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

【Introduction】: Beautiful Xinjiang is a highly worthwhile travel destination. While Northern Xinjiang boasts beautiful attractions, this guide focuses on Southern Xinjiang, which also features stunning lakes, the famous Populus euphratica forests, wetland parks, deserts, gobi, grand canyons, Kashgar Old Town, the Pamir Plateau, and more. Every attraction is worth photographing and visiting: 🛬【Itinerary】: Day 1: Cozy Home - Kashgar Day 2: Kashgar - China-Pakistan Friendship Highway - Muji Volcano Crater - Baisha Lake - Golden Grass Beach - Stone City - Taxkorgan Day 3: Taxkorgan - Khunjerab Pass - Wakhan Corridor - Panlong Ancient Trail - Bandir Blue Lake - Eye of Pamir - Early Section of Tasha Ancient Trail - Taxkorgan Day 4: Taxkorgan - Tahaman Wetland - Karakul Lake - Mustagh Glacier Park - Kashgar Day 5: Kashgar - Tianshan-Kunlun Confluence - Simuhana Village - Westernmost Point of China - Kashgar Day 6: Kashgar - Kashgar City Opening Ceremony - Shache Royal Palace - Yotkan Ancient City - Hotan Night Market - Hotan Day 7: Hotan - Desert Highway - 359th Brigade Memorial Hall - Aral Day 8: Aral - Wensu Grand Canyon - Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves - Kuqa Day 9: Kuqa - Lop Nur Village - Korla Day 10: Korla - Bosten Lake - Flaming Mountains - Karez Irrigation System - Grape Valley - Turpan Day 11: Turpan - Heavenly Lake of Tianshan - Urumqi Day 12: Urumqi - Cozy Home ⛺【Must-Visit Attractions】: 🌟 Kashgar Old Town 🌟 Baisha Lake 🌟 Khunjerab Pass 🌟 Panlong Ancient Trail 🌟 Mustagh Glacier Park 🌟 Bandir Blue Lake 🌟 Westernmost Point of China 🌟 Yotkan Ancient City 🌟 Wensu Grand Canyon 🌟 Desert Highway 🌟 Karakul Lake 🌟 Flaming Mountains 🌟 Karez Irrigation System 🌟 Lop Nur Village 🌟 Heavenly Lake of Tianshan 🍩【Must-Try Foods】: Grilled Baozi + Lamb Skewers + Big Plate Chicken + Hand-Pulled Rice + Handmade Yogurt + Lamb Clay Pot Hotpot 🏨【Accommodation Guide】: Ctrip Four-Diamond Hotels + Classic Homestays 🚌【Transportation Guide】: Seven-seater Business Van or Luxury Seven-seater Business Van 🧡【Tips】: 1. Personal Items: Please bring a power bank, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, rain gear, personal toiletries, and a thermos (water in Xinjiang is relatively hard, so it’s better to drink boiled water). 2. Food Tips: Most areas in Xinjiang have strong flavors and like spicy food, with beef and lamb as the main meats. Avoid drinking cold water immediately after eating meat to prevent digestive issues such as diarrhea. Bring some snacks for emergencies. 3. Time Difference: Xinjiang is two hours behind mainland China; please adjust your biological clock accordingly. 4. Customs: Xinjiang is a region with many ethnic minorities; please respect local ethnic customs.

Illustration of traffic distances between scenic spots across Northern and Southern Xinjiang, clearly dividing the two major regions of Northern and Southern Xinjiang. It marks core cities, well-known scenic areas, segment distances, and key highways, serving as a practical reference map for circular travel. The core information is summarized as follows: 1. Regional Division and Core Areas 1. Northern Xinjiang Covers key areas including Urumqi, Ili, Altay, Karamay, and Turpan, mainly featuring grasslands, lakes, forests, canyons, and Gobi landscapes. 2. Southern Xinjiang Includes Korla, Kuqa, Aksu, Kashgar, and Hotan regions, focusing on deserts, ancient cities, cultural relics, canyons, and ethnic customs. 2. Key Highway Markings · Popular scenic highways: Duku Highway, S21 Desert Highway, National Highway G219, National Highway 331, Victory Tunnel · Featured routes: Desert highways and roads along the Taklamakan Desert, connecting the Southern Xinjiang desert scenic belt 3. Core Scenic Spot Clusters 1. Popular Northern Xinjiang Attractions Sailimu Lake, Nalati, Kalajun, Tangbula, Kanas, Hemu, Baihaba, Ghost City, Tianshan Tianchi (Heavenly Lake), Turpan (Karez Irrigation System, Jiaohe Ancient City), Dushanzi Grand Canyon. 2. Popular Southern Xinjiang Attractions Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon, Kuqa Palace, Kashgar Old City, Lop Nur Village, Luntai Populus Euphratica Forest, Hotan Old City, Loulan Museum, Baisha Lake. 4. Practical Travel Reference 1. The numbers on the map indicate driving distances (kilometers) between adjacent points, allowing quick planning of daily travel mileage and reasonable arrangement of sightseeing pace. 2. The Tianshan Mountains serve as the natural boundary between Northern and Southern Xinjiang. The Duku Highway runs through the Tianshan Mountains and is the core scenic corridor connecting Northern and Southern Xinjiang. 3. Altay and Ili are key areas for long trips in Northern Xinjiang; Kashgar, Kuqa, and Hotan are the core areas for in-depth cultural and natural exploration in Southern Xinjiang.

Experience the adventure, immerse yourself in Southern Xinjiang A profound encounter of culture and hidden wonders, telling the glory of the Silk Road A letter sent deep into the soul: snow-capped peaks, lakes, seas of sand, ancient cities, narrate the captivating stories of Southern Xinjiang through the interplay of light and shadow. Explore the secret realm of Tata, feel the autumn, gaze upon the vast Taklamakan Desert and Tarim River, traverse the sea of sand, and dream back to Hotan: a magical journey along the desert highway and the ancient city of Yutian. 10 Days in Southern Xinjiang D1: Various locations -- Urumqi D2: Urumqi -- Uwei Expressway -- Tianshan Victory Tunnel -- Tata Secret Realm -- Tarim River Cruise -- Korla D3: Korla -- Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves -- Hesitan Street -- Kuqa D4: Kuqa -- Wensu Grand Canyon -- Aral D5: Aral -- Taklamakan Desert Highway -- Yutian Ancient City -- Hotan D6: Hotan -- Yingjisha Clay Pottery Village -- Pottery Making -- Yingjisha Knife Village -- Kashgar D7: Kashgar -- Tour to Oytak Red Valley -- Muji Volcano Crater -- Baisha Lake -- Karakul Lake -- Tahaman Wetland Viewing -- Taxkorgan D8: Taxkorgan -- Hongqilafu -- Wakhan Corridor -- Panlong Ancient Road -- Bandier Lake -- Taxkorgan D9: Taxkorgan -- Muztagh Glacier -- Kashgar D10: Kashgar to various locations 🍢 Must-Try Foods · Staples: Hand-pulled rice, baked buns, big plate chicken, Naren noodles, Baursak · Snacks: Mianfuzi (wheat gluten), rice sausage, grilled lamb intestines, yogurt dumplings, handmade ice cream · Drinks: Mare’s milk, kvass, Yili Tequ (special liquor) · Fruits: Apricots, peaches, grapes, apples from June to August, super sweet

Spend 24 days completing the full panoramic loop of Xinjiang, from the fairyland of Northern Xinjiang to the cultural richness of Southern Xinjiang, from deserts and gobi to glaciers and lakes, experiencing all the romance and grandeur of the Western Regions at once! [24 Days and 23 Nights in Northern and Southern Xinjiang] Day 1 Gather in Urumqi from various places and start the ultra-long Xinjiang journey Day 2 Urumqi → Tianshan Tianchi Lake → S21 Desert Highway, encounter snowy mountains and vast deserts Day 3 Beitun → Ahe Highway → Hemu, chase a stunning Hemu sunset Day 4 Depart Hemu, head to the fairyland Kanas, immerse in lake and mountain scenery Day 5 Kanas → Fish Viewing Pavilion → Five-Color Beach, enjoy the ultimate romantic Yadan sunset Day 6 Burqin → Urho Ghost City, experience the geological wonder of the gobi Day 7 Kuitun → Self-drive at Sailimu Lake, check in at the last drop of the Atlantic Day 8 Jinghe → Dushanzi Grand Canyon → Northern section of Duku Highway, arrive at Nalati Day 9 Have fun on the Nalati aerial grassland, then transfer to Bayinbuluke to witness the nine sunsets on the grassland Day 10 Bayinbuluke → Duku Highway → Big and Small Dragon Pools → Mysterious Tianshan Grand Canyon → Kuqa Day 11 Kuqa → Wensu Grand Canyon → Aksu, explore the secret red canyon Day 12 Aksu → Bachu Red Sea Bay → Kashgar, step into the cultural world of Southern Xinjiang Day 13 Kashgar → China-Pakistan Friendship Highway → Muji Volcano Crater → Baisha Lake → Taxkorgan Day 14 Taxkorgan → Wakhan Corridor → Khunjerab Pass → Panlong Ancient Road → Bandier Lake Day 15 Taxkorgan → Jincao Beach Stone City → Mustagh Glacier Park → Kashgar Day 16 Kashgar → Tianshan and Kunlun Mountains junction → Shell Mountain → Xijisimuhana Village, visit China’s westernmost romantic spot Day 17 Kashgar Old Town → Id Kah Mosque → Century-old Teahouse → Shache, immersive experience of Western Region life Day 18 Shache → Shache Palace → Hotan, unlock the ancient city charm of Southern Xinjiang Day 19 Hotan → Yutagan Ancient City → Desert Highway → Tazhong, traverse the boundless desert Day 20 Tazhong → Desert Highway → Primitive Poplar Forest Park → Luntai, witness the millennium vitality of poplars Day 21 Luntai → Lop Nur Village / Tata Secret Realm Lop Lake → Korla Day 22 Korla → Heshuo Golden Beach → Turpan, continuous scenic views all the way Day 23 Turpan → Flaming Mountains → Karez Irrigation System → Grape Valley → Urumqi, explore the highlights of Turpan Day 24 Urumqi → Depart to various places, return with full memories

