kanas Lake, Hemu Village, Devil City, every place is picturesqueㅤ 3️⃣Ili: Sailimu Lake, Nalati Grassland, Xiata Ancient Road, Kalajun, Tangbula, Duku Highway, self-driving paradise is waiting for you to challengeㅤ 4️⃣Bazhou: Bayinbuluke, Bosten Lake, Luobu Village, experience different ethnic customsㅤ 5️⃣Southern Xinjiang: Kashgar Old City, Wensu Grand Canyon, Kuqa Grand Canyon, Pamir Plateau, Hotan, feel the mystery and depth of Southern Xinjiang 🏠【Accommodation Tips】ㅤ The peak season in Xinjiang is from June to October, and rooms are tight and prices are high. It is recommended to plan your trip and book accommodation in advance to avoid having no room to stay in the local area! Of course, prices in the off-season are relatively affordable, so you can compare prices and environment online to choose accommodation that suits you. 🍲【Food Recommendations】ㅤ Xinjiang’s delicacies are definitely not to be missed! 🍛ㅤ 🥢Xinjiang grilled buns: crispy on the outside, tender and juicy mutton fillingㅤ 🥢Crock Pork: An exquisite version of braised mutton, deliciousㅤ 🥢Red willow skewers: Large skewers of mutton, tender and juicyㅤ 🥢Big Plate Chicken: Authentic Xinjiang taste, the chicken is fresh and tender, and the potatoes are soft and glutinousㅤ 🥢Hand-picked rice: a perfect combination of mutton and rice, full of aroma ㅤ 🥢Stir-fried spicy mutton: The mutton is tender, juicy, full of spiciness, and endless aftertaste 😎The distances between various tourist attractions in Xinjiang are long, the territory is vast, and transportation back and forth is inconvenient. For Baozi who is visiting Xinjiang for the first time, it is recommended to sign up for a small local tour group. You can enjoy all the delicious food and fun in one place. You don’t have to worry about transportation, accommodation and tickets, they are all provided. After making arrangements, just play with the local experienced driver🥳🥳

There are always some beautiful things in the world worth rushing to! This summer, let's go to Xinjiang! Visit the vast grasslands, this magical place like the Emerald City of Oz, take a rest on the grassland that feels like a green carpet for a while. As the wind blows, you feel like you're floating on the sea, reaching out as if you could touch the blue sky and white clouds, being there, you can't help but marvel at the beauty of nature. (Kanas + Yili Loop 10-Day Tour) D1: Urumqi - S21 Desert Highway - Ulungur Lake (road view) - Burqin D2: Burqin - Kanas Lake - Kanas Village D3: Kanas - Strolling through Three Bays - Hemu D4: Hemu - World Devil City - Karamay D5: Karamay - Sayram Lake - Qingshui River D6: Qingshui River - Yining Kazanqi Folk Village - Zhaosu D7: Zhaosu - Xiatang Forest Park - Tekes Bagua City D8: Tekes - Nalati Sky Grassland - Nalati D9: Nalati - Tangbula Hundred Mile Gallery - Northern Section of Duku Highway - Kuitun D10: Kuitun - Dushanzi Grand Canyon - Urumqi

Accompany you to see the grasslands - this must be the romance of summer. North of the Tianshan Mountains lies the highland grasslands of Northern Xinjiang, where the blue of Kanas Lake and the sunrise at Hemu Village are intoxicating. The flowers of Northern Xinjiang bloom splendidly in summer, with snow-capped mountains and grasslands, forest pastures, glacial lakes, canyons and rivers, Gobi deserts, and the hoofbeats of cattle, sheep, and horses. All your imaginations of Xinjiang are brought to the extreme in Northern Xinjiang. For those who want to visit Xinjiang, now is the time to plan! After all, during the peak season, the prices for flights and hotels will soar. D1 Urumqi D2 Urumqi--Tianchi--Fuyun Stay: Fuyun D3 Fuyun--Koktokay--Buerjin Stay: Buerjin. D4 Buerjin--Kanas--Jiadengyu Stay: Jiadengyu D5 Jiadengyu---Hemu--Colorful Beach--Buerjin Stay: Buerjin D6 Buerjin--Devil City--Kuitun Stay: Kuitun D7 Kuitun--Sayram Lake-Lavender--Yining Stay: Yining D8 Yining--Nalati--Bayanbulak Stay: Bayanbulak D9 Bayanbulak--Hejing Stay: Hejing D10 Hejing--Turpan-Grape Valley-Karez Wells Stay: Turpan D11 Turpan--Flaming Mountains--Shanshan Desert--Urumqi Stay: Urumqi D12 Urumqi - Airport drop-off

☑️Xujiuyeshe B&B Keketuohai Town, Altay Region This is a paradise for skiers and also a place of poetry in the vast and magnificent northern border. ☑️Treasure House is located in Talat Village surrounded by Keketuohai mountains. Snow-capped mountains, rivers, forests, cattle and horses, and smoke from cooking together form a quiet yet vibrant picture in front of the hotel's floor-to-ceiling windows. You will fall in love with the quiet blues of the snowfields before sunrise, the dreamy pink hillsides at sunset, and the starry sky and bright moon at night. ☑️Long time room The homestay has a total of 17 rooms. The rooms stand in the snow and are surrounded by snow-capped mountains on all sides. The rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing for a 360-degree view of the snow scenery. The rooms are fully equipped with floor heating, air conditioning, stereo, humidifier, branded bedding, imported toiletries, star-level service experience. Each room is carefully prepared with sunglasses, sunscreen, and travel bags. Enjoy the beauty of the snow and immerse yourself in the scenery of Keketuohai. Delicious for a long time The public area of ​​the B&B is the most attractive The cafe in front of the floor-to-ceiling windows is the best place to take photos, check in and watch the snow scenery. Sit down on a lazy afternoon and drink a cup of coffee called "Cedar" or "Shepherd" and feel the aroma of coffee blended with local customs. After returning from Jiaoxue, your empty stomach will be filled to your satisfaction with a variety of exquisite and delicious Chinese, Western and fusion dishes. At night, you can toast the fireplace, drink a cocktail called "For Long", and feel the aroma of coffee beans and black truffles flowing between your lips and teeth. It has been integrated with the beautiful scenery of Keketuohai for a long time. It is only a 40-minute drive from the ski resort, and the ski bus stop is right in front of the hotel. It is very convenient to go skiing in the mountains by the station. Tips: Nearby attractions: Keketuohai Scenic Area No. 3 Mine Pit Yilemu Lake Erjis River in Kekesuli Scenic Area

It is said that there is a small town called Keketuohai in Fuyun County, Xinjiang. If you have to choose a trip in the four seasons, it must be autumn, because the autumn is high and refreshing, and the colorful Keketuohai is as beautiful as a fairy tale! 🟠 Keketuohai Scenic Area - **Ticket**: 90 yuan/person - **Opening hours**: 9:00-18:00 🔸 **Ertix Grand Canyon** This canyon is more than 70 kilometers long, the golden birch trees on the river bank, dotted with cattle and sheep, are like a fairy tale world, it is recommended to spend 3 hours to play! 🔸 **Kokosuri Lake** Also known as "Wild Duck Lake", you can see reed floating islands of different sizes, like a pearl of the Ertix River on the earth. 🔸 **Keketuohai No. 3 Mine Pit** This is one of the largest mine pits in the world, containing rich history. It's like a geological museum, looking like a huge sapphire sunk on the ground, spectacular! 🟠 Accommodation recommendation 📍Shuise Moshang National Studies Cultural Hotel🏨, about an hour's drive from Keketuohai Scenic Area, close to surrounding scenic spots such as Keketuohai, No. 3 Mine Pit, Kanas, Hemu. Here is full of national style, each room has a unique view, you can not only taste tea art, but also experience calligraphy, painting, piano playing, chess, etc. In addition, there is a Hanfu check-in area. In addition to Xinjiang's special food, you can also taste the hometown flavor of Cantonese and Sichuan cuisine! 🟠 Tips - The temperature difference between day and night in Keketuohai is large, so please bring thick clothes. - The ultraviolet rays in high-altitude areas are strong, don't forget sunscreen and physical sun protection. - Autumn is mainly yellow, it is recommended to wear white, yellow or orange clothes to increase the beauty of the photo. In the autumn of Keketuohai in Xinjiang, you will feel breathtaking beauty! 🌾🌟

