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

In June, the Ili River Valley hides China's most dreamlike summer. When the lavender fields of Huocheng stretch like a sea at the foot of the Tianshan Mountains, even the air is tinged with a gentle purple hue. Dubbed the "Hometown of Lavender in China," this land offers romance just as enchanting as Provence—but far more accessible. Each lavender estate in Huocheng has its own charm. At Princess Wuyou Garden, tiered flower fields roll with the terrain, and white windmills spin gently amid the blooms. Simply standing on the ridge and turning around guarantees a photo with a built-in filter. In the early morning, when the slanting sunlight kisses the dewy flower spikes, portraits glow with a soft golden halo. At Aiyiduo Manor, life feels more intimate—learn to harvest lavender with the flower girls, fill bamboo baskets with half-bloomed spikes, and craft a sachet with your own hands. Inhaling the subtle herbal fragrance, you’ll suddenly understand the meaning of "healing." Time slows down here. Sit on a wooden bench by the fields, watching bees dart among the flowers, or step into the distillery to see purple blossoms transform into clear essential oil. Before leaving, take home a bottle of freshly made lavender hydrosol—spritz it on your face, and summer lingers. At dusk, stay in a cozy cabin at Huanghuang Manor, where opening the window reveals endless blooms. Drift asleep to the scent of lavender, and even your dreams will be sweet. Nearby attractions add to the magic. A 30-minute drive takes you to Guozigou Bridge, where a steel giant spans the canyon, framed by snow-capped peaks and pine forests. On the way, stop by Sayram Lake—its gemstone-blue waters and purple lavender fields create a double dose of romance. 💡 Practical Tips: • Best time: Mid-to-late June to early July for peak bloom. Visit at 8 AM or dusk to avoid crowds. • Outfit ideas: A white maxi dress + straw hat is perfect. Bring a light cardigan for sun protection. • Transport: Self-drive or hire a car—the route from Khorgos offers endless grassland views. • Notes: Bees in the fields are harmless, but pack mosquito repellent. Buy souvenirs like essential oil soap and dried lavender sachets directly at the estates for great value. When the wind sweeps through the fields, sending purple waves rippling, and distant herders' whistles echo—this is Ili’s summer at its most poetic. If you’re looking to dissolve your worries in floral bliss, Huocheng’s lavender estates won’t disappoint. Guozigou Bridge

## **Xinjiang Travel Guide: Encounter West Region Charm, Explore Magnificent Landscapes** ### **🌍 Before You Go** ✅ **Best Time to Travel** - **May-October** (Northern Xinjiang's summer grasslands, Ili flower sea, Southern Xinjiang's autumn poplars) - **Winter** (Altay skiing, Kanas snow scenery) ✅ **Transportation** - **Airplane**: Urumqi Diwopu International Airport (main hub), Kashgar Airport, Yining Airport, etc. - **Train**: Xinjiang's railway network is well-developed, suitable for long-distance travel (e.g., Urumqi → Kanas) - **Self-drive/Chartered Car**: Recommended! Xinjiang is vast, self-driving offers more freedom (but be aware of speed limits on some roads) ✅ **Essential Items** - Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat (strong UV rays) - Warm clothes (large temperature difference between day and night) - ID card (Xinjiang security checks are strict, carry it with you) --- ### **🏞️ Must-See Attractions** **📍 Northern Xinjiang (Natural Scenery)** 1. **Kanas Lake**: "God's Back Garden," most beautiful in autumn 2. **Hemu Village**: Fairytale-like Tuvan village, morning mist like a wonderland 3. **Sayram Lake**: "The Last Tear of the Atlantic," azure blue lake water 4. **Nalati Grassland**: Aerial grassland, roam on horseback 5. **Duku Highway**: One of China's most beautiful highways (open from June to October) **📍 Southern Xinjiang (Culture + Desert)** 6. **Kashgar Old City**: Thousands of years of West Region charm, full of exotic atmosphere 7. **Pamir Plateau**: Muztagh Ata Peak, Panlong Ancient Road 8. **Taklamakan Desert**: Cross the "Sea of Death" 9. **Luntai Poplar Forest**: Golden ocean in October 10. **Kuqa Grand Canyon**: Red cliffs, a photographer's paradise **📍 Eastern Xinjiang (Turpan + Hami)** 11. **Flaming Mountains**: Filming location for "Journey to the West," high-temperature spectacle 12. **Grape Valley**: Taste sweet grapes, experience Uyghur customs 13. **Kumtag Desert**: The closest desert to a city --- ### **🍢 Xinjiang Food Recommendations** - **Dapanji** (Big Plate Chicken), Pepper Chicken - **Roasted Lamb Skewers**, Nang Pit Meat - **Pilaf**, Banmian (Noodles with various toppings) - **Baked Buns**, Thin-Skinned Buns - **Yogurt Rice Dumplings**, Handmade Ice Cream - **Fruits**: Hami melon, grapes, watermelon (super sweet!) --- ### **📅 Sample Itineraries** **Northern Xinjiang 7-Day Loop (Natural Scenery)** - **D1** Urumqi → Tianchi Lake → Fuyun - **D2** Koktokay → Burqin - **D3** Burqin → Kanas Lake - **D4** Kanas → Hemu Village - **D5** Hemu → Devil's City → Karamay - **D6** Sayram Lake → Guozigou Bridge → Yining - **D7** Nalati Grassland → Duku Highway → Urumqi **Southern Xinjiang 6-Day Highlights Tour (Culture + Desert)** - **D1** Kashgar → Baisha Lake → Karakul Lake → Taxkorgan - **D2** Panlong Ancient Road → Bandi'er Lake → Kashgar - **D3** Kashgar Old City → Id Kah Mosque → Apak Hoja Tomb - **D4** Kashgar → Hotan (visit the night market) - **D5** Hotan → Cross the Taklamakan Desert → Kuqa - **D6** Kuqa Grand Canyon → Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves → Return --- ### **⚠️ Important Notes** 1. **Strict Security Checks**: Entering and exiting shopping malls, gas stations, etc., requires ID card swiping. 2. **Time Difference**: Xinjiang uses Beijing time, but the actual schedule is 2 hours later (e.g., sunset at 22:00). 3. **Language**: Mandarin is common in Northern Xinjiang, while Uyghur is the main language in some parts of Southern Xinjiang. 4. **Respect Customs**: Do not bring outside food to halal restaurants, avoid discussing sensitive topics. 5. **Self-driving Notes**: Strict speed limits on some roads, gas stations require ID card swiping to enter. --- ### **📌 Summary** Xinjiang, a treasure land integrating snow-capped mountains, grasslands, deserts, lakes, and culture. Whether it's the stunning scenery of Northern Xinjiang or the exotic charm of Southern Xinjiang, it's worth exploring in depth! **✨ Travel Tips:** - If time is limited, prioritize Northern Xinjiang (natural scenery) or Southern Xinjiang (cultural experience). - In-depth travel is recommended for 10 days or more, self-driving/chartered cars are more flexible. - Check epidemic prevention policies in advance (reservations are required for some scenic spots). Ready to go? Xinjiang awaits your discovery! 🚗💨