Southern Xinjiang, half mountains, rivers, lakes, and seas, half everyday life. It is neither noisy nor pretentious, telling the millennium-old Silk Road legend with snow-capped mountains, lakes, ancient cities, and deserts. The wind blows from the Pamirs, carrying the scent of poplar trees—this is the unique romance of Southern Xinjiang. D1: Departure - Urumqi D2: Urumqi - Uwei Highway - Lop Nur Village - Korla D3: Korla - Jesitan Old Street - Kuqa Ancient City - Kucha Music and Dance - Kuqa D4: Kuqa - Kizil Grand Canyon - Flaming Spring - Aral D5: Aral - Desert Highway - Yutian Ancient City - Hotan Night Market - Hotan D6: Hotan - Stroll through Kashgar Old City - Kashgar D7: Kashgar - Baisha Lake - Mustagh Glacier Park - Taxkorgan D8: Taxkorgan - Panlong Ancient Road - Kaneryang Township - Bandier Blue Lake - Karakul Lake - Near Kashgar Ancient City D9: Kashgar - Colorful Yadan Landform - Confluence of Tianshan and Kunlun Mountains - Shell Mountain - Simhana Village - China’s Westernmost Point - Kashgar D10: Kashgar - Departure to various destinations

Xinjiang is vast and boundless, worried about travel planning? 🤔 Don’t worry, just follow this super practical map! 🌟 Dear travel buddies, your thoughtful little assistant is back with new updates! 🎉 How could we let your exploration journey in Xinjiang be full of confusion or little detours? Itinerary Overview D1: From all over the country → Urumqi D2: Urumqi → Tianshan Tianchi (Heavenly Lake) → Fuyun D3: Fuyun → Koktokay → Beitun D4: Beitun → Hemu D5: Hemu → Kanas D6: Kanas → Five-Color Beach → Burqin D7: Burqin → Ghost City → Kuitun D8: Kuitun → Sayram Lake → Yining D9: Yining → Shata Ancient Road → Zhaosu D10: Zhaosu → Kalajun → Tekes D11: Tekes → Nalati Grassland → Nalati Town D12: Nalati → Bayinbuluke D13: Bayinbuluke → Southern Section of Duku Highway → Kuqa D14: Kuqa → Wensu Grand Canyon → Aksu D15: Aksu → Daur Tribe → Kashgar D16: Kashgar → Baisha Lake → Taxkorgan D17: Taxkorgan → Jincao Beach, Stone City → Khunjerab Pass → Taxkorgan D18: Taxkorgan → Panlong Ancient Road → Bandier Blue Lake → Kashgar D19: Kashgar → Kashgar Old Town → Xiangfei Garden → Kashgar D20: Kashgar → Yarkand Khan Palace → Hotan D21: Hotan → Desert Highway → Tazhong D22: Tazhong → Tarim Poplar Forest → Luntai D23: Luntai → Lop Nur Village → Korla D24: Korla → Bosten Lake → Turpan D25: Turpan → Karez Irrigation System, Grape Valley, Flaming Mountains → Urumqi D26: Urumqi → All over the country Northern Xinjiang Highlights: Lakes, Grasslands, Forests, Snow Mountains, Fairy Tale Villages Southern Xinjiang Highlights: Cultural Ancient Cities, Desert Canyons, Poplar and Apricot Blossoms · —— 🌸【Northern Xinjiang | May to February next year】 ▪️ May to August: Enter the “Little Switzerland” ▪️ Best viewing period for Ili Grassland; Nalati and Kalajun are as green as oil paintings ▪️ Duku Highway opens! Travel through four seasons with beautiful scenery all along the way ▪️ Sayram Lake’s blue is intoxicating, with lavender fields in summer ▪️ Light hiking on Shata Ancient Road, close to the foot of snow mountains ▪️ September: Golden fairy tale mode ▪️ Altay’s autumn is like a divine backyard garden 🍂 ▪️ Hemu Village and Kanas are covered in colorful forests, like walking into a painting ▪️ Baihaba and Koktokay are equally charming, fewer people and beautiful scenery ▪️ December to February: Ice and snow wonderland ▪️ Altay becomes the top skiing destination in China 🎿 ▪️ Hemu’s wooden cabins covered in snow, morning mist and smoke like a fairy tale ▪️ Sayram Lake’s blue ice and ice bubble lake are spectacular photo spots ▪️ Experience water splashing freezing instantly and horse-drawn sledding, winter fun at its best! · —— 🏜️【Southern Xinjiang | March to November】 ▪️ March to April: Apricot blossom spring rain ▪️ Apricot blossom village under the Pamir Plateau, blooming around late March to early April ▪️ Tashkurgan and Datong Township along the way are full of pink romance ▪️ May to June: Cultural Kashgar ▪️ Leisurely stroll in Kashgar Old Town, shoot stunning Uyghur style photos ▪️ Visit Xiangfei Garden and Id Kah Mosque to feel rich ethnic culture ▪️ On the Pamir Plateau, Mustagh Peak and Panlong Ancient Road are worth visiting ▪️ July to September: Melons, fruits, and canyons ▪️ Grapes in Turpan are ripe! Don’t miss Flaming Mountains and Karez Irrigation System ▪️ Wensu Grand Canyon looks like the surface of Mars, perfect for off-road photography ▪️ Cross the Taklamakan Desert Highway, experience vastness and grandeur ▪️ October: Poplar feast ▪️ Poplar forests in Luntai, Zepu, and Shaya are all golden ▪️ Reflections by the Tarim River are picturesque, only beautiful for 21 days a year! · —— 📌【Travel Tips】 ▪️ If time is limited, split into two trips: one for Northern Xinjiang’s natural scenery, one for Southern Xinjiang’s cultural and geographical features ▪️ If you want to explore all at once, 15-20 days are recommended, connecting north and south via Duku Highway ▪️ Xinjiang is vast with long drives, it’s recommended to bring a drone and camera for stunning shots anytime

The "Yangtze River Delta Star" North-South Xinjiang tourist train made its debut on May 19, 2026, kicking off an 18-day Silk Road cultural journey. This train is the first high-end, comfortable tourist train from the Yangtze River Delta region, equipped with private cabins for two, three, or four people, each with an independent bathroom, as well as upgraded exclusive dining cars and multifunctional service carriages. The entire trip is on soft sleeper cars, balancing privacy and travel quality. The itinerary spans north and south of the Tianshan Mountains, connecting Xinjiang’s prime scenic spots: experience the clear tranquility of Sayram Lake, known as "the last drop of the Atlantic"; stroll through the Nalati Grassland among mountain springs, streams, and star-patterned yurts; explore Kanas National Geopark by boat on the lake and through Siberian larch forests; visit the symbiotic wonders of Baisha Lake and Baisha Mountain; immerse yourself in the millennia-old earthen architecture of Kashgar Old Town, touching the Western Region’s cultural heritage at the Gao Tai residences, Id Kah Mosque, and Xiangfei Garden; pass through diverse landscapes and cultural landmarks such as Kuqa’s mysterious Tianshan Grand Canyon, Hami Hui King’s Mansion, Bosten Lake, and the Lop Nur Village. The journey covers natural wonders, ethnic customs, historical sites, and key Silk Road towns, with a relaxed pace for an in-depth experience. Come and start this magnificent and profound journey across the mountains and rivers of Northern and Southern Xinjiang!

6 Days 5 Nights Essential Southern Xinjiang Itinerary (3000-5000 RMB) D1: Arrive in Korla, stay at an economy hotel in the city center (200-300 RMB/night). In the evening, stroll along Peacock River and try roasted buns and jar-cooked meat. D2: Korla → Lop Nur Village (80 km, 1.5 hours by car), explore the desert poplar trees and Tarim River scenery, entrance fee 40 RMB. Return to Korla in the afternoon and take the night train to Kashgar. D3: In-depth tour of Kashgar Old Town, visit century-old tea houses and artisan bazaars for free, watch the city opening ceremony. Stay at a guesthouse near the old town (200-350 RMB/night), explore the Khan Bazaar night market at night. D4: Kashgar → China-Pakistan Friendship Highway → Taxkorgan, passing by Basha Lake and Karakul Lake (both free), with a distant view of Muztagh Ata Peak. Carpool costs about 200 RMB per person per day, stay at a guesthouse in Taxkorgan. D5: Taxkorgan → Panlong Ancient Trail (34 km with 600 bends, free) → Kukesiluke Apricot Blossom Valley (in full bloom from March to April), return to Kashgar in the afternoon. D6: Buy souvenirs in Kashgar Old Town, then return. Budget: Transportation 1200-1800 RMB (including carpool and intercity travel), accommodation 1000-1750 RMB, entrance fees about 100 RMB, meals 700-1350 RMB. Tips: Apply for a border pass in advance, prepare warm clothing and altitude sickness medicine for the Pamir Plateau, carpooling with 4 people is the most cost-effective.