As the hotel is surrounded by mountains on all sides, every window in the lobby, restaurant bar, and room faces the snow-capped mountains, and the views are different. I love the quiet blues of the snowfields before sunrise, the dreamy pink hillsides at dusk, and the starry sky and bright moon at night. . . There is a large public area on the entire first floor, and opposite is the bar. The public area is mainly a cafe, restaurant and leisure area. The restaurant provides improved Western food and has private rooms. The bar is a glass room with floor-to-ceiling windows, which looks very nice. The guest rooms are relatively large, well-planned and comfortable. Michelle's stereo and books are placed on the table. These two items are my standard vacation accessories. They are enough for me. It's so comfortable to curl up on the down sofa 📖, read a book and listen to music. Bath balls were carefully prepared by the bathtub, and the minibar contained Pune mineral water, San Pellegrino sparkling water, milk lumps, nuts, carrot juice and happy water. The wooden combs and other toiletries are also made with great care, and everything reflects taste and beauty. The room also came with a 🍸 cocktail. At midnight, I ordered a specially blended sandalwood-flavored wine. The aftertaste is very similar to the perfume I bought in Thailand, but because I like sandalwood, I was surprised and happy. Because I like this place, I don't plan any itinerary. No rush, no visiting attractions, no going anywhere. Just stay in the B&B, drink coffee, eat and drink, I feel like I have given the highest recognition to this B&B.

I am not a skiing enthusiast, but I love staying in hotels and going to B&Bs. I like to see the exquisiteness hidden in the details and I like the warmth in the service. You can find the Three Hundred Temples of Lake Yiremu in the small town of Keketuohai. It is built next to the lake and is truly hidden by the lake and concealed from the world. It is an ideal place worthy of a special vacation. There is never a shortage of better B&Bs, and there are always new buildings, but it's great to come across a good one. The atmosphere is great, the scenery is unique enough, and the people who accompany you are great. 🏡Single-family courtyard structure, floor heating throughout the house, panoramic floor, smart home, large space, gym, laundry room, late night bar, ski resort shuttle line, exclusive butler service

Going to Xinjiang to play like this - punch "Jinshan". The Altai Mountains in the northern part of Xinjiang, the Mongolian language means Jinshan. Since ancient times, it has been fascinating because of the rich gold treasures. Here, the most representative is the Cocoto Sea. Choose to go to the Cocoto Sea because it is the first national geological park in China with a typical deposit and mine site as the main landscape. The unique Altai Mountains granite landscape and the rich earthquakes have accumulated a rich variety of scientific connotations and aesthetic significance, saying that the value of the city can not be overemphasized, so this time I must go. Experienced the "open eyes" in the beauty of Xinjiang. I thought it would not be amazing by the Cocoto Sea. I didn't expect it to be "washed" by the beauty. Cocoto Lake is simply beautiful, and the blue is like a gem. The more is deep into the Cocoto Sea, the more you can understand the so-called balance between man and nature. The locals told me that in the early 1960s, the rare minerals produced in the Cocoto sea pit, where people asked for minerals from nature, also caused extreme damage to the natural ecology here. Nowadays more and more people are changing their natural cognition. The relationship between man and nature may no longer be unilaterally requested. For the Cocoto Sea, although the mine is still here, there has been no prosperity of the past mining, and what is presented to us is a rich and harmonious natural ecological scene. Take the nature, give back to nature, I think this is probably the balance between man and nature.

❄️ Cool Climate: Nature's Air Conditioning • Top Summer Retreat in Xinjiang: According to the 2025 June tourism climate evaluation by Altay Meteorological Observatory, Kanas Lake, Hemu Village, Koktokay, and the Altay-Hemu Scenic Highway all rank as "highly suitable" for summer travel, with ideal conditions expected to continue through July-August. • Perfect Comfort: Days are refreshingly cool (light jacket recommended at night), especially in mountainous areas with significant daily temperature variations. 🌲 Must-Visit Attractions: Step into a Nordic Fairytale 1. **Kanas Lake** ◦ Highlights: Emerald waters shifting hues under sunlight; boat tours available (¥120/person). ◦ Hidden Gems: Climb 1,068 steps to Fish-Watching Pavilion for panoramic views or stroll lakeside trails to spot wild swans. ◦ Hours: 8:00-20:00, ¥230 (includes shuttle bus). 2. **Hemu Village** ◦ Unique Experience: Sunrise at Haden Platform overlooking misty log cabins; wade in the Hemu River at dusk. ◦ Stays: Recommend "Hemu 300 Homestay" (designer lodgings) or central "Hemu Mountain Villa". ◦ Ticket: ¥102 (includes shuttle), open until 22:00. 3. **Rainbow Beach** ◦ Best Time: Sunset (20:30-21:45) when yardang landforms glow red-orange. ◦ Ticket: ¥45, closes at 21:45. 4. **Koktokay** ◦ Geological Wonders: Hike Shenzhong Mountain Gorge and explore the historic No.3 Mine (once repaid 40% of national debt). ◦ Ticket: ¥116 (includes shuttle). 5. **Baihaba Village** ◦ Border Charm: Primitive Sino-Kazakh village; apply for border pass in advance. Panoramic shots recommended from hills behind. 🎪 Seasonal Experiences: Altay’s Summer Soul • **Altay-Hemu Road Trip**: Drive through flower meadows and forests (3hrs), witness nomadic herdsmen migrations. • **Stargazing at Tuolehaite Pasture**: Milky Way visibility (avoid full moon nights). • **General Mountain Night Party**: Sunset gondola rides + bonfire BBQ & outdoor movies (repurposed ski resort). • **Cultural Encounters**: Kazakh "Aken Ballad Singing" or late June nomadic migrations. 🗺️ Itinerary Ideas: 3-7 Days 1. **3D2N Express** (Time-crunched) ◦ Day1: Altay City → Altay-Hemu Highway → Hemu (log cabin stay). ◦ Day2: Hemu sunrise → Kanas Lake (stay in park). ◦ Day3: Kanas "Three Bays" → Return. 2. **5D4N In-Depth** (Nature + Culture) ◦ Day1: Altay Museum → Rainbow Beach sunset → Burqin Night Market. ◦ Day2: Burqin → Kanas boat tour + hiking. ◦ Day3: Kanas → Hemu horseback/star camping. ◦ Day4: Hemu → Jikebulin Grassland gondola. ◦ Day5: Koktokay geology tour. 3. **7D Grand Loop** (Urumqi roundtrip) ◦ Extend to S21 Desert Highway, Ulungur Lake, and Devil’s City yardangs. ⚠️ Pro Tips • **Transport**: ◦ Flights to Altay Airport (direct routes) or overnight train to Beitun City to save costs. ◦ Local SUV rental ~¥800/day; drive cautiously on winding Altay-Hemu Road. • **Lodging**: Book 2 weeks ahead for peak-season homestays (Hemu cabins > Jiadengyu hotels). • **Gear**: ◦ Sun protection (sunglasses, SPF50+, hat) + bug spray (against midges) + warm layers. • **Food**: ◦ Must-try: Burqin night market grilled dogfish, dried meat pilaf. ◦ Sweet treats: Hemu seabuckthorn ice cream, wild strawberry jam with naan. 💡 Local Secrets: • Beat crowds: Arrive at Kanas Lake by 8am; secure Rainbow Beach sunset spots 1hr early. • Off-grid prep: Carry cash (e.g., Tuolehaite camping) where signals fade. Altay’s summer is a fleeting dream of 20°C meadow mists and galaxy-strewn skies—a rejuvenating escape in the "Switzerland of the East"! 🌌✨

July transforms Xinjiang into a breathtaking paradise! 🌿 This guide takes you through Altay, Pamir Plateau, Nalati, and Sayram Lake, offering a visual feast of grasslands, snow-capped mountains, and crystal-clear lakes. 🚗 Itinerary 📍Day 1: Altay Region - Koktokay: Wildflowers in full bloom create a fairy-tale landscape - Burqin: Don't miss the Riverside Night Market - grilled cold-water fish is a must! Address: Intersection of Youyi Peak Road and Wolong Bay Road, Burqin County 📍Day 2-3: Pamir Plateau (Recommended private car tour - stunning views but watch for altitude sickness) - Panlong Ancient Road: Snap a photo with the iconic sign: "After today's winding roads, life will be smooth sailing" - White Sand Lake: Unbelievably blue waters - wear light colors for magical photos Tip: Get border pass in advance, bring oxygen tanks and warm jackets 📍Day 4: Nalati Scenic Area - Sky Grassland: Fantastic horseback riding (standardized rate: ¥80/hour) - Valley Grassland: July lilies in full bloom - best before 9am for fewer crowds and perfect light Dining: "Western Region Restaurant" in Nalati Town serves amazing hand-pulled rice 📍Day 5: Sayram Lake - Must do the lake loop! Water changes color from different angles - Swan Paradise area has many feedable swans - Pine Tree Head hiking trail offers panoramic views (1.5 hours) Ticket: ¥145/person, self-driving recommended for flexibility 💡 Practical Tips 1. Huge day-night temperature swings - T-shirt by day, down jacket by night 2. Always carry ID - frequent security checks in Xinjiang 3. Drones prohibited in all scenic areas (helicopter aerial photography available) 4. Rent an SUV for self-driving - some roads challenge sedans 🍴 Food Recommendations - Altay: Start your day with bauyrsaq + milk tea - Pamir: Yak meat hotpot (try "Yipin Yak" in Tashkurgan) - Ili: Handmade ice cream at "Gulandanmu" Accommodation Tips: Stay in grassland homestays at Nalati, and at Starlight Camp by Sayram Lake for Milky Way views on clear nights!

