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

【Introduction】: Northern Xinjiang and Ili are among the most popular travel destinations in Xinjiang, boasting stunning natural landscapes and unique ethnic cultures. Below is an introduction to their scenic spots and travel tips: 🛬【Itinerary】: Day 1: From various cities to Urumqi Day 2: Urumqi - S21 Desert Highway - Karamay Sand Mountain Park - Altay Day 3: Altay - Ahe Highway (open after July 1) - Altay Grassland - Hemu Village Day 4: Hemu Village - Harden Platform for Sunrise Viewing - Stroll by Kanas Lake - Kanas Day 5: Kanas - Fairy Bay - Moon Bay - Wolong Bay - Karamay Day 6: Karamay - Self-drive around Sayram Lake + Lakeside Walk + Sunset Glow - Sayram Lake Day 7: Second Visit to Sayram Lake + Sailing Experience - Guozigou Bridge - Yizhao Highway - Zhaosu Day 8: Zhaosu - Xiata Ancient Trail - Tekes Day 9: Tekes - Bayinbuluk - Bayin Day 10: Bayin - Nalati Air Grassland - Xinyuan Day 11: Xinyuan - Tangbula Hundred-Mile Gallery - Duku Highway - Urumqi Day 12: Urumqi - Home Sweet Home 1. Kanas Lake - Known as "a lake that changes color with the seasons," especially beautiful in autumn. - Main attractions: Guanyu Platform, Moon Bay, Fairy Bay. 2. Hemu Village - A primitive village inhabited by the Tuva people, featuring golden birch forests and wooden houses in autumn. - Ideal for capturing morning mist. 3. Five-Colored Beach - Located in Burqin, where the Yadan landform meets the Irtysh River, best viewed at sunset. 4. Sayram Lake - Dubbed "the last tear of the Atlantic," with azure waters and blooming wildflowers in summer. 5. Nalati Grassland - One of the world's four major grasslands, lush and green in summer with grazing sheep. - Offers horseback riding and Kazakh cultural experiences. 6. Lavender Fields - China's largest lavender plantation, resembling Provence during the blooming season in June and July. 7. Guozigou Bridge - A magnificent bridge spanning a canyon, surrounded by forests. 8. Xiata Ancient Trail - Perfect for hiking enthusiasts, with views of snow-capped mountains. 9. Bayinbuluk Grassland - Famous for the breathtaking sunset reflections of its "Nine Bends and Eighteen Turns." 🍩【Must-Try Cuisine】: Roasted buns + Whole roasted lamb + Lamb skewers + Big plate chicken + Hand-grabbed rice 🏨【Accommodation Tips】: Ctrip Four-Diamond Hotels + Century-Old Wooden Houses + Classic Homestays 🚌【Transportation Tips】: Seven-seater business vehicles or luxury seven-seater business cars 🧡【Travel Tips】: 1. Best Travel Time - Northern Xinjiang: September to October (vivid autumn colors), June to August (summer escape). - Ili: June to August (grassland flower seas), April (apricot blossom season). 2. Transportation and Itinerary - Northern Xinjiang and Ili attractions are scattered; it's recommended to rent a car or self-drive. Some road sections have strict speed limits. - Plan your route in advance to avoid driving at night. 3. Climate and Gear - Large temperature differences between day and night; bring windproof jackets, sunscreen, and sunglasses. - Summer grasslands have many mosquitoes; prepare mosquito repellent. S21 Desert Highway Hemu Scenic Area Kanas Scenic Area Sayram Lake Guozigou Bridge Tekes Eight-Trigram City Xiata Tourist Area Bayinbuluk Scenic Area Nalati Tourist Scenic Area Tangbula Grassland Duku Highway

Shata Ancient Trail is a steep ancient path connecting the north and south of the Tianshan Mountains 👉It was once the route taken by Xuanzang on his journey west It combines glaciers, forests, grasslands, and hot springs Rated as "China's Most Beautiful Ancient Trail" and a national 4A-level scenic area . You can drive into the Shata Ancient Trail scenic area, with a self-driving ticket costing 150 RMB per person The shuttle bus only stops at the Hot Spring Hotel, Transfer Bridge, and General Bridge But if you drive yourself, you can stop by the roadside freely to take photos The rivers in Shata are glacier meltwater They appear light blue under the sunlight Super beautiful～ . 📸 Recommended self-driving photo spots: 1️⃣ Valley grassland near the Howling Dog Here you’ll find herds of cattle and sheep and flowing streams, very dreamy! 2️⃣ Liusha Waterfall A white stone valley with light blue water flowing through it, and you can also capture snow-capped mountains 🏔️ in the background—truly stunning . 📸 Regular photo spots: 1️⃣ Transfer Bridge to General Bridge, 1.5 km It’s recommended to hike this section, enjoying the view of snow mountains from the grassland—super breathtaking! 2️⃣ General Bridge to Flower Terrace, 4 km Legend says this is the most beautiful part of Shata, but this year the wooden plank road is under repair, with mud and dust everywhere. If you go in like I did, better ride a horse… 3️⃣ Muzart Glacier A giant glacier 30 km long, with spectacular ice crevices and ice caves (requires a professional guide, do not approach alone). Suitable for professional hikers with plenty of time～ . ❤️ Tips: ✅ The weather in Shata is generally clear in the morning. It’s recommended to stay overnight in Zhaosu and go early in the morning! The snow mountains are clearly visible! ✅ Highly recommend taking the Yizhao Highway to Shata; the scenery along the way is also breathtaking! ✅ Many roads in the scenic area are under repair, and the core scenic spots require hiking, so prepare for hiking in advance! ✅ The only supply point along the way is at General Bridge, so please bring your own snacks!

