Traveling to Northwest China for the first time? Here's the ultimate guide for you!

With summer just around the corner, many of you might have already added Northwest China to your travel plans! However, traveling to the Northwest requires thorough preparation as the attractions are widely scattered and transportation can be inconvenient. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip, I've compiled my personal experiences and travel tips for you. Check them out below! Pre-trip Preparation 🧳 Documents: Bring your ID card 🆔. If you qualify for free admission, bring relevant documents like student ID, senior citizen card, etc. Clothing: The temperature difference between day and night is significant 🌡️. Pack warm long-sleeve jackets, lightweight down coats, breathable and comfortable daytime clothing, and sun-protective clothing. Sun Protection: The UV rays are strong 🌞. Prepare effective sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses 🕶️, and a sun mask to prevent sunburn. Medications: Bring medicine for stomach issues, colds, and motion sickness 💊 to handle any discomfort during the trip. Others: Carry a power bank 🔋, a water bottle 🥤, and toiletries for convenience. Itinerary 🗺️ Recommended 7-day Northwest loop tour covering Qinghai Lake, Water Yadan, Dunhuang, and Zhangye: DAY 1: Xining — Riyue Mountain — Qinghai Lake (Heimahe Scenic Area) — Chaka Salt Lake — Chaka Town (overnight stay) DAY 2: Chaka Town — (crossing) Qaidam Basin — Dachaidan Emerald Lake — Dachaidan Town (overnight stay) DAY 3: Dachaidan Town — 315 National Highway (U-shaped road) — Dongtai Jinel Lake — Water Yadan — Dachaidan Town (overnight stay) DAY 4: Dachaidan Town — Heidushan — Aksay Oil Town — Dunhuang (overnight stay) DAY 5: Dunhuang — Mogao Caves (choose tickets for around 9 AM) — Mingsha Mountain Crescent Lake — Shazhou Night Market — Dunhuang (overnight stay) DAY 6: Dunhuang — (via) Jiayuguan Fortress — Zhangye Danxia Landform — Zhangye (overnight stay) DAY 7: Zhangye — Biandukou — Qilian Grassland — Gangshika Snow Peak (distant view) — Xining (end of trip) 📜 Free Admission Benefits in Northwest China 🎉 🈶 (Zhejiang residents) Free admission to popular attractions like Chaka Salt Lake, Water Yadan, Emerald Lake, and Qarhan Salt Lake for certain groups! 🈶 Students: Free admission for all students, whether in elementary, middle, high school, university, or graduate school 🎒. 🈶 Seniors: Free admission for seniors aged 65+ in Qinghai and 70+ in Gansu, as well as children under 6 👵👶. 🈶 Special groups: Free admission for police officers, teachers, disabled individuals, firefighters, etc. 👮‍♂️👩‍🏫. 🎡 Must-Visit Attractions 🌟 ✨ Qinghai Lake: A serene highland lake with mirror-like blue waters 🌊. ✨ Emerald Lake: A natural masterpiece with crystal-clear, jade-like waters 💎. ✨ Qarhan Salt Lake: A tranquil green oasis in the desert 🌵. ✨ Water Yadan: Stunning wind-eroded formations reflected in the lake 🏜️. ✨ Zhangye Danxia: Vibrant, colorful mountains resembling a natural oil painting 🖼️. ✨ Mingsha Mountain Crescent Lake: A rare natural phenomenon where sand dunes coexist with a crescent-shaped spring 🏜️💧. ✨ Mogao Caves: A treasure trove of ancient art that takes you back in time 🗿. ✈️ Transportation Guide ✈️ ✔️ Flights: Fly directly to Xining Caojiabao Airport or to Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport and take a high-speed train to Xining. The train ride from Lanzhou to Xining is convenient and takes about 1.5–2 hours 🚄. ✔️ Local Transportation: Attractions in the Northwest are scattered and far apart, with limited public transport options. Here are two recommended ways to get around: ✔️ Car rental: Set your own pace, stop for scenic views anytime, 💰 reasonably priced, ideal for those who enjoy deep and flexible travel 🚗. ✔️ Group tours: Hassle-free with meals, accommodation, and transportation arranged, plus a chance to meet fellow travelers 👫. Choose tours without shopping stops for a pure travel experience. ⭕️ Avoiding pitfalls: Self-driving may seem free, but Northwest roads are complex, long drives can be tiring, and you might miss roadside scenery. New drivers should think twice 🚙. 💁 Northwest Cuisine | A Taste of the Region 🍜 👉 Xining: Hand-grabbed lamb (paired with pepper salt for a unique flavor) 🥩. 👉 Dunhuang: Shazhou Night Market (try the sand onion beef pie + apricot kernel water) 🌮. 👉 Zhangye: Fried pao (a local favorite) 🍲. 👉 Delingha: Roasted lamb ribs (night market stalls offer great flavors) 🍖. Tips ⚠️ Weather: The weather changes quickly; check forecasts before departure and bring rain gear ☔. Diet: Northwest cuisine is heavy on beef and lamb. If your stomach isn't used to it, eat small portions multiple times to gradually adapt 🍽️. Environment: Protect the environment by taking your trash with you and avoiding damage to natural landscapes 🌱. Photography: Some attractions like Mogao Caves have specific photography rules; follow them during your visit 📷. Altitude sickness: Avoid strenuous activities upon arrival at high altitudes. Rest or seek medical help if you feel unwell 👩‍⚕️.