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

How long has it been since you felt truly free? Swept up in the hustle and bustle of the city, the yearning for distant lands grows stronger within. It's time to embark on a rendezvous with nature, and Yili, Xinjiang in summer, is the perfect destination. Stepping into Yili is like stepping into a real-life Land of Oz. Vast grasslands stretch out like a soft, green carpet between heaven and earth. White flocks of sheep drift across the plains like clouds, while horses gallop freely, kicking up dust and embodying untamed freedom. In the distance, snow-capped mountains pierce the sky, gleaming with a holy light under the sun, creating a picturesque contrast against the blue sky. Lush spruce trees cover the mountains, standing like loyal guardians, silently protecting this pure land. Crystal-clear streams flow, singing along their way, their spray sparkling with iridescent colors in the sunlight. Along the banks, wildflowers bloom in a riot of color, red, yellow, and purple, dotting the grasslands like a painting. The gentle breeze rustles the flowers, releasing bursts of sweet fragrance that intoxicate the senses. Here, time seems to slow down, and the fatigue and anxieties of life gradually dissipate, leaving only pure tranquility and joy. The so-called "meaning of life" takes on concrete form here, in the contentment of grazing cattle and sheep, and the unfettered flow of the streams. "Setting off is always more meaningful than yearning." Instead of endlessly picturing distant landscapes in your mind, pack your bags and set off now. This summer, journey to Yili, embrace the vast grasslands, gaze up at the azure sky, and encounter a dreamlike scene, reuniting with your long-lost self. Yili · Xinjiang

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

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

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.

Sayram Lake is the highest-altitude, largest, and most scenic alpine lake in Xinjiang. It is also the last place cherished by the warm and humid Atlantic air currents, hence the saying that it is 'the last tear of the Atlantic'. The summer season is the perfect time to visit Sayram Lake, and for friends who want to play at Sayram Lake, this travel guide is highly recommended. Like and save it, and you'll definitely not get lost! 🌺Recommended Itinerary: 🎉A: 7-Day Grand Northern Xinjiang Loop 🎄D1: Urumqi - Colorful Beach - Burqin 🎄D2: Burqin - Kanas 🎄D3: Jiadengyu - Hemu 🎄D4: Hemu - Urho Ghost City - Urho 🎄D5: Urho - Sayram Lake - Yining/Qingshui River 🎄D6: Yining/Qingshui River - Nalati - Bayanbulak 🎄D7: Bayanbulak - Duku Highway - Urumqi 🎉B: 8-Day Grand Northern Xinjiang Loop 🎄D1: Urumqi - Tianshan Tianchi - Fuyun/Koktokay. 🎄D2: Fuyun/Koktokay - Koktokay - Colorful Beach - Burqin 🎄D3: Burqin - Kanas - Jiadengyu 🎄D4: Jiadengyu - Hemu 🎄D5: Hemu - Ghost City - Urho 🎄D6: Urho - Sayram Lake - Yining 🎄D7: Yining - Nalati Grassland in the Sky - Bayanbulak 🎄D8: Bayanbulak - Duku Highway - Urumqi

💚Every day here is like living in a fairy tale, under the snow-capped mountains🏔️, it's so beautiful that it doesn't seem like the real world. 📝Every day on the small loop of Yili is like living in a fairy tale. 🙏Thanks to this healing and redemption from nature, every moment has enriched my life💚. ✨Sharing some personal experiences and tips for friends who are about to set off👇🏻 🚗Itinerary reference: 📅DAY1: Hangzhou-Lanzhou (transfer)-Yining Airport 📅DAY2: Yining-Sayram Lake-Guozigou-Qingshui River 📅DAY3: Qingshui River-Chaxi Forest Park-Tekes Bagua City 📅DAY4: Tekes-Junggar Plateau-Back Mountain (horse riding)-Tekes 📅DAY6: Tekes-Aktas-Tianma Bathing River-Yuhu-Zhaosu 📅DAY7: Zhaosu-Shata Hiking-Return to Yining 📅DAY8: Yining-Chengdu (transfer)-Hangzhou ✔Practical information: 💰Now the prices in Yili are rising, and the Duku Highway is about to open, book as early as possible! This year is not suitable for budget travel, the experience will not be too good. We average 1w per person (including airfare/charter/accommodation/buying special products, etc.) ✈It is recommended that friends with tight time fly directly to Yining, which saves a lot of car time than Urumqi. It only takes 2-3 hours to go anywhere from Yining, except for rushing to the plane at the beginning and end, five or six days of pure play is enough 🌿The several large grasslands in Yili have similarities, and you can choose two or three to go ✅Nalati: High-altitude grassland, popular place with large crowds, self-driving 300/person, good road conditions and complete supporting facilities, suitable for parent-child/family/self-driving tours ✅Karakojun: Human-shaped grassland, large scenic area, can't drive by yourself, can only take the shuttle bus, charge by section. More suitable for hiking enthusiasts to cross ✅Junggar Plateau: There are mountain roads inside, easy to get carsick and traffic jam. You can only ride a horse to the back mountain, but the scenery along the way is stunningly beautiful and shocking! There are many homestays but expensive, if conditions permit, you can stay for one night, or you can return to Tekes on the same day ✅Chaxi: High cost performance, 30/person can drive Chata loop line, can go to Chaxi Park and Tarim two places. But the loop line is a non-paved road surface, the road conditions are poor, it tests the vehicle and technology, it is recommended to use off-road vehicles ✅Shata: Ticket 80+shuttle bus 30/person. It is a must-go place for hiking enthusiasts, and it is the only scenic spot that can get close to the snow mountain! But the experience is good or bad related to the weather and the flow of people 📌There are also niche points such as Aktas/Kurdining/Tangbula Grassland, etc. ⚠️Sayram Lake/Junggar Back Mountain/Shata and other places are prone to change, the temperature difference is large, it is recommended to carry a thick coat 👗Wear white/red/light-colored slim and elegant dresses by the lake, floral/blue and white/bright/pastoral or mountain style in the forest and grassland, the principle is to wear high saturation colors, avoid black or green (black should wear suspenders to show more skin, green is easy to blend in) 🧳Must bring: U-shaped neck pillow/disposable slippers/face mask/moisturizing spray/body lotion/sunscreen/umbrella/sunglasses/power bank/motion sickness medicine/dental floss (eating meat every day is easy to get stuck in the teeth😂) 🤩Beautiful Xinjiang, it's worth us to go a long way!