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

【Introduction】: Northern Xinjiang boasts the beautiful Kanas and Hemu, the last drop of the Atlantic Ocean 'Sayram Lake', and the 12 grasslands of Ili along with the Duku Highway, making it a must-visit destination for everyone: 🛬【Itinerary】: Day 1: Home - Urumqi Day 2: Urumqi - Heavenly Lake of Tianshan - S21 Desert Highway - Ulungur Lake - Burqin Day 3: Burqin - Kanas Three Bays - Fish Watching Pavilion - Baihaba Day 4: Baihaba - Kanas Cruise - Hemu Viewing Platform - Hemu Day 5: Hemu - Hemu Morning Light - Yunxiao Peak - Colorful Beach - Burqin Day 6: Burqin - Devil City - Dushanzi Grand Canyon - Kuitun Day 7: Kuitun - Sayram Lake Circle - Guozigou Bridge - Lavender - Yining Day 8: Yining - Yizhao Highway - Xiata Ancient Road - Zhaosu Day 9: Zhaosu - Kalajun Grassland - Tekes Bagua City Day 10: Tekes - Kurdening - Xinyuan Day 11: Xinyuan - Nalati Air Grassland - Bayinbuluke Day 12: Bayinbuluke - Duku Highway - Urumqi Day 13: Urumqi - Home Kanas Scenic Area is located on Provincial Highway 232 in Burqin County, Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. It is a AAAA-rated scenic spot mainly featuring natural landscapes. It is one of the famous attractions in Northern Xinjiang, known for its mysterious lake monster legend and the color-changing lake water. Major attractions include Kanas Lake, Kanas Three Bays (Fairy Bay, Moon Bay, Wolong Bay), and Fish Watching Pavilion. Visitors can choose to take a boat tour of the lake or hike between the three bays to fully enjoy the lake and mountain scenery. The grasslands of Northern Xinjiang are vast, with a geographical environment dominated by grasslands, deserts, and gobi, and relatively few lakes and rivers. This natural condition provides the basic premise for the formation of grassland culture in Northern Xinjiang. On this vast grassland, herders live a free and open life, and grassland culture has become a core part of Northern Xinjiang culture. The Nadam Fair, songs and dances, costumes, paintings, and other art forms on the grassland are unique, showcasing the unique charm of grassland culture. 🍩【Must-Eat Food】: Hand-Grasped Rice + Baked Buns + Whole Roasted Lamb + Grilled Fish + Big Plate Chicken 🏨【Accommodation Guide】: Ctrip Four Diamonds + Century-Old Wooden House + Classic Homestay 🚌【Transportation Guide】: 7-seat business car or luxury 7-seat car 🧡【Tips】: - Xinjiang is home to various ethnic minorities with strong religious beliefs, mainly Islam, which prohibits the consumption of pork. Respect local customs and religious beliefs. - A border pass is required for travel to Hemu-Kanas. It can be obtained at the place of residence, Kashgar, Burqin, or directly at the Kanas Scenic Area with an ID card. - Pay attention to personal safety, follow scenic area regulations, do not litter, and protect the ecological environment. - Local mobile phone signals may be poor, making communication difficult. Prepare accordingly in advance. - In Xinjiang, goods are sold by the kilogram, so pay attention to the unit of measurement when shopping. Heavenly Lake of Tianshan, Ulungur Lake (Golden Coast Scenic Area), Kanas Scenic Area, Baihaba, Hemu Scenic Area, Colorful Beach, World Devil City, Dushanzi Grand Canyon, Sayram Lake, Yining City, Ili, Yizhao Highway, Xiata Tourist Area, Zhaosu, Ili, Tekes Bagua City, Tekes, Kalajun Scenic Area, Nalati Tourist Scenic Area, Bayinbuluke Scenic Area, Duku Highway

Xinjiang is beautiful, but there are also many pitfalls! 😅 I sincerely suggest you do your research before you go, otherwise, you'll be crying on the roadside! 📝 Here's a guide to avoiding common mistakes. Please save it and read it carefully. - ✅ Weather: Xinjiang's weather is unpredictable. You can experience all four seasons in one day. ⛅ Be sure to pack sunscreen, warm clothes, and rain gear. - ✅ Clothing: The temperature difference between day and night in Xinjiang is huge. Even in July and August, the nights are cold! 🧣 Wear breathable, warm clothing. Choose loose, cotton pants. - ✅ Transportation: Xinjiang's straight roads can cause visual fatigue and speeding. Drivers, please be careful! Travel times are long, so if you get carsick, remember to bring motion sickness pills 💊. - ✅ Shopping: Goods in Xinjiang are sold by the kilogram. - ✅ Accommodation: Apart from a few cities like Urumqi and 🏠 Karamay, which have modern hotels, accommodation in other areas is basic. Some places don't have air conditioning, or even showers and private bathrooms. - ✅ Time difference: Xinjiang is 2 hours behind Beijing time. ⏰ Most businesses operate on a different schedule than in other parts of China. - ✅ Acclimatization: The water in Xinjiang is alkaline and hard. If you're not used to it, it can cause constipation. 🍉 Fruits are high in sugar, so don't eat too much at once. Some people also experience diarrhea after eating fresh mutton and dairy products. - ✅ Trip length: Plan to spend at least 7 days in Xinjiang, starting in Urumqi. - 🚗 Sample 7-day Xinjiang itinerary: D1: Urumqi - Bole - Sayram Lake (stay overnight at Sayram Lake) D2: Sayram Lake - Yining - Zhaosu (stay overnight in Zhaosu) D3: Zhaosu - Shata (stay overnight in Shata) D4: Shata sunrise - Tekes (stay overnight in Tekes) D5: Tekes - Shixi - Nalati (stay overnight in Nalati) D6: Nalati scenic area sunrise - Nalati town (stay overnight in Nalati) D7: Nalati town - Urumqi

I declare that July in XiaTa is just perfect 🤗. As soon as you enter Zhaosu, you will encounter a sea of purple flowers. In XiaTa, you can see the main peak of the Tianshan Mountains 🏔️, rapid rivers formed by melting snow, lakes, 🌲 grasslands, sand dunes, and many chubby marmots. Their backs are as cute as GaiGai's. 🐿️ Squirrels and eagles are also common here. The ecosystem is really good. Among the grasslands I've seen, XiaTa is the greenest. The scenery is so beautiful that it looks like a painting 🏞️. In XiaTa, you can feel the freest wind and the temperature of the snow mountains. Life is worth this trip. 🚗

Xinjiang's summer has no rival in China! Isn't it an exaggeration to say that🤩? Especially from June to August is the most beautiful period Mountains of flowers, snowy lakes, forest🌳 cabins, meadows with flocks of sheep 📸 Incredibly picturesque check-in spots 🎀 Sayram Lake: Wildflowers💐 bloom on the grasslands around the lake, complementing the azure waters under the snowy mountains, with no end in sight. 🎀 Nalati Grassland in the Sky: A verdant green🍃, dotted with wildflowers, river valleys, mountain peaks⛰️, deep gorges, and forests reflecting each other, where you can also ride horses, dress up for photos, and see many cute sheep🐑. 🎀 Duku Highway: It runs through the Tianshan Mountains from north to south, experiencing the changes of the four seasons in one day, and three-quarters of Xinjiang's scenery can be seen here. 🎀 Shat Ancient Trail: Grasslands, forests, glaciers, seas of flowers, the end of the forest is the glacier and snowy mountains, the scenery here is refreshing! 👔 Yili Temperature & Clothing Recommendations From June to September, the summer is a bit hot☀️, it is recommended to wear short sleeves and shorts, you can also bring some thin coats to cope with the temperature difference in the morning and evening, don't forget to bring sunglasses🕶️ and sunscreen, protect your skin! 🌟Essential items Documents: ID card, driver's license, student ID, etc. Personal items: Sunscreen, moisturizing skincare products, daily toiletries Clothing: Coats, thick jackets, knitwear, sweaters, base shirts, casual pants, flat shoes, sports shoes Others: Masks, tripods, daily medicines, sunglasses, etc. 🥢Xinjiang Specialty Cuisine Chicken dishes: Pepper chicken, big plate chicken, spicy chicken Lamb dishes: Lamb skewers, roasted meat with red willow branches, pot meat, spicy lamb trotters, rack of lamb, roasted kidneys, roasted whole lamb Staple food: Fried rice noodles, pilaf, mixed noodles, naan Drinks: Kvass, Wusu beer, yogurt, camel milk 💕Little tips: The temperature difference between day and night in Xinjiang is significant, so be sure to prepare thick clothes for unexpected needs Xinjiang is vast, and some scenic spots require walking, so choosing a pair of suitable sports shoes is very important Xinjiang's ultraviolet radiation is strong, be sure to remember to prepare sunscreen, sun-protective clothing, sun hats, etc.

