2026 Shache Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in February)

Stop obsessing over Kashgar! Shache, this hidden gem of the Western Regions, is truly the ultimate spot for family trips✨ After seeing countless crowded Kashgar travel guides😭 I decisively took the kids to Shache and was genuinely amazed! A 3,000-year-old ancient Western Region kingdom with impressively low commercialization🤩 Grilled buns by the roadside for just 10 yuan that burst with juicy flavor🍖 Thin skin, full filling, every bite packed with meaty aroma—my kid devoured three at once! 5 yuan per skewer of lamb, perfectly balanced fat and lean, super flavorful Paired with local specialty rose yogurt, the sweet and sour taste is amazing🥛 Walking through the old street of Kazanchi, full of century-old Uyghur houses🏠 Colorful graffiti on the walls gives a strong exotic vibe Girls wearing Adras silk are everywhere, their smiles so sweet😊 So few tourists it’s ridiculous; every photo looks like a deserted masterpiece No queues or waiting for shots, kids can run and play freely～ You must visit the Yarkand Khan Palace!🕌 The architecture is magnificent and stunning, every corner is photogenic The evening light and shadows are incredible, like traveling back to ancient Western Regions The Twelve Muqam performance at night is truly a world intangible heritage🎶 When the rawap melody starts, you’re instantly immersed in local culture Even the kids watch attentively, fully focused～ The night market at Subiyi Grand Bazaar is so lively!🔥 All kinds of unique snacks are dazzling, and prices are super affordable Bargaining with locals is so fun, the atmosphere is fantastic Bought some handmade carpets and small accessories, great value for money🛍️ 💡3 days 2 nights family trip tested guide: Day 1: Depart Kashgar → 3-hour drive to Baisha Lake🏞️ Collect white sand with the kids and paint, every shot is a healing scene Check in at Shache Welcome Hotel in the evening, very convenient downtown location Over 200 yuan per night with great value, clean and comfortable rooms🛏️ Day 2: Yarkand Khan Palace → Twelve Muqam performance → Kazanchi Old Street → Night Market Slow pace, kids have a blast, adults don’t get tired All attractions are close, private car travel is super convenient🚗 Day 3: Uyghur family visit experience → Return to Kashgar Make nang bread with a local family, an amazing experience Kids learned simple Uyghur and even received small gifts🎁 ⚠️Travel tips: Make sure to apply for the border pass in advance! Important enough to say three times❗ Wear bright clothes, perfect for photos and the Western Regions vibe Long drive, bring snacks and water so kids won’t fuss Respect local customs, no photos inside mosques please🙏 Who understands! The purity and healing of Shache are truly irreplaceable No over-commercialization, just authentic Uyghur life Choose here for family trips, kids happy and adults can relax too😌 Anyone else been to Shache? Share your travel experience in the comments～ If you haven’t been, hurry and add Shache to your travel list!👇

In the stories and legends of the Western Regions, Kashgar is always the most vibrant landmark. This National Day, why not avoid the crowds, go against the flow, and head to the heart of southern Xinjiang? Wander through the maze-like alleys of Kashgar Old Town, feel the warmth of Shache’s thousand-year intangible heritage, experience the lively night atmosphere of Hotan, and step into the unpolished daily life of Moyu Old Town. Through half-closed wooden windows, catch a glimpse of a still-living Western Region. · 📍𝐃𝐚𝐲𝟏-𝟐 Kashgar ① Kashgar Old Town: Every step feels like walking into a fairy tale movie ② Gao Tai Residential Houses: A 600-year-old “living history museum,” every corner is like a scene from an old film 🎞 · 📍𝐃𝐚𝐲𝟑-𝟒 Shache ① Intangible Cultural Heritage Expo Park (Yarkand Palace): Blue walls and floral tiles, like “One Thousand and One Nights” 💙, currently closed, but since you’re here, take a look—the surroundings are full of exotic charm ② Yarkand Khanate Royal Tomb & Amanishah Khan Memorial Tomb: If you’re interested in history and culture, don’t miss these ③ Kazanchi Old Street & New Unity Tea Shop: Full of Shache cultural atmosphere, with many beautiful buildings on the street; step into old teahouses, the sound of tandoor ovens and copperware, like falling into an old southern Xinjiang dream ④ Ake Ancient Temple / Azina Ancient Temple / Jiaman Ancient Temple / Nuruzidun Ruins: Currently closed, but you can take photos outside; exotic alleys where children occasionally smile and invite you for photos, a long-lost sense of warmth · 📍𝐃𝐚𝐲𝟓 Yecheng 🔸 Xitiya Maze City: This maze city is rebuilt on a thousand-year-old site; among the ruins, the ancient Western Region kingdom seems to awaken instantly 📍𝐃𝐚𝐲𝟔 Hotan 🔸 Yutagan Ancient City: Silent and picturesque by day, transforms into an immersive theater at night, taking you back to the ancient Khotan from a thousand years ago 📍𝐃𝐚𝐲𝟕 Moyu Old Town (half day) Carved wooden doors, earth-yellow old alleys… this low-key small town hides the most original look of southern Xinjiang ·

Come to Kashgar Region - Kizilsu for an exciting 7-day trip! Here, you will enjoy an authentic Xinjiang breakfast, enjoy the unique perspective of drone aerial vlogs, taste the relaxation of wild luxury afternoon tea, and feel the magnificence of nature under the sunset starry sky. Don’t forget to experience the exotic style of the Tajik Western Region, it will surely make your trip worthwhile! / 🛤️ Route suggestions D1: The Kashgar Exploration Tour opens🚩, the first stop is the ancient city of Kashgar, stroll through the streets and alleys of the ancient city, and feel the cultural charm of the Western Regions. D2: White Sand Mountain ⛰️ - White Sand Lake Scenic Area, appreciate the pure beauty of nature - enjoy the China-Pakistan Friendship Road, witness the friendship between the two countries - overlook Gonggeltao and Muztag Glacier Park 🏔️, feel the magnificence of the glacier - Taheman Wetland Park Observation Deck, enjoy the wetland scenery - experience Tajik traditional dwellings🏠, integrate into local life. D3: Explore the Pamir Tourist Area, explore the mystery of the plateau - Kashgar Ancient Stone City, listen to the echo of history - Xinjiang Pamir Plateau Aral National Wetland Park🌿, get close to nature - Challenge Panlong Ancient Road, feel the eighteen bends of the mountain road - Bandil Blue Lake and Kerakul Lake Scenic Area, indulge in the lake and mountains. D4: Muji Crater🌋 Explore the secret and feel the power of the earth - Shache County Intangible Cultural Heritage Expo Park, appreciate the charm of intangible cultural heritage. D5: Tour of the Old Town Scenic Area, taste the charm of the ancient city - N39 Desert Exploration Base 🏜️, open an interesting desert journey. D6: Wuqia Colorful Mountain, enjoy the colorful mountains - Tianshan Kunlun Mountains intersect, feel the majesty of the mountains - Smhana Village 🏡, visit the border village - Ilkashtan Port, learn the style of the country - China's West Pole Stone Monument, leave unforgettable photos📸. D7: The trip to Kashgar ends successfully 🎉, shuttle down by car 🚘, and embark on the journey home with beautiful memories. Looking forward to seeing you next time! / Essentials before the trip: 🎒 👕 Clothing: day and night temperature difference, bring a thick jacket, warm underwear, and light spring clothes, do not forget waterproof non-slip hiking shoes. 🎩 Accessories: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, no one can be less, but also charger, thermos, at any time to last and drink water. 📂 Documents: Mainland China ID card, border defense card, student card, elderly card and other preferential documents are brought together. 💊Medicine: cold medicine, gastrointestinal medicine, motion sickness medicine, and mosquito bite spray, in case of emergency. 🍞 Food: Prepare some dry food, such as bread, biscuits, and bottled water to replenish energy. 📷 Photography: Camera, spare battery, storage card, record beautiful moments. 💵 Cash: Although electronic payment is popular, but prepare some cash just in case, the signal in mountainous areas may not be good. / Kashgar region - Kizilsu, stories and scenery coexist, do not miss every exciting part here! 🎉Looking forward to your travel stories~

Shache is a county in Kashgar, Xinjiang It has a long history of more than 3,000 years It was known as the "Shache Kingdom" in ancient times and was one of the 36 kingdoms in the Western Regions Shache is the most culturally rich small town in Kashgar If you are traveling to Kashgar, it is recommended to reserve 1-2 days to visit Shache This time, I took a non-self-driving day trip to Shache I will share a super detailed transportation guide Save it first, you will definitely need it~ . ✅ Kashgar City to Shache County 1️⃣ By train Take a train from [Kashgar Station] to [Shache Station] There are a total of 6 trains every day, with a travel time of 1.5h-2h 🚞 Train numbers: 4:21 4:55 6:25 9:00 9:50 16:25 ▫️ Recommended train numbers: 6:25 9:00 9:50 ‼️ Note: Security checks at train stations in Xinjiang take a long time, so be sure to arrive at least 20 minutes in advance!! Kashgar's morning rush hour is from 8-10 am, and it is very congested, so be sure to allow enough time!! If you unfortunately miss the train, continue reading↓ 2️⃣ By bus Find the [Kashgar Bus Station] next to Kashgar Station Enter the station and buy a bus ticket from Kashgar to Shache Bus tickets are available for 7-seater business cars and buses Business cars depart when full and can accommodate 6 passengers Buses depart on time at 12:30 Business car tickets are 70/person, bus tickets are 39/person It is recommended to choose a 7-seater business car for more convenience and comfort The journey takes about 2.5 hours, with a 5-minute stop at a service area The service area has restrooms and sells water and snacks 3️⃣ From Shache Station to the scenic area You can confidently take a taxi in Shache I took taxis directly throughout Kashgar Sometimes it is difficult to hail a taxi using a mobile app in Shache Taxis are very convenient, with a low starting fare of 6-8 yuan Drivers do not take detours or refuse passengers, providing a great experience! I must praise Kashgar Cultural Tourism and Xinjiang Cultural Tourism for this!! ✅ Shache County to Kashgar City It is recommended to take a train, as bus schedules are not clear~ There are also 6 trains every day, taking about 1.5h-3h 🚞 Train numbers: 13:49 15:21 16:20 17:24 19:25 20:17 ▫️ Recommended train numbers: 17:24 19:25 20:17 ‼️ Note: Shache Station is not large, but you should still arrive at least 15 minutes in advance, as the security check process takes a long time. . 📖 Tips: When traveling from Kashgar to Shache, you can see the continuous snow-capped mountains on the right side of the train When returning from Shache to Kashgar, the left side of the train is backlit, making it difficult to see the snow-capped mountains, but you may catch a sunset (sunset time is around 8 pm)