Last September, I visited Altay with my best friend, and since then, my longing for freedom has become unstoppable! I’ve decided to go again this September [Like][Like]. Having experienced Altay a year ago, I feel qualified to share some insights for those planning to visit—no pitfalls here! 🥳🥳 📍Pre-Trip Prep: 👀 Sunscreen, sun hat, UV-protective clothing, phone tripod, travel backpack, and, of course, photogenic outfits are must-haves. Most importantly, prepare oxygen bottles based on your fitness level and the altitude of the destinations you’ll visit. 📍Itinerary Highlights: 🌹 Book your hotel in advance. September to October is peak tourist season, so early bookings not only secure discounts but also avoid last-minute room shortages. Last year, my bestie and I stayed at the **Fuyun Riverside Holiday Hotel (Riverside Scenic Area Branch)**. Honestly, local hotels here offer a unique experience compared to standard chain hotels—definitely a fresh vibe! 🏨 **Hotel Location**: Unbeatable! - About 9.3 km (13-minute drive) from Fuyun Railway Station 🚉. - Approximately 26 km (30-minute drive) to Fuyun Koktokay Airport ✈️. - Just 630 meters from Fuyun People’s Shopping Mall—easy stroll for shopping after check-in. - Around 1.3 km to Fuyun County Natural Museum, walkable for a visit. 🏨 **Hotel Décor**: Rich in local character, with vibrant colors in the restaurant and common areas—a striking contrast to the usual minimalist tones. 🏨 **Room Layout**: Great privacy and soundproofing. The breakfast? Even a picky eater like me was satisfied. Trust me, choose this hotel for your Altay trip! [Tiptop][Tiptop] 🏞 The Most Anticipated Travel Guide Is Here! 📍 **Day 1: Cultural & Ecological Exploration in Fuyun** 🌞 **Morning**: Walk 5 minutes from the hotel to the Riverside Scenic Area. Stroll along the Irtysh Riverbank, photograph birch forest reflections and locals’ morning routines. **Afternoon**: Drive 15 minutes to Koktokay Lake (Wild Duck Lake) for birdwatching (summer/autumn)—spot flocks of wild ducks and egrets on reed islands, with the lake’s surface shifting like living ink paintings. En route, visit Talat Village (“First Village of the Irtysh”) for a Kazakh homestay experience—try traditional embroidery or freshly fried *bawrsak* (dough puffs). **Night**: Return to the Riverside Scenic Area for the musical fountain light show, then explore the Starry Night Market for grilled *huoyu* (Irtysh River fish) or hand-torn lamb. 📍 **Day 2: Geological Wonders & Canyon Secrets** **Main Destination**: Koktokay Scenic Area (1-hour drive from the hotel): - **No. 3 Mine Pit**: Descend into this historic “Merit Mine” site, tour the 136-meter-deep hydro station and Aygolez Mine Tunnel, and feel the weight of its Cold War-era debt-repayment history. - **Irtysh Grand Canyon**: Take a shuttle to Zhongshan Mountain (iconic granite peak), then hike 6.5 km to Jiland Hot Springs for a 39°C mineral soak under the Altay starry sky. - **Couple Trees**: A romantic autumn snapshot of golden birch and evergreen pine intertwined. 📍 **Day 3: Earthquake Traces & Borderland Serenity** **Morning**: Drive 1.5 hours east to the Kalaxtokay Earthquake Rift Zone. Hike to the viewpoint and gaze at the 176-km-long fissure torn by the 1931 quake—like a dragon sprawled across the land. **Afternoon**: - Discover the “Blue Bend” of Yileimu Lake, climb to photograph its mysterious figure-8 shape and snow-capped mountain reflections. - Stop by Koktokay Town on the return trip to visit the Soviet-era wooden bridge and Geological Exhibition Hall, touching 86 mineral specimens. ❤ **Traveler’s Notes** **Best Photo Spots**: - Zhongshan Mountain viewpoint for the Irtysh River’s autumn bends (early morning). - Koktokay Lake’s eastern reeds at sunrise. - Silhouette of the Couple Trees at dusk. - Panorama from Talat Village’s viewpoint.

[RoundNails]Address: No. 82, Heping Road, Keketuohai Town, Fuyun County, Xinjiang Surroundings: Nestled in Keketuohai Town, renowned as the "Natural Mineral Museum," Keketuohai Tianyuan Hotel is adjacent to the famous Keketuohai National Geopark. Here, the majestic Altai Mountains intertwine with the gentle Ertix River, offering breathtaking views right outside your window. Mornings bring misty mountain peaks like a fairyland, while evenings paint the Shenzhong Mountain with golden sunset hues. Just a 10-minute drive from the geopark's main scenic area, the hotel is an ideal base for exploring Keketuohai's wonders. Rooms: Simple Elegance, Home-like Comfort The hotel features various room types, from cozy double rooms to spacious family rooms, all adorned with wooden tones and ethnic-style decor for a warm, rustic ambiance. Room amenities include: - Premium bedding for deep sleep - Floor-to-ceiling windows bringing mountain views indoors - Separate wet and dry bathrooms with 24-hour hot water - Free WiFi and LCD TV - Underfloor heating (winter) and air conditioning (summer) Local Cuisine: A Taste of Altay The hotel restaurant showcases authentic Xinjiang flavors using local ingredients: * **Breakfast Picks:** Rich milk tea with borsak (fried dough), handmade jam, and Fuyun cheese * **Signature Dishes:** Air-dried meat pilaf, naren (hand-pulled noodles with lamb soup), Altay cold-water fish barbecue * **Must-Try:** Kazakh handmade yogurt and wild black honey A 5-minute walk takes you to the town's food street for specialties like whole roasted lamb and big plate chicken. Guest Experience: Thoughtful Details Guests rave about their stays: * "The concierge service was heartwarming—they pre-planned our geopark itinerary." * "The bedding was so soft, like sleeping on clouds—perfect after hiking." * "Kids made friends in the courtyard while adults shared travel stories on the terrace." * "Waking to birdsong and watching shepherds pass by with their flocks—an experience you'll never find in cities." [RoundNails]Tips - The hotel can arrange private cars and tour guides - Winter stays offer the serene beauty of snow-covered Keketuohai At Keketuohai Tianyuan Hotel, you'll gain not just accommodation but a slow-paced communion with nature—a haven for both travelers and the soul.