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

Recommended 12-day itinerary, capturing all the stunning views of Northern Xinjiang in one go, offering you a completely rich sensory experience❗ Itinerary Recommendation (Classic 12-Day 11-Night Northern Xinjiang Route) D1: From various places to Urumqi D2: Urumqi---to Burqin via the Colorful Beach (one way 485KM, about 6.5 hours by car) Accommodation: Burqin Attraction (Colorful Beach) D3: Burqin---Kanas---back to Jiadengyu (one way 156KM, about 2.5 hours by car) Accommodation: Jiadengyu Attraction (Kanas) D4: Kanas--Hemu (one way 60KM, about 2 hours by car) Accommodation: Hemu Attraction (Kanas, Hemu) D5: Hemu---Devil City---Karamay (one way 455KM, about 5 hours by car) Accommodation: Karamay Attraction (Devil City) D6: Karamay--Sayram Lake---Qingshui River (one way 445KM, about 5.5 hours by car) Accommodation: Qingshui River Attraction (Sayram Lake) D7: Qingshui River---Xia'ta Ancient Road---Zhaosu (one way 128KM, about 2 hours by car) Accommodation: Zhaosu Attraction (Xia'ta Ancient Road) D8: Zhaosu---Kala Jun---Tekes (one way 125KM, about 1.5 hours by car) Accommodation: Tekes Attraction (Kala Jun Grassland) D9: Tekes---Nalati (one way 280KM, about 3.5 hours by car) Accommodation: Nalati Attraction (Nalati Sky Grassland) D10: Nalati--Bayinbuluk---Nalati (180KM, about 3 hours by car) Accommodation: Nalati Attraction (Returning to the Nine Turns and Eighteen Bends, Swan Lake) D11: Nalati-Duku Highway---Urumqi (one way 420KM, about 6.5 hours by car) Accommodation: Urumqi Attraction (Duku Highway Scenery) D12: Urumqi---to various places

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

But if you don't want to go to Xinjiang in winter, then you definitely shouldn't miss it in summer! 😍 Visiting Yili after April is simply a divine level of beauty! The ice and snow melt away, the grass and spruce are dripping with greenery😀, passing through snow-capped mountains, steep ridges, and meadows, you can also see the adorable flocks of sheep🐏. The little houses on the green slopes and the clouds in the sky☁ make you feel like you're in a fairy tale world. The most beautiful season of the Yili grassland has arrived, come and feel it! 👣 ✅Must-see attractions in Yili: 🌲Shata Tourist Area: The dreamy staircase to the snow mountains. 🌲Zhao Su·Yili: A beautiful two-dimensional fairy tale world. 🌲Tianma Yuhe: The homeland of the heavenly horses. 🌲Kalajun Scenic Area: Here is the summer of Miyazaki's manga. 🌲Qiongkushitai: The village from the fairy tales. 🌲Narati Grassland: Stroll through the endless sea of flowers on the aerial grassland. 🌲Sailimu Lake: The last tear of the Atlantic. 🌲Lavender Manor: The Eastern Provence, encounter the purple romance. 8-day tour itinerary recommendation for Yili: 👇👇 🔷Day 1: Urumqi→Pick up from the airport 🔷Day 2: Urumqi→Sailimu Lake→Lavender Farm→Yining 🔷Day 3: Yining→Shata→Zhao Su Wetland Park→Zhao Su 🔷Day 4: Zhao Su→Qiongkushitai→Tekes 🔷Day 5: Tekes→Kalajun→Xinyuan/Narati 🔷Day 6: Xinyuan/Narati→Narati Aerial Grassland→Bayinbuluke 🔷Day 7: Bayinbuluke→Duku Highway→Tangbula Hundred Mile Gallery→Urumqi 🔷Day 8: Urumqi→Send off to the airport Xinjiang food recommendations: 🔴Xinjiang's internet-famous big plate chicken, Xinjiang barbecue, roasted buns...😍

Zhaosu is rich in Pegasus horses and nomadic culture is popular here. Emperor Wu of Han was so happy after obtaining the Pegasus that he gave the horse, which originally had no name, the reputation of Pegasus. This is also the birthplace of the idiom "unconstrained imagination". ⭕️Tour guide: The Tianma Imperial River is very spectacular in summer, and you can also see Tianma walking on the snow in winter. If you want to watch Pegasus stepping on the snow, you need to make a reservation 2-3 days in advance. Generally, only groups can enjoy this treatment. You can see the spectacular scene of several or even hundreds of horses rushing out. ⭕️There is no food and accommodation in the scenic area in winter, mainly because winter is the off-season and there are not many tourists. ⭕️There are no toilets along the way from Tekes County to Tianma Cultural Park (many service areas are closed in winter), and there is a restroom only at Baima Service Area (almost at the scenic spot). It is recommended to go to the restroom in the morning before departure. There are also toilets in the scenic area. ⭕️When watching the horses stepping on the snow, people can only stand outside the fence, so it is very safe. 📍Zhaosu Tianma Cultural Park Address: 20 km west of Zhaosu County, Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang along National Highway 218 ⌚️Opening hours: 10:30-18:30 ⚠️Horse Stepping on Snow requires the team to make an appointment 2-3 days in advance

Summer in Ili, Xinjiang: lakes are blue, grasslands are green Sunlight falls on distant mountains and meadows, leaving vastness and perfect tranquility I raised my camera and captured summer's gentlest moments This summer, I highly recommend visiting Ili at least once! . 📸 Attraction guide: 1️⃣ Sayram Lake: Loop counterclockwise, enter at East Gate, exit at South Gate. Best views between the lighthouse, S-curve, and Songshutou 2️⃣ Guozigou Bridge: Perfect viewing spot right after exiting Sayram Lake's South Gate 3️⃣ Xiate: No need to ride horses, but definitely hike the small loop from General Bridge to Transfer Bridge - fewer crowds, stunning views 4️⃣ Kalajun: Visit the eastern grassland area in summer. Flower Terrace area is most beautiful, and you can hold lambs here too 5️⃣ Qiaxi: The Qiaxi Scroll viewing platform offers breathtaking scenery. Riverside camping at the mountain base is excellent 6️⃣ Ku'erdening: Head straight to Qimengde viewing platform. Many charming wooden cabins along the way, like Heidi's grandfather's house 7️⃣ Nalati: Visit the Sky Grassland in summer. Go directly to the viral bridge area, then follow the river upstream - fewer people and better views the further you go, with another beautiful wooden bridge ahead 8️⃣ Duku Highway: Has winding mountain roads but good conditions. Not as difficult to drive or as congested as imagined 9️⃣ Tangbula Fairy Lake: Absolutely gorgeous! Take a round-trip horseback ride. One hour by the lake is enough for photos . 🚗 My itinerary: ❶ Ürümqi ➠ Bole City (overnight in Bole) ❷ Bole ➠ Sayram Lake ➠ Guozigou Bridge ➠ Yining City (overnight in Yining) ❸ Yining ➠ Xiate ➠ Zhaosu County (overnight in Zhaosu) ❹ Zhaosu ➠ Kalajun ➠ Tekes County (overnight in Tekes) ❺ Tekes ➠ Qiaxi ➠ Ku'erdening ➠ Xinyuan County (overnight in Nalati Town) ❻ Nalati day trip (overnight in Nalati Town) ❼ Duku Highway North Section ➠ Hundred Miles Gallery ➠ Fairy Lake ➠ Dushanzi District (overnight in Dushanzi) ❽ Dushanzi ➠ Ürümqi ➠ Departure