Dear friends! The ultimate 8-day tour guide for Bayingolin and other places is here! All-inclusive pricing makes it super worry-free—no need to do your own research, book hotels, or arrange transportation. Just follow the guide to easily explore Bayingolin and its surroundings, and embark on a carefree, dreamlike journey! · - Friends who see this, don’t miss out, the ultimate guide is here ↓ · - 🌟 Itinerary: This trip’s route is very compact, allowing you to visit many attractions within a limited time~ 📅 DAY 1: Depart and arrive at Urumqi Airport, then wait for the VIP shuttle to the hotel. After hotel check-in, enjoy free time! Stay at a 5-diamond Trip.com hotel for a comfortable experience 💎💎💎💎💎 🔚 Arrive in Urumqi on the first day, rest a bit, and start an exciting journey! 📅 DAY 2-3: Explore Luobu People’s Village -> Taklamakan Desert -> Tarim Poplar Forest Park -> Kuqa Old Town -> Kuqa Grand Bazaar 🔚 Spend these two days deep in the desert and poplar forest, experiencing the grandeur of nature, then stroll through Kuqa Old Town and the Grand Bazaar to enjoy local customs. 📅 DAY 4: Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves -> Xinjiang Tianshan Tomur Scenic Area · Grand Canyon 🔚 Discover the ancient Thousand Buddha Caves, admire the majestic Grand Canyon, and feel the dual impact of history and nature. 📅 DAY 5-6: Kashgar Old Town -> Kashgar Old Town Rainbow Alley -> China-Pakistan Friendship Road -> Pamir Plateau -> Mustagh Glacier Park -> Tahaman Wetland Park Viewing Platform 🔚 Walk through Kashgar Old Town, check in at Rainbow Alley, follow the China-Pakistan Friendship Road, enjoy the beautiful Pamir Plateau, and visit the glacier and wetland. 📅 DAY 7: Wakhan Corridor -> Panlong Ancient Trail -> Bandier Blue Lake -> Karakul Lake Scenic Area -> Kashgar Old Town 🔚 Traverse the Wakhan Corridor, ride along the Panlong Ancient Trail, admire the beautiful Bandier Blue Lake and Karakul Lake, then return to Kashgar Old Town. 📅 DAY 8: Kashgar - Departure [VIP shuttle to the airport, ending a wonderful journey, looking forward to seeing you next time!] 🔚 Carrying full memories, set off home, concluding this unforgettable Xinjiang trip! · - Travel Tips: 👇 1️⃣ Photo spots: Bayinbuluke’s Nine Bends and Eighteen Turns sunset is breathtaking 🌄, Swan Lake in the early morning mist looks like a fairyland 🦢! 2️⃣ Must-try food: Roast whole lamb, crispy outside and tender inside 🐑, Korla fragrant pears sweet to the heart 🍐, hand-pulled rice fragrant but not greasy! 3️⃣ January climate: Huge temperature difference between day and night 🌡️, wear a windbreaker during the day and a down jacket at night, bring full warm gear! 4️⃣ Customs and etiquette: Respect local beliefs 🕌, don’t wear short skirts or shorts in temples, ask permission before taking photos~ 5️⃣ Transportation reminder: Some road sections have weak signals 📶, download offline maps in advance 🗺, prepare anti-skid chains if self-driving ⛓️! · - Friends, follow this guide to enjoy your trip, quickly activate your product card and start an amazing journey!

Didn't take the big loop, rented a car with family to visit all the spots we wanted, no ads at all!!! Sincerely sharing!!! 🌏 "About the itinerary" Usually, people take the small loop around Kashgar, or start from Kashgar and go counterclockwise around Shache and Hotan, bypassing the Taklamakan Desert and then looping around Aksu; but this time I chose to do half the loop, starting from Kashgar, spending three days in Taxkorgan, then heading towards Aksu, mainly to save travel time and to see the Populus euphratica forests above, ending in Korla; (For detailed itinerary guide, see images 2-14) 🏎 "About transportation" This trip I traveled with two older sisters, and since we passed through high-altitude areas, we chose to rent a car with a driver instead of self-driving (which proved to be the right choice). On the first day, at 3500 meters altitude, the two sisters already felt very uncomfortable; on the second day, at 4000 meters, I also felt not so good. If crossing the desert, an off-road vehicle is recommended; other times an SUV is sufficient. The national highways are well-paved and the ride is quite comfortable. 🍗 "About food" Xinjiang lamb is really delicious! Whether it's grilled lamb skewers or boiled lamb stew, the only thing I couldn't get used to was the steamed lamb buns, which have a strong gamey taste. Dried fruits are also recommended; you can ask the vendor to try some first, then buy if you like. Figs are now softer and easily spoiled; you can also try peaches, Aksu apples, and Korla pears. Here are some price references 💰: Lamb stew (20-30 CNY) Pigeon soup (20-30 CNY) Lamb skewers (5-10 CNY) Lamb chops (10-30 CNY) Hand-pulled meat (120-150 CNY/kg) Yak hotpot (200-300 CNY) Pomegranate juice (10-20 CNY) Apricot kernel tea (10-20 CNY) Dried fruits (around 60 CNY/kg), minimum half a kilogram 🤸🏻‍♀️ "About altitude sickness" · Don't run or jump! Don't take a bath! Don't catch a cold! · Always wear a hat covering your head in scenic areas because the wind can easily cause a cold and worsen altitude sickness; · Don't stay out too late visiting sights; walking on mountain roads can cause motion sickness and worsen altitude sickness; 🧘🏻‍♀️ "About clothing" · Bring a windproof mask; southern Xinjiang is windy and dusty all year round, with a grayish-yellow sky; · Wear a good windbreaker; traveling at the end of October, in the morning wear inner layers + thin jacket + two pairs of pants, at night wear a full set of windproof clothing; · Sunglasses are a must, as the sun often makes it hard to keep your eyes open; 🌋 "About the Populus euphratica forests" · The yellowness of the Populus euphratica forests varies by location; check in advance the condition of the closest forests. Also, try to avoid visiting around 3 PM because direct sunlight can cause photos to appear washed out; 🕹 "About drone photography" You need to apply for permission to fly drones in urban areas. In southern Xinjiang, the places I visited are not strictly controlled, except for the Populus euphratica forest in Bachu and the Luobu people’s village, which require UOM registration; no other requirements elsewhere. Oh, and at Bosten Lake, drones cannot fly higher than 250 meters;

A must-visit in this lifetime! Complete Loulan Ancient Kingdom Exploration Guide Dear friends! Finally fulfilled the childhood dream of Loulan! Deep into the heart of the Taklamakan Desert, touching relics with a history of 3,800 years, the shock is truly beyond words! Here is a super detailed adventure guide, hardcore players can copy it directly 👇 🌟 Highlights · Why you must visit Loulan · Loulan Ancient City Ruins: The world-famous "Pompeii of the desert," with existing relics such as Buddhist pagodas, government offices, and residences. Standing on the ruins, you can almost hear the camel bells of the ancient Silk Road. · Xiaohe Cemetery: Known as a miracle in the "Sea of Death," hundreds of poplar wood pillars stand on the sand dunes. The unearthed "Loulan Beauty" mummy is a legend in archaeology. · Desert Secret Scenery: Vast Gobi, shifting sand dunes, and salt-alkali land intertwined. Every photo looks like a post-apocalyptic blockbuster, straight from your phone with no filter needed. · Historical Depth: Walking among the ancient ruins, feel the mysterious rise and fall of the Loulan Kingdom, satisfying all your imaginations about the ancient Western Regions. 🚗 Transportation Guide · Essential for hardcore adventurers External Transportation 1. Arrival point: Fly to Korla City, Xinjiang first, then transfer by car or self-drive to Ruoqiang County (about 7-8 hours by car). Ruoqiang County is the only transfer station to Loulan. 2. Preparation in Ruoqiang County: You must apply for a cultural relic protection zone entry permit in Ruoqiang County (must apply 7 days in advance to Bazhou Cultural Relics Bureau; individuals cannot apply alone and must register through a local legitimate travel agency). Internal Transportation (Crucial!) · You must take the designated professional adventure vehicle (4WD off-road vehicle). Private cars are strictly prohibited from entering the desert interior. The road conditions are extremely poor, full of sand dunes and salt-alkali flats. Without a professional guide, it is easy to get lost. · Ruoqiang County → Loulan Ancient City: About 4-5 hours by car, all desert and Gobi road sections, very bumpy. It is recommended to take motion sickness medicine in advance. · Cost reference: Package including guide, off-road vehicle, and permit, about 3,000-5,000 yuan per person (carpooling by number of people, 4 people carpooling is more cost-effective). 📅 3 Days 2 Nights Adventure Itinerary · Deep Unlock Day 1: Korla → Ruoqiang County · Assemble and Prepare · Morning: Gather in Korla City, visit local travel agency to confirm permit processing progress, sign safety agreement. · Noon: Have lunch in Korla city, recommended hand-pulled rice and baked buns to replenish energy. · Afternoon: Self-drive or take a bus to Ruoqiang County, enjoy Gobi scenery along the way, arrive in Ruoqiang County by evening. · Evening: Check into a hotel in Ruoqiang County, purchase desert supplies (mineral water, compressed biscuits, energy bars), listen to the guide explain adventure precautions and Loulan history. Day 2: Ruoqiang County → Loulan Ancient City · Immersive Exploration · 7:00 AM: After breakfast, gather and depart by adventure vehicle. The guide will check the vehicle and supplies in advance. · 11:00 AM: Arrive at Loulan Ancient City entrance, complete entry procedures, guide distributes audio guides. · 11:30 AM: Key visit to the Buddhist Pagoda ruins (the iconic building of Loulan Ancient City, over 10 meters high, standing firm after thousands of years of weathering). Listen to the guide explain the construction techniques and historical significance. · 1:00 PM: Simple lunch near the ruins (bring self-heating meals or dry food). Strictly no littering; all waste must be taken away. · 2:30 PM: Explore government office ruins (presumed administrative center of ancient Loulan, with visible broken walls and scattered pottery shards). If lucky, see marks left by archaeological teams. · 4:00 PM: Stroll through residential ruins, observe ancient house foundations and stove remains, feel the life scenes of ancient Loulan people. · 5:30 PM: Shoot sunset at the highest point of the ancient city, the sunset casting over the ruins creates a full atmosphere. · 6:30 PM: Return by car to Ruoqiang County. On the way, the guide will share several hypotheses about the disappearance of the Loulan Kingdom (water source depletion, war, ecological deterioration), very informative. · 8:30 PM: Dinner in Ruoqiang County, recommended local red willow barbecue and big plate chicken to relieve the day's fatigue. Day 3: Ruoqiang County → Xiaohe Cemetery → Return · 8:00 AM: Take the adventure vehicle to Xiaohe Cemetery, about 3 hours by car, with desert poplars along the way. · 11:00 AM: Arrive at Xiaohe Cemetery, visit the "Hall of Death" — hundreds of poplar wood pillars stuck in the sand dunes, with various shapes, some with carvings. · 12:30 PM: Picnic near the cemetery, listen to the guide tell the discovery process of the "Loulan Beauty" mummy (unearthed in 1980, 3,800 years old, skin still elastic). · 2:00 PM: Return by car to Ruoqiang County, stop on the Gobi to experience sand sliding and take desert photos. · 5:00 PM: Arrive in Ruoqiang County, pack luggage, buy local specialties (Ruoqiang gray dates, premium dates). · 7:00 PM: According to return plans, head to Ruoqiang County train station or airport, ending the unforgettable Loulan adventure. 🧳 Essential Packing List · Not a single item can be missed · Clothing: Windbreaker, quick-dry clothes (desert temperature difference between day and night is large, sun protection during the day, warmth at night), high-top anti-slip hiking shoes (sand-proof, anti-chafing), wide-brim hat, sunglasses, sun protection mask. · Supplies: High SPF sunscreen (SPF50+ PA++++, desert UV is very strong), lip balm (to prevent chapping), thermos (desert water shortage, need to replenish hot water timely), power banks (bring 2, weak signal and fast power consumption along the way). · Others: ID card, cultural relic protection zone permit, cash (some places have no signal), motion sickness medicine, stomach medicine (to cope with bumps and diet changes), trash bags (strictly follow the "leave no trace" principle), camera (with telephoto lens to capture relic details). ❗ Pitfalls & Precautions · Lessons learned the hard way 1. Documents must be complete: No cultural relic protection zone permit means no entry to Loulan. Don’t trust roadside "black guides" who say they can sneak you in. Safety and compliance come first. 2. Weather choice: Best time is April-May and September-October. Summer desert temperatures can exceed 40°C, winter can drop to -20°C, both unsuitable. Check Ruoqiang County weather forecast before departure; reschedule if there is strong wind or sandstorm. 3. Respect the rules: Strictly no touching or climbing on relics, no taking pottery shards, wood pieces, or other relics. Violators face heavy fines and legal responsibility (the scenic area has surveillance and patrols). 4. Physical preparation: Desert adventure consumes a lot of energy. Those with heart disease or hypertension should be cautious. Taking Rhodiola a week in advance can prevent altitude sickness (some areas are about 1000-1500 meters above sea level). 5. Signal issues: After entering the desert, mobile phones basically have no signal. Inform family of your itinerary in advance and keep close contact with the guide. The mystery of Loulan can only be experienced in person! Although the journey is tough, the moment you stand before the millennia-old ruins, all the fatigue is worth it~