Northern Xinjiang (the northern part of Xinjiang) is renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes, diverse ethnic cultures, and unique geographical features, making it a paradise for travelers. Here’s a detailed travel guide to Northern Xinjiang, covering the best seasons, must-visit attractions, recommended routes, food, and tips: --- **1. Best Time to Visit** - 💖**June-September**: Summer brings lush green grasslands (Ili Grassland, Nalati) and blooming flower fields (Huocheng Lavender), with cool weather. - 💖**September-October**: Autumn transforms Kanas and Hemu into a golden wonderland, perfect for photography. - 😍**Winter (December-February)**: The Altai region offers stunning snowscapes, ideal for skiing (Keketuohai, Hemu Jikepulin Ski Resort). --- **2. Must-Visit Attractions** **1. Kanas and Surroundings** - 😍**Kanas Lake**: The legendary "water monster" lake, with must-see spots like the Three Bays (Fairy Bay, Moon Bay, and Dragon Bay). - 😍**Hemu Village**: A Tuvan village where morning mist over wooden cottages feels like a fairy tale. - 🥰😍**Baihaba**: A tranquil village on the China-Kazakhstan border (border permit required). **2. Ili Region** - **Nalati Grassland**: A "sky grassland" where you can experience Kazakh culture on horseback. - ❄️**Sayram Lake**: Known as "the last tear of the Atlantic," perfect for cycling or driving around. - ❄️**Huocheng Lavender (June-July)**: China’s version of Provence. - ❄️**Xiate Ancient Trail**: A hiker’s paradise with snow-capped mountains and valleys.💗 **3. Other Highlights** - 💗**Duku Highway**: Open from June to October, this scenic road offers four seasons in one day. - ❤️**Keketuohai**: A geological wonder with golden canyons in autumn. - 💗**Wuerhe Devil City**: Stunning yardang landforms, especially at sunset. --- **3. Classic Itinerary Suggestions** **7-10-Day Loop Recommendation** **Days 1-3: In-Depth Kanas Exploration** Urumqi → Fly to Altai/Train to Beitun → Kanas Lake → 💖Hemu Village → Baihaba **Days 4-5: Ili Grassland Adventure** Yining → Sayram Lake → Guozigou Bridge → Huocheng Lavender → Zhaosu Xiate *❄️*Days 6-7: Duku Highway + Nalati** Nalati Grassland → Bayinbuluke (Nine-Bend Eighteen-Turn) → Return to Urumqi via Duku Highway’s northern section **❄️Tips**: If short on time, split the trip into two routes (Altai line + Ili line). --- **4. Northern Xinjiang Food Recommendations** - **Main Dishes**: Big Plate Chicken, Spicy Pepper Chicken, Hand-Pulled Rice, Noodle Salad, Baked Buns. - 😍**Meat Dishes**: Lamb Skewers, Nang Pit Roast, Whole Roasted Lamb (great for groups). - *🎀*Snacks & Drinks**: Handmade Yogurt, Kvass (honey-fermented drink), Milk Tea, Naan. - 💖**Fruits**: Hami Melon, Grapes, Watermelon (super sweet in summer). --- **5. Travel Tips** 1. **Transportation**: 💖- Attractions are spread out; consider renting a car or hiring a driver (download offline maps in advance, as some areas have no signal). - Duku Highway restricts vehicles to 7 seats or fewer; check opening times. 2. **Documents**: - 💗Apply for a border permit in Kanas before visiting Baihaba. 3. **Climate**: - 💖Large temperature swings—even in summer, bring a jacket and sunscreen. 4. **Accommodation**: - 💖Lodging in Kanas and Hemu is pricey; book early during peak season. 5. **Cultural Respect**: - 💖Avoid sensitive topics in ethnic minority areas, and don’t take photos inside mosques without permission. --- **6. Budget Reference** - 💖**Mid-Range Comfort**: 500-800 RMB/day (including car rental, lodging, and tickets). - ❤️**Peak Season (July-October)**: Flights and accommodations cost more; plan ahead. --- Every corner of Northern Xinjiang is worth savoring. If time allows, slow down and immerse yourself in the region’s natural and cultural beauty.

Just returned from Altay and learned the hard way: this heavenly land doesn't need tour guides! Independent travel saves money and offers more fun, while tours just limit your freedom. Here's my guide to avoid pitfalls for those who want to enjoy their trip to the fullest👇! True freedom means transportation freedom🚗 ✈️ Direct flight to Altay Airport: Direct flights available from Beijing and Urumqi! Rent a car🚗 (SUV recommended for some off-road sections) right after landing, costing 200+ per day - 100 times more flexible than tour buses～ 🚂 Train transfer: First arrive at Beitun Railway Station, then take a 1-hour taxi to Altay city center. Perfect for budget travelers, with stunning Gobi desert views along the way～ ⚠️ Tour group pitfalls: So-called "panoramic tours" involve 6-hour daily rides with only 40 minutes at each spot for photos. Most time wasted on the road - motion sickness sufferers beware! Right accommodation saves half your money🏠 •Altay city hub📍: Recommend Jindu Hotel! Night market right downstairs, 1-2 hours to major attractions. Standard rooms 150+ per person including Xinjiang-style breakfast～ •Inside Kanas Scenic Area✨: Stay in yurts at Jiadengyu! Lie on the grassland watching the Milky Way🌌 at night, walk 10 minutes to Fairy Bay for morning mist photos - way better than tour groups' distant hotels～ •Hemu village homestay gems🏡: Choose century-old renovated log cabins! Unique wooden houses with landlords who make great hand-pulled lamb, 80+ per person for full experience～ ⚠️ Tour accommodation traps: "4-star hotels" advertised are actually in remote towns; "special yurts" often mean basic dorms with poor hygiene! Hidden gems only accessible via independent travel🎈 🏞️ Kanas Lake: Don't just take 5-minute photos like tour groups! Rent bikes to ride along the lake, watch Wolong Bay and Moon Bay's water change from green to blue💧, explore less-trodden paths where you might spot squirrels🐿️ 🌲 Hemu Village: 2 hours from tours? Not enough! Stay overnight to see: morning smoke curling from wooden houses, sunset painting birch forests red from Haden Platform, and starry skies over rooftops～ 🐎 Nalati Grassland: Independent travelers can choose unique routes! Ride horses through forests to aerial grasslands, drink fresh milk at herders' homes - 10 times more fun than fixed tour routes～ 🗻 Koktokay: Tours only show No.3 Mine? The Irtysh River Canyon is breathtaking! Walk along the river with Shenzhong Mountain's reflection, every shot is wallpaper-worthy～ ⚠️ Tours won't take you here: Baihaba Village's morning mist, Baisha Lake's sunset, Urho's Devil City starry skies - these hidden gems are Altay's soul! Ditch group meals for these authentic flavors🍜 🍢 Whole roasted lamb: Get it freshly prepared at herders' homes! Crispy outside, juicy inside with onions and naan, 100 per person for a feast - 10 times better than tour "roast lamb"～ 🥘 Hand-pulled rice: Street stalls make it best! Chunks of oily lamb with carrots and raisins in rice, paired with yogurt for perfect balance～ 🍯 Kumis + dried yogurt: Must-try! Slightly sour fermented mare's milk packs a punch, dried yogurt gets tastier as you chew - unavailable in tours～ 🍉 Xinjiang fruits: July's Hami melons and watermelons are crazy sweet! Roadside stalls sell big bags for 10 yuan - way better than tour "fruit platters"～ Independent travel must-knows⚠️ 1️⃣ Download offline maps! Some scenic spots have no signal - tours rely on guides, but independent travelers need preparation～ 2️⃣ Pack sun protection! Altay's UV is intense - tour "uniform hats" are useless, bring your own sunhat and sleeves～ 3️⃣ Respect local customs! Don't trample grasslands, don't bargain without buying - independent travel better appreciates local culture～ 4️⃣ Quality over quantity! Altay's attractions are scattered - deeply experience 2-3 spots rather than tour's "10-stop checklist" First time in Altay? Definitely go independent! Drive through ever-changing landscapes of grasslands, lakes and forests, stop for milk tea whenever tired - this spontaneous joy tours can never offer. Just go for it🚀!