Sisters~ Summer is the perfect time to visit the stunning Yuhu Lake in Zhaosu, Xinjiang!!! Here's a compilation of the most breathtaking photo spots and itinerary tips for Yuhu Lake📝 Perfect reference for those planning a summer trip~ 📷 Yuhu Lake Photo Spots: Yujing Tianfeng Viewing Platform 【Cliff VIP Spot】 The best vantage point to admire Yuhu Lake. Here, you can take in the lake's ever-changing hues of clear gray and emerald green with the seasons and light, while enjoying the majestic contrast of surrounding snow-capped mountains and lush grasslands. Whether it's the reflection of blue skies and white clouds on the lake surface at dawn or the golden glow on the mountains at dusk, the view is absolutely mesmerizing~ Muyun Inn Super cost-effective! Just a 15-minute walk to Yuhu Lake Scenic Area. Rooms face the grasslands, and you can wake up to golden mountain views at sunrise! At night, sit on the grassland swing and gaze at the starry Milky Way - even your phone can capture stunning astrophotography✨ Wishing Forest Hang prayer ribbons in the Wishing Forest to bring happiness and peace home. Each ribbon carries a wish. Stroll along the wooden boardwalk, pass through the Wishing Forest, and wander the colorful square to experience a visual feast of hues. Here, you can also choose a wish card and gently write down your desires. Whether it's blessings for family, care for friends, or hopes for your future, let your wishes flutter under the blue sky. We provide colorful ribbons for you to tie your wishes on the treetops, letting the wind carry them afar. 📝 Itinerary Share: Day 1 ✔ Arrive at the airport → Zhaosu County → Check in at Muyun Inn ✔ Explore and take photos around Muyun Inn📷 Day 2 ✔ Around 10 AM: Arrive at the dock to take a boat to Yuhu Lake🚢 ✨ Horseback riding ✨ Boating ✨ Feeding sheep ✨ Archery ✨ Archery ✔ Around 7 PM: Return by boat, taking photos along the lakeside - the scenery is super chill~ ✔ Around 8 PM: Arrive back at Muyun Inn for golden mountain sunset views🌄 If time allows, explore the entire Yuhu Lake area and visit Phase 3 for different beautiful sights waiting for you~

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.

Summer Melody Inn is located in Xiata Township, Zhaosu County. Established in 2025, this guesthouse is named after "Xiata," which means "staircase" in Kazakh. As you venture deeper into the Xiata Scenic Area, the altitude gradually rises from 1,800 meters at Xiata Township to approximately 2,500 meters. Summer Melody Inn is a guesthouse themed around "peaceful sleep," providing travelers visiting Xiata with the perfect environment for relaxation and rest. It also offers authentic Sichuan cuisine to passing travelers, ensuring that even when away from home, guests can feel the warmth of home. 🏨【Guesthouse Address】: No. 50, Ancient City Road, Kataltobe Village, Xiata Township, Zhaosu County 🌆【Interior Design】: Entirely decorated with walnut wood, featuring a creamy aesthetic 🛏【Room Types/Layout】: The guesthouse offers various room types, including king rooms, standard rooms, family rooms, triple rooms, premium suites, and luxury suites, catering to different needs of travelers. 🚌【Transportation Tips】: Suitable for self-driving or group tours 🏨【Check-in Requirements】: ID card or passport ⛺【Activities】: Self-service BBQ, outdoor karaoke, rooftop observation deck, leisure tea room, self-service freshly ground coffee, and board games 🍩【Restaurant Features】: The restaurant specializes in authentic Sichuan and Hunan cuisine, with two private dining rooms and open seating available 🏬【Nearby Attractions】: Only 2 kilometers from Xiata Scenic Area, with a nearby horse racing track and Xiata Ancient City 💴【Average Cost】: Approximately 200–300 RMB per person 🧡【Tips】: If you're unsure about the detailed route, you can call the front desk for assistance. Scenic area self-driving tickets are limited, so it's recommended to book in advance or queue early to purchase. @ Summer Melody Inn

#summervacay Want to see dozens of horses galloping in the clear river and splashing water? Come to Xinjiang Zhaosu Wetland Park! The most popular thing here is the "Heavenly Horse Bathing in the River"! It's not a special effect! It's the vigorous Ili horses (the legendary "Heavenly Horses") crossing the river in groups, with flying hooves and splashing water. With the snow-capped mountains and grasslands behind them, it's super exciting! It's like a "surfing" scene of horses, super lively! Summer only! June to August is the golden period, when the grass is the greenest, the water is just right, and the weather is the most comfortable. Especially the Tianma International Tourism Festival in mid-to-late July, the scene is the largest and most lively! The park usually organizes special viewing sessions in the afternoon (for example, around 4 o'clock) (be sure to consult the scenic spot one day in advance to confirm the specific time of the day!). You may also encounter the natural scene of herdsmen driving horses across the river in the early morning and evening. Enter the wetland park to watch the show, the ticket is about ¥40 (prices may fluctuate, please refer to the latest information of the scenic spot). First go to Zhaosu County, Xinjiang. It is most convenient to drive or charter a car from the county to the wetland park, and the journey is not far. The general transportation is to fly to Yining first, then take a car (about 3-4 hours) or take the scenic Yizhao Highway (open seasonally) to Zhaosu. #travel #naturalwonders #thingstodo #familytravel #familytravel #china

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.