Take a 2-hour train ride from Kashgar and you'll arrive in Shache~ Shache has a history of over 3000 years, where you can see the ancient Western Regions in your mind! - 🕌Must visit in Shache: Yerqiang Khan Palace, a palace built in the desert, the current palace is restored according to historical records. The entire palace is dominated by blue, and the most special thing is its domes, which are full of Islamic style. - 🕊️Must eat in Shache: We went to the 'Hetian Gokshal Kebab Shop', and it's really famous! It's really, really, really delicious! The roasted chicken and pigeon taste amazing! Large portions and affordable. Indeed, no pigeon can fly out of Shache alive hahaha - 🍵Shache specialty: You can go to experience the old tea house in Shache, where you can feel the life and cultural customs of Shache. - 🚂Train tips: 1⃣️Buy train tickets on 12306, be sure to grab them as soon as they go on sale 14 days in advance, otherwise it's hard to choose many times 2⃣️The seat arrangement of this train... is very magical I can only say😅 That is, he can't choose seats... and then we cancelled three times and finally bought consecutive seats 82 83 84 85, but only 83 84 seats are together, 82 85 are very far apart 3⃣️There are really a lot of local people in Xinjiang on the train! Xinjiang people love to chat and are very interesting!! Even if you don't sit with friends you know, you can chat with strangers for two hours! 4⃣️Be sure to arrive an hour early, the security check is very strict, because there are many people, probably half an hour early in line for ticket checking 5⃣️The way of reporting stations is also interesting! Everyone experience it for yourself hahaha -

A must-visit in your lifetime! Shache is Xinjiang's most hidden gem, a place worthy of in-depth exploration! 💎 Here, there's no commercial hustle and bustle, only the most authentic Xinjiang street life! Strolling through the old streets and alleys, every corner is a scenic view. 🌅 🌟Must-do activities: 1️⃣ Explore the local night market - Eye-catching handicraft shops! 👀 - Super nice shopkeepers! They'll enthusiastically explain even if you don't buy anything. - Absolutely stunning carpet patterns! The colors are incredibly vibrant! 🎨 2️⃣ Enjoy music in a teahouse - Lazily order a pot of Xinjiang-style milk tea ☕ - Watch the elderly men play traditional musical instruments 🎻 - Experience the purest slow pace of Xinjiang life. ⚠️Tips: It's recommended to allocate 1-2 days here. Take your time to explore! Chatting with the locals is even more fun!

【Unlock Stunning Scenic Highway】 There’s more than just the highway from Shache to Kashgar! 🚗 Highly recommend taking the Dawakum Desert Highway, unlocking multiple breathtaking landscapes along the way! 💥 📸 Must-capture scenery en route: ✨ Endless desert and Gobi ✨ Cotton fields (seasonal) ✨ Pristine Populus euphratica forest ✨ Vibrant Danxia landforms 🌤️ Weather tips: It’s best to start on a sunny day for better photos! Overcast or rainy days also offer unique atmospheric beauty～ 📍 Highlights: 1️⃣ Yuepuhu Cotton Fields Spectacular vast cotton fields blooming in golden autumn! 2️⃣ Dawakum Desert One of the deserts closest to urban areas in China 3️⃣ Wild camel herds If lucky, you might spot these desert spirits wandering 💡 Travel tips: ✔️ Best time: September to November ✔️ About 3 hours total ✔️ Remember to fill up your gas tank before departure ✔️ Bring enough snacks and water ✔️ Don’t forget sun protection The biggest surprise on this trip was stumbling upon vast cotton fields 🌾 The snowy white cotton sharply contrasts with the desert, making every shot look like a blockbuster!

🎯 Best Time to Visit ⭐ Around sunrise (9:00-10:30): The blue alleys of Kazanqi have soft lighting, curling smoke, and a lively atmosphere. ⭐ Warm afternoon sun (14:00-16:00): Six Star Street is colorful and perfect for leisurely strolling and taking photos, with stunning light and shadow. 💡 Friendly Tip: February to March is the off-season with very few tourists, but as the weather warms and snow hasn’t fully melted, it has a unique charm! 🧳 Pre-trip Checklist ❶ ID card, some cash (some old shops only accept cash) ❷ Warm three-piece set: hat, scarf, gloves (big temperature difference between morning and night) ❸ High-moisture skincare products, lip balm (dry climate) ❹ Comfortable walking shoes (town streets are great for strolling) ❺ Camera and spare batteries (cold drains batteries quickly) ❻ A 256GB stomach (to store Xinjiang delicacies) 📸 Photo Guide Ⅰ. Kazanqi Folk Village: Don’t just shoot the blue gate! Go deeper into the alleys to capture moments of Uyghur elders sitting by their doors for more storytelling. Ⅱ. Six Star Street: The colorful houses in the central square make a great backdrop. Walk and shoot for more natural dynamic shots. The exterior wall of the Alexander Accordion Museum is very photogenic. Ⅲ. Yili River Bridge: Be sure to arrive half an hour before sunset to see the sun dye the river and sky golden-red—silhouettes here are amazing! Ⅳ. Han Street Grand Bazaar: A paradise for cultural photography. Politely ask before photographing merchants and customers’ smiling faces, full of local life. 🚗 Essential Route ① Day 1 Immerse in the Blue Fairy Tale: Morning at Kazanqi Folk Village (2-3 hours) → Lunch recommendation: “Old Brand Minced Meat Noodles” → Afternoon at Six Star Street (have a handmade yogurt ice cream, relax and daydream) → Evening chase the sunset at Yili River Bridge. ② Day 2 Grasslands and Valleys (if self-driving): Hire a car to Guozigou Bridge viewing platform to see the steel dragon beneath the snowy mountains → Afternoon at Sailimu Lake (the lake is icy blue with ice bubbles still visible, very few people, feels like a private show). 🎪 Travel Tips When going through security or entering some folk home visits, please respect local customs and patiently queue. Horse riding experience: Near Kazanqi there are horse teams, you can bargain and take a ride around the alleys for a unique perspective. ❄️ Winter and Spring Special Tips 🔷 Many guesthouses close in winter, so call ahead to confirm if they are open. 🔷 At the end of February and early March, apricot blossoms may bloom sporadically, but the full bloom is in April, so don’t miss it. 🔷 Restaurants close early; for dinner, it’s best to go to Han Street night market or around city malls. 🌟 Exclusive Suggestions Suggestion 1: Definitely stay one night in a local guesthouse! Off-season prices are attractive, and you can have breakfast with the host family for a deep experience. Suggestion 2: Learn one Uyghur phrase “Yaxshimaysiz” (Hello), you’ll get even brighter smiles. Suggestion 3: Bring some candy or small stationery items; if you meet cute kids, with parents’ permission, you can give them as a friendly gesture. Suggestion 4: It’s very cold in the morning and evening, so dress in “onion style” layers for easy removal of thick coats when taking photos. Suggestion 5: Rent an electric scooter to get around Kazanqi; it’s less tiring than walking and lets you explore more—locals do this too. Suggestion 6: Don’t miss “Yili Blue”—a unique blue pigment. You can buy related souvenirs at craft shops. Suggestion 7: If it snows, congratulations! Blue walls with white snow caps look like a fairy tale world—hurry and take photos! Anything else you want to know? Let me know in the comments~

If you come to Xinjiang to play, be sure to spend a day in Yining! Here, Kazanqi and Liuxing Street are filled with candy-colored houses and blue-windowed alleys, like accidentally stepping into a fairy tale picture book, healing and photogenic! I have organized a super detailed one-day check-in route and secret photo spots, save it now 👇 🩵 Highlight Route Kazanqi Folk Village Entrance → Ili Blue Wall (in front of Taomagan Cultural and Creative Store) → Inside Taomagan Cultural and Creative Store Set → Stroll through Blue Alley and Colorful Doors and Windows → Ride the “Hadik” (blue tricycle) → Head to Liuxing Street (food + artsy shops) 📸 【Kazanqi Must-Photograph Spots List】 1️⃣ Taomagan Cultural and Creative Store 📍 Just set your location here, the entrance is the classic “Ili Blue” wall. Order a yogurt or juice, and you can take photos freely in the courtyard! The setting is full of ethnic style, few people and beautiful scenery, I stayed for almost two hours. 🎨 Shooting tips: You can borrow rugs, pottery, and ethnic musical instruments inside the store as props. Wearing white or yellow dresses makes for great photos. 2️⃣ Blue Doors and Windows and Tricycles Along the Way Kazanqi really looks like a spilled blue paint bucket! Every household’s doors, windows, walls, and even the “Hadik” (local tricycles) parked by the roadside are different shades of blue. No need to look deliberately, just walk and shoot, the scenery is everywhere. 🚲 You can spend 10 yuan to take a ride on the “Hadik,” letting the uncle take you through the alleys. The breeze blowing through is especially healing. 3️⃣ Visiting Local Residents’ Homes (with Permission) Some courtyards have open doors; if the owners are friendly, you can politely ask to visit. Some yards are full of grape arbors and flowers, paired with blue wooden doors, like scenes from “One Thousand and One Nights.” 🌟 Nearby Check-in: Liuxing Street Arts Map It’s a 10-minute taxi ride from Kazanqi, more like an artsy neighborhood here: ▫️ Gulan Danmu Ice Cream: Handmade ice cream in a century-old courtyard, you can add your own jam and nuts ▫️ Russian-style Architecture: Take photos of mint green and pale yellow Russian old houses ▫️ Alley Mural Walls: Many cute Xinjiang-themed graffiti Some say, the blue of Ili is half given to Sayram Lake, and half stays in Kazanqi. If you also love this quiet yet bright color, remember to come here for a walk.