From Kanas Lake to Hemu Village, recreate the romance from "My Altay" ✨ —— 📍10-Day Dream Itinerary (All-Season Version) Days 1-3: Kanas Lake Loop 🚶‍♀️Three Bays Hiking Trail Fairy Bay → Moon Bay → Dragon Bay ✨Best Experiences: - Take "fairyland hand-holding photos" at dawn mist📸 (bring ice cleats during icy seasons) - Pack self-heating hotpot🥘 (no supply points along the way) 🌄Fish Watching Tower Sunset ‼️Tips: - Climb 1,068 steps for "lake monster" telephoto shots (drones require prior registration) - Lock love padlocks at summit🔒 (¥30 each, super romantic!) 🏠Accommodation: "Returning Cottage" in Kanas Old Village 🌟Highlights: Heated floors + skylight windows🌌 (perfect for cold seasons) Days 4-5: Hemu Village Slow Living 🌅Hemu Morning Mist - Horseback ride to Haden Viewpoint at 6am🐎 (¥200/person) - Winter option: Horse-drawn sleigh to Beautiful Peak🚜 (100x more romantic than snowmobiles!) 📸Photo Guide - Must-have ethnic cloaks for couples (rental ¥50/set) - Golden birch forest backdrop in autumn! 🍲Food Recs: Riverside Restaurant's local hotpot (wild mushrooms! ¥80/person) Kazakh handmade honey🍯 (look for blue tin packaging, ¥35/jar) Days 6-7: Koktokay + Colorful Beach 🚶‍♂️Koktokay Hiking - 8km along Irtysh River 💕 Find heart-shaped rocks as keepsakes - Winter bonus: Backcountry skiing⛷️ (less crowded!) 🌇Colorful Beach Sunset Outfit Tip: Red/white dresses👗 Photo Hack: Drone shots of "one river, two landscapes" (oasis + desert!) Days 8-10: Burqin Area 🎬Hidden Gems: - Find Genghis Khan's footprint petroglyphs👣 - Write names on Blue Ice at White Sand Lake💌 (Winter exclusive!) ⚠️Crucial Advice 🚗Transport Tips - Overnight train from Ürümqi→Altay🚞 (saves accommodation) - No self-driving in Kanas Scenic Area (shuttle bus ¥100/person/day) ❄️Safety Guide - Extreme cold essentials: Phone warmers + UV400 sunglasses🕶️ - Wildlife encounters🐻⚠️ Play dead for bears/light torches for wolves 💑Couple Photography Secrets Gear: Tripod + Bluetooth remote📱 Signature Poses: • Back-to-back on Hemu Bridge🚶‍♀️🚶 • Snow/petal throwing at Kanas Lake❄️🌸 (bring props!) 🏡Verified Stays 【Hemu】Century-old house✨ Bathtub facing snow mountains (¥600) 【Burqin】"Small Town Story"🌹 Russian-style garden (¥200) 【Backcountry Camp】Altay Wild Snow Park⛺️ Stargazing tents (¥300/person) 🍖Food Pitfalls ✓ Drink fresh kvass! Bottled ones taste like syrup🍯 ✓ Choose local Burqin shops for grilled pike🐟 ("Three-way fish feast" is worth it) ✓ Authentic baursak pairs best with wild strawberry jam🍓 💰10-Day Budget ¥7,500/person (incl. transport+lodging+tickets+food) Money-Saver: Travel during May/Sept off-season! 💕Romantic Bonus: "At -25℃ in Hemu🌌, he secretly handed me thermos-hot milk tea☕... Our breath turned into diamond dust under streetlights..."

When cities sizzle under heatwaves, summer in Altay, Xinjiang unfolds like a 20°C-cooled masterpiece. Nestled within the embrace of the Altai Mountains, this land weaves snow-capped peaks, forests, grasslands, and lakes into a flowing poem, making every visitor yearn to "waste" an entire season here. 🌊 1. Mountain & Water Wonderland: Nature’s Spilled Palette Kanas Lake breathes like an emerald, shifting between dreamy blues and greens under changing light. At dawn, climb the Fish-Watching Pavilion to see clouds surge like waves, with occasional golden glints on the lake—as if the legendary lake monster is passing by. Stroll along the Hemu River as morning mist, thick as milk, drifts over wooden boardwalks, revealing century-old log cabins like an elven village. Drive the Ahe Highway to witness glacial meltwater dancing through Xiaodonggou’s rocks, while meteorites and ancient glacial relics silently face off in Wuxilike Wetland. Wild Card Canyon frames snow mountains and spruce forests in a stunning contrast of warm and cool tones. 🐎 2. Grassland Ballad: The Nomads’ Summer Celebration Kazakh yurts dot seas of wildflowers, blending the scents of milk and blossoms. On June 19th, Yuxibuzao Village echoes with the melodies of *dombra* during the Aken Singing Festival, as herders sing atop horses and tourists join the lively "Black Steed" dance circle. At Burqin Riverside Night Market, the smoky aroma of grilled *gouyu* fish mingles with the tangy sweetness of kvass, while vibrant embroidered felt at Kazakh grandmothers’ stalls whispers tales of nomadic wisdom. 🌸 3. Floral Feast: Monet’s Garden Comes Alive From late June to mid-July, Koktokay’s alpine meadows transform into flower oceans—purple irises and golden rapeseed stretch toward snowy peaks. Wild peonies bloom fiercely at Kanas’ coniferous edges, while globeflowers surge like tides across grasslands, saturating the air with sweetness. Hike the Ahe Highway to discover wildflowers and birch groves forming nature’s gallery, occasionally meeting migrating sheep, their bells rippling through valleys. 🚗 4. Cool Itinerary: How to Embrace a 20°C Summer • **Transport**: Fly to Altay Airport, then rent a car or hire a private driver. The Ahe Highway allows vehicles under 9m all day, offering scenic drives. • **Attire**: Daytime calls for T-shirts + sun protection; pack a light jacket for chilly nights. • **Must-Dos**: Drift through Koktokay’s birch forests (14°C thrill!), camp under starry skies in Hemu Village (Milky Way guaranteed!), or cycle along Kanas Lake. • **Eats**: Hand-torn lamb with *kumis*, grilled *gouyu* at Burqin Night Market, and Kazakh *bawrsak* (fried dough). 📌 **Tips** • **Best Time**: June-August; wildflowers peak in July. • **Sun Protection**: High-altitude UV demands hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen. • **Culture**: Join June’s Intangible Heritage Week for felt-making or traditional ski displays. Altay’s summer is an adventure of freedom and healing. As sunset gilds the grasslands, herders’ songs soar with homing birds’ wings—and you’ll realize: this isn’t just a destination, but where the heart belongs. · Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang

Summer in Koktokay is nature's true air-conditioned paradise ❄️ Koktokay Su Wetland – draped in a "blue soft-focus" filter The lake surface resembles an upside-down sapphire 💎, with reeds swaying in the wind as wild ducks and egrets flutter by. It feels like stumbling into a Jiangnan water town, yet snow-capped mountains loom overhead. [Grin][Grin][Grin][Grin][Grin] Irtysh Grand Canyon – a icy sanctuary of giant rocks and waterfalls 🌲 This 70km canyon is packed with wonders! Honeycomb rock walls resemble "frozen waterfalls," butterflies dance around you, and the murmuring Irtysh River cools the air by 5°C just by its sound. [Love][Love][Love][Love] Elim Lake's "chilly lake" magic – glacier water + grasslands = an 18°C paradise! [Coke][Coke][Coke] Sitting on lakeside rocks, the Altai Mountains' crisp breeze blends with mist, instantly dispelling the swelter. Watch farmers herd sheep and children play in the distance, transforming you into the protagonist of a heartwarming film. [CoolGuy][CoolGuy][CoolGuy][CoolGuy]

### **Hot Altay Travel Guide｜6 Days & 5 Nights to Explore the "Snow Capital of China"❄️** **📍Trip Highlights:** ✅ **Skiing Paradise**: Conquer three top-tier ski resorts—General Mountain, Koktokay, and Jekpen—perfect for beginners to pros! ✅ **Winter Wonderland**: Capture stunning shots at Kanas Ice Lake, Hemu Snow Village, and the sunset at Colorful Beach! ✅ **Local Delicacies**: Savor hand-pulled rice, grilled lamb skewers, and Hemu hot pot—warm and delicious! **📅 6-Day Itinerary:** **Day 1: Arrival in Snow Capital** - Arrive in Altay and head straight to **Birch Forest Park**—a magical snowy escape! - Dinner recommendation: **Hand-pulled rice + grilled lamb skewers** with hot milk tea to warm up. **Day 2: General Mountain Skiing** - Just 1.6km from downtown, ski at **General Mountain Ski Resort**—tackle the Buddha Light and Sunset slopes, then snap sunset ski shots! - Must-try dinner: **Xinjiang big plate chicken** with wide noodles soaked in rich sauce. **Day 3: Koktokay Skiing** - 3-hour drive to **Koktokay Ski Resort** (national team training base)—challenge the "Black Diamond" powder slopes! - Stay overnight in Koktokay Town and unwind in hot springs. **Day 4: Hemu Village + Jekpen Skiing** - Morning: Ski at **Jekpen Ski Resort** (1,466m vertical drop). Afternoon: Explore **Hemu Village** and hike to the viewpoint for fairy-tale snowscape photos! - Dinner: **Hemu hot pot** in a cozy log cabin. **Day 5: Kanas Lake Ice Adventure** - Ride **horse-drawn sledges** and hike on the frozen lake—don’t miss the misty **Fairy Bay** and **Moon Bay** snow pines! - Overnight in a Kanas log cabin under starry skies ✨. **Day 6: Colorful Beach + Departure** - Stop at **Colorful Beach** for snowy rock formations and icy river views before heading home. **💡 Travel Tips:** - Outfit: Thick down jacket + snow boots + earflap hat! - Transport: Private car recommended—snow chains needed for self-drive. - Food recs: **Dried yogurt cubes** and **snow lotus chili strips** (local specialties!). **📸 Must-Shoot Spots:** - Hemu Village morning mist & chimney smoke - Kanas Lake’s blue ice - General Mountain ski sunset **🔥 Follow me for more off-the-beaten-path adventures!** #AltayTravel #SkiDestination #WinterTripPlan