When the snowmelt from the mountains traces the veins of the grasslands, and the desert winds lift the curtains of ancient cities, the beauty of Xinjiang is never a singular theme. This 19-day grand loop through Northern and Southern Xinjiang is like opening a 'geographical blind box'—you'll drive through the 'four seasons in one day' on the Duku Highway, touch the texture of glaciers on the Pamir Plateau, lose yourself in the thousand-year-old alleys of Kashgar Old Town, and listen to the echoes of Kazakh songs under the starry grassland skies. From the lush landscapes of Ili to the crimson canyons of Southern Xinjiang, from nomadic civilizations to Silk Road heritage, this journey captures the most breathtaking frontier scenery and cultural epics of China. If you wish to understand the soul of Xinjiang in half a month, this guide is your 'key to entering Xinjiang.' Day 1: Arrival in Urumqi Day 2: Urumqi - S101 National Defense Highway - Anjihai Grand Canyon - Jinghe Day 3: Jinghe - Sayram Lake - Huocheng Lavender Fields - Yining Day 4: Yining - Yizhao Highway - Xiata Scenic Area - Zhaosu Day 5: Zhaosu - Qiongkushitai - Tekesi Day 6: Tekesi - Chaxi Forest Park - Xinyuan Day 7: Xinyuan - Nalati Grassland - Nalati Day 8: Nalati - Bayinbuluk Scenic Area - Bayinbuluk Day 9: Bayinbuluk - Mysterious Grand Canyon of Tianshan - Kuqa Day 10: Kuqa - Tianshan Tomur Grand Canyon - Aksu Day 11: Aksu - Kashgar Old Town - Kashgar Day 12: Kashgar - Karakul Lake Scenic Area - White Sand Lake Scenic Area - Kashgar Ancient Stone City - Pamir Golden Grassland - Viewing Platform - Tashkurgan Day 13: Tashkurgan - Bandir Blue Lake - Panlong Ancient Road - Kashgar Day 14: Kashgar - Shache Royal Tomb - Hotan Day 15: Hotan - Ancient Walnut King - Minfeng Day 16: Minfeng - Tarim Poplar Forest Park - Luntai Day 17: Luntai - Luobu Village - Korla Day 18: Korla - Bosten Lake - Urumqi Day 19: Departure from Urumqi

[Introduction]: Northern Xinjiang is dominated by natural landscapes, with many landforms such as high mountains, snow-capped mountains, lakes, grasslands, and forests. It is the region with the richest and most diverse natural scenery in Xinjiang. Southern Xinjiang is characterized by the combination of humanities and natural scenery, with a variety of landforms including plateaus, snow-capped mountains, ancient cities, deserts, and Gobi. : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : The natural scenery here is pristine and mysterious, a paradise for photography and hiking enthusiasts. 2. Yili Grassland: Nalati Grassland, Kalajun Grassland and other vast grasslands are covered with green grass and dotted with wild flowers in summer. They are great places to experience the grassland style. 3. Tianshan Tianchi: Located near Urumqi, it is an alpine lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains and picturesque scenery. 4. Sailimu Lake: It is known as "the last tear of the Atlantic Ocean". It is the last place visited by the warm and humid air currents from the Atlantic Ocean in Xinjiang. The lake water is clear and blue, which contrasts beautifully with the snow-capped mountains in the distance. 5. Duku Highway: A highway connecting southern and northern Xinjiang, with picturesque scenery along the way, including snow-capped mountains, grasslands, lakes and other landforms. 6. Kashgar Old Town: The culture of the old town is well preserved, with crisscrossing streets and alleys. Most of the buildings have a history of hundreds of years. It is an excellent place to experience the folk customs of southern Xinjiang. 7. Pamir Plateau: You can enjoy the plateau scenery, such as snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and famous attractions such as Muztagh Ata Peak and Karakul Lake. 8. Taklimakan Desert: The largest desert in China, you can experience a desert tour and feel the vastness and mystery of the desert. 9. The Mysterious Tianshan Grand Canyon and Wensu Grand Canyon: They display unique canyon landforms and are great places for adventure and photography. 10. Tarim Populus euphratica forest: Magnificently golden in autumn, it is a paradise for photography enthusiasts. 🍩【Must-eat food】: Baked buns + hand-pulled rice + roasted whole lamb + lamb kebabs + big plate chicken + grilled fish 🏨【Accommodation guide】: Ctrip four-diamond + classic homestay + century-old house 🚌【Transportation guide】: Seven-seat business car + luxury seven-seat car (car according to guest requirements) 🧡【tips】: Tianshan Tianchi Altay Region · Xinjiang Kanas Scenic Area Hemu Scenic Area Wucai Beach World Ghost City Sailimu Lake · Bole Tangbula Grassland Narat Tourist Scenic Area · Xinyuan Bayinbuluke Scenic Area Kuche Palace Xinjiang Tianshan Tomur Scenic Area · Grand Canyon Kashgar City · Kashgar Region Panlong Ancient Road Baisha Mountain-Baisha Lake Scenic Area Karakul Lake Scenic Area Bandir Blue Lake Muztagh Ata Glacier Park Shache · Kashgar Region Hotan City · Hotan Region Yotgan Ancient City Tarim Populus euphratica Forest Park Luobu Village Bosteng Lake