Winter in Southern Xinjiang is a visual feast✨ Follow my itinerary to unlock this hidden gem👇 ❄️Day 1: Arrive in Kashgar～ ✈️Travel tips: Transfer via Xi’an/Urumqi, round trip ¥620 sorted 🚗 Carpool to Bachu County (about 3 hours, ¥120) Along the way, you can shoot the snowy Gobi Desert and camel silhouettes 🐫 super atmospheric～ 🏠 Stay at "Red Sea Family Homestay" (inside Anakule Township Red Sea Bay Scenic Area) Firewall heating + authentic hand-pulled rice + baked buns, ¥138/night great value! 📸 Must-shoot spots: ✅ Core area of Red Sea Wetland Poplar Forest 📍 Location: Anakule Township, Bachu County, Kashgar Prefecture ✨ Snow-covered poplars in the morning light are stunning! The bronze twisted branches paired with ice reflections make for cinematic shots from low angles ✅ Yarkand River Ancient Ferry Ice Beach The mirror effect rivals Iceland! Use a wide-angle lens to capture lone poplars, long exposure is perfect ❄️Day 2: A paradise for photography enthusiasts! 🌡️ Below -10℃ + sunny = over 75% chance of frost on poplars ✅ Shamalebage Village Century-old Poplar Alley 📍 Location: Shamalebage Township, Bachu County 🎨 Warm light VS blue windows + freeze-dried apricots = even color masters are impressed! ✅ Red Sea Wetland Birdwatching Platform Use a telephoto lens to compress the snowy ridge poplar forest; don’t stop the shutter when an eagle flies by! ❄️Day 3: Cultural finale day ✅ Bachu Grand Bazaar Copper Workshop 📍 Location: Bachu County center 🔥 The steaming copper crafting process is so full of life ✅ Ailisi Poplar Forest Trail The scene of an elderly Uyghur man leading a donkey through the snow fully captures the winter story of Southern Xinjiang 💰 Budget breakdown: Transport ¥620｜Accommodation ¥276｜Meals ¥220｜ Tickets ¥0 (free in winter, great benefit!)｜ Experience ¥80 (poplar wood grain bookmark + rose naan great value)｜ Warm clothing ¥90｜Souvenirs ¥32｜Spare cash ¥150 ＝Total budget ¥1198! ✨Must-see Tips: 1️⃣ Average January temperature -12℃ to -3℃ 2️⃣ Apply in advance for Xinjiang electronic border pass 3️⃣ Choose carpool vehicles registered with the Tourism Bureau for safety 4️⃣ Photography gear: polarizer + tripod essential 5️⃣ Golden hours: 8:00–10:00 morning light poplars are breathtaking! 💫 This winter, come to Bachu to witness the ice and snow romance on the Yarkand River! The vastness and gentleness of the Western Regions are all frozen in the icy mirror of this poplar forest✨

Living in the bustling city for too long, I always longed for a quiet place to escape the hustle and bustle with my loved one and enjoy some peaceful time together. This time, my boyfriend and I chose a lesser-known destination—Shache, home to a tranquil sea. The Shache Upper Peninsula Hotel, where we stayed, was our ideal retreat. 🌅🌊 🏡 A Secluded Seaside Cottage 🏠 Stepping into the Shache Upper Peninsula Hotel, you're immediately enveloped in a subtle ocean breeze, as if the sea breeze itself has entered the room. We booked a lake-view room, but the view from the window was as expansive as the sea, making you feel as if you were right on the beach. The room's design was simple yet cozy, and the large floor-to-ceiling windows were our favorite feature. Every sunset, we would sit by the window, watching the sun gradually sink into the water; at that moment, time seemed to stand still. ✨🌅 🍽️ A Surprising Breakfast 🍳 The hotel breakfast was a delightful surprise. Not only was the selection abundant, but every dish was exquisitely prepared and delicious. Especially a bowl of steaming hot porridge, paired with fresh fruit and homemade bread, made us feel the warmth of home right from the start of the morning. What surprised us most was the hotel's thoughtful seafood breakfast – fresh shrimp and fish slices, every bite tasted of the sea. 🐟🥣 🚶‍♀️ Exploring the Surrounding Scenery 👣 Although we preferred to stay in our room and enjoy our time together, we couldn't resist exploring the beautiful scenery around the hotel. The Shache Bus Station is a short walk from the hotel, making transportation very convenient. Nearby is the Jami Temple, its ancient architecture and tranquil atmosphere making us feel as if we had traveled back in time. We also visited several nearby attractions, such as the Shache East Suburb Bus Station and Shache Yarkand Airport, experiencing the local pace of life. 🚞🕌 🌙 Romantic Starry Night 🌟 In the evening, we chose to spend the night on the hotel's terrace. The sky was dotted with stars, and distant lights twinkled – such a night was perfect for holding hands, snuggling together, and quietly counting the stars. The hotel's terrace was thoughtfully designed, with comfortable lounge chairs and warm lighting, creating a truly relaxing atmosphere. At that moment, all worries vanished with the breeze, leaving only each other and the tranquil night sky. 🌌💑

Left hand with the charm of Southern Xinjiang, right hand with the ultimate crossing of the Roof of the World If Xinjiang is a magnificent epic, then Kashgar is undoubtedly its most vivid cultural chapter, while the Pamir Plateau is its most majestic natural finale. This time, we refuse to just skim the surface. We will take you through the alleys of the ancient city, converse with artisans; gallop under the foot of the Father of Ice Mountains, and visit Tajik families. This is not just a trip, but a deep immersion into Western Region civilization and breathtaking scenery. --- 🌟 Journey Highlights: A five-sense immersive symphony of the Western Region 1. Exclusive! “Time Dialogue” in Kashgar Old City Avoid the crowded main streets, delve into the maze-like alleys, visit hidden ancient residences, and listen to Uyghur grandpas tell family stories. At the second-floor window of a century-old teahouse, enjoy a pot of medicinal tea while watching people come and go below. We also arrange visits to intangible cultural heritage artisans’ homes to witness millennia-old skills like pottery glazing and wood carving, bringing back unique souvenirs. 2. Stay! Sleep inside a painting of scenery and ethnic style In Kashgar, stay at a boutique Uyghur-style guesthouse full of local charm, where the courtyard’s grape trellis is a stage for daily life. In the Pamir, stay in a Tajik family’s renovated guesthouse or an eco wooden cabin facing the snow mountains, where opening the window at night reveals the Milky Way and Muztagh Ata peak in serene harmony. 3. Ride! The celestial dance of the Pamir Plateau At the golden grasslands surrounded by snow mountains or the Tageman wetlands, experience horseback riding led by Tajik guides. Hear the wind rush past your ears, the eagle flute sound, and feel the nomadic spirit beneath the “Ancestor of All Mountains,” fulfilling a pure frontier wilderness dream. 4. Feast! A taste carnival on the Silk Road Not just night market snacks. We arrange private Uyghur family dinners to taste handmade laghman noodles, baked buns, and rich yogurt. In the Pamir, enjoy a Tajik yak hotpot, nourished by glacier meltwater, savoring the plateau’s gifts. --- 🗺️ Luxury Travel Blueprint: 5 days and 4 nights deep crossing Day 1: First Encounter with Kashgar — Immerse in the Old City’s Pulse · Arrive in Kashgar, check into a distinctive old city guesthouse. · VIP first experience: Led by a local cultural guide, embark on a “Kashgar Old City Opening Ceremony” exploration, avoiding crowds to visit the early morning Id Kah Mosque and artisan street. · Afternoon: Leisurely stroll in a century-old teahouse or do themed photography in the old city alleys. · Evening: Join an intimate Uyghur family dinner and learn to dance a segment of Meshrep. Day 2: Deep Kashgar — The Day and Night of Cultural Craftsmanship · Morning: In-depth visit to intangible cultural heritage artisans (choose from pottery, copperware, or musical instrument workshops), personally experiencing part of the making process. · Afternoon: Visit the Tomb of Fragrant Concubine and hear a legendary story. Then shop interestingly at the Kashgar Central Asia International Trade Market (Grand Bazaar) under guide’s direction. · Evening: Enjoy the grand song and dance show “Millennium Kashgar,” or taste authentic grilled eggs and jar meat at the night market. Day 3: Drive to Pamir — Scenic Corridor of the China-Pakistan Friendship Highway · Drive along the China-Pakistan Friendship Highway (G314) toward the Pamir Plateau. · VIP stops en route: Choose the best spot at Baisha Lake for ink-wash landscape photography; picnic by Karakul Lake facing Muztagh Ata, the “Father of Ice Mountains.” · Arrive at Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County by evening, check into a Tajik-style guesthouse. · Night: Listen to ancient legends about the Princess Castle under the Stone City ruins and watch the dazzling Milky Way. Day 4: Taxkorgan Secret Realm — Pursuing Eagle Flutes and Apricot Blossom Origins · Morning: Visit the Hongqilafu border outpost (subject to opening policies), feeling the solemnity of the national frontier. · Afternoon: Deep into Tajik villages (such as Warshit Village), visit homes, taste milk tea and naan, and have face-to-face exchanges with “Colorful Cloud Families.” Then experience horseback riding at the golden grasslands. · Evening: Photograph the sunset reflection of Stone City at Alar Golden Grassland. Day 5: Glacier Tribute and Return — Leave with Snow Mountain Blessings · Morning: Visit Muztagh Ata Glacier Park, get close to the “Father of Glaciers” eternal ice tongue (light hiking experience). · Afternoon: With respect for the snow mountains, return to Kashgar along the route, ending the journey. --- 💡 Your Exclusive Travel Tips · Best time: May to October is the best travel period with pleasant climate and stunning scenery. Late March to early April is perfect for chasing apricot blossoms on the Pamir Plateau. · Travel gear: The Pamir Plateau is high altitude with great temperature differences between day and night. Prepare windproof and warm jackets/down coats, high SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and altitude sickness medicine. · Cultural respect: Kashgar and Taxkorgan are mainly ethnic minority areas; please respect local customs (such as halal etiquette and obtaining permission before photographing people). · Travel documents: A border pass must be obtained in advance in Kashgar for Taxkorgan travel; be sure to allow enough time. --- This journey packages the richest ethnic customs of Southern Xinjiang, the profound Silk Road history, and the most stunning extreme landscapes, all for you. Limited seats available, join us for a top-tier feast for the eyes and soul. ---

Step into Southern Xinjiang, starting with the morning light of Kashgar Old Town. Sit down in a teahouse in Kashgar Old Town, order a pot of medicinal tea, and let the sound of the rawap guitar drift over the century-old brick walls. From deep within the alleys comes the clinking of copper being hammered, and the aroma of baked naan wafts from the clay stove. This is an ordinary afternoon in Southern Xinjiang, and also your honest way to enter this land. - 【Itinerary Highlights · Culture】 ▪️ Slow pace in Kashgar Old Town — wander through maze-like alleys, listen to the teahouse’s string music, watch artisans hammer copper, and spend half a day as a “Kashgar local” ▪️ Tajik Family Visit — in Tugrenxia Village, sit around the kang table drinking milk tea, hear the eagle flute play, and understand the smiles of Pamir ▪️ Shache Intangible Cultural Heritage Tour — from the Amanishahan Memorial Mausoleum to the century-old street, feel the pulse of the Twelve Muqam ▪️ Bazaar Life — the calls of cattle and sheep at the big bazaar, the colorful pottery at the handicraft market, the vibrant life of Southern Xinjiang comes alive - 【Spring Exclusive · Apricot Blossom Secret Spots】 🌸 Pamir Blossom News｜From late March to early April, apricot blossoms suddenly cover the villages along the way (such as Tar Township, Kukosiluke), painting a “Western Region Spring Poem” with earthen walls and streams 🌸 Photography Tips｜Capture Tajik girls working under apricot trees in the soft morning light; in the evening, golden light fills the ancient villages, enhancing the cultural atmosphere - 🏜️ Soulful Experiences · A Symphony of Culture and Nature ❶ Karakoram Highway · A Rhapsody at the End of the Earth ⚡️ White Sand Lake Illusion: Silver sand dunes reflect like mirrors, drone shots look like an alien landscape ⚡️ Panlong Ancient Trail Magical Crossing: 600 S-shaped bends rolling under snowy mountains, perfect for social media check-ins with coordinates! ⚡️ Bandier Blue Lake Fame: Tiffany blue lake water + Emerald Canyon ❷ Ultimate Romance of Desert and Starry Sky 🔥 N39° Desert Camp — deep into the heart of the Taklamakan Desert, enjoy desert dinner + starry sky movies, fall asleep cradled by the curves of sand dunes 🔥 Buzhou Mountain Camp Afternoon Tea — face Mustagh Ata Peak directly, savor hand-brewed coffee at the foot of the glacier, lie down at night to watch the Milky Way and snow-capped peaks - 【Private Customization · Hidden Experiences】 ✨ Stop and Shoot Anytime | Park safely anywhere on the Karakoram Highway, enjoy exclusive visitor-free views of White Sand Lake and Blue Lake ✨ Intangible Cultural Heritage Interaction | Special invitation to Muqam veteran artists’ performances, N39 desert cultural activities ✨ Desert Ceremony | Exclusive desert sunset + bonfire party at N39 camp - When you leave, you will find Southern Xinjiang offers you far more than just scenery. It leaves warmth in the milk tea, hides stories in the strings of the Muqam, and packs vastness into the eyes that have gazed upon snowy mountains and deserts. This land is worth your personal journey to walk, sit down, and have a cup of tea.

