Xinjiang is a place full of charm and mystery, with numerous attractions and activities worth visiting. Here are some recommended highlights of traveling in Xinjiang:
1. Exploration of natural scenery
Tianshan Tianchi: Known as ‘the fairyland of the Yao Pool’, it is the birthplace of mythological stories in China. The pool water is clear and the scenery is absolutely beautiful, with eight major attractions such as Stone Gate and the Pillar Stabilizing the Sea.
Kanas: As an established 5A-level scenic spot in Xinjiang, Kanas has different scenery in the four seasons. It is green in spring, colorful in summer with blooming flowers, colorful in autumn with forests painted in hues of red and yellow, and winter turns it into a fairy-tale ice and snow wonderland.
Sayram Lake: Known as ‘the last tear of the Atlantic Ocean’, the lake surface is vast and the lake water is blue and transparent, seamlessly connecting with the blue sky. Standing by the lake, you can enjoy the breathtaking landscape where the water and sky meet.
2. Unique cultural experiences
Kashgar Old Town: Wandering through the maze-like streets and alleys of the old town, you can take a set of ethnic-style photos, learn to greet with ‘Yakexi’, and experience the cultural scenery of southern Xinjiang.
Dadiba Pedestrian Street: As a landmark location in Urumqi, the capital, it has a complete range of specialty handicrafts, clothing and hats, and delicious food.阿凡提 sculptures can also be seen everywhere, adding a lot of fun.
3. Winter ice and snow activities
Altay Skiing: In Altay, in the northwest corner of the country, skiers can enjoy the fun of ice and snow sports. During the Spring Festival, you can also experience activities such as horse-drawn sledges.
4. Legendary highway journey
Duku Highway: This highway is known as ‘a highway you must travel at least once in your lifetime’. Along the way, landscapes such as mountains, lakes, cattle and sheep, waterfalls, pine forests, grasslands, and snow-capped mountains are all available, bringing an ultimate visual impact.
5. Other recommended attractions
Hemu Village: An ancient and serene settlement of the Tuwa people. Wooden houses and fences are scattered in an orderly manner. In the early morning or evening, curling smoke rises slowly from the rooftops, making it look like a haven away from the hustle and bustle of the world.
Flaming Mountain: The mountain body presents a blazing red color, and rolling waves of scorching heat come rushing at you. It is the filming location for the story of Sun Wukong borrowing the Bamboo Fan three times in ‘Journey to the West’.
Xinjiang Museum: An excellent place to understand the history and culture of Xinjiang. Precious exhibits such as the mummy of a Loulan beauty are not to be missed.
The highlights of traveling in Xinjiang far exceed these. Whether it’s natural scenery or cultural landscapes, they are all captivating and make people reluctant to leave. I hope these recommendations can add more excitement to your Xinjiang trip.