A guide to Xinjiang's secret winter travel destinations 🦢Yili Swan Lake. Silver rime, blue lake water, Pink sunrise, misty lake and white swans🦢, Yili in winter is like a fairy tale world☃️💌 · Like a dream, like a fairyland on earth. The cute swans are like elves in the ice and snow world🧚🏻‍♂️ · As a small and beautiful tourist destination in Xinjiang, It is so beautiful here! ☃️☃️ yes· —— 🦢【Attractions Recommendation】 🔍: Swan Spring Wetland Park ⏰: All day —— 🦢【Route and Transportation】 🚅: Take a train from Urumqi to Yining, then rent a car or charter a car to Swan Lake Wetland Park (about 1 hour drive, with beautiful scenery along the way) —— 🦢【Guidelines for playing and taking photos】 Accommodation: ✅It is suitable to get up early to visit this place, so we bought a train to Yining directly after landing in Urumqi, leaving in the evening and arriving the next morning, so we went there directly in the morning. ✅You can also arrive in Yining one day in advance and check in, and get up early the next day to leave. Play ☃️: ✅If you want to see sunrise, morning mist and rime at the same time, you must pay attention to the weather and have a certain amount of luck. We are from the south, and there was morning mist and sunrise on the day we went there, which we thought was quite beautiful and healing. The snow was very thick, and it was very fairy-tale-like. ✅It is relatively niche and suitable for people who like taking photos and healing scenery ✅The lake is quite large, so remember to walk back when you get there so you can see it from a more natural angle and take better photos. ✅It’s cold in winter, so be sure to keep warm. 🧣Scarves, gloves🧤, down jackets, and snow boots are essential‼ ️

Whether you call it “Yili“, “Ili“, “Yining” or even the historical name “Ghulja“, one thing is for sure: it’s definitely worth traveling to this unique part of Xinjiang, China. Yili is quite a small city and gives you a glimpse into the diverse culture available in xinjiang. The food also reflects this. From mutton stews, to fruit laced rices, this is a foodie paradise. One reason to come to Yili is to see the new flower blossom. Happening every year, around April, thousands of visitors flock to this city to see the flower blossoms. As well as that, Yili is a perfect base to explore other parts of western xinjiang such as the sayram lake, the yili grasslands. #tigeryear2022 #mountainview

🌷 Yili Lavender Blooming Season: Mid-June to Mid-July · 💐【Lavender Photography Tips】 1️⃣ Best shooting time is after 7 PM, as the sun sets around 9:30-10:00 PM in Xinjiang. The light at 8-9 PM is the softest. 2️⃣ Choose lavender fields with undulating terrain. Standing on higher ground makes it easier to capture layered shots. 3️⃣ Lavender purple is already a highly saturated color, so wearing light-colored outfits (white looks great!) is recommended. 💡 Photography Tips: ✅ Outfit Suggestions: Pure white dresses or light purple clothing are top choices. Pair them with straw hats or scarves for a perfect match with the lavender fields! ✅ Prop Recommendations: Straw hats, scarves, flower baskets, and books are great additions—especially scarves fluttering in the wind for a dreamy effect! ✅ Editing Filters: Try VSCO’s M5 or V6 filters to boost purple tones and make the flower fields look even more magical! 🚶‍♀️ Travel Tips: ✅ Transportation: Drive from Yining city—about a 1-hour trip. ✅ Tickets: Lavender farm tickets are affordable; advance purchase is recommended! ✅ Accommodation: Stay in charming B&Bs near the fields to enjoy the lavender fragrance at night! ✅ Food: Don’t miss the local Yining hand-pulled rice—tender and flavorful!

| A dreamy journey that even nine squares can't contain. Can anyone relate? 🥹 The beauty of Yili is absolutely breathtaking—no nine-square grid could ever do it justice! This time, I was truly lucky. It was my first solo trip to Xinjiang, and I met the most adorable group of travel buddies 👭. We laughed and chatted the whole way, sharing joy without a hint of awkwardness, as if we'd been friends for ages 🤗. And then there was our cool-on-the-outside, warm-on-the-inside tour leader, whose photography skills were next-level 👍. He always captured the most beautiful moments, helping us take stunning photos that needed no editing—every shot was perfect straight out of the camera 📷. He made our travel memories even more beautiful and vivid. In Yili, we marveled at the picturesque scenery together: grasslands like green velvet carpets, snow-capped mountains gleaming in the sunlight, and crystal-clear lakes that mirrored the sky like giant mirrors... Every view was unforgettable 😍. This journey was truly magical. Not only did I get to experience Yili's stunning landscapes, but I also made precious friendships 💕. I know I'll cherish these memories forever. Y'all, Yili is absolutely worth visiting—I’m sure you’ll fall in love with it too 🥰.

🚗 How to get to Yili? ✔ Urumqi Diwopu Airport: The main transportation hub for travel within and outside Xinjiang province, you can start here to take the Northern Xinjiang + Yili loop routeㅤ ✔ Yining Airport: Suitable for traveling only within the Yili area, starting and ending in Yining City, relatively higher prices, with direct flights from some citiesㅤ ✔ Xinyuan Nalati Airport: Suitable for transit travel within Xinjiang, with direct flights from a few cities ✔ Zhaosu Tianma Airport: Round-trip flights between Urumqi and Zhaosu. Plans are made according to tourism market demand . 🎪 Yili Accommodation Guide 🍀 Nalati Town: Overall average accommodation environment, the only advantage is being close to the scenic spots, many hotels in town, rooms are hard to get in summer, be sure to book in advance 🍀 Yining: More accommodation options, convenient city transportation, accommodation can be chosen freely 🍀 Xinyuan County: Close to Nalati scenic area, many accommodation options, ranging from good to basic conditions 🏝 Tekes County: Very close to scenic spots like Kalajun and Qiongkushitai, many hotel options, high cost performance 🍀 Gongliu: Close to Kuerdening and Qiaxi scenic areas, more accommodation choices, better conditions, and cheaper prices 🍀 Huocheng County: Usually choose to stay at Qingshuihe hotels or homestays, high cost performance 🍀 Tangbula: Offers various accommodations including RVs, campsites, and homestays, with homestays being the preferred choice for a good environment . ⚠ Travel Tips ✅ Yili travel sometimes involves long distances and can be tiring, bring food and water during the trip💦 ✅ Yili has a mild summer climate with large temperature differences between day and night, prepare a windbreaker/thermal clothing ✅ Strong sunlight during the day, bring sunscreen to protect your skin from UV rays🧴 ✅ Yili cuisine is diverse, some ingredients may be unfamiliar, prepare stomach medicine in advance💊 ✅ Many places in scenic areas have poor signal❌, do not enter forests alone⭕, stay close to the group and carry some cash . 🌸 How to enjoy Yili? ✨ Run freely on the grasslands and feel the scent of grass in the wind ✨ Drive the Duku Highway, where you can experience four seasons in one day and different weather every ten miles ✨ Eat lamb skewers🍖, Yili has the best quality meat, grilled over charcoal ✨ Eat spicy fried rice noodles and be sure to drink Wusu beer🍺 __________________ 👀 What to pay attention to when going to Yili? ⭕ Carry your ID card at all times, there are many security checks🛂 ⭕ For hiking, you can go to Kalajun Grassland and Shata Ancient Road ⭕ Vehicles with more than 7 seats are not allowed❌ on Yizhao Highway and Duku Highway ⭕ It is recommended to visit Shata Ancient Road in the morning with enough time, as it tends to rain in the afternoon🌧 Recommended itinerary: Day 1: Departure - Urumqi, Xinjiang Day 2: Urumqi -- S101 Provincial Road - Dushanzi Grand Canyon - Kuitun, Yili Day 3: Kuitun - Sailimu Lake, Bole - Princess Jieyou Lavender Garden - Tuguan Guozigou Bridge - Yili Old Town Kazanqi Folk Tourism Area - Yining City, Yili Day 4: Yining City - Shata Tourist Area - Zhaosu, Yili Day 5: Zhaosu - Kalajun Scenic Area - Qiongkushitai Day 6: Qiongkushitai -- Nalati Tourist Scenic Area -- Nalati Tourist Scenic Area, Xinyuan Day 7: Nalati - Starting point of Duku Highway (Dushanzi) - Urumqi, Xinjiang Day 8: Urumqi - Warm home For more Xinjiang travel information, click the link below to consult customizer Zhou Suping with one click