🔥 "Yining + Altay | China’s Most Healing Blue-Green Dual Color Impact! 5 Days and 4 Nights Fully Covered: Six Star Street × Kazanqi Folk Area × Huocheng Lavender × Sailimu Lake Ring Road × Guozigou Bridge × Kanas Three Bays × Baihaba Border Village × Five-Color Beach Sunset × Koktokay Divine Bell Mountain → Experience the 'Central Asian Style · Tianshan Snow Water · Northern Xinjiang Secret Realm' all at once, with an average cost of 890 RMB per person to fully enjoy Xinjiang’s softest, wildest, and most intoxicating dual heartbeat!" ⚠️ Highlights Alert: This is not just a trip; it’s stepping into God’s freshly mixed color palette! ✅ Yining: Central Asian mixed-blood faces—Six Star Street’s blue walls and coffee aroma, Kazanqi’s century-old earthen houses steaming with tandoor heat, Huocheng’s June lavender fields like a spilled bottle of violet perfume 💜; ✅ Altay: The heartbeat of Northern Xinjiang—Sailimu Lake’s blue that makes your heart race, Kanas Three Bays like a necklace carved by gods from jade, Baihaba’s morning mist where cattle and sheep walk on light 🐑; ✅ Here, there’s no anxiety about "Xinjiang being far away," only speechlessness at "how truly beautiful the world can be." Add one more day in Yining, don’t miss a single sight—because for many, missing the golden light splitting the lake at Sailimu Lake’s sunset means never seeing the shape of light; missing the herders driving sheep past the border marker in Baihaba’s morning mist means not understanding what "daily life on the border" really means; missing the geological rings on Koktokay Divine Bell Mountain’s rock face means never touching the pulse of Earth’s 450 million years. 📌 [Authentic · Efficient · Zero Pitfalls | Jointly Tested by Ili Prefecture and Altay Regional Tourism Bureaus] ✔️ Transportation: Flight from Urumqi to Yining (1.5h/¥320) → Private car from Yining to Altay (total about 800km, recommended in segments: Yining → Burqin → Kanas → Altay City), private car ¥320/day (includes driver + fuel + tolls), split among 4 people ¥80/day; ✔️ Accommodation: Yining "Six Star Street Blue Wall Homestay" ¥168 × 2 nights | Burqin "Little Bear Forest Cabin" ¥188 × 1 night | Kanas "Old Village Committee Inn" ¥218 × 1 night = ¥742; ✔️ Tickets: Six Star Street ✅ Free | Kazanqi ✅ Free | Huocheng Lavender (June–July) ✅ Free | Sailimu Lake ¥70 | Guozigou Bridge ✅ Free (viewing platform parking ¥10) | Kanas ¥150 | Baihaba ¥30 | Five-Color Beach ¥45 | Koktokay ¥90 | Completely genuine · no forced consumption! 📌 [5-Day Essential Route | A Different Heartbeat Frequency Each Day] 💜 Day 1 | Yining · Six Star Street + Kazanqi + Huocheng Lavender | Central Asian Blue Slow Life → Six Star Street: Blue walls, yellow windows + handmade ice cream + Russian rye bread oven sounds, every snapshot looks like a scene from "Under the Tuscan Sun"; → Kazanqi: Century-old earthen buildings, watch Uyghur grandpas toss dough in front of century-old tandoors, the moment hot naan comes out, the aroma makes you want to settle down right there; → Huocheng Lavender (mid-June to early July): Navigate to "Princess of Worries Lavender Garden," run in a white dress, when the wind rises purple waves surge, drone takes off, heart soars directly 💜. 💙 Day 2 | Sailimu Lake + Guozigou Bridge | The Last Tear of the Atlantic × Steel Rainbow → Sailimu Lake Ring Road: Enter from South Gate → Command Platform → S-bend Road → Pine Tree Head → West Sea Grassland, every segment is breathtakingly blue; → Guozigou Bridge: Climb the viewing platform, see the silver giant dragon suspended in the sea of clouds, snow-capped spruce below like green flames 🔥. 🌲 Day 3 | Kanas Three Bays + Baihaba | God’s Jade Necklace × Northwest China’s First Village → Kanas: Moon Bay (water patterns like a crescent moon), Fairy Bay (morning mist fantasy), Wolong Bay (giant dragon resting), the entire hiking boardwalk is paved, suitable for elders and children; → Baihaba: Stay one night! Raise the flag with border guards at dawn, drink a bowl of milk tea by the border marker, watch Kazakh herders patrol on horseback, cowbells jingling like a living borderland poem. 🌅 Day 4 | Five-Color Beach + Koktokay | Earth’s Palette × Geological Epic → Five-Color Beach: Arrive one hour before sunset! The setting sun dyes the yardang landforms gold, red, orange, and purple, the Irtysh River flows quietly, warm and cool colors collide into cosmic romance; → Koktokay: Divine Bell Mountain hike (2km gentle boardwalk), touch 450 million-year-old glacial marks on granite, listen to the Irtysh River rushing—it once repaid the country’s debt to the Soviet Union, today it flows gently just for you. 🚗 Day 5 | Burqin → Altay City → Return | Fairy Tale Town Finale → Burqin: Bite into a grilled dogfish (¥35 each), stroll the riverbank night market, buy a can of camel milk powder; → Altay City: Check in at the "Origin of Human Skiing" museum, drink a warm bowl of kvass, ride a vintage tram—the gentleness of Northern Xinjiang is hidden in this everyday life. 💰 [Real Costs | Student Friendly | Transparent and No Hidden Fees] Airfare (Urumqi ↔ Yining) ¥320 | Private car + fuel ¥1600 | Accommodation ¥742 | Food ¥200 | Tickets ¥385 = capped at ¥890 (full 5-day experience) | Reduced to 4 days can be as low as ¥730 📸 [Must-Shoot Spots | Cinematic Vibes] ❶ Six Star Street blue wall coffee cup close-up | ❷ Sailimu Lake S-bend road cycling silhouette | ❸ Baihaba border marker morning mist silhouette | ❹ Five-Color Beach sunset Irtysh River reflection | ❺ Koktokay Divine Bell Mountain geological patterns 💬 Interaction Time 👇 "If you could pick any 4 of these 10 landmarks to create your 'Xinjiang Soul Quartet'—how would you arrange it? The immersive blue-green line 'Six Star Street → Sailimu Lake → Kanas → Baihaba'? Or the color impact line 'Kazanqi → Huocheng Lavender → Five-Color Beach → Koktokay'? Leave your combination + reasons in the comments! Over 2000 likes, 12 winners will be drawn to receive [Xinjiang Hand-Drawn Map + Sailimu Lake Starry Sky Postcard + Burqin Camel Milk Powder Sample]!" ✨ Along this journey, You smell Central Asian coffee on Six Star Street, See the last tear of the Atlantic at Sailimu Lake, Drink the warmest milk tea by Baihaba’s border marker, Touch the 450-million-year-old palm lines of the Earth on Koktokay rocks. Come on— Bring sunscreen, pack your power bank, Let your footsteps become your hottest handshake with Xinjiang. 🌍🙏🚶‍♂️ (All information verified jointly by Ili Prefecture Tourism Bureau, Altay Regional Tourism Bureau, Sailimu Lake Management Committee, Kanas Scenic Area Management Bureau, Koktokay National Geopark | No fabrication | No shopping stops or promotions | Covers all 10 core landmarks | Ready for direct publication)