【Introduction】: At the foot of the Tianshan Mountains lies the breathtaking beauty of Xinjiang! Where grasslands whisper to lakes, snow-capped peaks blend with starry skies, the aroma of naan bread wafts through grapevines, and the ancient Silk Road camel bells awaken millennia of history. "Heavenly landscapes north and south of Tianshan: Grasslands and lakes paint a masterpiece, snow mountains and stars compose a canvas, the fragrance of naan and grapes fills the Silk Road, while thousand-year-old camel bells invite you to revel!" 🛬【Itinerary】: D1: Airport pickup → Hotel in Ürümqi city D2: Ürümqi → Lakeside stroll at Sayram Lake → Sayram Lake sunset → Sunset party → East Gate of Sayram Lake → Accommodation near the scenic area D3: Second visit to Sayram Lake → In-depth self-drive loop around the lake → Forget-Me-Not Valley Lavender Fields → Yining D4: Yining → Yining-Zhaosu Highway → Xiata → Golden sunset over Muzart Glacier → Zhaosu D5: Zhaosu → Qiongkushitai D6: Qiongkushitai → Nalati Grasslands → Nalati Town D7: Nalati → Dushanzi-Kuqa Highway → Qiaoerma → Ürümqi D8: Ürümqi → Airport drop-off 🧡【Tips】: 1. Documents: Original ID card and relevant discount certificates (student ID, military officer card, medical staff ID, etc.); 2. Entertainment: Mobile phones, cameras, drones, stabilizers, GoPros, and other photography gear to capture your journey;

| Crossing the grassland leads to the glacier. Shata Glacier Travel Guide **(Xinjiang · The Secret Corridor at the Foot of the Tianshan Mountains)** **Shata** (also known as "Xiate") is located in Zhaosu County, Ili, Xinjiang. It is an epic canyon in the Tianshan Mountains, combining glaciers, snow-capped mountains, forests, and grasslands, and is praised as "one of China's most beautiful ancient trails." This is the place where Xuanzang traveled westward to obtain scriptures and a hiking paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. 🌄 1. Best Travel Time** ✅ **June to September** (Best season): - **June to July**: Wildflowers bloom across the grasslands, and the climate is cool. - **August to September**: Snow mountains are clearly visible, autumn colors begin to show, and hiking is most comfortable. **October to May (next year)**: - Winter sees heavy snow closing the mountains and the scenic area; spring thaw makes roads muddy. ⚠️ Note: Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, bring rain gear. 🚗 2. How to Get There?** ### **1. Major Transportation** - **Plane/Train**: First arrive in Yining (capital of Ili Prefecture), then charter a car or take a bus to Zhaosu County (about 3 hours). - **Self-driving**: - Yining → Zhaosu (via "Yizhao Highway," accessible for vehicles under 7 seats, with stunning scenery). - Zhaosu → Shata Scenic Area (about 1.5 hours, good road conditions). 2. Transportation within the Scenic Area** - **Ticket + Shuttle Bus**: 80 RMB (includes the route from the scenic area entrance to the hot spring hotel). - **Electric Cart**: Hot spring hotel → Frog Spring (optional, 50 RMB/person). - **Hiking/Horse Riding**: Frog Spring → Glacier foot (one way about 12 km). 📸 3. Core Attractions & Activities** ### **1. Shata Canyon Easy Hike** - **Route**: Frog Spring → General’s Bridge → Flower Terrace → Glacier foot (round trip 6-8 hours). - **Highlights**: - **Flower Terrace**: Wildflowers everywhere in summer, with Muzart Snow Mountain as the backdrop. - **Glacier Terminus**: Get close to the millennia-old ice tongue (beware of falling rocks). 2. Muzart Snow Mountain** - One of the main peaks of the Tianshan Mountains (altitude 6,998 meters), a landmark of the Shata Ancient Trail, best photo spot at **General’s Bridge**. 3. Shata Ancient Trail (Adventure Level)** - 120 km long, running through the north and south of the Tianshan Mountains, requires professional guides and equipment (casual tourists are advised to only experience a small part). ### **4. Hot Spring Hotel** - Natural hot springs under the snow mountains, the top choice for relaxation after hiking (reservation required). 🏠 4. Accommodation Recommendations** - **Inside the Scenic Area**: - Hot Spring Hotel (the only official accommodation, about 400 RMB/night, includes hot springs). - Nomad Yurt (near Frog Spring, about 150 RMB/person, experience nomadic life). - **Zhaosu County**: Better facilities, suitable for non-hiking visitors (e.g., Zhaosu Hotel). 🍖 5. Food Recommendations** - **Must-try**: Hand-pulled lamb, roasted buns, big plate chicken, yogurt dumplings. - **Hidden Delicacy**: "Horse Meat Naren" at Zhaosu Tianma Cultural Park (local specialty noodle dish). ⚠️ 6. Precautions** 1. **Safety First**: - Glacier areas are prone to falling rocks, do not climb without permission. - Bring enough water and snacks for hiking; no supply points inside the scenic area. 2. **Unpredictable Weather**: - Daily temperature difference can reach 20°C, bring a windbreaker and sun protection. 3. **Environmental Protection**: - Take all trash with you, protect the fragile alpine ecosystem. 4. **Border Pass**: - If planning to go deep into the ancient trail, apply for a pass at your place of residence (destination fill in "Zhaosu County"). 🗺️ 7. Itinerary Suggestions** **Classic 2 days 1 night**: - **Day 1**: Yining → Zhaosu → Shata Scenic Area (stay at hot spring hotel/yurt). - **Day 2**: Easy hike to the glacier → return to Zhaosu. **In-depth 3 days 2 nights**: Add Qiongkushitai or Kalajun Grassland for a combined trip. Shata is a "geometric symphony of snow mountains and grasslands," perfect for travelers who love off-the-beaten-path wilderness. If your stamina is limited, take the electric cart to Frog Spring to experience the essence of the scenery. Be sure to check the weather before departure! 🏔️

Nestled in Zhaosu lies a hidden gem that feels like a utopia—Xia Rong Manor. This is where the grasslands meet the forests in perfect harmony. The vast grasslands are lush and vibrant, adorned with blooming wildflowers, and dotted with herds of cattle and sheep leisurely roaming around, creating a picturesque scene akin to a vivid oil painting. In the distance, majestic snow-capped mountains rise, adding a touch of sanctity and tranquility to the land. As sunlight bathes the scenery, it glimmers with golden hues, captivating the heart. Step outside, and you are embraced by nature. Wake up in the morning to the scent of fresh grass, the cheerful chirping of birds, and the gentle caress of the breeze, starting your day full of vitality. Here, you can gallop on horseback, feeling the wind rushing past your ears; stroll across the grasslands, getting up close with cattle and sheep; or gaze at the starry night sky, counting the stars and listening to the chirping of insects, savoring the rare tranquility and beauty. Xia Rong Manor in Zhaosu is a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the world and return to the embrace of nature. If you yearn for life on the grasslands, come here and embark on a romantic journey through the prairie!

