The recommended 3-day travel itinerary for Yili is as follows:
Day 1: Yining and Surrounding Exploration
Morning: Upon arrival in Yining, first check into the hotel and take a short rest. Afterwards, you can stroll through Kazanqi Folk Village to feel the rich Uyghur culture. The blue houses and colorful doors and windows make you feel like you are in a fairy tale world.
Noon: Taste local specialty foods such as milk tea and pies.
Afternoon: Continue exploring Liuxing Street, stroll through specialty shops, listen to street performers playing and singing, and enjoy a pleasant afternoon.
Evening: You can choose to continue tasting cuisine at a restaurant near Liuxing Street or return to the hotel to rest.
Day 2: Sayram Lake and Guozigou Bridge Tour
Morning: Depart from Yining and head to Sayram Lake, known as the “Last Tear of the Atlantic”. Along the way, enjoy the magnificent scenery of Northern Xinjiang and feel the wonderful transition from city to wilderness.
Noon: Arrive at Sayram Lake and taste local cuisine at a lakeside restaurant, such as fresh white sturgeon.
Afternoon: Drive along Sayram Lake to appreciate the lake and mountain scenery from different angles. Stop and take photos at attractions such as Qinshuitan and Dianjiangtai. The lake water is clear and blue, contrasting beautifully with the distant snow-capped mountains.
Evening: Head to Guozigou Bridge. This spectacular bridge stretches like a giant dragon across the mountains, and you can appreciate its full view from the viewing platform, feeling the perfect fusion of architecture and nature.
Evening: Choose a homestay or hotel near Sayram Lake for accommodation, and enjoy the sparkling starry sky at night.
Day 3: Huocheng Lavender Manor and Tekes Tour
Morning: Head to Huocheng Lavender Manor. From June to August is the lavender blooming season, with an endless sea of purple flowers, resembling a replica of Provence, perfect for taking photos.
Noon: Have lunch at a restaurant near Huocheng Lavender Manor, tasting local specialty dishes.
Afternoon: Head to Tekes, enjoying the beautiful scenery of Northern Xinjiang along the way. Upon arrival in Tekes, you can visit local attractions such as the Bagua City to experience its unique urban layout and cultural atmosphere.
Evening: Depending on the timing, you can choose to stay overnight in Tekes or directly return to Yining to end your delightful 3-day trip in Yili.
This itinerary combines multiple famous attractions and specialty foods in Yili, aiming to provide you with an unforgettable travel experience. Please adjust the schedule appropriately according to actual circumstances and personal interests. Wish you a pleasant journey!