【Introduction】: Xinjiang, a vast and boundless land, attracts countless travelers with its unique natural scenery and profound cultural heritage. The north and south of Xinjiang each have their own characteristics. The north is known for its magnificent natural scenery, while the south is rich in ethnic customs and historical culture. Whether you are stepping onto this land for the first time or have been here many times, Xinjiang will always bring you endless surprises. 🛬【Itinerary】: Day 1: Home sweet home - Urumqi Day 2: Urumqi - Tianchi Lake - Fuyun Day 3: Fuyun - Kanas Lake - Yuguangtai - Kanas Day 4: Kanas - Ahe Highway - Hemu Day 5: Hemu sunrise - Kanas Three Bays - Fish Viewing Platform - Kanas Day 6: Kanas - Devil's City - Karamay Day 7: Karamay - Sayram Lake - Sayram Lake Day 8: Sayram Lake - Guozigou Bridge - Lavender - Yining Day 9: Yining - Nalati Grassland - Bayinbuluk Day 10: Bayinbuluk - Duku Highway - Small and Large Dragon Pools - Kuche Palace - Kuche Day 11: Kuche - Tarim Populus euphratica Forest - Korla Day 12: Korla - Lop Nur Village - Bosten Lake - Tokxun Day 13: Tokxun - Karez - Grape Ditch - Flame Mountain - Urumqi Day 14: Urumqi - Home sweet home ⛺【Must-visit attractions】: Sayram Lake: Known as the "last tear of the Atlantic," the lake is crystal clear and surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Whether it's the golden lake at sunrise or the twilight at sunset, the beauty is breathtaking. Kanas Lake: The mysterious lake monster legend, the ancient village of Tuva people, and the primitive forest by the lake all add to the mystery of this place. Hemu Village: This is a traditional village of Tuva people, with scattered wooden houses and smoke curling up, like a paradise on earth. Nalati Grassland: On the vast grassland, cattle and sheep are everywhere, and felt tents are dotted around, making it a great place to experience the grassland scenery. Tarim Populus euphratica Forest: Known as "living for a thousand years, dying for a thousand years, and falling for a thousand years," the Populus euphratica forest is a miracle of nature. Here, you can feel the tenacity of life. 🍩【Must-eat delicacies】: 1. Grilled mutton skewers 2. Big plate chicken 3. Hand-pulled rice 4. Grilled buns 5. Naan 6. Grilled whole lamb 7. Spicy lamb hooves 8. Xinjiang fried rice noodles 🏨【Accommodation guide】: Ctrip four-star or classic homestay 🚌【Transportation guide】: Seven-seat business car or luxury seven-seat car 🧡【Tips】: 1. The climate is dry and the temperature difference between day and night is large. Even in summer, you need to prepare warm clothes such as long-sleeved jackets and thin sweaters to prevent cold. 2. The ultraviolet rays are strong, so you should bring high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hats, and sunscreen clothing to avoid sunburn. 3. Please respect the local dietary culture and religious beliefs. Do not bring or eat non-halal food in halal restaurants. Do not discuss sensitive topics related to religion. 4. The water quality in some areas is hard, which may cause gastrointestinal discomfort. You can prepare gastrointestinal medicine. When you first arrive in Xinjiang, you should eat moderately and give your stomach time to adapt. 5. The distance between attractions is far and the journey is long. People who are prone to motion sickness should prepare motion sickness medicine. 6. There is a time difference of about 2 hours between Xinjiang and the mainland. Please adjust your sleep schedule accordingly. The local office hours are generally 9:30-10:00, 14:00-15:00, and 20:00-21:00. Urumqi, Xinjiang - Tianchi Lake - Kanas Scenic Area - Fuyun - Altay Region, Xinjiang - Hemu Scenic Area - Kanas Scenic Area - Devil's City - Sayram Lake - Bole - Nalati Tourist Scenic Area - Bayinbuluk Scenic Area - Duku Highway - Kuche, Aksu Region - Tarim Populus euphratica Forest Park - Lop Nur Village - Flame Mountain Scenic Area

【Introduction】: Southern Xinjiang, located south of the Tianshan Mountains, is an important passage connecting Central Asia to Europe on the ancient Silk Road. It is home to numerous relics of ancient Western kingdoms and a wealth of intangible cultural heritage. Southern Xinjiang boasts many tourist attractions, each with its own unique charm. Here are some of the main attractions: 🛬【Itinerary】: Day 1: Home - Urumqi Day 2: Urumqi - Bosten Lake - Korla Day 3: Korla - Kuqa Palace - Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves - Kuqa Day 4: Kuqa - Wensu Grand Canyon - Aksu Day 5: Aksu - Kashgar Old City - Mosque - Kashgar Day 6: Kashgar - White Sand Lake - Karakul Lake - Golden Grassland - Stone City - Tashkurgan Day 7: Tashkurgan - Panlong Ancient Road - Bandier Blue Lake - Muztagh Ata - Kashgar Day 8: Kashgar - Kashgar Opening Ceremony - Shache Palace - Hotan Night Market - Hotan Day 9: Hotan - Yotkan Ancient City - Taklamakan Desert - Tazhong Day 10: Tazhong - Tarim Poplar Forest - Luntai Day 11: Luntai - Luobu Village - Tuokexun Day 12: Tuokexun - Kumtag Desert - Shanshan Day 13: Shanshan - Flaming Mountain - Grape Valley - Karez Well - Urumqi Day 14: Urumqi - Home 1. Pamir Plateau: Known as the roof of the Asian continent, it is located in southwestern Xinjiang, bordering Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and other countries. With an average altitude of over 4,000 meters, it features continuous snow-capped mountains and unique natural landscapes such as glaciers, deserts, lakes, and forests. Visitors can also experience the simplicity and enthusiasm of the Tajik people and enjoy their music, dance, and costumes. 2. Kashgar Old City: The only maze-like urban area in China characterized by Islamic culture, the core residential area of the old city is one of the largest adobe building complexes in the world, blending Han and Tang, ancient Roman influences, and modern Uyghur life. Visitors can stroll through the maze-like streets and experience the unique culture of the Uyghur people. 🍩【Must-Eat Foods】: Baked buns + Roast whole lamb + Lamb skewers + Big plate chicken + Hand-pulled rice 🏨【Accommodation Guide】: Ctrip Four Diamonds + Classic Homestays 🚌【Transportation Guide】: Seven-seater business car or luxury seven-seater 🧡【Tips】: 1. Climate and Clothing: Southern Xinjiang has a large temperature difference between day and night. Even in summer, you need to bring enough warm clothing, such as a windbreaker, fleece, and down jacket. During the day, the sun is strong, and UV radiation is intense, so bring sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen. 2. Documents and Border Defense: Some border areas in southern Xinjiang (such as the Pamir Plateau) require a border defense permit. You can apply at the Kashgar Public Security Bureau or have it arranged by a travel agency if you are on a group tour. Always carry your ID card and other valid documents. 3. Transportation and Road Conditions: Southern Xinjiang is vast, and the distances between attractions are long. Plan your itinerary and transportation in advance. You can choose to rent a car, join a group tour, or drive yourself. If driving, pay attention to road conditions and driving safety, especially in mountainous and desert areas. 4. Safety and Environmental Protection: Pay attention to personal safety during the tour, follow the regulations of the scenic spots, do not litter, and protect the ecological environment. In high-altitude areas, be aware of altitude sickness, prepare relevant medications in advance, and avoid strenuous exercise. 5. Respect Local Customs: Southern Xinjiang is home to multiple ethnic groups, each with its own customs and religious beliefs. Respect local customs during your travels to avoid unnecessary trouble. Bosten Lake Luobu Village Tarim Poplar Forest Park Kuqa Palace Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves Tianshan Tomur Scenic Area Grand Canyon Kashgar City Id Kah Mosque White Sand Mountain - White Sand Lake Scenic Area Panlong Ancient Road Bandier Blue Lake Muztagh Glacier Park Karakul Lake Scenic Area Shache Palace Scenic Area Yotkan Ancient City Flaming Mountain Scenic Area Karez Well Park

🍂 The trip to southern Xinjiang in autumn, boarding the luxurious Silk Road Dream, started a six-day, five-night cultural exploration journey. This trip started from Xining, passed through Ruoqiang, Korla, Kuche, and finally arrived in Kashgar. 🚂 Except for the first night staying at the Sofitel Hotel in Xining, the remaining four nights were spent on the train. 🏨 Day1: Arrive in Xining, check in to Sofitel Hotel and enjoy a comfortable stay. 🕌 Day 2: Visit the Ta'er Temple in Xining, then board the Silk Road Dream to start your dream journey. 🏛️ Day 3: Explore the ruins of the ancient city of Milan and the Loulan Museum in Ruoqiang, and feel the weight of history. 🌄 Day 4: In Korla, enjoy the magnificent view of the Lop Nur Great Rift Valley and Populus euphratica forest, and visit the Lop Nur village. 🏯 Day 5: The Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves and the Old Town of Kuche make people immersed in the ancient cultural atmosphere. 🏙️ Day6: Arrive in Kashgar, ending this unforgettable journey. 🚉 The train journey will be accompanied and explained by the butler and local tour guide throughout the journey, allowing passengers to have a deep understanding of the cultural charm of southern Xinjiang. As we all know, northern Xinjiang is famous for its scenery, while southern Xinjiang is known for its culture, especially the poplar forests beside the Taklimakan Desert in autumn, which are breathtakingly beautiful. 🍽️ Enjoy local cuisine at a local specialty restaurant for lunch every day, while breakfast and dinner are served on the train. Breakfast offers two set menus: Chinese and Western, with a different menu every day. Dinner is a seven-course custom menu that combines Chinese and Western cuisine, carefully prepared by a Hungarian chef who has worked in Michelin restaurants in Europe. Every meal is full of ritual, making people linger. 🚆 This way of traveling is more like a high-end customized group tour. The hotel becomes a mobile luxury train. There is no need to carry luggage every day, and the long journey passes quietly in your sleep. #Niche Travel Destinations #Xinjiang #Southern Xinjiang #Silk Road Dream #Kashgar #Poplar Forest

This is my second time to come to Xinjiang this year Just for this short but gorgeous autumn limited poplar forest🍁 Standing in the desert and looking down When the Taklimakan Desert🏜️, Tarim River, and poplars join into a picture I was amazed by the beauty of Xinjiang! I want to tell everyone that they must come and see Xinjiang’s Populus euphratica forest! 📍Location: Huludao Scenic Area in Southern Xinjiang 🗺️Address: Bayinguoleng Mongolian Autonomous Prefecture-33rd Regiment of Yuli County 🧭Navigation: Huludao, Yuli County-Wharf (a certain navigation) ⌚️Season: Mid-to-late October~Mid-November 🏨Accommodation: Yuli County 1.5h / Korla 2h 🎫Tickets: 80/person + 50/self-driving 🍂About Populus euphratica forest: I have been to three Populus euphratica forest scenic spots in Southern Xinjiang. The scenery of Huludao can be ranked first. The scenery of desert lake and Populus euphratica in the same frame is very shocking and worth going! But the disadvantage is that private contracting is not formal enough, and the scenic area management and equipment need to be improved and perfected~