Who says Xinjiang is only beautiful in autumn? Early July in Ili is the true hidden gem! This summer, skip the crowded spots and explore this off-the-beaten-path route that showcases Ili's most healing grasslands, snow-capped mountains, and scenic roads. Every morning feels like waking up to a Windows desktop wallpaper! 🚗 Highlights of the Itinerary: ✔️ Yizhao Highway "Little Duku"—Drive through a painting ✔️ Xiata Ancient Trail Hiking—Encounter glaciers and wildflowers ✔️ Kurdening Secret Land—Less crowded and more ethereal than Nalati ✔️ Tangbula Scenic Corridor—Free and breathtaking ✔️ Bayinbuluk Sunset—Nine bends and eighteen turns, truly stunning ✨ Detailed Itinerary: Day 1: Yining → Zhaosu ▪️ Drive along Yizhao Highway through Baishi Peak, where wild lilies bloom in early July! ▪️ Zhaosu's canola flowers are a must-see in July (plan for the blooming season in advance). Day 2: Zhaosu → Xiata → Tekes ▪️ Start your light hike in Xiata early! The snow-capped mountains are clearer in the afternoon. 🏔️ ▪️ Tekes' night view from a drone is a perfect match (DM me for the reporting guide). Day 3: Tekes → Kurdening → Xinyuan ▪️ Kurdening's wild apple blossoms are in full bloom in July, and horseback riding into the valley is highly cost-effective. 🐎 ▪️ Stop at the Kababay Peak viewing platform! Day 4: Xinyuan → Tangbula → Nalati ▪️ Tangbula is free! The roadside grasslands in the Bee Town area are better than paid scenic spots. ▪️ Once the middle section of the Duku Highway opens, travel time can be significantly reduced. Day 5: Bayinbuluk Day Tour ▪️ Enter the park before 3 PM to catch the sunset. 🌅 ▪️ Save this guide for Swan Lake + Nine Bends photography tips! 💡 Tips from the Travel Planner: ✅ July offers a double romance of lavender and canola flowers (consider extending your trip by 2 days). ✅ Xinjiang has large temperature differences; white dresses + windbreakers make for the best photos. 📌 Frequently Asked Questions: Q: Is this suitable for elderly and children? A: The itinerary can be adjusted to 3 hours of driving per day + light hiking (DM me for the family-friendly version). 👉🏻 Follow me to unlock more hidden Xinjiang adventures! 👉🏻 Leave a comment with [number of people + dates] to get a PDF of this route! (P.S.: Customized itineraries come with an exclusive photography location map! 📷)

At 30, I'm not just a mom but also a daughter👧🏻. This Xinjiang trip was my reverse move: no kid-wrangling, just mom-wrangling~ Tianshan Red Poppies' self-introduction🎤: The Tianshan Red Poppy is a wildflower🌷 unique to the Ili Valley🌿. In Kazakh, it's called "Kozgaldak," meaning "the flower that freely migrates." Its peak bloom🌸 lasts only about 15 days from mid-May to early June, and the flowers open daily only from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM (a 3-hour workday—I’m deeply envious). After noon, the blossoms close. To see their beauty, you’ve got to rise early! *⃣️*⃣️*⃣️2025 Tianshan Red Poppy Viewing Intel: According to Yining County Media Center, this year’s abundant rainfall💦 means the poppies will bloom until early June. √ 📍Recommended Viewing Spots: 1️⃣ Lucao Town, Huocheng County 🐮 Qianmu Pasture in Muye Village: Flower sea + sheep flocks🐏 + snow-capped mountains🏔️ = a visual feast that’ll leave you awestruck! ⛰️ Changshan Liangzi Village Observation Deck: Expansive views let you overlook the flower sea🌸 for a unique visual treat👀. You can also climb high to see the mountains⛰️ and watch the flowers playfully chase the peaks. 2️⃣ North Mountain, Awuliya Township, Yining County: A newly discovered hidden gem, free of crowds, where the flowers🌷 sway with the mountain breeze. The flower sea nestles against grasslands and forests🌲, like a living painting.🖼️ 3️⃣ Musi Town, Nileke County: Famous for its "largest red poppy sea." On the way🚗, I almost gave up❌, thinking this year’s flower chase might fail. But then—a twist! Around a bend, I saw many parked cars🚗. Rushing out, I discovered a vast, vibrant sea of red poppies🌸, frolicking under the snow-capped mountains🏔️ all the way to the horizon☁️. If you’re tempted, start planning now! Miss it this year, and you’ll have to wait till next. 🚗 Suggested Itinerary: Urumqi → Sayram Lake → Manjiang Valley Red Poppies → Yining Kazanqi Travel Photography → Qiongkushitai → Kalaku Grassland → Gongliu → Musi Township → Nalati → Bayinbuluke → Hejing → Turpan → Urumqi (Due to word limits, notes on southern🏜️/northern🏞️ Xinjiang and Ili🐴 attractions will follow (๑•̀ω•́๑)📝. If you’re into Xinjiang travel, hit ❤️ to stay tuned!) Take your parents to see the world✈️ before they grow old—just like they once showed you the way❤️. Where did you first travel with your parents after starting work?