Even under cloudy skies, Xiatag remains breathtakingly beautiful[Love] Among Yili's grasslands, Xiatag is relatively less crowded, yet its scenery rivals any other grassland! During our visit, the boardwalks were nearly completed! Future visitors will find it even more accessible for walking. You can choose to ride horses or hike between different sections, though horseback photo opportunities here aren't as cost-effective as other grasslands❤️ It's great for covering distances! Due to time constraints, we only reached the first campsite⛺️ Definitely coming back next time~

Summer cooling doesn’t have to mean crowded popular spots. The following 7 lesser-known cities are not only cool and pleasant but also each has its unique charm. Practical tips are included to help you plan your trip: 1. **Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture, Jilin** (Average temperature 22℃) - **Cool Secret**: At the foot of Changbai Mountain, with over 80% forest coverage - **Off-the-Beaten-Path Activities**: - Tumen River border rafting (China-North Korea border) - Hunchun Fangchuan "View Three Countries at a Glance" observation deck - Yanji water market with the Korean ethnic early market opening at 4 a.m. - **Food TIP**: Yanji cold noodles with iced rice wine, rice cake with schisandra tea - **Transportation**: Yanji Chaoyangchuan Airport, 2.5 hours by high-speed train from Changchun 2. **Linxia, Gansu** (Summer average temperature 18℃) - **Secret Experiences**: - Hezheng Ancient Animal Fossil Museum (shovel-tusked elephant fossils) - Bingling Temple Grottoes Yellow River boat tour (3 hours faster than by land) - Songmingyan International Ski Resort summer grass skiing - **Accommodation**: Jishishan County homestays to experience Bao’an ethnic embroidery - **Note**: Large temperature difference between day and night, bring a jacket; rapeseed flower sea season in July 3. **Pu’er, Yunnan** (Not the tea one, average temperature 21℃) - **In-depth Activities**: - Red panda estate night firefly watching - Jingmai Mountain ancient tea forest fresh leaf picking and tea cake making - Menglian County Nayun Ancient Town (the last Dai ethnic ancient town) - **Transportation TIP**: Kunming to Lancang Jingmai Airport only 1 hour flight - **Hidden Perk**: Coffee estate experience (China’s coffee origin) 4. **Weichang County, Hebei** (Edge of Bashang Grassland) - **Cooling Highlights**: - Saihanba Mechanical Forest Farm cycling (world’s largest man-made forest) - Yudaokou Ranch starry sky tents (Milky Way observation point) - Hongsongwa Wind Farm photography (giant wind turbine cluster) - **Self-driving Note**: SUV recommended, some sections have no signal 5. **Liupanshui, Guizhou** ("China’s Cool City" 19℃) - **Hidden Routes**: - Wumeng Grassland Buddha light spectacle (early morning required) - Shuicheng Ancient Town Laoguo Street with rose ice jelly - Yeyuhai mountain small train (altitude 2400m) - **Tips**: Yi Torch Festival in July-August, bring a light down jacket 6. **Zhaosu, Xinjiang** (Ili River Valley secret spot) - **Summer Specials**: - July rapeseed and sunflower two-color flower sea - Xiata Ancient Trail light hiking (snow mountains close by) - Tianma Cultural Park watch thousands of horses drinking water (6 p.m.) - **Transportation**: 3-hour self-drive from Yining, passing lavender fields 7. **Luyashan, Shanxi** (3 hours north of Taiyuan by car) - **Magical Scenery**: - Ten-thousand-year ice cave (minus 5℃ in midsummer) - Hanging Village (village clinging to cliff walls) - Malun Grassland alpine meadow (less crowded than Wutai Mountain) - **Must-Try**: Ningwu County oat noodles with sea buckthorn juice **General Advice**: 1. Medical resources are limited in these lesser-known places, bring common medicines 2. Some scenic spots only accept cash (e.g., Hanging Village in Luyashan) 3. Contact homestays in advance to confirm air conditioning availability (some highland areas don’t need AC) 4. Use the "high-speed train + car rental" combo (e.g., renting a car in Guiyang to go to Liupanshui offers more freedom) These destinations have less than one-third the visitor density of popular spots but offer more authentic local culture, making them especially suitable for travelers seeking a quiet summer retreat. Depending on your travel preferences, consider focusing on 2-3 destinations for a combined trip.

Hey everyone, on Day 8 of our Xinjiang family trip, we had an absolute blast in Xata! On the last day of Eid al-Adha, we drove smoothly along the Yizhao Highway and arrived at Xata to explore this breathtaking hidden paradise 😆! ✨Xata Hidden Gem Travel Guide 📍 Navigation: "Chahanwusu Mongolian Township" (Akesu Valley) 🚗 Transportation: 4WD vehicles are highly recommended, followed by SUVs. Sedans can only go as far as the wooden bridge and cannot cross the water. ⚠️ Reminder: Pack enough snacks and make sure your vehicle is fully fueled/charged~ Our spontaneous decision to visit Xata's hidden gem was totally worth it! The scenery along the way was like a painting, and with few tourists around, we could fully immerse ourselves in the natural beauty. The kids had a wild time playing and connecting with nature—it was pure joy. 🏡 Accommodation Experience: This time, we stayed at the Xata Muye Starlight Homestay, and it was an unforgettable experience! This cozy homestay, recommended by a friend, is pretty much the standard in the village. The owners were incredibly warm and attentive. After check-in, the adults enjoyed tea in the courtyard while the kids played on the swings and ran around—the yard was full of life. The host not only served us delicious fruit but also grilled lamb skewers for the guests personally. Such hospitality is rare—it felt like being part of a big family. The homestay was fully booked that night, which speaks to its popularity. Breakfast is outsourced and served about a 4-minute drive away, with a rich spread catering to all tastes. Just remember not to go too late, or some dishes might run out. Our day in Xata was unforgettable, filled with stunning scenery and the warmth of the homestay experience. The true meaning of travel isn’t just about the views but also the heartwarming people and stories you encounter. Xata deserves a spot on your must-visit list for Xinjiang ✨

If I could only visit one place in Ili, I would definitely choose Xiata. This season, Xiata offers everything you could dream of in Ili: snow-capped mountains, forests, streams, wildflowers, and various small animals. It's a paradise that fulfills all your fantasies about Ili. If you're planning a trip to Xinjiang, don't miss Xiata! Location: Xiata Ancient Trail National Forest Park, Ili, Xinjiang 🎫 Tickets: Self-driving visitors: 145 RMB/person; Shuttle bus: 80 RMB/person 🕰️ Hours: 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM 🎈 First, let me introduce the scenic area: The park is divided into three sections: 1️⃣ The first section is from the entrance to the hot spring hotel, accessible by shuttle bus. 2️⃣ The second section is from the hot spring hotel to General Bridge, which can be reached by walking or shuttle bus (self-driving cars can only go as far as General Bridge). 3️⃣ The third section is from General Bridge, passing through Houses No. 1, 2, 3, and 4, and finally arriving at Flower Terrace. This part can only be explored on foot or horseback. 📌 Travel Tips: 1️⃣ Xiata is perfect for in-depth exploration. A same-day round trip won't allow you to fully experience its essence. I recommend entering the park in the afternoon, staying overnight, and leaving the next day after exploring. This way, you'll have the chance to enjoy Xiata without crowds, making your experience truly special. 2️⃣ For hiking enthusiasts, I suggest starting from Transfer Bridge, walking past General Bridge, and heading to Houses No. 1, 2, 3, and 4, before reaching Flower Terrace. Personally, I'm not much of a hiker, but walking from Transfer Bridge to Flower Terrace, including photo stops and breaks, took me about 4 hours. 3️⃣ If you're short on time, need to return the same day, or don't enjoy hiking, just focus on the section from Transfer Bridge to General Bridge. This part is the highlight of the park and is best appreciated on foot. 4️⃣ Regarding horseback riding, make sure to arrive early as demand is high (80 RMB/hour). The first batch of horses is available at 9:00 AM. 🏠 Accommodation in the park: The hot spring hotel is the official lodging option but is relatively expensive. There are many local shepherd families offering accommodations. Although the conditions are more basic, the shepherds are very hospitable, and staying with them provides a unique cultural experience. Interested visitors should book in advance. I stayed in a shepherd's wooden cabin for 488 RMB/night, which can comfortably accommodate 6-8 people. ‼️ Travel Tips: 1️⃣ The weather in the park changes quickly. Mornings are usually clear, while afternoons have a higher chance of rain. I arrived in the afternoon, experienced a night of rain, but was pleasantly surprised by clear skies the next morning. 2️⃣ If you plan to hike, bring shoe covers and a raincoat just in case. Some paths become very muddy after rain, and shoe covers are essential. 3️⃣ Don't forget sunscreen—the sun is extremely strong, so don't take any chances. 4️⃣ In June, a windbreaker with a base layer underneath is usually sufficient. It's not too cold.