📍Luobu Village There was a warning earlier that the Poplar forest might be gone So I feel lucky to encounter not just bare branches "Desert for thousands of years, Poplar for a thousand years, Luobu people for a hundred years" The early winter temperature starts to be unbearable, the scenic area Luobu people have retreated There are fewer tourists along the way The overall scene is more solemn and desolate in winter But The golden leaves on the ground of the Poplar forest form a carpet The little brother is still fishing on the shallow beach of the Tarim River The lake under the East Sand Mountain is still shining Black swans are playing in pairs, as beautiful as a painting Take the scenic spot sightseeing car from East Sand Mountain to Goddess Lake Pass through the Taklamakan Desert all the way🏜️ Riding a camel in the desert and looking at the Goddess Lake Still feel it's worth it 🎫: 50 (including sightseeing car) ⏱️: 10:00-18:30 🚗: It takes about 1.5h to drive from Kuerle city, there is a free parking lot at the entrance ❗️Notes 1⃣️It is recommended to take the scenic spot sightseeing car in two sections, the first section to Abudan Square. Most of the Poplar forest is on the way to East Sand Mountain, and then the second section belongs to East Sand Mountain-Goddess Lake-Abudan Square loop 2⃣️Most of the merchants have withdrawn this season, only a small amount of food is available at Abudan Square, but the commercialization mentioned by netizens is gone, and there are very few people, it's very comfortable to stroll around, and you can take pictures casually 3⃣️There are many projects in the scenic area, popular camel riding (80 yuan/person), glider, desert car, it was a bit cold and I just rode a camel and left, the scenery is really good

Friends going to Korla must go to 'Luobu Village', but I tell everyone with the experience of buying two tickets, don't rush into Luobu Village, it's more attractive to drive into 'Luobu Naor National Wetland Park' from the side!!! 'Luobu Village' and 'Luobu Naor National Wetland Park' are in the same location. The village takes a shuttle bus from the visitor center to visit, and the wetland park drives in from the side door to visit; the wetland park is larger and more primitive, I personally think it's okay to go directly to the wetland park! 🔸 Luobu Naor National Wetland Park 200r/car The newly opened scenery, the original ecology is to buy tickets in the temporary shed at the entrance of the Luobu Village Visitor Center. It is a 46km ring road for self-driving, including several Populus euphratica landscapes. It is quite primitive. You can play as you like. The pictures are basically taken here. I personally think the experience is far better than Luobu Village 🔸 Luobu Village 49/person The planned scenic area, there are many man-made scenes on the Populus euphratica forest, plus too many tour groups, the experience is not very good, the photos are not very good, the more highlights are the 'Goddess Lake' behind, which is more characteristic than the previous scenic spots~

Everyone says summer vacation with kids is a money-burning battle, with flight and hotel prices doubling and crowds so big you question your sanity. But it doesn’t have to be so intense. I spent nearly two weeks researching and found these 8 places—fewer people, beautiful scenery, and most importantly, low costs that’ll make you smile. Family trips don’t have to mean squeezing into Disneyland. Change your approach, and your kids will have more fun while your wallet stays happy. 1️⃣ Baoding | Hebei Don’t just think of donkey meat sandwiches when you hear Baoding. In summer, it’s a great place to cool off. Take the kids to Qingxi Mausoleum. Don’t just rush through—its ancient pine forest is cooler than the buildings. Lay out a picnic mat and listen to the wind rustling through the treetops. It’s way more comfortable than air conditioning. In the afternoon, head straight to Baishi Mountain. Remember to take the cable car up. The boardwalk at the top is flat enough to push a stroller. Kids love the mountain mist—it’s like playing hide and seek in the clouds. ⚠️ The temperature varies a lot on the mountain, so bring a light jacket for the kids. The next day, visit Yesanpo. Skip the crowded main entrance of Bailixia Gorge and enter through a side trail where the creek is clearer and the crowd is half as big. At Baiyangdian, lotus flowers are in full bloom this season. Take a hand-pulled wooden boat, not a large tour boat. The boatman will pick lotus pods for you, and the kids will be fascinated for hours. 🍜 For lunch, find a farmhouse restaurant by the lake. Try the stewed mixed fish with flatbread—about 30 yuan per person and very filling. 2️⃣ Zhuhai | Guangdong Zhuhai is the kind of city you don’t want to leave once you arrive, and want to return to once you leave. Chimelong Ocean Kingdom is pricey, but if you know how to play, one day is enough. Don’t buy a two-day ticket. Be sure to rush in right at opening and head straight to the whale shark aquarium. That’s when it’s least crowded, and you can watch as long as you want right up against the glass. ⏰ After 3 PM, most tour groups leave, so wait times for rides are cut in half. Don’t stay at the park hotel at night. Take a taxi to a chain hotel near Gongbei for just over 100 yuan. It’s clean and comfortable, and the money saved is enough for a seafood feast. Don’t plan any attractions the next day. Rent a shared bike along Lovers’ Road, cycling from the beach swimming area all the way to the Zhuhai Fisher Girl statue. There are many free playgrounds along the way, and kids won’t want to stop. 📍 If you pass by Yeli Island, be sure to stop. There’s a huge sandpit where kids can play all afternoon. At night, find a food stall near Riyuebei. Three oysters for 10 yuan, so fresh it’ll make your eyebrows raise. 3️⃣ Shiyan | Hubei Shiyan isn’t just about Wudang Mountain, but if you’re here, you have to go. Skip the tour groups; climbing on your own is more fun. If you have kids, avoid the front mountain—it’s crowded and steep. Take the back mountain’s Xiaoyao Valley, where a stream flows all the way and you might see monkeys. If the kids get tired, hop on the scenic shuttle bus to switch routes easily. The summit’s Golden Peak is impressive, but I recommend spending more time at Zixiao Palace. The Taoist priests there teach kids simple Tai Chi moves, which is way more interesting than just sightseeing. Don’t rush down. At the foot of the mountain, rent a small boat on Taiji Lake. The mountain breeze will blow away the summer heat. ⚠️ Prices on the mountain are high. Bring enough water and snacks. A cucumber costs 10 yuan, which isn’t worth it. Back in the city at night, try Sanhe soup near Liuyan Square. It’s sour and spicy, appetizing, and kids can drink it too. 4️⃣ Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture | Xinjiang This might be the farthest spot on my list, but it’s definitely worth it. At Bayinbuluke Grassland, don’t just focus on the sunset at the Nine Bends and Eighteen Turns—it happens around 9:30 PM, and kids will be sleepy by then. Spend the day letting kids run wild on the grassland, riding horses and holding lambs. It costs 20 yuan for half an hour of fun. ⏰ Around 7 PM, the light is softest, and any photo looks like wallpaper. After that, leave—don’t wait for the sunset. Don’t go deep into the Taklamakan Desert. Play on the dunes at the edge, rent a sandboard, and watch the kids slide down laughing. ⚠️ The desert wind is strong. Make sure kids wear hats and goggles to protect against sand. The Tarim Poplar Forest Park is most beautiful in autumn, but summer has its charm too. The lush poplars look like giant umbrellas, perfect for picnics. This area is vast and sparsely populated. If driving, fill up your tank fully—gas stations are far apart. 5️⃣ Lu’an | Anhui Lu’an is an underrated treasure. The waterfalls at Tiantangzhai are incredibly full in summer. Walking up the trail, you’ll hear water all along the way. Don’t let kids wear sandals—the mountain paths are slippery. Non-slip sneakers are safer. Halfway up at Yaochi Pool, the water is as clear as jade. Kids can use nets to catch small fish. 📍 Enter from the east gate of the park. It’s less crowded and closer to the waterfalls. The next day, visit Wanfo Lake. Skip the big tour boats and rent a small speedboat. The captain will take you through the islands, and the kids will be thrilled. There’s a mini zoo on the island where you can feed rabbits and peacocks, which can keep you busy for half a day. 🍜 For lunch by the lake, try fish head soup. The milky broth is so fresh kids will want a second bowl. Costs here are really low. Tickets, boat rides, and meals for a family of three can be under 500 yuan for a full day. 6️⃣ Anshan | Liaoning Anshan has Qianshan Mountain, a grand name for a grand place. Don’t challenge the highest peak with kids. Take the route from Wuliang Temple to Longquan Temple. The slope is gentle, the scenery beautiful, with ancient temples and pine trees along the way, and plenty of shady spots. Kids might be most interested in the squirrels by the path—they’re not afraid of people and can be entertained for a long time with a peanut. Halfway up, at the natural stone Buddha, the view opens up, and you can see the whole city of Anshan below. ⚠️ Mineral water is expensive on the mountain. Fill your bottles at the foot before heading up. After descending, visit the nearby Jade Buddha Garden. The world’s largest jade Buddha will make kids say “wow.” At night in the city, find a barbecue restaurant. Anshan’s barbecue is charcoal-grilled, sizzling with oil, and paired with ice-cold Dayao soda. Kids will end up with greasy smiles. 7️⃣ Anshun | Guizhou Anshun’s Huangguoshu Waterfall is so spectacular you’ll be speechless when you see it. But don’t rush straight to the big waterfall. First, take the kids to the lower half of the Tianxing Bridge Scenic Area. It’s less crowded and the scenery is unique, like walking through a stone forest maze. ⏰ Around 4 PM, visit the big waterfall again. Most tour groups will have left, and the sunlight hits the mist just right, creating rainbows. Remember to dress kids in raincoats—the Water Curtain Cave area will get you wet. The next day, visit Dragon Palace. Skip the long line for the big boat. Enter through the side entrance and take a small boat inside. The stalactites glow in colorful lights, and kids will think they’ve entered a dragon’s palace. 🍜 For dinner in Anshun city, try Duoduo rice noodle hotpot. The sour soup base with various small dishes is kid-friendly. About 30 yuan per person, and you’ll be stuffed. 8️⃣ Baiyin | Gansu Baiyin’s Yellow River Stone Forest is a desolate yet stunning beauty. Don’t bring very young kids—it requires a fair amount of walking. But kids in elementary school and up will love it because it looks like an alien landscape. Take a sheepskin raft to drift on the Yellow River. The gentle rocking will make kids nervous and excited as they hold your hand tight. In the stone forest park, be sure to ride the donkey cart. The old driver sings local folk songs that captivate the kids. 📍 At the viewing platform, you can see the entire stone forest canyon. The vastness is impossible to capture in photos. ⚠️ UV rays are very strong here. Bring plenty of sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. Food options in the park are limited, so bring snacks and fruit. Back in the city at night, find a noodle shop and order a large bowl of beef noodles. The portion is big enough to share with your kid. These eight places are all ones I’ve visited or had friends personally test. The costs are really low, but the experience is never compromised. Taking kids out during summer vacation doesn’t have to cost a fortune to be fun. Which one excites you the most? Or do you have your own hidden gem for family trips? Share in the comments, and I’ll check it out next time.