📸【Morning Light Slice】The Blue Narrative of Sailimu Lake Shooting Location: Guozigou Jinding Viewing Platform | 5:48 AM · A drone hovering shatters the thin ice at the lake’s center, cracks spreading like the weft patterns of Uyghur Atlas silk🧊 · Kazakh shepherds ride horses breaking the ice, ice crystals splashing like shattered diamond stardust in the morning light💎 · Optical magic: Using a 2-stop graduated neutral density filter to balance the snow-capped mountains and lake surface, white balance locked at 4800K to preserve the cobalt blue gene of the "Last Tear of the Atlantic"🔵 Shooting Secret: A forest ranger gently sweeps my lens with a velvet feather: “Let the CMOS remember the salty kiss marks of the western wind carrying moisture” 🎨【Color Riot】The Chromatic Alchemy of Kashgar Old Town Shooting Location: Corner of Wusitang Boyi Old Street | 4:33 PM · Indigo dye suddenly splashed by a pottery artisan spreads on the rammed earth wall like the veins of the ancient Shule Kingdom map🌍 · A centenarian wearing a flower hat pushes open a carved wooden door, the creaking hinge shaking off a century of dust within the frame🥻 · Color temperature revolution: White balance shifted 4 stops toward amber, revealing the faded memory of the “Five Stars Rising in the East” brocade in the shadows🧵 Serendipitous Moment: A boy selling naan hands me a freshly baked wowo naan: “Warm it in front of the lens, it will see the Silk Road walked by wheat” 🌌【Starry Sky Epic】The Quantum Poem of the Taklamakan Desert Shooting Location: Niya Ruins Red Willow Sand Dune | 1:52 AM · While tracking with an equatorial mount, a wild camel herd suddenly crosses the star trails, their hump silhouettes stamping the Western Regions Protectorate’s talisman on the CMOS🐫 · Archaeologists’ laser rangefinder green light cuts through the night of the ancient city of Jingjue, Han dynasty brocade patterns revive into star charts during long exposure🪐 · Technical poetics: Modified camera captures the Milky Way with the pale blue-white texture of Hetian jade dragon Kashgar River jade, nebulae curling like unearthed Kharosthi wooden slips’ melancholy📜 Survival Paradox: The night watchman stuffs spare batteries into the embers of the naan pit: “Electronic devices need the desert’s warmth to dream of the Loulan bride” 🏔️【Spirit Code】The Ice Carving Chronicle of Muztagh Ata Shooting Location: Karakul Lake Ice Tower Forest | 10:22 AM · The sound of glacier cracking chisels an ice sculpture version of the Manas epic in the frame, falling ice crystals in slow motion write the Kyrgyz genealogy❄️ · An eagle hunter’s golden eagle suddenly dives, snow mist refracted by its wingtip reveals the sevenfold light of the Pamir princess’s jeweled crown🦅 · Parameter archaeology: ISO400 mimics the grain density of lapis lazuli pigment from the Kizil Caves, highlights preserve the pilgrimage marks reflected on Xuanzang’s staff📿 Taboo and Emotion: A border guard lightly taps my tripod with a military water bottle: “Don’t let the shutter sound disturb the sleeping Silk Road caravan spirits in the glacier” —————————————————— 🏨Baotou · Zunyue Designer Hotel · Western Regions Memory Reconstruction Capsule 📍Intersection of Fuqiang Middle Road and Shaoxian Road, Qingshan District, Baotou City, Inner Mongolia 🚪Lobby: The Metal Translation of an Oasis Core Installation: “The Neural Network of the Karez” Dynamic Sculpture · After recognizing the Tarim River sand on my shoe sole, 309 brass tubes begin to perform the capillary algorithm of underground canals💦 · Front desk room cards embedded with “Loulan Sun Pattern Pottery Shards,” palm temperature activates the Silk Road star chart🧭 Space-time folding: Elevator recognizes photos of the Kizil Caves, projecting hunting scenes from Yinshan rock paintings and Baotou Steel rolling mill production lines in a dialogue of civilizations🏹 🛏️Guest Rooms: An Industrial Footnote to the Aesthetics of Travel Five-sense Reconstruction System: 1️⃣ Smart window film left screen live streams the real-time view of Bayinbuluke’s nine bends and eighteen turns, right screen shows molten iron flowing from Baotou Steel’s blast furnace (a topological dialogue between natural curves and industrial molten flow)🔥 2️⃣ Mattress built-in “Transition Frequency Generator”: simulates three rhythms late at night — camel caravan footsteps / herders’ motorcycle bumps / resonance of the China-Europe freight train crossing Alashankou🚂 3️⃣ Aroma diffuser loaded with dual space-time capsules: morning releases pine resin scent of the Pamir eagle flute, late night drifts out the copper rust sighs of Yinshan bronze vessel inscriptions🔔 🎨Exclusive Experience: Western Regions Digital Archaeology Station Hotel B2 Floor Light and Shadow Laboratory: · Repairing the Yadan contours I scattered in the Devil City with rare earth powder from Baiyun’ebo desert🏜️ · Mural restorers teach “mineral development technique”: importing RAW files into AI algorithms simulating lapis lazuli pigment oxidation rates🎨 · Holographic exhibition “A Tale of Two Cities”: portraits of my Kashgar Old Town artisans and Baotou Steel rolling workers meet in a mirrored corridor for a millennia-old craftsman’s gaze👁️ 🍽️Taste the Silk Road: Molecular Migration of Western Regions Flavors Creative Menu: ✅ Appetizer “Glacier and Fireland”: Muztagh Ata ice core slices with roasted pigeon, sprinkled with glazed sugar made from Turpan raisins🍇 ✅ Chef’s special “Tianshan Chile”: snow lotus cloud mist tea mixed with kumis, cup rim decorated with edible Atlas silk pattern sugar sculpture🧁 ✅ Dessert “Jiaohe Ancient City”: chocolate recreates the texture of rammed earth architecture, embedded popping candy simulates the urban voices and rolling mill vibration in a temporal duet🏛️ —————————————————— 💡Real Feelings · When Poplar Trees Take Root in Steel Structures 🎞️Visual Time Lag Syndrome Post-processing shock discovery: All desert photos’ lens flare ghosts embed the spiral geometry of the hotel’s stainless steel spiral staircase. The random curves of sand dunes and the precise arcs of industrial spirals reach an aesthetic reconciliation in non-Euclidean geometry🌀 🧳Equipment Desertification Report Fantastic evolution of photography gear: · Inside the lens hood condenses symbiotic crystals of Taklamakan frost and Baotou industrial frost❄️ · Tripod head auto-levels on the hotel floor heating, app prompts: “Detected similar stress models between Kashgar high platform rammed earth structures and Baotou refractory brick masonry”🧱 · Lightroom auto-generates preset “Steel Desert Spectrum” — fusing desert gold with fluorescent green from rare earth separation workshops at particle level🎨 ⚙️Most Stunning Civilization Juxtaposition Method Hotel launches “Dual Civilization Resonance Project”: Macro synthesis of Han dynasty rammed earth layers from Milan ruins I shot with foam chromatography from Baotou Steel rare earth flotation workshop, creating “A Space-Time Dialogue Between 60 BC and 2023”💬 — Those microscopic structures that once carried dreams of silk and steel complete a millennia-spanning lattice handshake on the hotel’s electronic microscope wall🤝 🎁Oasis Contract on Checkout Day Received a time capsule made of poplar wood and cold-rolled steel composite: 1️⃣ Bronze filter engraved with a comparative map of underground water veins in the Tarim Basin and Hetao Plain🌊 2️⃣ Bone conduction headphones storing a custom soundscape: mixing twelve wood kams melodies with rolling mill rhythms in mathematical rock🎧 3️⃣ Mulberry bark paper invitation: “Attend the ‘Wedding of Oasis and Steel City’ at the Spring Equinox, please bring overexposed Western Regions images, Baiyun’ebo radioactive fluorescence will complete a secondary creation”📜 Turns out the shutter is the stitch of civilization The spinning of Kucha music and dance Is sewing the rotation speed of the steelmaking converter The underground current of the karez Connects the circulating water of the blast furnace And I have become a living developing tank— All the light and shadow swallowed Settle in the blood as Singing mineral veins —————————————————— The fixing ceremony at this moment: Checking the last CFexpress card in the hotel darkroom, I find the aerial composition of the Ili Valley lavender fields surprisingly matches the fractal geometry of Baotou rare earth mining area’s excavation plan. Suddenly enlightened: the most romantic purple and the most industrial gray are adjacent wavelengths on the earth’s spectrometer. 🌅Tomorrow’s Preview: 06:20 Depart for the Northern Weapons City — using the telephoto lens that shot the Kizil Caves, aim at the casting number of the Type 59 tank, the color matrix of the armor oxidation layer is retelling the faded lapis lazuli epic of the Kucha murals.

📸【Morning Light Slice】The Blue Prelude of Sailimu Lake Shooting Location: Guozigou Jinding Viewing Platform | 5:48 AM · The drone hovering startled the thin ice in the lake’s center, the cracking sound rippling like a musical track within the frame🎵 · Kazakh shepherds riding horses broke the mirror-like surface, ice crystals splashing from hooves exploded into diamond stardust in backlight💎 · Exposure balancing act: Using a graduated neutral density filter to balance the 32-stop light ratio between snow-capped mountains and the lake surface, white balance locked at 4800K to preserve the “last tear of the Atlantic” genetic blue💧 Shooting Tip: A forest ranger handed me a swan feather: “Use it as a foreground soft focus, the lake will reveal the dream beneath the down quilt”🦢 🏜️【Color Riot】The Ili River Narrative of Kazanqi Shooting Location: Six-Star Street Uyghur Courtyard Wall | 4:23 PM · Afternoon light flows slowly like honey, the carved lattice window weaves shadows of Ediles silk into a Persian carpet pattern🌺 · Suddenly, a centenarian pushed open the door, his silver beard in the slanting sun became an optical fiber connecting the medieval and modern eras👳♂️ · Color temperature revolution: White balance shifted toward magenta, making the mottled light and shadow under the grape trellis reveal the ambiguous tone of the “Western Region Renaissance”🎨 Serendipity Moment: A potter painted colored glaze on my UV filter: “Let the CMOS taste the secret recipe of a thousand-year-old earth kiln”🏺 🌌【Starry Sky Epic】The Milky Way Camel Caravan of the Taklamakan Desert Shooting Location: Niya Ruins Red Willow Sand Dune | 1:52 AM · While the equatorial mount tracked the galactic core, a wild camel herd suddenly crossed, stepping the desert’s pulse into the star trails🐫 · Archaeologists’ flashlight beams cut through the night of the ancient city of Jingjue, millennium-old poplar remains turned into starry fossils in the exposure🌠 · Technical poetics: The astrophotography-modified camera captured the Milky Way with the pale green-white luster of “Hetian jade dragon Kashgar river seed material,” nebulae unfolding like unearthed silk🪐 Warm paradox: The night watchman stuffed spare batteries into the glowing tandoor embers: “Electronic devices, like desert travelers, need the embrace of geothermal warmth”🔥 —————————————————— 🏨 Baotou · Helan Poetry Art Hotel · Western Region Memory Reconstruction Lab 📍 Intersection of Fuqiang Middle Road and Shaoxian Road, Qingshan District, Baotou, Inner Mongolia 🚪 Lobby: The Metal Translation of the Oasis Central Installation: “The Nerve Endings of the Karez” Bronze Mechanical Assembly · After scanning the Tarim River sand in my lens bag, 309 brass tubes began performing the breathing algorithm of the underground channels💦 · The front desk handed me a temperature-sensitive room card inlaid with “Loulan Sun Pattern Pottery Shards,” revealing a Silk Road map when palm temperature activated🛣️ Time-Space Easter Egg: The elevator recognized photos of the Kizil Caves, projecting a soil layer cross-section comparison of the Yuan Dynasty Yanjialiang site in Baotou inside the cabin📜 🛏️ Guest Rooms: Contemporary Translation of Travel Aesthetics Sensory Immersion System: 1️⃣ Smart window film left screen live streams Bayinbuluke Swan Lake, right screen displays the fiery red spectrum of Baogang blast furnace steel tapping (a dawn-dusk dialogue between swans and molten steel)🦢🔥 2️⃣ Mattress built-in “Transition Rhythm Simulator”: loops three nighttime fluctuations—camel caravan footsteps / herder motorcycle bumps / green train rail frequencies🚂 3️⃣ Aroma diffuser loaded with dual time-space capsules: morning releases pine resin scent of Pamir eagle flute, late night drifts out the iron mineral scent of Yinshan rock paintings🦅 📽️ Exclusive Experience: Western Region Film Development Pool Hotel basement temperature-controlled darkroom: · Using rare earth powder from Baiyun Obo to restore the Yadan contours I scattered in the Devil City🏔️ · The developer taught the “hourglass timing development technique”: film must be rotated and developed in a suspension of Kunlun snow water and Ili River valley soil⏳ · Photo exhibition “Twin Border Chronicles”: portraits of my Kashgar old city artisans and Baogang steelworkers alternately gaze through a hydraulic device in the mirrored corridor👁️ 🍽️ Taste Archaeology: Silk Road Flavor Reconstruction Creative Menu: ✅ Appetizer “Glacier and Fireland”: Mustagh ice core slices with roasted pigeon, sprinkled with glazed sugar made from Turpan raisins🍇 ✅ Chef’s Special “Tianshan Chille Song”: Snow lotus cloud mist tea clashed with kumis, cup rim inlaid with edible Ediles silk sugar painting🧁 ✅ Dessert “Jiaohe Ancient City”: Chocolate recreates the texture of rammed earth architecture, embedded with popping candy simulating two-thousand-year-old market voices🏛️ —————————————————— 💡 Real Feelings · When the Western Region Develops in Rare Earth 🎞️ Visual Jet Lag Syndrome During post-processing, I was shocked to discover: all Xinjiang portraits’ pupil highlights reflected the concentric circle patterns of the hotel’s brass door rings. It turns out the warmth of Kunlun jade and the roughness of grassland bronze reached an aesthetic consensus on an optical level👁️🔘 🧳 Equipment Desertification Report Fantastic mutations of photography gear: · Inside the lens hood condensed symbiotic crystals of Taklamakan frost and Baotou industrial frost❄️ · Tripod head automatically unfolded on the hotel floor heating, Bluetooth alert: “Detected similarity function between Loulan wooden joint mortise-tenon structure and steel structure nodes”📐 · Lightroom auto-sync preset “Steel Desert Spectrum”—gradually blending desert gold with fluorescent green from rare earth separation workshops🎨 ⚙️ The Most Stunning Civilization Welding Hotel launched “Twin Civilization Fusion Project”: Microscopically compositing the Han dynasty rammed earth layer from Milan ruins I shot with foam waves from Baogang rare earth flotation workshop, creating “Bubble Dialogue between 60 BC and 2023 AD”💬 —Those microscopic structures that once carried dreams of silk and steel completed a time-space overlay in the hotel courtyard’s microscope projection🔬 🎁 Oasis Contract on Checkout Day Received a time capsule sealed with poplar wood and cold-forged steel: 1. Bronze filter engraved with “Tarim Basin-Hetao Plain” underground water vein comparison map🌊 2. Bone conduction headphones storing a custom soundscape: electronic variations mixing Kanas lake monster legend and Baotou steel plant safety alarms🎧 3. Mulberry bark paper invitation: “Attend the ‘Darkroom Wedding of Grassland and Desert’ at the Spring Equinox, please bring overexposed Western Region images, Baiyun Obo’s radioactive fluorescence will complete the secondary creation”💌 Turns out the shutter is the stitch of civilization The spinning of Kucha music and dance Is sewing the rotation speed of the steelmaking converter The underground current of the Karez Connects the circulating waterway of the blast furnace And I became a living developing tank— All the swallowed light and shadow Settle in the blood as Singing mineral veins —————————————————— The fixing ritual at this moment: Checking the last CFexpress card in the hotel darkroom, I found the aerial composition of Ili River valley lavender fields surprisingly matched the geometric aesthetics of Baotou rare earth mining area’s excavation plan. Suddenly enlightened: the most romantic purple and the most industrial gray are adjacent color blocks on the earth’s palette. 🌇 Tomorrow’s Preview: 06:20 Departure to Northern Weapons City—using a telephoto lens that shot Kashgar old earthen pottery, aiming at the casting numbers of retired tanks, the colors of oxidized iron skins are retelling the story of the ochre pigments of the Kizil Caves.