🗺️ Itinerary｜12-Day Three-Dimensional Grassland Dissection Course Day 1-3｜Tianshan Aesthetic Impact ▫️ S101 National Defense Highway: Drive the 1960s "Tianshan Lifeline," where Danxia landforms and snow-capped mountains frame each other ▫️ Anjihai Grand Canyon: Stand at the edge of God's spilled palette, drone shots instantly turn into National Geographic masterpieces ▫️ Sailimu Lake Lakeside Self-Drive: Sa Beining, I’m not living in vain! Stop whenever you want to capture 12 shades of blue in the "Tear of the Atlantic" - Day 4-6｜Ili River Valley Gene Pool 🔥 Huocheng Bruce Lavender Manor ▫️ Unlock the deadly romance from "Perfume" amid ten thousand acres of purple waves ▫️ Professional travel photography team teaches you how to pose in the flower fields with an "unbelonging to social media" high-end vibe 🌉 Guozigou Bridge ▫️ Drone flies through the steel giant, capturing Ili’s morning light piercing the bridge hole 🏔️ Shata Ancient Trail National Forest Park ▫️ Retrace Xuanzang’s westward journey｜Snowmelt water shatters into emerald fragments beneath your feet ▫️ Encounter heavenly horses bathing in the river, water droplets from their manes carry the warmth of Western Han border guards - Day 7-9｜Grassland Cubism ▫️ Kalajun Scenic Area Human Grassland: Light and shadow flow along curves like hip lines, shutter button heats up from constant pressing ▫️ Kuokesu Grand Canyon: Speedboat cuts through the jade texture of Crocodile Bay, cliffside restaurant serves hand-pulled lamb with canyon breeze ▫️ Nalati Tourist Scenic Area: Self-drive crushes the Windows desktop, snow mountains pierce the clouds straight through the windshield - Day 10-12｜Journey to Duku Highway ▫️ Northern Section of Duku: Experience four seasons in one day｜June snow brushes past the rearview mirror, every hairpin turn is a geography textbook-level impact｜Car stereo must play "Dream of Hexi Corridor" ██ Hidden Quest: Wait for the sunset at Bayinbuluke Scenic Area’s nine twists and eighteen bends, watch 9 suns shatter over the Kaidu River ▫️ Dushanzi Grand Canyon: Stand at the edge of a 200-meter abyss, feel the oppressive beauty carved by river water over hundreds of millions of years - 🚗 Advanced Player Gear ✅ Local driver with ten years of experience: co-pilot live navigation + cultural commentary + watermelon feeder ✅ Off-road vehicle modification package: raised chassis to conquer herding paths, rooftop tent instantly becomes a stargazing platform ✅ Survival kit on board: Xinjiang white apricots, Kashgar plums, freshly baked naan—starvation is impossible - ⚠️ Special Reminders: 1️⃣ Don’t wear white sneakers on Shata Ancient Trail! Horse manure and wildflowers are equally abundant 2️⃣ Stay calm if there’s a traffic jam on Duku Highway—it's not an accident, tourists are collectively getting off to kneel and photograph the snow mountains 3️⃣ The sheep on Nalati Grassland pose better than you, please put away unnecessary competitive spirit 4️⃣ Just bring a 128GB stomach and a 256GB phone to be the star of the 12-day Tianshan exclusive - 【Charter Tours】【Customized Tours】【Private Groups】all available~ How to get the same itinerary 👇👇Tap the bottom left of the screen 【Chat with TA】 to get the plan! -

Help! The Ultimate Guide to Avoiding Pitfalls on the North Shater Hiking Trail! A Brutally Beautiful Experience That Will Make You Cry! Hey guys! Just got back from the North Shater hiking trail, and while my feet are still protesting, my mind is already planning a second trip! This guide is packed with hard-earned lessons and must-know tips—bookmark it now if you're ready to tackle this "ultimate self-torture challenge"! 🌟 Why should you think twice before going? Unless you can handle... ✔️ Hell-level intensity: Climbing steep passes until your legs give out, wading through freezing rivers that make you scream, hiking 10+ km daily until you collapse on rocks! ✔️ Unpredictable weather: Sunshine one second, hailstorms the next—your phone becomes a "brick" (no signal!). ✔️ Raw, wild beauty: No Instagram-perfect spots, just mind-blowing glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and vast wilderness that leave you speechless! 📍 Ask yourself these 3 questions first! ❶ Is your fitness level maxed out? Can you handle 10km+ daily hikes with a heavy pack for a month? ❷ Is your gear hardcore enough? Waterproof boots, professional shell jacket, full thermal gear—got it all? ❸ Can you embrace the mess? Falling on your butt, getting blown into a "wildling," looking disheveled for days... 💥 The full 6-day grueling itinerary! Day1: Nationwide → Yining City (acclimatize, stock up on supplies) Day2: Yining → Zhaosu Jade Lake → Aheyaz Wetland → Konggurbulak Camp (first glimpse of snow-capped peaks—excitement overload!) Day3: Cross Adenbulak Pass → Adenbulak Camp (the steep pass will humble you—prepare to question your life choices!) Day4: Conquer Taldebulak Pass → Shata Camp (glaciers getting closer—exhausted but euphoric!) Day5: Trek through Shater Valley → Muzart Glacier → Tograsu Camp (seeing the glacier up close—worth every step!) Day6: Cross Tograsu Pass → Return to Yining (leaving with sore muscles and unforgettable memories) ⚠️ Blood-and-tear lessons! Avoid these pitfalls at all costs! 1️⃣ Lifesaving gear checklist: - Waterproof boots! Waterproof boots! Waterproof boots! (Essential for river crossings—regular shoes will be ruined.) - Hardshell jacket + fleece liner (rain and wind will turn regular coats into "waterfalls.") - SPF 50+ sunscreen + sunglasses (returning three shades darker is no joke!) - Two trekking poles (knee savers on descents!) 2️⃣ Fitness prep guide: - 1 month prior: Daily 5km runs + 20 flights of stairs + 5kg weighted hikes. - Core training: Planks and squats to avoid leg burnout on climbs. 3️⃣ Pro avoidance tips: - Follow your guide when crossing rivers—don’t go rogue (currents can sweep you away!). - Camp on higher ground to avoid midnight flooding (trust me on this one 😭). - Pack enough snacks—no convenience stores in the mountains (you don’t want to resort to tree bark!). 🌈 Moments of pure magic! ✨ Midnight tent unzip: The Milky Way blankets the sky, glaciers glowing eerie blue. ✨ Standing atop a pass, gazing at endless snow-capped peaks—pure triumph. ✨ Gathering around the campfire, swapping hilarious "fail" stories with teammates. Guys! The beauty of North Shater is an extreme romance earned step by step! Though it’s brutally tough, the moment glaciers, starry skies, and mountains fill your vision, every struggle becomes a priceless memory! Brave souls, grab this guide and go! #NorthShaterHiking #UltimateSelfTortureTravel #XinjiangHikingKing #GlacierHikingGuide #HikersUltimateRomance