🌁 Décor Style ✨ Keketuohai Jiyuhe Hantian Blends Snowy Mountain Pastoral Charm into a Polar Wonderland! ❄️ The hotel transforms into a "crystal yurt" suspended by the Irtysh River 🏔️, with lobby chandeliers shaped like Kazakh eagle flutes 🎶 and elevator LED screens displaying the "Keketuohai Starry Sky" ✨—where technology meets nomadic vibes in a cyber snowfield! 🐎 Even the carpets feature hidden snow wolf paw prints~ 🐾 🏘️ Room Types/Layout 🛏️ Must-stay Snow Mountain Panoramic Yurt Suite! 🌌 Floor-to-ceiling windows face the Irtysh River glaciers 🏞️, while the bed headboard showcases a silk-embroidered "Nomadic Epic" 🌃—fall asleep and drift into a Kazakh dream~ 🛌 The bathroom boasts full spruce wood + smart floor heating 🛀, perfect for soaking while watching the aurora dance over the snowfield~ 🌠 The living room comes with a fireplace 🔥, paired with kumis and baursak snacks—even daydreaming feels like a pastoral poem~ 📚 The smart voice assistant even announces when the morning fog will lift! 🌫️ 🎠 Activities 🎮 The rooftop stargazing terrace floats above the snowfield 🔭—gazing at the stars feels like stepping into a "Frozen" fairytale~ ❄️ The kids' zone features an AR game where they can paint snow wolf migrations 🎮, and virtual snowfield stacking is oddly addictive! 🐺 Hidden perk: Room cardholders get free snowmobile rides through birch forests! 🛷 The night bar serves a signature "Snowfield Blue Flame" cocktail 🍸, with edible blackcurrant jelly at the bottom~ 🫐 🍽️ Dining Highlights 🴵 Breakfast includes freshly made Kazakh milk tea + baursak 🍵—authentic nomadic flavors confirmed! 🐎 The Chinese restaurant chef’s exclusive "Snowfield Feast" 🍴 pairs roasted lamb with molecular blueberry sauce~ 🫐 Afternoon tea features snow-mountain-themed pastries served in glazed cups 🍰—so gorgeous you won’t want to eat them! ✨ The in-room minibar is complimentary 🍹, with unlimited Sacred Spring mineral water + Kazakh milk curds~ 💰 Average Cost 💸 Standard rooms start at 1.2k+/night, while the Snow Mountain Panoramic Yurt Suite at 3k+ is a steal! ❄️ Snowmobile adventures cost 200+/person 🛷, with photo ops worth 1.5k! 📸 Birthday stays include a custom snow wolf necklace + Kazakh kumis gift box 🎂—book early to unlock Irtysh River photoshoots 📸! Stay 3+ nights for a free horseback ride through the snowfield 🐎—just 2.8k+/person to feel like a snowfield prince~ 👑 💗 Extra Tips 💡 1️⃣ Catch the snowy mountain Milky Way at 2:00 AM! 🌌 The light play with the yurts is breathtaking~ 2️⃣ Borrow free Kazakh kids' fur hats + felt cloaks 👘—family trips instantly turn into snowfield cuteness! 3️⃣ Turndown service includes blackcurrant chocolates 🍫—sweet dreams of the snowfield~ 4️⃣ Just an 8-minute walk to the Irtysh River ice sheet! 🚶♀️ Perfect for epic ice-crack photos~ 5️⃣ Check-out gifts include custom "Snowfield 12 Hours" crystal bookmarks 📚—take the polar fairytale home!

In the vast northwest of our motherland lies a vast and magical land—Xinjiang. Here you will find magnificent snow-capped mountains, expansive grasslands, mysterious deserts, and unique folk customs. If you yearn for a soul-stirring journey, join me on a dreamy 16-day trip through Northern and Southern Xinjiang! Best Travel Time Highly recommend visiting Xinjiang at this time of year. The temperature is pleasant, the vegetation lush, and the Duku Highway is open. Compared to the busy summer travel season, there are fewer tourists, significantly shorter queues, and more affordable hotel and flight prices, allowing you to fully enjoy a comfortable travel experience. Worry-free Group Tour, Explore Northern and Southern Xinjiang Xinjiang is vast with scattered attractions, so joining a group tour is the most convenient way to explore Northern and Southern Xinjiang. The two of us started our journey from Urumqi, signing up for a 10-day Northern Xinjiang loop tour and a one-day Turpan tour. We then flew from Urumqi to Kashgar to join a 3-day Southern Xinjiang loop tour. In Urumqi and Kashgar, we chose to travel independently to deeply explore the local customs and culture. Next, let me share our exciting itinerary in detail. Northern Xinjiang 10-Day Loop: Encounter the Stunning Scenery of Northern Xinjiang Day 1: Arrive in Urumqi and start your Xinjiang journey. Rest briefly in the city and feel the unique charm of this city. Day 2: Head to Tian Shan Tianchi (Heavenly Lake) to admire the beautiful scenery of snow mountains and clear waters, then proceed to Fuyun. Day 3: Explore Koktokay and experience the unique landscape of the Irtysh Grand Canyon, then head to Burqin in the afternoon. Day 4: Visit Kanas Lake, enjoy the vibrant beauty of Wolong Bay, Moon Bay, and Fairy Bay, then proceed to Hemu. Day 5: Watch the sunrise in Hemu, then head to Urho. Day 6: Visit the Ghost City, take the sightseeing train, and feel the shock of the Yadan landforms, then head to Shuanghe in the afternoon. Day 7: Tour Sayram Lake, admire the deep blue lake and vast grasslands, then head to Yining in the evening to stroll along the exotic Liuxing Street. Day 8: Go to Nalati to experience the vastness and grandeur of the aerial grassland. Day 9: Cross the Duku Highway, enjoy the stunning scenery along the way, pass by the lavender farm, and finally return to Urumqi. Day 10: Free day in Urumqi to visit Hetian Second Street, Xinjiang Museum, and the Grand Bazaar, experiencing the local life and cultural history. This Northern Xinjiang route covers major attractions such as the Altay region, Ili, and Sayram Lake, offering picturesque scenery all along the way. Turpan One-Day Tour: Explore the Mysteries of Flaming Mountains The one-day Turpan tour includes the Karez irrigation system, Flaming Mountains, and Kumtag Desert. Take the high-speed train from Urumqi to Turpan, with the travel agency arranging driver pick-up and drop-off. After the tour, return to Urumqi. However, since Turpan’s temperature approaches 40°C in summer, it is not recommended to visit at this time. Southern Xinjiang 3-Day Loop: Experience the Mystery and Majesty of Southern Xinjiang Day 1: Depart from Kashgar, pass by Baisha Lake, Muji Volcano Crater, and Taheman Wetland Observation Deck, and finally arrive at Tashkurgan. Day 2: Visit the Wakhan Corridor, Panlong Ancient Road, Bandier Blue Lake, admire the Golden Grass Beach and Stone City, and stay overnight in Tashkurgan. Day 3: Head to Mustagh Glacier Park and Karakul Lake, enjoy the unique scenery of Oytak Red Mountain, and finally return to Kashgar. In Tashkurgan County, be sure to try the local specialties. The Ice Mountain Laike Ethnic Song and Dance Hall and Pakistani restaurants are both excellent choices. Kashgar Two-Day Tour: Stroll Through Kashgar Old Town and Feel the Historical Charm Kashgar Old Town is divided into East and West sections; it is recommended to spend a day exploring each slowly. Here, you can wander through ancient streets, admire traditional Uyghur architecture, taste various delicacies, and experience the rich folk customs. In Conclusion Xinjiang, this vast and magical land, offers a journey you will never forget. If you also long to explore the unknown and pursue freedom, pack your bags and set foot on this magical land! You will surely be captivated by Xinjiang’s beautiful scenery and customs, leaving behind wonderful memories.