🍤【Special Dishes】: Come to Shache for a Western Region culinary rendezvous! The aroma of roasted pigeon and tandoor-grilled meat fills the streets. Explore the old town of Kazanqi to taste all the specialties, full of lively local atmosphere, with Silk Road flavors that will amaze your palate. Off-the-beaten-path Experience Slowly stroll through Shache for a rich experience! Leisurely walk the old street of Kazanqi to seek the charm of the Western Region, enjoy the light by the Yarkand River, encounter intangible cultural heritage spots, avoid the crowds, and immerse yourself in the unique beauty of this Silk Road town.

Stepping into autumn in Xinjiang, I found a breathtaking golden fairy tale world—the Zeput Golden Poplar National Forest Park! Bringing kids to see 30,000 acres of golden poplars is absolutely a stunning experience that lasts a lifetime! 🌟 🍂 Best Viewing Period: Mid-October to mid-November, when the poplar forest turns a brilliant golden, the most dazzling time. 🌳 Highlights: Golden Ocean: Stroll through tens of thousands of acres of natural poplar forest, with leaves shining like gold, as if the earth is covered with a golden carpet. Every snapshot looks like a masterpiece. Water Reflections: Surrounded by the Yarkand River, the clear water reflects the golden poplars, creating an unbelievably beautiful scene. Animal Interaction: Sheep often graze leisurely in the forest, creating a peaceful and harmonious picture that kids love. Cultural Activities: If you catch the Golden Poplar Tourism and Culture Festival, you can also enjoy traditional Chinese style shows and cultural evening performances, making it lively and fun. 🚌 Transportation Tips: First, take a train or flight to Kashgar. From Kashgar, take a train to Zeput County. At Zeput, transfer to a bus or shuttle directly to the Golden Poplar National Forest Park, very convenient. Inside the park, there are horse carriages, shared bikes, electric carts, and other ways to tour, making it easy and fun for kids. 👨‍👩‍👧 Family Experience: Unlike other crowded attractions, here kids can freely run and pick leaves in the golden forest. Riding a horse carriage or renting a bike for a leisurely ride offers very pleasant family time. For children growing up in the south, this magnificent yet desolate autumn scenery is a completely different nature lesson. Autumn in Xinjiang is short but stunning, and the Zeput Poplar Forest is its brightest jewel. If you have the chance to visit Xinjiang in autumn, don’t miss this golden dream! 💛

✨“A must-add item on your life travel bucket list!” Spring has finally arrived in Yili, Xinjiang Endless apricot blossoms across the hills, blue icy lakes beneath snowy mountains Stay at a wild luxury camp under the starry sky… So stunning it leaves you speechless, like stepping into a Monet painting! —— 🏕️【Top Wild Luxury Camp · Kruger Camp】 Hidden in the snowy mountain secret realm by Sayram Lake ✨Open the window to your private valley and starry sky Sit around the fireplace at night, listening to the sound of melting spring snow This is the true way to enjoy a “laid-back vacation”! - 📸【Three Major Flower Seas · Encounter Exclusive Spring】 1️⃣ Turgen Apricot Blossom Valley (early to mid-April) The world’s largest wild apricot forest! Pink flower seas stretch to the horizon, like waves🌊 2️⃣ Daxigou Wild Fruit Forest (late April) Wild apricot, wild hawthorn, and wild apple blossoms bloom in succession Like spilling the spring palette🎨 3️⃣ Yili Tianshan Flower Sea Ten thousand acres of flower fields form earth art Different flower seasons every month, perfect for photos! - 💎【Must-Experience Highlights】 ▪️Cycling around Sayram Lake, chance to meet elegant swans ▪️Professional photo service, easily capture stunning spring shots ▪️Search for wild lilies breaking through the snow on Nalati Grassland ▪️Ride a horse carriage through the blue alleys of Kazanqi ▪️Taste handmade ice cream and experience Uyghur culture - 🚗【5-Day Comfortable Itinerary】 D1: Gather in Yining - free exploration and dining D2: Yining - cycle around Sayram Lake - interact with swans - photo shoot - stay at camp D3: Camp - flower viewing at Daxigou - Nalati Grassland - Snow Lotus Valley D4: Nalati - Turgen Apricot Blossom - Tianshan Flower Sea - Kazanqi D5: Return to Yining - 💡Tips: ✅Flower seasons vary yearly, allow flexible timing ✅Large temperature difference on the grassland, bring a thick jacket ✅Wearing light-colored dresses makes photos pop! ✅Camp reservations must be made in advance, very popular! - “Here, every day is a limited edition spring” If you want to escape the city And attend a romantic flower sea rendezvous This itinerary is definitely a no-brainer! ——

Who gets it, sisters! Taking kids to Xinjiang in March-April is just amazing 🥳 Avoiding the huge crowds, kids can run around freely, and we don’t have to fight for photo spots. Best of all, accommodations and tickets are super affordable, giving you great value for money! This family trip was truly full of happiness, so I quickly put together this guide for everyone～ 🌟Must-visit family-friendly spots where kids won’t want to leave! Turgen Apricot Blossom Valley is absolutely stunning🌸 From late March to mid-April, tens of thousands of wild apricot trees bloom, creating a sea of pink flowers against the backdrop of snowy mountains. Kids chase petals around, and every photo looks like a family masterpiece! The crowds are so light you can practically have the whole flower sea to yourselves, no worries about bumping into the kids～ The blue ice of Sayram Lake is breathtaking💧 When the ice and snow start melting, the lake looks like a sapphire. Walking along the lakeside with kids, you get to enjoy the entire lake and mountain scenery alone. Kids can even pick up pretty little stones, which makes them super happy! The springtime at Nalati Grassland is so healing🌿 The grassland slowly wakes up with scattered wildflowers. Take the kids horseback riding, stay in yurts, experience the warmth of Kazakh culture, and at night, stargaze. The kids say it feels like living in a fairy tale～ Kumtag Desert is a must-visit🏜 In March-April, the wind and sand are mild and the temperature is just right. Take the kids camel riding and sand sliding, watch the sunset turn the desert golden. The kids play until they’re sweaty but don’t want to leave! Don’t miss Anjihai Grand Canyon, Guozigou Bridge, and Baisha Lake either. Each spot amazes kids with nature’s wonders, and hiking there also builds their perseverance～ 🚗Family-friendly routes, relaxed and unhurried! Route 1 (7 days): D1: Cozy home - Urumqi (stay in Urumqi, rest well and adapt to the climate) D2: Urumqi - Anjihai Grand Canyon - stay in Jinghe (the canyon views are spectacular, hold the kids’ hands tightly for photos) D3: Jinghe - Sayram Lake (around the lake) - Guozigou Bridge - Liuxing Street - Kazanqi - stay in Yining (take your time around the lake, Liuxing Street has special snacks for kids) D4: Yining - Turgen Apricot Blossom Valley - Nalati Sky Grassland - stay in Nalati guesthouse (linger longer at Apricot Blossom Valley so kids can enjoy the flowers and play) D5: Nalati - crossing Tianshan Snow Mountains - stay in Turpan (the snowy mountain views on the way are stunning, take lots of photos of the kids) D6: Turpan - Kumtag Desert - Urumqi (half a day in the desert is just right, no need to overdo it) D7: Urumqi - cozy home Route 2 (9 days): D1: Departure - Urumqi (stay in Urumqi, adjust and rest) D2: Urumqi - Dushanzi Grand Canyon - Jinghe (stay in Jinghe, the canyon hike is moderate and suitable for kids) D3: Jinghe - Sayram Lake (around the lake) - Guozigou Bridge (passing the original apricot forest) - Kazanqi - Liuxing Street - Yining (stay in Yining, kids love the colorful houses in Kazanqi) D4: Yining - Qiongkushitai - Tekes (stay in Tekes, the grassland scenery at Qiongkushitai is very soothing) D5: Tekes - Kuerdening - Nalati (stay in Nalati, enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way) D6: Nalati Sky Grassland (viewing ice lilies) (afternoon tea) - (stay in Nalati, afternoon tea time is super relaxing) D7: Nalati - S218 crossing Tianshan Snow Mountains (passing the original spruce forest) - Turpan (stay in Turpan, tell the kids stories about Tianshan on the way) D8: Turpan - Kumtag Desert - Urumqi (stay in Urumqi, buy some local specialties to take home) D9: Urumqi - cozy home 💡Family travel tips: In March-April, Xinjiang has big temperature differences between morning and night, so be sure to bring thick jackets for the kids 🧥 Sweaters and windbreakers are also essential to avoid catching a cold～ The UV rays are very strong, so sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats are a must for the kids to prevent sunburn 🌞 Traveling off-peak is really great, with better value accommodations and more comfortable stays for the kids. No need to queue for tickets, making the experience twice as enjoyable! 💰 Taking the kids to Xinjiang this trip was definitely worth it. They saw different scenery and gained knowledge, and we relaxed our minds too～ Xinjiang in March-April is truly worth rushing to. Save this guide and set off with your kids now! 📸

