Zhaosu: A grassland kingdom drowned in a sea of flowers

As the car enters the Zhaosu Basin, the scenery outside the window instantly switches to a high-saturation oil painting mode—golden rapeseed flower fields stretch like sea waves to the horizon, and perilla flower fields are dotted among them, like scattered amethysts. In the distance, the snow-capped mountains are majestic, and in the near distance, the felt houses are filled with smoke. Galloping horses run between the flower fields, and the air is filled with the sweet fragrance of honey and grass. This is the hometown of Tianma, and the most poetic summer in Yili, Xinjiang. Geographical business card Coordinates: Zhaosu County, Yili, Xinjiang, 170 km from Yining City Features: One of China's four largest grasslands, the "Rainbow Township" in the hinterland of the Tianshan Mountains, famous for its rapeseed flower sea, perilla flower fields, and Akhal-Teke horses Tickets: The grassland is open for free, and some attractions charge separately 🐎 Must-play experience: Frolic in the sea of flowers and snow-capped mountains 1. Tianma Bathing in the River: Witness the speed and passion Every morning and dusk, herdsmen drive horses to the Tekes River to drink water. When hundreds of horses come stepping through the water, the water splashes, the manes fly, and the sound of horseshoes is as shocking as thunder. This is the wildest ritual on the Zhaosu Grassland and a paradise for photography enthusiasts. Tips: The best viewing spot is near the Xiata Scenic Area. It is recommended to take a seat 1 hour in advance. 2. Walking in the Rapeseed Flower Field: Fall into the Golden Ocean In July, the rapeseed flower sea and snow-capped mountains are in the same frame on the Zhaosu Grassland, forming a magical scene of "winter in the upper body and summer in the lower body." Put on a white dress, wear a straw hat, and take a photo to create a scene from a Miyazaki animation. Recommended route: Drive from Zhaosu County to Regiment 75. There are flower fields along the way, and you can stop and take pictures at any time. Tips: You can ride a horse or walk in the scenic area. It is recommended to reserve 5 hours and bring a windbreaker to cope with the weather changes. ⏰ Best travel time: June-August June: Rapeseed flowers are in their early bloom, the grassland is green, and there are fewer tourists. July: The flower sea is in full bloom, and perilla and rapeseed flowers are intertwined to form a purple and golden carpet. August: The grassland begins to turn yellow, but the weather is stable and suitable for hiking. 💡 Travel tips Sun protection: The ultraviolet rays on the plateau are strong, so you need to prepare sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat. Keep warm: The temperature difference between day and night on the grassland is large, so you need to prepare a light down jacket in summer. Respect customs: You need to take off your hat when entering a felt house, do not step on the grassland, and do not pick flowers at will.