The fruits of Xinjiang are renowned nationwide. The unique climate has given them the characteristics of being “large, sweet, and juicy”. Especially during the summer and autumn seasons, grapes, Hami melons, watermelons, muskmelons, mulberries, and other fruits are available in succession. The markets and roadsides are stacked with colorful fruits, which are tempting to look at and even more delicious to eat. For foodies who love fruits, this is absolutely a paradise!
2. Tianshan Tianchi
Located halfway up the mountain at the foot of Bogda Peak in Fukang County, Xinjiang, it is 110 kilometers east of Urumqi and stands at an altitude of 1,980 meters. It is a natural alpine lake. The lake surface resembles a half-moon shape, stretching 3,400 meters in length and about 1,500 meters in width, covering an area of 4.9 square kilometers and reaching a depth of about 105 meters. The lake water is clear and晶莹剔透 like jade. It is surrounded by mountains, lush green grass, and colorful wildflowers. It enjoys the reputation of being the “Pearl of the Tianshan Mountains”. Tall and verdant spruce and pine trees cover the mountains, blocking out the sun and sky.
The Magnificent Xinjiang Travel Guide
I. Xinjiang Travel Guide: Recommended Attractions
1. Turpan
Turpan is located in the central part of Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, which means “a place of abundance and richness”. It is famous for its fruits, especially grapes. Various high-quality grapes are grown in the scenic Grape Valley. The natural landscapes of Turpan are magical and unique, featuring the famous Flaming Mountains, the magnificent Tuyu Valley, the vast and spectacular Kumtag Desert, the world’s second-lowest lake Aiding Lake, the mysterious Toksun Yadan scenic area, and many other wonders created by nature’s own hand.
3. Kanas
Kanas is located in northern Xinjiang, within the territory of Burqin County, and is a famous scenic area. The famous Kanas Natural Scenic Area is located within the territory of Burqin County, 150 kilometers from the county seat, with a total area of 5,588 square kilometers. It is a comprehensive scenic area integrating glaciers, lakes, forests, grasslands, pastures, rivers, ethnic customs, and rare animals and plants. When you arrive at Kanas, you can enjoy the scenery there to your heart’s content. The main landscapes include Kanas Lake, Moon Bay, Wolong Bay, Shennu Lake, Double Lake, Friendship Peak, Thousand Lakes, Birch Forest, ethnic villages, the thousand-mile deadwood causeway, the color-changing lake spectacle, sea of clouds and Buddha’s light, etc. (Kanas in September and October is like a fairyland).
4. Kashgar
Kashgar, fully named ‘Kashgar’, is bordered by the Taklamakan Desert to the east, the Karakoram Mountains to the south, neighboring the Ali region of Tibet, and the Pamir Plateau to the west. Kashgar is known as the ‘Pearl of the Silk Road’. Kashgar boasts spectacular scenery, including the Pamir Plateau, known as the roof of the world, the winding Yarkand River, the year-round glinting Muztagh Ata Glacier, the world’s second-highest peak, K2, the alpine lake Karakul Lake, and the Taklamakan Desert.
2. Food Recommendations
When talking about Xinjiang cuisine, the first thing that comes to mind is usually Da Pan Ji. Although so-called ‘Xinjiang Da Pan Ji’ can be found everywhere now, the truly delicious one can only be tasted in Xinjiang. Authentic Xinjiang Da Pan Ji is made with local free-range chickens, potatoes, green peppers, and red peppers. It has a fresh and spicy taste, and eating it is a delightful experience.
Da Pan Ji (Large Tray Chicken) can be found everywhere in Xinjiang. However, the price is not cheap. Depending on the type and portion of the chicken, the price ranges from 40-120 yuan per serving.
The reason why Xinjiang roasted meat tastes good is firstly because the meat is fresh, secondly because the spices are authentic, and thirdly because the cooking method is particular. When threading the meat, fat and lean meat are interspersed so that the delicious juice from the fat can penetrate into the lean meat during roasting. So if you love roasted skewers, don’t miss the opportunity to taste authentic roasted mutton skewers.
Roasted mutton skewers can be seen everywhere in Xinjiang, but finding a good roasting stall requires some searching. If you are diligent enough, you can find good and inexpensive roasted meat. Prices for roasted meat vary in different regions, usually ranging from 3-10 yuan per skewer.
Xinjiang people can go without vegetables for a day, but they cannot go without Nang. This baked flour pancake, somewhat similar to a sesame seed bun, is a daily food for Xinjiang people.
The variety of Nang is very rich, with different shapes, sizes, and flavors, ranging from crispy to soft, and delicious. If fresh mutton is added to the flour, it becomes meat Nang.
Due to its low water content, Nang can be stored for a long period of time. Plus, it is inexpensive and easy to carry, making it an ideal dry food for travel. If you need to drive for a long time on roads with few people, you might want to prepare some.
Xinjiang Tourism Consultation: (Same) 0991-8585456