Recommended Classic Xinjiang Travel Routes 🤭 ✅️. Northern Xinjiang Loop (Focus on natural scenery, 7-10 days) 😀 Route: Ürümqi → Heavenly Lake of Tianshan → Koktokay → Kanas Lake → Hemu Village → Devil City → Sayram Lake → Ili (Nalati Grassland, Kalajun Grassland) → Dushanzi-Kuqa Highway → Ürümqi Highlights: 😜 - Kanas Lake: "God's Back Garden" with seasonally changing water colors 🌸 - Hemu Village: Fairytale-like Tuvan village with dreamy morning mist - Sayram Lake: ❤️"The last tear of the Atlantic" with crystal blue waters - Dushanzi-Kuqa Highway: One of China's most beautiful roads showcasing four seasons in a day 🌿 ✅️ Southern Xinjiang Loop (Culture + Desert, 8-12 days) 🐵 Route: Kashgar → White Sand Lake → Muztagh Peak → Tashkurgan (Pamir Plateau) → Yarkand → Hotan → Desert Highway → Kuqa (Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves) → Korla → Turpan → Ürümqi 😂 Highlights: - Kashgar Old City🌹: Most authentic Uyghur culture in Xinjiang - Pamir Plateau🌿: Snow mountains, lakes and yaks rivaling Tibet - Taklamakan Desert🐻: World's second largest shifting sand desert - 🌞 Grand Canyon: Stunning red canyon geological wonder ✅️ Short Highlights Tour (5-6 days) 😜 - Ili Grassland Route😂: Sayram Lake → Guozigou → Huocheng Lavender Fields → Kalajun Grassland → Nalati - Kanas+Hemu: Ürümqi → Burqin → Kanas Lake → Hemu Village Xinjiang's magnificence can only be truly appreciated in person! Whether it's the snow-capped mountains and lakes of Northern Xinjiang or the desert ancient cities of Southern Xinjiang, they will leave you with unforgettable memories. Plan your route in advance, pack your camera and adventurous spirit, and set off! 🚗🌄

**【Altay·Fairyland Hot Travel Guide】** 🏔️ **Must-Visit Attractions**: ✅ **Kanas Lake** — Mirror-like turquoise waters, mysterious water monster legends, and autumn forests painted like a masterpiece. ✅ **Hemu Village** — Fairy tale wooden houses, morning mist creating a magical atmosphere, and divine winter snow scenes. ✅ **General Mountain Ski Resort** — Powder snow paradise, a top winter skiing destination with well-equipped facilities suitable for all skill levels. 🌿 **Unique Experiences**: ✨ Visit Kazakh herding villages, horseback riding during migration, and tasting hand-pulled meat with salty milk tea. ✨ Trek through Koktokay, cross canyons, enjoy hot springs therapy, and experience the wild beauty of northern Xinjiang. 📌 **Tips**: Summer for cooling off, autumn for sightseeing, winter for skiing. Best from June to October. Book early to avoid price hikes!

If there’s one place in China where you can experience the ultimate beauty of grasslands, lakes, snow-capped mountains, deserts, and ancient cities all in one trip, it has to be Xinjiang. This 24-day loop journey starts in Urumqi, heading south along the Tianshan Mountains, crossing the Gobi Desert, exploring hidden gems, touching the clouds on the Pamir Plateau, feeling the vastness of the Taklamakan Desert, and finally concluding at the Flaming Mountains in Turpan. Each day offers a dual feast for the eyes and soul. If you yearn for the magical experience of "four seasons in one day, different weather every ten miles," this guide is for you! 🌟 Highlights of the Journey ✅ Spectacular Natural Wonders: Marvel at the azure waters of Tianchi Lake, the "water monster legend" of Kanas Lake, the crystal-clear Sayram Lake, the Danxia landforms of Wensu Grand Canyon, experience four seasons in one day on the Duku Highway, and witness the miracle of life on the Desert Highway. ✅ In-depth Cultural Experiences: Stroll through the century-old tea houses of Kashgar Old Town, listen to the Twelve Muqam; explore the thousand-year history of Shache Palace, feast at the Hotan night market; watch smoke rise from the wooden houses of Hemu and Baihaba, and immerse yourself in the tranquil life of the Tuva people. ✅ Borderland Mysteries: Reach Simuhana Village, the westernmost point of China, gaze at the snow-capped national border at Hongqilafu Pass, trace historical footprints along the Wakhan Corridor, and admire the "Father of Glaciers" at Muztagh Glacier. ✅ Seasonal Scenic Wonders: Wildflowers bloom across Nalati Grassland in June, Hemu’s forests turn golden in September, and the poplar forests shine brilliantly in October. Each season brings its own surprises. 📅 Itinerary Overview D1 From various cities to Urumqi D2 Urumqi – Tianchi Lake – Beitun D3 Beitun – Hemu D4 Hemu – Kanas D5 Kanas – Guanyu Pavilion – Five-Color Beach – Burqin D6 Burqin – Urho Ghost City – Kuytun D7 Kuytun – Sayram Lake – Jinghe D8 Jinghe – Dushanzi Grand Canyon – Northern Duku Highway – Nalati D9 Nalati Grassland – Bayinbulak D10 Bayinbulak – Duku Highway – Xiaolongchi and Dalongchi – Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon – Kuqa D11 Kuqa – Wensu Grand Canyon – Aksu D12 Aksu – Bachu Red Sea Bay – Kashgar D13 Kashgar – White Sand Mountain – Muge Volcano Crater – White Sand Lake – Tashkurgan D14 Tashkurgan – Wakhan Corridor – Hongqilafu Pass – Panlong Ancient Road – Bandir Lake – Tashkurgan D15 Tashkurgan – Golden Grassland – Stone City – Muztagh Glacier Park – Kashgar D16 Kashgar – Tianshan and Kunlun Mountain Junction – Shell Mountain – Simuhana Village – Westernmost Point – Irkeshtam Pass – Kashgar D17 Kashgar Old Town – Id Kah Mosque – Century-Old Tea House – Shache D18 Shache – Shache Palace – Yotkan Ancient City – Hotan D19 Hotan – Desert Highway – Tazhong D20 Tazhong – Desert Highway – Primitive Poplar Forest Park – Luntai D21 Luntai – Luobu Village – Korla D22 Korla – Hoxud Golden Beach – Turpan D23 Turpan – Flaming Mountains – Karez System – Grape Valley – Urumqi D24 Urumqi – Return to various cities This "all-in-one" route covers the lakes, mountains, and grasslands of Northern Xinjiang, delves into the Uyghur culture and desert wonders of Southern Xinjiang, and includes unique elements like borderlands, plateaus, and ancient paths. Though the 24-day itinerary is long, each day offers unique surprises, making it ideal for travelers willing to trade time for depth. Xinjiang’s vastness needs to be measured personally. When you stand beneath Muztagh Peak, traverse the curves of the Duku Highway, and sip sweet tea in Kashgar, you’ll truly understand the saying, "You don’t know the greatness of China until you visit Xinjiang, and you don’t know the beauty of nature until you visit Xinjiang."