🌿 Hulunbuir｜6 Days ¥3k·Galloping Through 22°C Grassland Fairytale 💥 Soul-soothing Package: Horseback sunset chase｜Stargazing in yurts｜Feeding reindeer in birch forests 💰 Middle-class Budget Formula: ✔️ Mystery flight deals round-trip ¥1.2k ✔️ Shared yurts ¥100/night ✔️ Private car hire ¥200/day 📍 Grassland Highlights • Morigele River Cliff🌄: Catch golden "Nine-Bend River" rays at 5pm! Drone shots guaranteed • Heishantou Horseback Ride🐎: ¥150/person through wetlands! Night yurt BBQ with morin khuur music • Aoluguya Reindeer Park🦌: ¥10 moss to lure reindeer! Forest light mimics Princess Mononoke scenes 🚗 Free-spirited Itinerary Day1: Hailar→Morigele River→Cliff viewpoint→Grassland BBQ Day2: Ergun Wetland→Birch Forest→Russian-style Enhe lodges Day3: Shiwei Border→Heishantou riding→Bonfire party Day4: 186 Ribbon River grass sliding→Manzhouli Matryoshka Square→Golden night views Day5: Hulun Lake windmills→Mammoth Park→Return with jerky souvenirs 🔥 Authentic Flavors • Hand-torn lamb with wild chive sauce🍖: Freshly butchered in yurts! Finger-licking good • Buryat beef buns🥟: Enhe breakfast spots! Juicy onion-beef explosions • Tieshan Ice Cream🍦: Ergun's pride! ¥5 cups beat Häagen-Dazs ------ 💦 Liupanshui｜4 Days ¥1.8k·19°C China's Cool Capital 💥 AC-free Paradise: Hotpot by waterfalls｜Stargazing camps｜Tea under ancient ginkgos 💰 Budget Pro Formula: ✔️ High-speed rail ¥500 round-trip ✔️ Shared homestays ¥80/night ✔️ All-attraction pass ¥150 📍 Chill Experiences • Wumeng Grassland Buddha Light☁️: 9am cloud seas + wind turbines like Windows wallpapers • Huangguoshu Waterfall Cave💧: Raincoat-ready behind-the-falls rainbows! • Tuole Ancient Ginkgo Village🌳: Millennium-old tree shade = natural fridge 🚶♀️ Leisurely Route Day1: Liupanshui Station→Wumeng Grassland (camping/Shifang Yunshe stay) Day2: Jiucaiping Cloud Sea→Yeyuhai Forest Train Day3: Huangguoshu Falls→Yinlianzhuitan Rapids Day4: Tuole Ginkgo Forest→Panzhou Ancient Town (buy sea buckthorn snacks) 🍜 Fiery Local Eats • Shuicheng Griddle Cakes🍳: Crispy potato cakes + stinky tofu at Fengchiyuan • Lamb Noodles + Chili Oil🍜: Xiangjia Lamb—dawn broth with mint • Lotus Leaf Sticky Chicken🐔: Night-market special with mushroom aroma ------ 💜 Yili｜7 Days ¥3.5k·20°C Lavender Wonderland 💥 Romantic Recharge: Horseback in flowers｜Swan-feeding at Sayram Lake｜Kazanqi blue windows 💰 Luxury Budget Hack: ✔️ Ürümqi flights ¥1k+ ✔️ Carpool ¥150/day ✔️ Shared yurts ¥60 📍 Purple Magic • Huocheng Lavender River💐: Peak bloom 6/20-7/10! Sunset shots at 8pm • Sayram Lake Cycling🚴: Rent bikes to meet swans • Qiongkusitai Horse Trek🏔️: 3hr ride to starry homestays 🌼 Floral Itinerary Day1: Ürümqi→Grand Bazaar→Night train to Yining Day2: Kazanqi Village→Jiaoyou Princess Lavender Farm Day3: Sayram Lake→Guozigou Bridge Day4: Xiata Ancient Trail→Zhaosu Rapeseed Fields Day5: Qiongkusitai→Tekes Night Market Day6: Nalati Grassland→Duku Highway Day7: Return with apricot jerky + sachets 🌶️ Flavor Bombs • Kazakh Milk Tea + Naan🥖: Salty tea with crispy bread • Jar Meat with Onions🍢: Yining alleyway lamb stew • Handmade Ice Cream🍨: Gulandanmu! ¥9.9 with unlimited toppings ------ 🌲 Changbai Mountain｜5 Days ¥2.5k·22°C Forest Escape 💥 City Detox: Heavenly Lake views｜Hot spring eggs｜River trekking 💰 Cool Savings: ✔️ High-speed rail ¥800 ✔️ Erdaobaihe homestays ¥120/night ✔️ Combo ticket ¥235 📍 Green Therapy • West Slope Heavenly Lake☁️: 1,442 steps before 9am beats crowds • Luyuan Pool Blueberry Ice Cream🍃: 10°C cooler by misty waters • Lushuihe Mineral Rafting🚣: ¥40! Forest air feast ⛰️ Oxygen Route Day1: Changbai Station→Erdaobaihe→Forest Culture Park Day2: North Slope→Luyuan Pool→Valley Forest Day3: West Slope→Alpine Garden→Wanda Resort Day4: Rafting→Volcanic Hot Springs Day5: Yanji Water Market→Return with blueberry snacks ❄️ Northeast Comfort Food • Hot Spring Eggs🥚: ¥10/3 runny eggs + corn • Korean Soybean Soup🍲: Songfu Family's fish broth • Iron Pot Fish🐟: Erdaobaihe's wild carp + cornbread ------ 💡 Pro Tips 1️⃣ Transport Warnings: • Yili carpool ≤6 people! Qiongkusitai roads jam easily • Changbai Mountain: Pick ONE slope—summer fog often blocks views 2️⃣ Stay Smart: • Hulunbuir yurts NEED private bathrooms! Avoid outhouses • Wumeng tents require heaters—nights drop to 15°C 3️⃣ Food Alerts: • Xinjiang cut fruit spoils fast! • Inner Mongolia milk tea is salty—taste first 🌟 Local Secrets: • Exit Sayram Lake via South Gate—saves 2hrs! • Huangguoshu Falls: Hit the cave by 7am pre-tour groups