After visiting Ili in winter, I realized going in summer is really a loss‼️ Ili in winter is the true icy snow secret realm! Self-drive through Nalati Snowfield, Sayram Lake’s blue ice, Kurdening’s ink-painting-like snowy scenery… every frame is breathtakingly beautiful. ❄️ What’s so great about winter travel in Ili❓ ⏰ Off-season: November to March next year ✔ Beat the crowds! No one fighting for spots at attractions, no queues, photos come out effortlessly ✔ Super affordable tickets! Sayram Lake, Nalati, and other spots offer off-season prices ✔ Mild winter! Not as cold as Kanas Hemu, feels comfortable ✔ Exclusive snow scenes! Sayram Lake’s blue ice, snowy grasslands, every snap looks cinematic - 🏨 Cozy winter stays 🧊 Stay at a four-star hotel by Sayram Lake, open the window to see the blue ice and starry sky, enjoy the sunrise and peaceful nights by the frozen lake 🧊 Nalati snow-view large window homestay lets you “bring” the snow scene right into your room, cozy by the window watching snow and sunshine, full of healing power 🧊 Four-star hotel near Yining’s Six-Star Street, close to food spots, bringing the food map to your doorstep, perfect for evening strolls with great atmosphere - 🧊 Immersive winter activities 🚙 Self-drive Nalati Snowfield: step on the gas into the snow kingdom, shoot road blockbusters, chase winter crows, watch the ice cracks on Gongnaisi River 🛻 UTV snow off-road: drift on Sayram Lake’s ice, crush the snowy fields like a wind chaser, super cool 🍲 Snowfield hotpot: step on snow while cooking meat in the pot, the ultimate ice and fire experience 🍹 Blue hour tipsy moments: sip cocktails in Nalati homestay, stare at the snowy starry sky in a daze ❄️ Water turning to ice: pour boiling water into the air, instantly turning into ice flower art, every shot is stunning - 🚗 6-day itinerary 🔹D1: Various places - Yining four-star (free stroll on Six-Star Street/Kazanchi) 🔹D2: Yining - Sayram Lake loop - UTV ice drifting - stay at Sayram Lake four-star 🔹D3: Sayram Lake - Swan Lake - Tekes food tour - self-drive Kurdening - stay in Kurdening 🔹D4: Kurdening - self-drive Nalati - snowfield hotpot - stay at Nalati snow-view homestay 🔹D5: Free play at Nalati Ski Resort - return to Yining near Six-Star Street four-star 🔹D6: Yining - warm home - 📸 Must-visit photo spots 🧊 Sayram Lake blue ice: ice cracks, bubble ice, every shot looks like Iceland 🧊 Nalati Snowfield: roads, valleys, rime frost, every frame is a winter wallpaper 🧊 Swan Lake: swans swimming under rime frost, fairy tale vibes maxed out 🧊 Kurdening ink-painting snow scene: distant mountains like ink, snow-covered white space, absolutely poetic - 💡 Travel tips 1️⃣ Dress in “three layers”: thermal underwear + fleece/down inner layer + windproof jacket, avoid cotton underwear! 2️⃣ Attach warmers to phone and camera, cold drains battery fast, put them back in your pocket right after shooting 3️⃣ Use hot water for water-to-ice trick, pour quickly with a big arc 4️⃣ Drive slowly on snow, follow tire tracks, safety first -

Kashgar Shache In-Depth Travel Guide: A Time Journey Through the Ancient Silk Road City Welcome to Kashgar Shache! This is the most charming ancient city in southern Xinjiang, a living fossil on the Silk Road. Below is a tailor-made guide for you, balancing cultural immersion with cost-effective experiences. Recommended Itinerary (4 days 3 nights) Day 1: First Exploration of Kashgar Old Town Morning: Arrive in Kashgar, check into a guesthouse near the old town (recommended "Jiulong Spring" boutique inn). Afternoon: Visit Id Kah Mosque and a century-old teahouse to experience Uyghur tea culture. Evening: Kashgar Night Market (west side of Id Kah Square) to try roasted buns and clay pot meat. Day 2: Shache Kingdom Heritage Morning: Take the train to Shache (about 2 hours, ticket price 25 RMB), visit the Yarkand Khan Palace (the blue dome is perfect for photos). Afternoon: Visit the Amanishahan Memorial Mausoleum (the birthplace of the Twelve Muqam art), stroll through the old town’s handicraft workshop street. Evening: Return to Kashgar and watch the live show "Dreaming the Silk Road" (optional). Day 3: Pamir Plateau Highlights Group day tour: White Sand Lake + Karakul Lake + Muztagh Ata Peak (summer option), experience the Kyrgyz ethnic customs along the way. Day 4: Cultural Slow Life Morning: Kashgar Cattle and Sheep Bazaar (open on Sundays), buy handmade copperware on Craftsman Street. Afternoon: Visit the Fragrant Concubine’s Tomb and the Gao Tai residential ruins, buy dried fruits before departure (recommended "Central Asia Market"). Budget Details (per person) Item Budget (RMB) Comfort (RMB) Accommodation (3 nights) 200 (hostel) 600 (boutique inn) Meals 150 (mainly pilaf/noodles) 350 (including roasted whole lamb restaurant experience) Transportation 100 (bus + train) 400 (chartered car/carpool) Tickets 120 (Palace 30 + Mausoleum 20 + Mosque 20) 200 (including show) Shopping/Others 100 300 Total 670 RMB 1850 RMB Must-Not-Miss Experiences Taste Explosion: Shache herbal tea with roasted pigeon ("Muqam Restaurant" about 40 RMB per person), Kashgar rose jam naan (2 RMB each). Secret Photo Spots: Sunset shots from the top floor of Yarkand Khan Palace, rainbow-colored doors and windows in old town alleys. Festival Bonus: If visiting during Eid al-Adha (June), you can join city-wide singing and dancing, but book accommodation in advance. Practical Tips Transportation: There are 6 daily trains from Kashgar to Shache; the most recommended is K9846 departing at 10:30. Safety: Shache old town is maze-like; save your guesthouse location; respect prayer times and avoid entering the main hall of mosques. Climate: Large temperature difference between day and night; even in summer, bring a jacket; SPF50+ sunscreen is essential. Outfit Suggestions • Main colors: White / terracotta red long dress (great for photos with the old town’s earthen walls) • Accessories: Atlas silk scarf (available at local markets for 30 RMB) May your journey be as rich as the "Turkic Dictionary"—every step filled with stories.🌙

This is not an ordinary self-drive trip; it is a magnificent journey about life, perseverance, and exploration. In winter, the Taklamakan Desert experiences calmer winds and gentle sunshine, making it the best season to take your children on this world-class highway to feel the power of nature and the miracle of human civilization. 🛣️ Complete Guide to Desert Highway and Southern Xinjiang Loop Connection • Core Route: Luntai → Minfeng (about 580km). This is the main trunk of the Tarim Desert Highway. The advantages of traveling in winter are obvious: suitable temperatures (around 0-10°C during the day), tires less likely to overheat, and fewer sandstorms. Along the way, you will pass: - Zero Kilometer Monument: starting point check-in. - Desert Highway Sign: a slogan board saying "Only a desolate desert, no desolate life." - 108 Well Houses: each guarded by a couple who maintain the roadside greenery (using drip irrigation technology). You can stop to visit (bring some fruit and drinks as gifts), listen to their well-guarding stories, which is an excellent cultural education experience. - Tarim Oilfield Base: an "island" in the desert interior, where you can resupply and dine. • Starting Point Connection: Luntai Tarim Poplar Forest Park. Before departure, experience the robust beauty of the thousand-year-old poplars in winter at Luntai Tarim Poplar Forest National Forest Park. The golden fallen leaves cover the sand, creating a strong visual contrast with the distant desert. • Ending Point Connection: Minfeng/Yutian/Cele Oasis. After leaving the desert, you can visit the Niya Ruins in Minfeng County (advance application required, usually only viewed from afar), or head to Yutian County to experience the unique Uyghur culture (Yutian women’s clothing is very distinctive), and finally reach the Dama Valley Buddhist Cultural Site in Cele County. • Large Loop Suggestion: You can include this section of the desert highway in the Kashgar-Hotan-Desert Highway-Kuqa large loop to fully experience the diverse landscapes of Southern Xinjiang. 🚗 Detailed 4 Days 3 Nights Self-Drive Itinerary D1: Korla → Luntai (about 2h) → Beginning of Desert Highway • Morning: Pick up a 4WD SUV in Korla and head to Luntai to visit Tarim Poplar Forest Park. • Noon: Have lunch in Luntai County town. • Afternoon: Enter the desert highway, no need to cross it all on the first day; drive about 100 kilometers, visit 2-3 well houses, and photograph the desert sunset. Overnight at Tarim Oilfield Base’s Tarim Desert Hotel (simple conditions but a unique experience). D2: Tarim Oilfield → Minfeng (about 300km) • All day: Continue crossing the desert highway. Stop frequently to visit well houses, let children play safely on the sand dunes (stay away from the road to avoid getting lost). Arrive in Minfeng County by evening and stay at Minfeng Emperor International Hotel or similar. • Evening: Taste authentic Hotan night market-style food (grilled eggs, yogurt zongzi, rack meat). D3: Minfeng → Hotan (about 300km) • Morning: Visit Niya Museum (if open) to learn about the history of the ancient Jingjue Kingdom, or drive directly to Hotan. • Afternoon: Arrive in Hotan, visit Hotan Museum (see the precious replica of the "Five Stars Rising in the East Benefit China" embroidered armband), stroll through Hotan Grand Bazaar. Stay at Hotan Hangzhou Hotel or Yudu International Hotel. D4: Hotan → Kashgar (about 500km by highway) or fly out • You can choose to return directly to Kashgar via highway to complete the loop, or return the car at Hotan Airport and fly out. 🏜️ Accommodation, Vehicles, and Supplies • Accommodation: Luntai County, Tarim Town, Minfeng County, Hotan City. Conditions range from simple to comfortable; be sure to book in advance. • Vehicle Requirements: Must rent a well-maintained 4WD SUV equipped with a full-size spare tire. Thoroughly check tires, engine oil, and antifreeze before departure. No special modifications needed in winter, but ensure the heating system works properly. • Supplies: - Food and Water: Bring enough bottled water, energy drinks, naan bread, fruit, and individually packaged snacks. Tarim Town has restaurants and shops but with limited options. - Emergency Items: Tow rope, air pump, strong flashlight, car charger, garbage bags. - Personal Items: Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm (desert dryness), warm clothing (large temperature difference between morning and night). ⚠️ Safety Tips and Travel Ethics • Driving Safety: Strictly follow speed limits (usually 80-100 km/h) and avoid fatigue driving. The desert highway is straight and can cause visual fatigue; rest every 1-2 hours. Watch out for occasional wild animals crossing (such as camels and wild rabbits). • Sandstorm Precautions: In sandstorm weather, immediately reduce speed, turn on hazard lights, and seek the nearest well house or parking area to take shelter. • Environmental Protection: Never throw any garbage in the desert! Keep garbage bags in the car and dispose of them in towns with proper facilities. Respect the work and living space of the well house guardians. • Booking: Car rentals and hotels can be booked in advance through platforms like Trip.com. No special permits are required to cross the desert highway.