✨A magical secret spot! A super off-the-beaten-path treasure in southern Xinjiang! If you want to experience the most original desert scenery, you must visit Robu people's village! 🏜️ 📍Location: Tourist center of Robu people's village scenic area, Yuli County, Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture 🕰️Opening hours: Open year-round from 10:00 AM to 8:30 PM (last entry at 7:00 PM) We recommend arriving right at 10:00 AM when it opens 🔥 I went a bit late that day and only arrived at 11:30 AM, and it was already very sunny The desert is extremely hot in summer! Be sure to take sun protection measures~ 🎫Ticket price: 50 CNY per person Active military personnel enter free, and family members get discounted tickets Great value! Booking on Trip.com offers extra discounts~ 👨‍👩‍👧Family tips: Kids have a blast here! The fine sand sparkles under the sun ✨ Remember to bring sand toys and hats~ But the sand gets very hot in the afternoon We suggest visiting in the morning or evening! 📸Photo tips: Be sure to take photos in front of the Longevity Gate! It’s very photogenic~ The ancient buildings and vast desert create a stunning contrast Wearing ethnic-style clothing fits the atmosphere perfectly! ✨Friendly reminders: · Bring enough water and sun protection · Wear comfortable, non-slip shoes · Consider bringing a scarf or mask to protect against wind and sand 🏜️This is not only a great spot for photos and check-ins, but also a place to experience the amazing power of nature Save this and come enjoy it with your family!

12-day Bayingolin tour saves you time and money with all-inclusive pricing! Enjoy authentic Xinjiang cuisine and discover beautiful local scenery. Follow this guide for the best experience! / This comprehensive guide has even more ways to explore below 👇 / 🚙 Route overview: DAY 1: Depart and arrive in Urumqi. 24-hour airport pickup and hotel check-in arranged by your travel assistant DAY 2–3: Take the Uwei Expressway to visit the Luobu Man Village, explore the Tarim River, Taklamakan Desert, and Populus euphratica park. Stay at hotels along the route DAY 4–6: Cross the Taklamakan Desert to visit oil fields, explore Hotan night market and Shache ancient sites, visit the jade and camel wool museum, then head to Kashgar for overnight DAY 7–8: Visit Panlong Ancient Trail and Baisha Lake, explore Kashgar Old Town, Xiangfei Garden, and other attractions, and taste Xinjiang cuisine DAY 9–11: Travel to Aksu to see the Red Desert and Daur tribe, visit Thousand Buddha Caves and Grand Canyon, check in at Bosten Lake and Military Museum Park DAY 12: Visit Flaming Mountain and Karez irrigation system before returning to Urumqi for group dispersal and departure / Must-see attractions: 🌳 Tarim Populus euphratica Forest Park: Stunning in autumn! The golden poplars in the desert look like gilded armor. Ride a small train through red willow groves and reed marshes, cross rivers and lakes, and take home the beauty of the desert’s southern charm 🏞️ Baisha Mountain–Baisha Lake Scenic Area: A popular spot featured by Running Man and Li Yunrui! A tranquil lake surrounded by desert, shaded by green trees along the boardwalk. Every photo is a soothing masterpiece. Visit in spring or autumn for the best atmosphere 🏯 Kashgar Old Town: Don’t miss the high-altitude yogurt shaved ice at Han Bazaar! A feast for the eyes and taste buds. The sweet, sour, and icy treat cools you down instantly and lets you fully experience the lively vibe of the ancient Western city / Tips: /

People say summer can only be survived with air conditioning, but that’s because they haven’t found the right spot. While others are stuck looking at the backs of heads in popular attractions, I head deep into the mountains by the lake, where the temperature feels 10 degrees cooler. These six places are uncrowded, affordable, and surprisingly cool for August. 01 Xuancheng | Anhui Chaji ancient village is different from Hongcun; there are no tour group flags here. At 6 AM, only villagers carrying vegetable baskets walk on the stone paths. Streams flow in front of every house, and the cool air creeps up from your ankles. For just 10 yuan, you can wander here all day. Under the old locust tree at the village entrance, an elderly woman sells handmade mung bean cakes for 3 yuan each, with a rich bean fragrance that almost chokes you. In the afternoon, visit Longchuan in Jixi. Don’t rush down the main street; turn into the small alley behind the Hu family ancestral hall. Moss climbs the horse-head walls, and the breeze carries moisture through the alley, much more comfortable than an air-conditioned room. 📍 Note the ancestral hall closes at 4:30 PM. Don’t arrive too late. ⚠️ The ancient village has many mosquitoes. Remember to bring insect repellent. Stay overnight in a guesthouse in Chaji village. Open the window to see the starry sky. The temperature drops to just above 20 degrees, so a light blanket is needed. 02 Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture | Qinghai Riyue Mountain sounds like a tourist spot, but it’s actually a natural air-conditioned area. In August, the rapeseed flowers at the foot of the mountain are still blooming, but the wind is already cold enough to make you want your jacket. From the top, you can see the Daotang River bending across the grassland. The sunlight is dazzling, but the air is dry and refreshing. Sweat dries as soon as it appears. Guide National Geopark is even more amazing. The Danxia landform glows red like burning charcoal under the noon sun. Walk down the boardwalk to the valley bottom, where a cold river flows. Soaking your feet in the icy water sends a chill from your soles to your head. ⏰ The light is best after 3 PM when the mountain colors are most vivid. 🚄 It takes about two hours by bus from Xining to Guide. A private car costs around 400 yuan for a day. ⚠️ The high-altitude UV rays are strong. Reapply sunscreen every two hours. Don’t skip it. 03 Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture | Xinjiang Summer on the Bayinbuluke grassland is 25 degrees during the day and drops to single digits at night. For the winding sunset at Jiugubawan, you need to reserve your spot early. The sun starts setting behind the mountains at 8:30 PM, turning the river golden and winding like scattered gold dust. Mosquitoes are so bad they bite through jeans. Apply insect repellent all over. The Taklamakan Desert sounds hot, but don’t go at noon. ⏰ Enter the desert at 7 PM. The sand is still hot, but the wind is cool. Climb a dune and watch the sunset turn the sand patterns into waves. The world is silent except for the wind. ⚠️ There’s no cell signal in the desert. Don’t wander off alone. The Tarim Poplar Forest Park is most beautiful in autumn, but August has its charm too. The green poplar forest contrasts with the unreal blue sky. Wooden boardwalks make walking easy. 🍜 At the park entrance, grilled buns are sold for 5 yuan each. Crispy crust and savory filling, better than in the city. 04 Shantou | Guangdong Nan’ao Island is one of those places you don’t want to leave once you arrive. In August, the sea is just right—not too cold or warm. After a swim, the salty stickiness on your skin makes you feel like a happy salted fish. Rent an electric scooter for 60 yuan a day and ride along the island road. Mountains on the left, sea on the right, and around the bend is a deserted beach. 📍 The beach near Tropic of Cancer Square is less crowded with fine sand, much quieter than Qing’ao Bay. In the evening, go to Houzhai Town for seafood. Order a pot of seafood porridge at a street stall, piled high with crab, shrimp, and shellfish. It costs about 50 yuan per person and is very filling. ⚠️ There are many cars on weekends, and ferry lines can take an hour. It’s best to visit on weekdays or stay overnight on the island to catch the sunrise early the next day. 05 Zhumadian | Henan Chaya Mountain is the kind of place where you forget the heat while climbing. The mountain is shaded with dense trees, and wild vines grow along the stone steps. The wind blows up from the valley, carrying the scent of grass and wood. The mountain isn’t high, but the path is steep, and some parts require using both hands and feet. From the top, you can see the dazzling green rice fields on the plains below. 🍜 At the foot of the mountain, vendors sell cold jelly noodles topped with garlic sauce and chili oil. One bowl cools off most of the summer heat. Laoleshan has stronger winds. You can fly kites on the grassy meadow at the summit. ⏰ Arrive before 8 AM when the mist hasn’t cleared. The whole mountain looks like it’s soaked in milk. Walking the wooden boardwalk, dew wets your pants, and it feels refreshingly cool. ⚠️ Both mountains are suitable for physically fit young people. If you’re with elderly or children, it’s best to only hike the first half of Chaya Mountain. The scenery is enough and it’s less tiring. 06 Wuzhong | Ningxia Qingtongxia Yellow River Grand Canyon is perfect to visit in August. The Yellow River narrows here, swirling rapidly, but the wind on both banks is dry and cool. Take a 40-minute boat ride for 80 yuan. When the boat moves, splashes hit your face, feeling cooler than any air conditioner. 📍 The 108 towers along the shore are clearest from the boat. The small towers form triangles and glow earth-yellow in the sunlight. ⚠️ The canyon is windy. Make sure your hat has a strap or it will blow away. In the evening, return to the city and have a bowl of spicy lamb offal soup at Guangyao Food Street. The soup is fresh and spicy, making you sweat but feeling great inside. 07 Huanggang | Hubei The summer in Luotian Tiantangzhai is the kind where you feel cold wearing short sleeves. The mountain temperature is 7–8 degrees lower than the city. Waterfalls hang from the peaks, and mist fills the valley. Standing under the waterfall, the water droplets hit your face ice-cold. You need a towel to get close. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM to see rainbows in the mist. Azalea flowers on Guifeng Mountain in Macheng bloom in May, but August offers a different view. The sea of clouds at the summit appears most often around 3–4 PM, looking like you’re standing on a plane. If you’re fit, hike up in two hours. If not, take the cable car for 120 yuan round trip. ⚠️ The mountain weather changes quickly. Bring a raincoat. The sun is strong on clear days, and humidity is high on cloudy days. Be prepared for both. 08 Weinan | Shaanxi Hua Mountain in August is best experienced by night hike. The daytime heat makes you question life, but the mountain breeze at night cools you down, making you glad you brought two jackets. Start from Yuquan Temple at 10 PM. Your headlamp lights the stone steps, and above you is a sky full of stars. Arrive at the east peak just in time for sunrise. Watching the sun burst from the sea of clouds makes the five-hour climb worth it. ⏰ After sunrise, don’t rush down. Line up for the Sky Corridor walkway. It’s less crowded in the morning, so no two-hour wait. If you’re afraid of heights, skip it. Just one look down makes your legs weak. ⚠️ Renting a military coat at the summit costs 60 yuan, but it’s cleaner to bring your own down jacket. 🚄 Take the high-speed train from Xi’an North Station to Huashan North Station, 30 minutes. Then taxi to Yuquan Temple for 10 yuan.