All the grasslands in Yili turn green in summer, but which one should you choose for your limited itinerary? After visiting Xinjiang three times, I've ranked the 6 grasslands I've been to based on personal preference and experience for your reference~ 1️⃣ Xiate (Xia Tala) ★★★★★ Highly Recommended I believe Xiate is the most beautiful scenic spot in Yili. The grassland stretches through valleys carved by glacial meltwater, ending at the Muzart Glacier and towering snow-capped mountains. The entire area has a strong three-dimensional feel, with distinct layers of snow mountains, forests, and grasslands. Xiate is relatively far from Yining City and other grasslands. If time permits, I highly recommend dedicating a full day to Xiate. In summer, the Yining-Zhaosu Highway will open, offering breathtaking views as you drive through the Tianshan Mountains! 2️⃣ Tohulasu ★★★★★ Highly Recommended Tohulasu Grassland was the most delightful discovery in Yili! Unlike other famous grasslands, Tohulasu is very niche—even during the May Day holiday, the crowds are sparse, making it an excellent escape from tourist crowds. Compared to other grasslands, Tohulasu still features distant snow-capped mountains and vast wildflowers, but the lack of forests makes the scenery slightly less layered. The Tohulasu scenic area is vast, with excellent road conditions, allowing you to easily find your own private stretch of grassland, making the experience exceptional! 3️⃣ Qiaxi ★★★★ Recommended Qiaxi Grassland is located in Gongliu County. In early May, the Qiaxi-Ta Loop Road was not yet open, so the scenery was mostly concentrated at the Qiaxi Panorama Viewing Platform. In my opinion, the view from the platform is stunning—the distant snow mountains and nearby forests live up to its "panorama" name, making it the most beautiful viewing platform after Xiate. If the Qiaxi-Ta Loop opens, there are even more breathtaking sights deeper inside—definitely worth it! The downside is that the road into the scenic area is very narrow, making it difficult for vehicles to pass each other. It’s prone to traffic jams during holidays, and the road to the Qiaxi Panorama is unpaved and in poor condition. 4️⃣ Ku’erdening ★★★★ Recommended Ku’erdening’s scenery is similar to Qiaxi, featuring a three-dimensional landscape of snow mountains, forests, and grasslands. On the way to the Qimengde Viewing Platform, it’s easy to take photos with the grand snow-capped mountains. We encountered heavy rain during our visit, but the scenery was still magnificent! Like Qiaxi, it gets crowded during holidays, so I recommend entering early in the morning to avoid peak times~ 5️⃣ Kalajun ★★★ Average My impression of Kalajun Grassland is its massive size, complicated shuttle buses, the "Human Body" grassland, and Kuokesu Grand Canyon. The large scale means expensive tickets and shuttle fees, but the grassland scenery isn’t as layered as Qiaxi or Ku’erdening, and the distant snow mountains aren’t as majestic as Xiate’s. While the "Human Body" grassland has a unique shape, similar rolling hills can be found in other grasslands. 6️⃣ Aketas ★★★ Average A high-altitude grassland near Tekes County, Aketas has distant snow-capped mountains and relatively monotonous scenery. Aside from its vast views, there isn’t much that stands out.

🏔️Paradise Lake丨The secret realm of souls on the Usun Ancient Road It is backed by snow-capped mountains, shrouded in clouds and mist, the lake water is as blue as gems, crystal clear, the lakeside is lush with green grass, fresh flowers are dotted, beautiful to be unparalleled, this is the real secret of Ili! Dig to the top of Xinjiang's wild luxury play! Helicopter round trip to Paradise Lake + VIP direct entry to the three divine lakes + British equestrian, this trip is beautiful! ! ❗【👇Click below, go to Xinjiang this summer to play luxury】❗ 🌊 Paradise Lake Secret Place: Helicopter shuttle to and from Paradise Lake, straight up to the sky above the mountains and grasslands, step into the unparalleled beauty that can only be seen by seven days of hiking and three days of horseback riding, to a wild luxury feast to meet the "plateau emerald"! In the evening, the sun sets slightly, stop by the lake and watch the charming evening glow of Yingying Lake, slowly enjoy [Paradise Lake Sunset Afternoon Tea] and enjoy the rare wonders of human beings in a poetic and picturesque way~ 🏞️ Three God Lake VIP Experiences: ▫️Nalati Grassland: Off-road vehicles go deep into the core area ▫️ Kerala Flower Sea: Exclusive observation deck no queue ▫️ Sailimu Lake: Private route around the lake 🐎 British Equestrian Course: ✅ 1 to 4 guidance from professional coaches ✅ Full set of equipment including knight suit ✅ Grassland Riding Photography Service ⛺ Luxury accommodation: 🔸Paradise Lake Starry Sky Tent 🔸Nalati Prairie Chalet Villa 🔸Sailimu Lake Camper Camp ❗【👇Click below, go to Xinjiang this summer to play luxury】❗

Yili's summer is a "symphonic poem of snow-capped mountains and flower seas" Traveling off-peak in June offers serene landscapes with fewer crowds. 👉Click the product card below to join a group tour for a hassle-free and secure trip. When planning your itinerary, prioritize connecting the Dushanzi-Kuqa Highway and Yining-Zhaosu Highway, two scenic corridors, while allocating ample time for immersive grassland experiences. 🍀Best Travel Time June to October: Yili's most beautiful season, with lush green grasslands, wildflowers, and pleasant weather. Mid-June: Lavender blooms (in Huocheng County), and you can participate in the Lavender Festival. July: Zhaosu's rapeseed flower fields and Xinyuan's apricot blossom valley. Avoid peak times: June offers fewer crowds and stunning views at great value; July-August is the busiest. ✅Recommended Attractions Sayram Lake (cycling around the lake, sailing, panoramic views from the Songshutou Boardwalk) Nalati Grassland (a three-dimensional "sky grassland" landscape, nomadic culture, streams, forests, and the winding Panlong Valley Road) Xiata Ancient Road National Forest Park (light hiking to the Muzart Glacier, spotting marmots, and witnessing the "Heavenly Horses Bathing in the River" at Zhaosu Wetland) Qiongkushitai (primitive wooden village + forested valleys, the healing scenery featured in *My Altay*) Food Recommendations ✅Grilled lamb skewers ✅Big plate chicken ✅Pilaf ✅Roast whole lamb ✅Altay cold-water fish ✅Baked buns

The feast of Ili's beautiful scenery has begun, 🏔️ great weather + snowy mountains, grasslands, and flower seas are simply amazing. It's already very green, and since it's not summer vacation yet, there aren't many tourists, so the experience is directly 🆙. Sisters who want to go, get your plans ready and go boldly✈️ This post shares some travel tips and recommended activities, sisters who want to go, take note 🐎 . 1️⃣ Tickets + shuttle buses 🚌 Sailimu Lake: 130 🚌 Nalati: Sky Grassland 135; Valley Grassland 119 🚌 Dushanzi Grand Canyon: 30 . 2️⃣ Recommended activities 👉🏻 Sailimu Lake lake tour, if the weather is good, try sailing 👉🏻 Nalati: it's recommended to briefly visit Tianjitai and Tianmutai, then head straight to the nomad family. The snowy mountain flower clusters and the popular internet-famous bridge are there, but since there are many tourists, it's not recommended to squeeze onto the popular bridge. Walking above the small creek also makes for great photos. 👉🏻 Guozigou Bridge: if time permits, take the old road to the plank road for sightseeing 👉🏻 The northern section of the Duku Highway is narrow and winding, only vehicles with 7 seats or fewer are allowed. If you have no mountain driving experience, it's not recommended to drive yourself. . 3️⃣ Practical advice ① Must-have gear includes a wide-brimmed sun hat (choose one that covers the top of your head), sunglasses, a windbreaker (there's a big temperature difference between morning and evening, and it gets cold if the weather turns cloudy or rainy), raincoat, and waterproof shoes (some parts of the grassland get muddy when it rains). ② Real experience! Xinjiang dishes are very large portions, no need to order too much, but the food is indeed abundant. Prepare some stomach medicine to avoid indigestion. ③ Bring some cash, as some areas have no signal. ④ Xinjiang has about a two-hour time difference, and meals are usually around 2 or 3 pm, so prepare some snacks in your bag.