As dusk fell, I looked out from the window of my Vienna Hotel room. The earthy yellow buildings of Shache Old City glowed golden in the sunset, and the faint melody of the Twelve Muqam drifted from afar. Departing from Kashgar, after about a 2-hour train ride, I arrived at Shache, an ancient city in the Western Regions with over three thousand years of history. When the taxi stopped in front of a European-style building, I realized that my "home" for the next few days had arrived – the Vienna Hotel (Shache Branch). The hotel is located on Mixia Road in the Shache County Development Zone, newly opened in 2025, with an elegant design style. Stepping into the lobby, the classical oil paintings on the walls and the subtle fragrance in the air created a wonderful dialogue with the rich Southern Xinjiang charm outside the window. --- 01 First Impression: A tranquil haven in the bustling city I initially chose this hotel because of its high rating on travel platforms – 9.6 points, making it the second-highest-rated among Shache's selected 4-diamond hotels. Only upon arrival did I discover its unique geographical advantage. The hotel is located in the Development Zone, adjacent to the Shache Old City Gate scenic spot and the Cherry Orchard. It avoids the hustle and bustle of the old city's core area while still being within walking distance of major tourist attractions. This "quiet amidst the hustle and bustle" location is particularly suitable for travelers like me who want to deeply experience local culture but also need a peaceful place to rest. The front desk staff greeted me with warm smiles and proactively provided practical information such as breakfast times and Wi-Fi passwords during check-in. One guest commented, "The front desk guy is handsome and kind, and the service is excellent," and after experiencing it myself, I deeply felt that this praise was no exaggeration. 02 Room Experience: The fusion of intelligence and comfort I booked a Deluxe King Room, which was spacious at approximately 35 square meters. The most surprising feature of the room was the smart control system – I could adjust the lights, curtains, and air conditioning with voice commands, which was an absolute luxury for a traveler tired after a long day. The hotel truly put thought into its facilities: a 65-inch LCD TV, a smart toilet, and scented toiletries were all available. The bathroom featured a wet and dry separation design, and the 24-hour hot water supply was stable and plentiful. A deep sleep experience is the core of the Vienna Hotel brand. The mattress was moderately firm, and pillows were offered in two different heights. That night, I truly enjoyed the deepest sleep of my journey. 03 Hotel Facilities: A thoughtful companion on your journey For travelers, a hotel's public facilities often determine the convenience of their trip. The Vienna Hotel is well-considered in this regard: The hotel offers free parking, which is very friendly for self-driving tourists. Although the gym is not large, it has essential equipment, enough to allow the body to stretch after a long journey. The laundry room is located with the gym, a thoughtful design detail. I checked in mid-trip and was able to wash several days' worth of clothes, preparing for the rest of my journey. Breakfast is served in the hotel restaurant, mainly Chinese style, with local specialties like Naan and milk tea, as well as porridge and side dishes suitable for a wider palate. The restaurant environment is clean, and food is replenished promptly, enough to start the day with energy. 04 Exploring the Ancient City: A thousand-year civilization within walking distance From the hotel, it's about a 15-20 minute walk to the Shache Old City Scenic Area. This area, named an autonomous region-level historical and cultural city in 2016 and rated a National 4A-level tourist attraction in 2022, is the core of a trip to Shache. The old city's planned area is 3.16 square kilometers, with the scenic area covering 1.16 square kilometers. I followed the route recommended by the hotel front desk and began my exploration: The Amanisha Khan Mausoleum is a must-visit. This 16th-century Uyghur female poet compiled the Uyghur classical music "Twelve Muqam." The mausoleum's architecture is exquisite, and the entrance fee is 15 yuan. The Kaziqi Historical and Cultural Street is full of life, with century-old Uyghur residences lining the alleys. The colorful graffiti on the walls has a strong exotic charm. I wandered here all afternoon, watching old people chat on their porches and children chase each other in the alleys. The Shache Prefecture and the Yarkand Defense Battle Memorial Hall are also worth seeing, with an entrance fee of only 10 yuan, offering a deeper understanding of the historical changes of this land. Within the old city, there are also traditional craft workshops where local artisans can be seen making traditional handicrafts such as Atlas silk and bronze ware. I bought a hand-embroidered scarf as a souvenir of my trip. 05 Food Exploration: Shache memories on the tip of your tongue Shache's culinary experience is no less impressive than its scenery. The hotel's excellent location means authentic restaurants are within walking distance. Roasted pigeon is a Shache specialty, especially pigeon soup, which is offered by many local restaurants. Some tourists highly recommend "Abudurehemanjiang Pigeon Restaurant," where soup refills are said to be free. Roasted buns are also a must-try, with thin skin and ample filling, bursting with meaty flavor in every bite. I bought one from a street stall in the old city for just 10 yuan; it was hot and absolutely delicious. If you're looking for a dining experience with a good ambiance and local characteristics, you can try "Pineapple Music Restaurant." The food prices there are comparable to outside, the environment is beautiful, and there are song and dance performances. The night market is the best place to experience Shache's nightlife. The night market at Subiyi Grand Bazaar is bustling, with a dazzling array of specialty snacks and affordable prices. 06 Surrounding Expansion: Shache's nature and countryside If time permits, there are many places worth exploring around Shache. The hotel front desk can provide car rental information for visiting more distant attractions. The Mixia Red Cherry Scenic Area is not far. Every June, when cherries ripen, you can enjoy the fun of picking. Unfortunately, I visited out of season and could only imagine the magnificent sight of that 2800 mu cherry orchard laden with fruit. The Yarkand National Wetland Park and Karsu Desert Park showcase the diversity of Shache's natural landscape – with both shimmering wetlands and endless desert scenery. For history and culture enthusiasts, sites like the Han Dynasty Prayer Platform, Xuanzang's Lecture Platform, and Azna Ancient Temple are also worth exploring, quietly narrating the stories of the Silk Road. --- Before leaving Shache, I visited Kaziqi Street again. In the evening, the sunlight slanted across the earthy yellow walls, and several Uyghur elders chatted outside a teahouse. The music of the Twelve Muqam drifted from a window, circling above the ancient city. I realized that the Vienna Hotel offered more than just comfortable accommodation; it was a perfectly situated base. It allowed me to calmly delve into the fabric of Shache, listen to the steady and powerful heartbeat of this ancient city, and then, when tired, return to a quiet, comfortable, and smart space to process the day's discoveries and emotions.

🏨 In the space of Atour Bamboo Residence, wooden bookshelves are arranged in a staggered layout, warm lighting outlines the contours of the books, and soft sofas along with simple tables and chairs create a lazy atmosphere. Here, there is no need to chase time; just nestle in a corner and let the fragrance of books and comfort envelop your body and mind, quietly dissipating the fatigue of your journey at this moment. In Atour’s gym, panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows bring in the city’s greenery and sunlight, with professional fitness equipment neatly arranged and warm-toned wooden cabinets adding a touch of elegance. There’s no need to stop exercising during your trip; in such a bright and comfortable space, sweat it out and let vitality become the main theme of your journey.

📷 Stepping into the corridor of Atour Bamboo Residence, the warm-toned wooden cabinets collide with the cool-toned marble floor to create an elegant texture. Light and shadow extend along the lines, and greenery adds a touch of natural vitality. Every step feels like walking through a tranquil artistic painting, and time slows down at this moment. In a corner of Atour Bamboo Residence, fingertips brush over the pages, eyes scan the shelves full of books, and the warm lighting softens the surrounding noise, leaving only words and time gently accompanying each other. This is probably the most healing moment on a journey.

Atour Village is located in Shiyueliang Township, Fugong County, Nujiang Prefecture, Yunnan Province. It is the birthplace of the Atour Hotel brand. This Lisu ethnic village on the China-Myanmar border was named as the brand name because the founder was touched by its "natural, fresh, and simple atmosphere" during a trip. The guest rooms of Atour Hotel are designed with simplicity and elegance, featuring plain walls paired with warm wooden floors, creating a cozy and comfortable environment. The window offers a perfect frame for photos, whether it’s the bustling city nightscape or the beautiful natural scenery, adding a unique charm to travel photography. The lobby’s “Bamboo Residence” cultural space is full of artistic atmosphere, with shelves of books, wooden tables and chairs, and green plants complementing each other. Sunlight streams through the floor-to-ceiling windows, casting dappled shadows, making it an ideal place to read or enjoy tea. Atour, Shache County

The Yarkand River Scenic Belt: In winter, the Yarkand River is a "crystal-clear, mirror-like ice-blue, sparkling in the sunlight." The river, after freezing, displays a unique icy blue hue, shimmering like a mirror under the sun. A stroll along the riverbank offers opportunities to capture the natural landscape where the river intertwines with the surrounding snowscape. Atour Hotel (Shache People's Government Yingbin Road Branch)