Self-driving is an option for the Jinan to Xinjiang travel route, with the main route being Jinan-Zhengzhou/Xi’an-Guazhou-Hami-Urumqi, allowing visits to multiple well-known attractions along the way.?
The specific self-driving route plan is as follows:?
Jinan to Guazhou: This is a longer stretch, taking about 15 hours, passing through Shandong, Henan, and Shaanxi provinces. It is recommended to take a break in Zhengzhou or Xi’an, both of which are historic and culturally rich cities that can be briefly visited during the rest period.?
Guazhou to Hami: This leg of the journey takes about 7 hours, mainly passing through Gansu Province. Guazhou is an important stop on the way to Xinjiang, and along the way, you can enjoy the magnificent desert landscape.?
Hami to Urumqi: This is the main road segment after entering Xinjiang, taking about 8 hours, passing through places like Turpan and Daban City, before finally arriving in Urumqi. Attractions such as Turpan’s Grape Valley and Flaming Mountain are not to be missed.?
Must-visit attractions along the way also include:?
Mount Tai: As the first of the Five Sacred Mountains, Mount Tai is famous for its magnificent scenery and profound cultural heritage. It takes about an hour and a half to drive from Jinan to Mount Tai.?
Yellow River: Continuing west, you can reach the Yellow River. The Yellow River is the mother river of China, and along the way, you can see its magnificent scenery, especially near the Hukou Falls of the Yellow River, which is incredibly impressive.?
In addition, there is a unique 15-day self-driving route to choose from, starting from Jinan, passing through places like Hami, and arriving in Urumqi. After that, you can take the reverse route along the Duku Highway, visiting well-known attractions in Xinjiang such as the Nalati Scenic Area, the Tangbula Hundred-Mile Gallery, and the Sayram Lake.?
Of course, besides self-driving, you can also choose other transportation methods to reach Xinjiang before planning your local tour. However, no matter which method you choose, you should prepare for the trip in advance to ensure a pleasant and safe journey.?