🌄 Xinjiang 4-Day Self-Drive Itinerary: Immersive Experience of Sayram Lake・Guozigou Valley・Six-Star Street・Nalati (Train + Self-Drive Edition) 📅 Itinerary Overview Route: Ürümqi → Yining (by train) → Sayram Lake → Guozigou Bridge → Nalati Grassland → Six-Star Street → Ürümqi 🌟 Daily Itinerary Details Day 1: Ürümqi → Yining (Overnight Train) 📍 Transportation Guide: Recommended train K9789 (departs Ürümqi Station at 21:42, arrives at Yining Station at 07:00 next day). Hard sleeper approx. ¥152/person, soft sleeper ¥233/person. Day 2: Yining → Sayram Lake → Guozigou Bridge → Yining 📍 Attraction Addresses: Sayram Lake: Sayram Lake Scenic Area, Bole City, Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture Guozigou Bridge: Guozigou Scenic Area, Huocheng County, Ili 🚗 Transportation Guide: Pick up rental car at Yining Station (recommend booking SUV in advance). Drive west via Lianhuo Expressway for ~2h14min to Sayram Lake. Return to Yining via same route (~300km, ~4.5h drive). 👍️ Highlights: Sayram Lake: ① Lake Circuit Drive: Key stops - Swan Paradise (photograph swans), General's Platform (panoramic views), Kelleyongzhu (crystal-clear streams). ② Hidden Gems: Start from South Gate counterclockwise to avoid crowds. Golden lotus and dandelions bloom along lakeshore in June. Guozigou Bridge: ① Panoramic Shot: Navigate to "Guozigou Viewpoint Resort", walk to wooden platform for canyon-spanning bridge shots. ② Cliff Perspective: Right platform at 4th parking lot for portraits with bridge backdrop. 🎟️ Tickets: Sayram Lake self-drive pass ¥144/car (24hr unlimited entry), Guozigou free. 💗 Tips: Large temperature swings & strong UV at Sayram Lake. Bring windproof jacket, sunglasses & sunscreen. Day 3: Yining → Nalati Grassland → Six-Star Street 📍 Attraction Addresses: Nalati Grassland: Nalati Scenic Area, Nalati Town, Xinyuan County, Ili Six-Star Street: 200m west of Jiangsu Rd & Gongren St intersection, Yining 🚗 Transportation Guide: Drive east via Yiruo Highway for ~3h21min to Nalati (East Gate is self-drive entrance). Return to Yining (~3.5h drive). 👍️ Highlights: Nalati Grassland: ① Sky Grassland: Heavenly Terrace, Nomadic Family (hold lambs). ② Dragon Valley: Soaring Dragon (aerial S-curve road), Lying Ox Hill (valley forest hike). Six-Star Street: ① Cultural Experience: Alexander Accordion Museum. ② Food Stops: Gulandanmu Ice Cream (pistachio flavor ¥10/scoop), Gaxiangzi Fen Soup (¥25 set with fried bread), Black Ram BBQ (grilled meat with kvass). ③ Nightlife: Ethnic dance battles at dusk, transforming into night market with accordion music and roast bun aromas. 🎟️ Tickets: Nalati ¥95/person + ¥200/car, Six-Star Street free. 💗 Tips: Weak signal at Nalati - download offline maps. Visit Six-Star Street at dusk for soft light & fewer crowds. Wear bright colors for photos. Day 4: Yining → Ürümqi (Return) 📍 Transportation Guide: Train return: Recommended C850 to C854 (departs Yining 09:50, arrives Ürümqi 16:19, 6h29min, ~¥144/person second class). Self-drive return: ~680km via Lianhuo Expressway (~8h), detour to free Jinghe Goji Berry Farm. 🎟️ Tickets: Jinghe Goji Berry Farm free. 💗 Tips: Train return ideal for relaxation (good for bulky luggage). Early start recommended for self-drivers - lunch stop in Kuytun for famous Shawan Big Plate Chicken. 💰Transport Budget: Ürümqi-Yining roundtrip train (hard sleeper) ¥304/person + SUV rental (~¥500/day) ≈ ¥1304/person total. Accommodation: Yining: Ili Hotel (garden-style, ¥500-800/night). Nalati: Trip.com Farmstay (grassland view, ¥800-1200/night). Food Map: Sayram Lake: High-altitude whitefish soup, baked buns. Nalati: Hand-torn lamb, kumis (fermented mare's milk). Six-Star Street: Artisan ice cream, bauyrsaq (fried dough), fen soup. Safety Notes: Pack for all seasons due to temperature swings. Observe mountain speed limits - check Duku Highway status in advance. 📸 Photography Guide Sayram Lake: 7am backlit swans at Swan Paradise, 9pm sunset at General's Platform. Guozigou Bridge: Wide-angle for full bridge, telephoto for tower details. Six-Star Street: Low-angle colorful houses, wide aperture for vibrant ice cream. Nalati: Drone shots of Dragon Valley S-curves, telephoto compression of snow mountains & flower fields. 📝Important Notes: Vehicle prep: Check tires, brakes, antifreeze - SUV recommended (some gravel roads). Fuel: Gas stations in Yining, Nalati Town & Sayram Lake service area - fill up elsewhere in advance.

Here is the transportation, dining, and accommodation information for Jieyou Lavender Manor: Transportation - External transport: You can first fly to Urumqi Diwopu Airport, then transfer to a flight or take a train to Yining. From Yining Airport, it takes about 40 minutes by taxi to Huocheng. Alternatively, take a train from Urumqi Station directly to Yining Station, then transfer to a bus to Huocheng. For self-driving, start from Urumqi via Lianhuo Expressway → Qingyi Expressway, about 600 km, taking around 7 hours. - Internal transport: Yining City has a direct tourist shuttle to the lavender manor. You can also opt for a chartered car, with shared rides for 2-3 people costing about ¥200/day. The manor has a parking lot charging ¥20/day. Dining - Local specialties: Try lavender baked buns, made with lamb and crushed lavender; Ili handmade cheese, rich and creamy in flavor; as well as lavender honey, grilled lamb skewers, hand-pulled rice, and yogurt zongzi (sticky rice dumplings). - Dining options: The manor has an on-site restaurant offering various dishes. Nearby farm stays and guesthouses serve authentic rural and Xinjiang specialties, such as Huocheng Stone Mill Homestay, which prepares farm-style dishes using vegetables from their own garden. Accommodation - Lavender-themed guesthouses: "Meet the Fragrant Wilds" Homestay, located next to the lavender manor, features star-gazing rooms and lavender essential oil baths, starting at ¥680/night; "Purple Dream" Homestay, near Princess Jieyou Lavender Manor, offers a European countryside style, starting at ¥400/night. - Nearby hotels: For example, Yining Tianyuan International Hotel is a 30-minute drive from the manor, starting at ¥500/night. Other options include Huocheng Mansion June Homestay and Huocheng Purple Leisure Homestay, both close to Princess Jieyou Lavender Farm.