In the Garden of the Gods｜Crafting a Dream You Never Want to Wake From When the snow-capped peaks of the Altai Mountains are bathed in twilight 🏔 The wind at 47°N sweeps across Koktokay Meadows stretch into multicolored silk under the play of light This is a hidden paradise favored by the gods The pleasant scenery of late spring and early summer in May 🌸 Awakens tens of thousands of acres of wild tulips and peonies The entire land seems like an overturned palette of the earth · In the picturesque town of Koktokay 🏠 A community of buildings breathing with nature quietly emerges "Koktokay's Dream" Intangible Cultural Heritage Resort Hotel Condenses the nomadic poetry of movement into architectural language Rough-hewn wood textures intertwine with floor-to-ceiling windows 🪵 Supporting both the grandeur of the snow-capped mountains outside And carrying 12 Xinjiang intangible cultural heritage arts 🎊 · 23 exquisite guest rooms, featuring 10 different types From the Mountain-View Terrace Grand Suite 🏠 To the LOFT Snow Mountain View Starlight Family Suite Lie in bed and feast your eyes on the majestic snow-capped peaks 🏔 Fully smart-equipped with high-quality living essentials Modern comforts like radiant floor heating and smart home systems Are infused with the warmth of ancient traditions 👏 · 🚗【Nearby Attractions】 ✔️Koktokay Scenic Area, 6km, ~10 min drive ✔️No. 3 Mine Pit, 800m, walkable ✔️Yileimu Lake Scenic Area, 2km, ~9 min drive ✔️Koktokay Su Li Scenic Area, 23km, ~20 min drive ———————————————————— 🏨Hotel: Koktokay's Dream · Intangible Cultural Heritage Resort Hotel Address: No. 3-119, 3rd Courtyard, 3 Tuanjie East Road, Koktokay Town, Fuyun County

Planning to visit Altay during the holiday? Check out this 8-day travel guide! Bring a drone along to capture stunning moments. Enjoy self-driving tours across two scenic spots and explore freely! Don’t miss the trendy Ahe Highway for your cool photo ops! Save this guide and make the most of your Altay adventure! 🚗 Recommended Route: Xinjiang Altay Magical Journey 🌟 D1: Departure → Urumqi 🌆 Begin your journey to "The Pearl of the Silk Road," Urumqi, and immerse yourself in the exotic charm and magical landscapes of Xinjiang! D2: Ulungur River 🏞️ Stroll along the Ulungur River to experience the unique river scenery of Xinjiang and revel in the beauty of nature. D3: Hemu Scenic Area 🌲 Venture into the Hemu Scenic Area to explore the pristine forest. Use your drone to capture every breathtaking moment. D4: Kanas Scenic Area 📸 Visit the Kanas Scenic Area for a self-driving experience across two scenic spots, marveling at Xinjiang’s grandeur and mystery. D5: World Devil City 👻 Explore the World Devil City and witness nature’s extraordinary craftsmanship, elevating your magical journey. D6: Sayram Lake 🌊 Admire the snow-capped mountain reflections by Sayram Lake, listen to the sounds of nature, and find peace and serenity. D7: Dushanzi Grand Canyon 🏞️ Traverse the Dushanzi Grand Canyon to appreciate its rugged beauty, marking the grand finale of your Xinjiang adventure. D8: Urumqi → Departure ✈️ Bid farewell to Urumqi with memories of snow-capped mountains and desert melodies, keeping Xinjiang’s poetic charm in your heart. 🌟 Must-Visit Attractions: Hemu Scenic Area ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Address: Hemu Village, Hemu Hanas Mongolian Ethnic Township, Burqin County, Altay Region, Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region - Opening Hours: May 1 - October 15, 08:00-20:00 - Recommended Duration: 1-2 days - Quaint wooden cabins dot the mountain valleys, offering tranquility and simplicity that captivate visitors. Kanas Scenic Area ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Address: Provincial Road 232, Burqin County, Altay Region, Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region - Opening Hours: May 1 - October 15, 08:00-20:00 - Recommended Duration: 1-2 days - Discover the mysterious lake monster legends and marvel at the ever-changing colors of the lake water. Kanas is nature’s magical treasure chest. Sayram Lake ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Address: Beside National Road 30, Bole City, Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region - Opening Hours: May 1 - October 31, 08:00-21:00 - Recommended Duration: 1-2 days - The crystal-clear lake water and surrounding wildflowers create a picturesque natural masterpiece. Tips: - Local Specialties: Altay’s specialties are affordable, and handmade crafts and dairy products are worth buying! 🎁 - Customs and Traditions: The local folk customs are simple and authentic. Join a bonfire party to experience rich ethnic culture! 🔥 - Photo Spots: The scenic beauty of Kanas Lake is a paradise for photography enthusiasts! 📸 - Cuisine: Don’t miss Altay’s lamb skewers and big plate chicken; their flavors will leave you craving for more! 🍖 Visit Altay Region to enjoy the grandeur and mystery of nature. Book a group tour on Ctrip now and embark on an unforgettable journey!

Scenic Area Overview Koktokay Scenic Area is located in Fuyun County, Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang, and is a national 5A-level tourist attraction. It boasts spectacular natural landscapes, including the Irtysh Grand Canyon, Koktokay Lake, and Yileimu Lake, as well as rich geological culture and ethnic customs. Once a significant contributor to China's mining industry, it is now a coveted tourist destination. Best Time to Visit • Autumn: Late September to early October is the most beautiful season in Koktokay. The forests are ablaze with color, and the mountains and rivers along the Irtysh River create a mesmerizing autumn scene. The golden birch forests, set against the surrounding mountains and rivers, form a breathtaking picture, perfect for photography and sightseeing. • Summer: Koktokay in summer is lush and vibrant. The Irtysh Grand Canyon is filled with dense vegetation, while Koktokay Lake is surrounded by reeds and blooming flowers. Wild birds gather on the lake, creating a lively and picturesque setting, making it an ideal summer retreat. Transportation Guide • External Transportation: • By Air: Fly to Altay Airport, then take a shuttle bus to Fuyun County, and transfer to a vehicle bound for Koktokay Town. • By Train: Arrive at Beitun Railway Station, then take a passenger vehicle to Fuyun County before proceeding to Koktokay Town. • By Car: From Urumqi, drive along the G7 Jingxin Expressway, exit at Fuyun, and continue via National Highway 216 to Koktokay Town. The total distance is approximately 500 km, taking about 6-7 hours. • Internal Transportation: Shuttle buses operate within the scenic area, stopping at major attractions for visitors to explore before continuing their journey. Recommended Attractions and Itineraries • Irtysh Grand Canyon: The main attraction of Koktokay, this canyon features numerous rock formations resembling animals, such as Flying Peak, Camel Peak, Elephant Trunk Peak, and Sacred Eagle Peak, collectively known as the "108 Peaks." Among them, the 365-meter-high Amir Sara Peak—Sacred Bell Mountain—is particularly stunning. The canyon is also home to vast birch, poplar, and pine forests, as well as Red Leaf Valley, which turns golden and fiery red in autumn. Visitors can take a shuttle bus to the Sacred Bell Mountain viewing platform, stroll along the riverside trail, and explore Waterfall Gully for a closer encounter with nature. • Koktokay Lake: During summer and autumn, thousands of wild ducks, cranes, and geese thrive here. The emerald-green lake, surrounded by rolling mountains, forms a picturesque natural wildlife sanctuary. Visitors can enjoy the serene lake views and observe rare bird species. • Yileimu Lake: A man-made lake with crystal-clear water and tranquil surroundings, ideal for drifting and relaxation. Visitors can stroll along the lakeshore or try thrilling drifting activities. • Karaxiangar Earthquake Fault Zone: A testament to nature's power, this visible fault line inspires awe and reflection on life's fragility. It offers insights into geology and the wonders of nature. • No. 3 Mine Pit: A unique attraction, this historic mining site is one of the world's largest pits, having yielded rare metals for national development. Visitors can explore the pit, visit the Koktokay Geological Exhibition Hall, and learn about the hardships of past miners. One-Day Itinerary Arrive at Koktokay Visitor Center in the morning, purchase tickets, and take the shuttle bus to the Irtysh Grand Canyon. Visit Sacred Bell Mountain, stroll along the riverside trail, and admire the autumn birch forests before returning to the visitor center. Two-Day Itinerary Day 1: Follow the morning itinerary above, then explore deeper into the canyon, visiting Waterfall Gully and other spots. Stay overnight in Koktokay Town or nearby. Day 2: Visit Koktokay Lake and Yileimu Lake in the morning, then tour the No. 3 Mine Pit in the afternoon to learn about mining history before concluding the trip. Food Recommendations • Cold-Water Fish: Local rivers are home to delicacies like zander and perch, best enjoyed steamed, braised, or fried. • Xinjiang Cuisine: Try traditional dishes such as lamb skewers, pilaf, big plate chicken, and nang pit-roasted meat. • Dairy Products: Local specialties like yogurt curd and milk skin offer unique flavors. Accommodation Options • Koktokay Town: Offers hotels, guesthouses, and homestays with good amenities and proximity to the scenic area. • Within the Scenic Area: Limited lodging, mostly cabins, provides serene nights and morning views but at higher prices. Book in advance during peak seasons. Important Notes • Environmental Protection: Preserve the pristine landscapes by avoiding littering and damaging vegetation. • Safety: Follow park regulations, avoid undeveloped routes, and stay cautious near rivers and mountains. • Weather: Prepare for sudden changes, including rain and wind, by checking forecasts and packing appropriate clothing.