The best one-day tour route in Xinjiang mainly revolves around Urumqi. Here is the recommended route arrangement:
Urumqi Cultural Center → Xinjiang Museum → Xinjiang People’s Theatre → International Bazaar → Hongshan Park
Urumqi Cultural Center: As a newly built landmark, the Urumqi Cultural Center (also known as the "Six Museums and One Center") is a futuristic and sci-fi-style complex including an exhibition hall, museum, planning hall, concert hall, grand theater, cultural center, and central cultural tower. It is an excellent destination to understand Urumqi’s modern culture and art.
Xinjiang Museum: It is the only autonomous region-level comprehensive museum in Xinjiang and the largest institution for the collection, protection, scientific research, publicity, and education of cultural relics and specimens in the region. With more than 40,000 cultural relics and specimens, including many treasures from the Silk Road, it is a must-visit for exploring Xinjiang’s history and culture.
Xinjiang People’s Theatre: This building, with a Central Asian style, was completed in 1957. It was listed as a key national cultural relic protection unit in 2013 and included in China’s 20th-century Architectural Heritage List in 2018. Its gorgeous European-style decoration, yellow walls, and crystal chandeliers are full of Eurasian ethnic characteristics, making it a great place for photos.
International Bazaar: It is one of the landmark buildings in Urumqi and a popular spot for tourists to shop and taste Xinjiang cuisine. The Bazaar gathers various Xinjiang-specific handicrafts, delicacies, and souvenirs, making it an ideal place to experience Xinjiang’s ethnic customs and shopping fun.
Hongshan Park: Located in the center of Urumqi, it is named after the Hongshan (Red Mountain) it sits on. The park features attractions such as the Hongshan Tower, from which you can overlook the panoramic view of Urumqi city. It is an excellent destination for tourists to relax and enjoy the urban scenery.
This route covers the culture, history, cuisine, and natural landscapes of Urumqi, allowing tourists to experience the diverse charm of Xinjiang within a day. Please adjust the itinerary appropriately according to personal interests and time arrangements to ensure a pleasant journey.