"Embark on a Journey to the Northwest

You'll regret it for life if you miss Qinghai! This summer, I finally checked off my dream destination—the magnificent Northwest. Every shot is postcard-perfect, but high-altitude travel requires thorough preparation! 🔥 🌄【Must-Visit Attractions】 ❤️ Chaka Salt Lake: Visit on a sunny day! The mirror-like surface is breathtaking. Wear bright-colored dresses for photos (red/yellow works best). ❤️ Qinghai Lake: July-August is rapeseed flower season. Entry to Erlangjian Scenic Area costs ¥90. Rent a bike to cycle around the lake. ❤️ Emerald Lake: Best captured by drone! Optimal light between 3-5 PM. ❤️ 315 U-shaped Highway: Stay safe while shooting! Use a telephoto lens for dramatic effects. ❤️ Rapeseed Fields: In July, Menyuan’s golden seas stretch to the horizon, with honeyed floral scents in the air—perfect weather and perfect company. 📸【Photo Tips】 ✓ Bring bottled water to rinse feet after salt lake shots. ✓ Shoot highways before 10 AM or after 6 PM. ✓ Paid yak photo ops by Qinghai Lake (bargain!). 🚗【Transport Guide】 Xining → Qinghai Lake: Bus for ¥35/person. Private car tours: ¥500-600/day per person (4-sharing). Self-drive: Download offline maps—some areas have no signal. 🧳【Packing Essentials】 ✓ Sun protection trio: Sunglasses + hat + SPF50+ sunscreen. ✓ Layering for temperature swings: Light down jacket + shawl. ✓ Meds: Rhodiola (start a week early), motion sickness pills. ✓ Moisturizers: Lip balm + masks + body lotion (high altitude = extreme dryness!). 🍜【Food Recs】 • Yixin Hand-Torn Lamb (Xining Dazhong Street). • Old-school yogurt with barley cakes (street stalls are authentic). • Yak meat hotpot (try old spots near Qinghai Hotel). ⚠️【Heads Up】 • Restroom facilities at most sites are basic. • Avoid strenuous activity to prevent altitude sickness. • Carry cash—some places don’t accept cards. • Respect local customs (e.g., don’t step on prayer flags).