In June, I traveled around Xinjiang's Yili region and would like to share my accommodation experiences from the trip. This is just an introduction—you can refer to my reviews for more details. 🌍 Yili Small Loop Accommodation Stops: Urumqi - Dushanzi - Nalati - Tekes - Kalajun - Yining - Huocheng Huanghuang Village - Sayram Lake - Urumqi Urumqi: 1. Urumqi Pushe Qinyuan Hotel (Images 2-3) 2. Urumqi Atour Hotel (South Lake People's Square Branch) (Images 4-5) Both hotels in Urumqi are highly recommended—great breakfast and excellent locations! Overall Rating: ★★★★★ Dushanzi (Images 6-7): Xigema International Hotel Excellent in all aspects, though breakfast can get crowded with tour groups—just time it right. Overall Rating: ★★★★☆ Nalati (Images 8-9): Nalati Suxin No.1 Hotel Personally disliked this one—mediocre facilities, only decent breakfast, not close to Nalati's entrance. Pretty courtyard but poor value. Overall Rating: ★★☆☆☆ Tekes (Images 10-11): Tekes Hengtong International Hotel Good facilities with complimentary drinks/water in rooms. Overconfident about their pricey breakfast (¥128/person)—varied but excessive for morning meal. Overall Rating: ★★★☆☆ Kalajun (Images 12-13): Kalajun Hanhai Starry Sky Camp Exceeded expectations! Stay inside the scenic area with stellar views from your room—worth overlooking the subpar breakfast. Overall Rating: ★★★★☆ Yining (Images 14-15): Yining Yili Hotel Spacious garden hotel—booked a modern triple room with ample space. The property itself is worth exploring. Overall Rating: ★★★★★ Huanghuang Village (Images 16-17): Huanghuang Manor Only flaw was weak shower water pressure. Friendly service and boxed breakfast hit the spot! Still deducting points for the shower issue. Overall Rating: ★★★★☆ Sayram Lake (Images 18-19): Central Asia Quanna Hotel Another shower problem—electric heater too slow. Water flow was fine but took ages to warm up (had staff check at midnight). Proximity to Sayram Lake is its advantage. Overall Rating: ★★★★☆

🌍 Itinerary: Day01 Shanghai - Arrive in Urumqi - Check in at The Puxi Hotel Urumqi - Dinner Day02 Urumqi - Lunch - Anjihai Grand Canyon - Hotel check-in - Dinner - Dushanzi Grand Canyon Day03 Dushanzi - Duku Highway - Tangbula Hundred-Mile Gallery - Lunch - Tangbula Fairy Lake - Dinner - (Depending on ticket availability) Half-day Nalati Grassland until sunset Day04 Nalati Grassland day tour (Aerial Grassland - Lunch - Snow Lotus Valley - Internet-famous Bridge - Nomadic Family) - Dinner - Tianshan Flower Sea - Tekes Day05 Tekes - Qiongkushitai - Lunch - 5-hour horseback ride to Kalajun Jiasagan - Kalajun Starry Sky Camp - Dinner Day06 Kalajun - Lunch - Xiate Scenic Area - Dinner - Yizhao Highway - Yining Day07 Yining photo shoot - Lunch - Lavender Valley - Check in at Huanghuang Village Homestay - Dinner - Jieyou Princess Lavender Farm Day08 Huanghuang Village - Guozigou Bridge - Sayram Lake loop - Lunch - Sayram Lake loop - Dinner Day09 Sayram Lake Pine Tree Head - Lunch - Dinner - Return to Urumqi Day10 Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Museum - Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar - Lunch - Return to Shanghai Notes: 1. Transportation A) The main transportation to Xinjiang is by flight. Some suggest arriving in Urumqi, while others recommend starting the Yili trip from Yining. Both options work depending on your itinerary. Starting from Urumqi is perfectly fine; B) This trip was fully chartered with a guide/driver: Brother Xiao Ma; 2. Travel timing A) Although I traveled from June 23 to July 2, if you want to see wildflowers, you should go earlier. With Xinjiang's early summer heat this year, the grass was already turning yellow when I left. The best time for wildflowers is May; B) For lavender viewing, go slightly earlier than my dates. Mid to late June (around the 20th) is peak bloom time in Huocheng. I only caught the tail end before harvest. Avoid the second bloom as the scale is too small; 3. Accommodation Accommodations in Xinjiang were mixed. I've written a separate article summarizing all lodging during this trip. Please refer to my accommodation review post for details; 4. Dining A) Xinjiang's lamb is the best I've ever had - no competition. Feel free to enjoy hand-pulled lamb, kebabs, etc. But beware of some small restaurants that might disappoint; B) Besides lamb, Xinjiang offers many other delicacies: big plate chicken, spicy chicken, high-white salmon, cold noodle street, assorted soup - all recommended by Brother Xiao Ma. Regular readers might recall my previous food articles; 5. Itinerary My clockwise small loop itinerary was opposite to most travelers', starting with Duku Highway and ending at Sayram Lake, with Urumqi as both starting and ending point. This is for your reference;

| Unlock the Ultimate Purple Romance. Listen up, girls! If you want to see lavender, you MUST go in the afternoon! In mid-to-late June, the sun in Huocheng is "enthusiastic," but the lavender fields at dusk are pure romantic perfection! Save this super practical guide to avoid crowds and capture stunning photos 📸 🚗 Getting There At 7:30 PM, we set off by car from our hotel in Qingshuihe Town, Huocheng, heading to Huanghuang Village. Along the way, our hearts were filled with anticipation for the sea of purple flowers~ 📍 Princess Worry-Free Farm VS Huanghuang Village: Which to Choose? 1️⃣ Princess Worry-Free Lavender Farm: A must-visit for those who want breathtaking portrait shots! The farm is massive, with unique lavender slopes—every snap oozes atmosphere, perfect for blowing up your social media ✨ 2️⃣ Huanghuang Village: If you're like me and just want to immerse yourself in the romantic vibe of lavender, Huanghuang Village is a hidden gem! The moment you enter, the soothing fragrance of lavender hits you—even my Xiaomi fitness band noticed how relaxed I was! Plus, it's free to explore, offering unbeatable value! 🌼 Huanghuang Village In-Depth Guide ✅ Lavender Valley Check-In: Take the sightseeing shuttle for an easy ride straight to the heart of the beauty~ ✅ Leisurely Stroll: Park your car and walk to "Jian Tree Homestay," then venture further. The slightly elevated terrain offers a layered view of lavender fields—every photo turns out stunning! Photos 1-5 in this post were taken here, while 6-9 were snapped along the walk from the village entrance to the parking lot~ 💡 Pro Photography Tips Pick a sunny day and go after 7 or 8 PM! The harsh daylight can wash out the lavender’s color, but at dusk, the purple saturation peaks, cranking up the romance! The comfortable temperature and soft natural lighting make it effortless to capture dreamy shots~ The lavender’s purple hue is utterly therapeutic—I never wanted to leave! But Sayram Lake is calling, and every stop on this Huocheng trip is a delight~ Save this guide and come experience Huocheng’s unique romance for yourself! 💕 #HuochengLavender #HuanghuangVillage #PrincessWorryFreeFarm #XinjiangTravelGuide

Have you ever imagined a place that looks like an endless scroll painted by nature with the most delicate brushstrokes and the most brilliant colors? The Hundred-Mile Gallery is exactly such a place. Traveling along the winding road, the mountains on both sides stand like green guardians, solemn yet full of vitality. The trees on the mountains are lush and dense, like a green ocean gently swaying in the breeze (personification). The streams flowing through the mountains murmur as if telling ancient stories (personification). Every scene here is a masterpiece of nature. From the first light of dawn to the setting sun, the light changes colors among the mountains, rivers, and forests, like an endless magic show of light and shadow. The Hundred-Mile Gallery is a fairyland that makes people linger, where every step feels the deep embrace of nature. 1. Transportation Guide 1. Recommended self-driving (flexible and free): Route: Yining → Chaxian Expressway → Nileke → Tangbula (about 150 km, 3 hours). Duku Highway section: The scenery from Qiaerma to Tangbula is stunning and open to the public for free. 2. Car rental/shared ride: From Yining, about 500-800 RMB/day, local drivers familiar with off-the-beaten-path spots. 3. Notes: Some sections (such as the Menkte Ancient Trail) have poor road conditions; an SUV is recommended. Download offline maps in advance; signal is weak inside the scenic area. 2. Must-Visit Attractions 1. Fairy Lake: A high mountain lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains, with wildflowers blooming densely by the shore. Horseback riding round-trip saves effort; bring cash (poor signal). 2. Menkte Ancient Trail: Snow mountains + wildflowers + streams + hot springs. Original self-driving requires an SUV; entrance fee 200 RMB per vehicle. 3. Bear Valley: A secret spot of local herders, with herds of cattle and sheep, quiet and pristine, free of charge. Navigate near "Black Bee Manor." 4. Grassland Starry Sky/Sunrise: Low light pollution, clear Milky Way; spectacular scenes of herding sheep in the early morning. Stay in a yurt for convenient stargazing 🌌, bring a thick jacket. 3. Accommodation Options Grassland Yurts: Immerse in nomadic life (about 200-300 RMB/night), recommended Tangbula Halasu Camp. Bee Town Homestays: Better facilities (300-500 RMB/night), such as Nileke Xiaoman Homestay. High-end option: Duku Tangbula Wild Luxury Resort, with scenic views from the window. 🍖 4. Food Recommendations Hand-pulled lamb/roast whole lamb: freshly slaughtered in the pastoral area, tender meat. Horse Meat Naren: Kazakh traditional noodle dish with rich horse meat flavor. Grassland Milk Tea + Baursak: savory milk tea paired with fried pastries. Wild Black Bee Honey: specialty of Bee Town, excellent quality. ⚠️ 5. Practical Tips 1. Clothing: Large temperature difference between day and night; bring a windbreaker + light down jacket; strong UV rays during the day, wear sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen. 2. Environmental protection: Take all trash with you to protect the pristine grassland. 3. Safety: Choose a regular horse team for riding (Fairy Lake horse team is more reliable). Do not enter undeveloped areas to avoid wild animals. 4. Others: Bring cash (some spots have no signal). Insect repellent is essential (many ticks on the grassland). 5. 💡 Photography Guide: Use a wide-angle lens for panoramas, telephoto for snow mountain details; best lighting from 7-9 AM and 7-9 PM.

Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, located in western Xinjiang, is known as "Jiangnan Beyond the Great Wall." This region boasts vast grasslands, magnificent snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and rich ethnic cultures, making it a paradise for photography enthusiasts and nature explorers. 📅 Best Travel Time Spring (April-June): Flowers bloom everywhere, grasslands turn lush green, and the climate is pleasant. Summer (July-August): A perfect summer retreat to visit Nalati Grassland and Sayram Lake. Autumn (September-October): Golden poplar forests and abundant harvests make it ideal for photography. 🛬 How to Get There By Air: Fly to Yining Airport, about a 1-hour flight from Urumqi. By Train: Direct trains from Urumqi to Yining take about 9-10 hours. By Car: Drive along the G30 Lianhuo Expressway and G218 National Highway, enjoying scenic views along the way. 🏨 Accommodation Recommendations Hotels in Yining City: Well-equipped and convenient for first-time visitors. Grassland Yurts: Experience traditional Kazakh living and immerse in grassland culture. Lakeside Homestays: Near Sayram Lake, perfect for stargazing and sunrise views. 🎟️ Ticket Information Sayram Lake: Approximately ¥70/person. Nalati Grassland: Approximately ¥95/person. Karakoram Grassland: Approximately ¥100/person. Ili Valley Poplar Forest: Some areas are free to enter. 🌍 Must-See Attractions 1️⃣ Sayram Lake 🌊 Xinjiang's highest-altitude and largest alpine lake, with crystal-clear water known as "the last tear of the Atlantic." Best photo time: Early morning and evening when the light is soft and the lake is mirror-like. 2️⃣ Nalati Grassland 🌿 One of the world's four major alpine meadows, covered in summer flowers, ideal for horseback riding and hiking. Recommended activity: Horseback riding across the grassland to experience Kazakh culture. 3️⃣ Karakoram Grassland 🏞️ Known as the "Human Body Grassland" for its undulating terrain and spectacular views. Recommended route: Hike from East Karakoram to West Karakoram for endless scenic beauty. 4️⃣ Ili Valley Poplar Forest 🍂 Golden in autumn, with reflections in the river creating a fairy-tale scene. Best photo time: Mid-October when colors are most vibrant. 🍽️ Food Recommendations Hand-Grabbed Lamb: Made with local premium lamb, tender and flavorful. Naan Pit Roast: Unique cooking method results in crispy outside and tender inside. Milk Tea: Traditional Kazakh drink, rich and fragrant. Ili Yogurt: Thick and creamy, perfect for cooling off. 🎁 Specialty Souvenirs Kazakh Embroidery: Vibrant colors and exquisite craftsmanship. Felt Hats and Shawls: Ethnic-style and practical. Ili Apples and Raisins: Sun-dried naturally, sweet and delicious. 🛋️ Travel Tips ✅ Essentials: Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, thermos. ✅ Clothing advice: Large temperature differences between day and night, bring a jacket. ✅ Notes: Respect local ethnic customs to avoid offense. ✅ Safety tip: Mountain areas may have unstable signals; download offline maps in advance.

#springitinerary Haitang Road (Chinese: 海棠路), located in Yili (Ili) Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang, China, is a picturesque and increasingly popular street known for its stunning crabapple blossoms (海棠花) in spring. During peak blooming season—typically in April to early May—the road transforms into a breathtaking pink and white floral tunnel, attracting photographers, tourists, and nature lovers from across China.