Girls! The 9-meter giant spring couplet at the east gate of Kashgar Old Town will debut for the 2026 Spring Festival, paired with red lanterns to fully set the festive mood! There’s also a 7-day adjustable all-inclusive trip to Bayingolin and other places, where you can enjoy roasted buns, Aksu apples, and other local delicacies, visit kite-flying spots, White Sand Lake, and more. Start your journey now! / Scroll down for more exciting content and unlock more ways to explore~ / ✨Itinerary: DAY 1: Korla airport — 5-star hotel — Korla city walk Arrive in Pear City Korla. After checking in, enjoy a local stroll to experience the oasis desert’s lively atmosphere. DAY 2–3: Lop Nur village — Bosten Lake Dahukou scenic area — Kucha alleys — Hestan Road — Kucha palace — Subashi Buddhist temple ruins Connect southern Xinjiang’s nature and culture, visiting popular lakes and ancient Western Region city ruins. DAY 4: 359th Regiment reclamation memorial hall — Desert Gate scenic area — Taklamakan Desert Relive the reclamation era and discover the desert’s wild grandeur and romance. DAY 5: Kashgar Old Town — Kashgar Old Town east gate giant spring couplet photo spot Snap photos of the 9-meter giant spring couplet and immerse yourself in the southern Xinjiang ancient city’s festive New Year atmosphere and Silk Road charm. DAY 6–7: Karakoram Mountains — China-Pakistan Friendship Highway — Pamir Plateau — White Sand Mountain–White Sand Lake scenic area — Muztagh Ata — Kongur Tagh — Kashgar departure Cross the Pamir Plateau’s secret spots, watch snow mountain sunsets and stars, and conclude your southern Xinjiang cultural and natural journey. / Must-visit attractions: Kashgar Old Town 🟢🟢🟢🟢🟢 Address: No. 140 Jiefang North Road, Kashgar City, Kashgar Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Open hours: Open all day Recommended visit time: 1–2 days Wander through the maze of streets lined with exotic architecture. During the Spring Festival, giant spring couplets and red lanterns enhance the festive atmosphere, offering an immersive experience of the border ancient city’s unique local vibe. Pamir Plateau 🟢🟢🟢🟢🟢 Address: Tiznap Township, Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Kashgar Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Open hours: Open all day Recommended visit time: 2–3 days Perfect for spring trips! The cracked ice on White Sand Lake creates a dramatic atmosphere, apricot blossom villages bloom in pink and white against snowy mountain valleys, the Panlong ancient trail’s 600 S-curves, and the solemn Red Qilafu border gate make every photo a wallpaper-worthy masterpiece. White Sand Mountain–White Sand Lake scenic area 🟢🟢🟢🟢🟢 Address: National Highway 314, Bulunkou Township, Akto County, Kizilsu Kirghiz Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Open hours: 10:00 AM–8:00 PM Recommended visit time: 1–2 hours Green mountains covered in white sand paired with clear lakes reflect snowy peaks, blending the sky and earth into a blue-and-white palette that creates an unforgettable atmosphere. Muztagh Ata 🟢🟢🟢🟢🟢 Address: G314 (Wuhong Line), Akto County, Kizilsu Kirghiz Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Open hours: 10:00 AM–8:00 PM Recommended visit time: 1–3 hours Known as the father of ice mountains, this majestic snowy peak with its glacial summit offers breathtaking views. Even without climbing, hiking nearby lets you fully experience the grandeur of the snowy plateau. / 🚗 Documents: Bring your ID card and student ID. Both are required for attractions and accommodations. Take electronic copies in advance. 👕 Clothing: Pack short sleeves and a light jacket. Temperatures vary greatly between day and night. Also bring a windproof outdoor jacket. 🧴 Sun protection: High-SPF sunscreen, sun mask, and sunglasses are essential. Bayingolin has strong sun exposure that can easily cause sunburn. 🥤 Supplies: Bring enough drinking water and portable snacks. Buying supplies along the Gobi route is inconvenient. 📱 Electronics: Bring a power bank and camera. The grasslands and canyons are perfect for photos. Don’t forget your phone charger. 🩴 Miscellaneous: Pack comfortable hiking shoes and mosquito repellent. Mosquitoes in the grasslands can be fierce. 💊 Medicine: Bring stomach medicine, cold medicine, and altitude sickness medicine to handle any sudden discomfort. / ↓ Click the card below to customize a private tour with an adjustable itinerary. All-inclusive pricing makes it worry-free and reliable

Girls! Here’s a well-organized 10-day stress-free travel guide for Bayingolin and nearby areas. No need to plan—just follow along and have a blast. Save this now! / This comprehensive travel guide has more details below 👇. Scroll down to unlock them~ / ✈️ Route plan: DAY 1: Depart from Beijing and arrive in Urumqi DAY 2–DAY 3: Explore Luobu Village from Urumqi, then head to Kuqa/Korla. Visit Kuqa Palace and the old town before arriving in Aksu DAY 4–DAY 5: Tour Wensu Grand Canyon, pass through Atushi, check out the colorful Yadan landforms, China’s westernmost point, and the Tianshan Kunlun Mountains junction before reaching Kashgar DAY 6–DAY 7: Head to Taxkorgan, visit Baisha Lake and Muji Volcano, explore the Khunjerab Pass, Panlong Ancient Trail, and Bandier Blue Lake DAY 8–DAY 9: Visit Tahaman Wetland and Karakul Lake, return to Kashgar, and explore Kashgar Old Town and the Id Kah Mosque DAY 10: Return from Kashgar to Beijing / Must-see attractions: 🐍 Kuqa Palace: Full of Uyghur and Kucha cultural features, with vibrant and colorful scenery✨ 🏯 Kuqa Old Town: A paradise for photographers! Ancient architecture and Western region charm at its best. Perfect for a golden autumn visit after National Day 🐉 Panlong Ancient Trail: Winding like a coiled dragon, the mountaintop view is spectacular! You might spot marmots and flocks of sheep along the way🐑 🏮 Kashgar Old Town: Charming buildings with a maze of streets. Don’t miss the high-altitude yogurt shaved ice show at Han Bazaar🥣 / Tips: 1. Take the airport shuttle bus to the city—convenient and cost-effective✈️; 2. The sunset spot at Bayinbuluke’s nine bends is amazing, so get there early to secure your spot🌅; 3. Local ethnic minorities are warm and hospitable—please respect their customs🤝; 4. Large temperature difference between day and night, so bring a warm jacket🧥 / Friends, follow this stress-free guide to enjoy your trip with ease. Tap the product card below to start your wonderful journey~

1. Inner Mongolia · Ejina Banner (early to mid-October) ▶️ Limited to 21 days: The golden poplar forest shines brilliantly, contrasting sharply with the desert and camel shadows, creating an ultimate visual feast. 📸 Must-see: reflections at Erdaoqiao, the filming location of "Hero" at Sidaoqiao, and the edge of the Badain Jaran Desert at Badaoqiao. 2. Liaoning · Benxi (mid-October) ▶️ China’s maple capital: Guanmeng Mountain is covered in colorful forests. The highlight is the “Chinese Maple Road” (Benhuan Highway), where driving feels like traveling through a painting. 📸 Must-see: Laobiangou and Dashihu, where streams and red maples create a peaceful, healing scene. 3. Sichuan · Jiuzhaigou (mid to late October) ▶️ The pinnacle of autumn colors: colorful forests reflect in the turquoise lakes. Five Flower Lake looks like a spilled palette. Water levels are high, making this the most spectacular time of year. 💡 Note: Tickets must be purchased in advance with real-name registration. Hiking the boardwalks inside the park is recommended to avoid crowds. 4. Sichuan · Guangwu Mountain (late October to early November) ▶️ Asia’s largest red leaf area: 680 square kilometers form a continuous “red carpet” with majestic scenery. The long red leaf season shows layered color changes. 📸 Must-see: Shibayue Pool (water and red leaves) and the Natural Gallery (shrouded in mist). 5. Xinjiang · Southern Xinjiang poplar forest (late October to early November) ▶️ Desert hero trees: The Luntai Tarim poplar forest can be explored by vintage train through a sea of golden trees, with desert on one side and the Tarim River on the other. 🌅 Must-see: Hulu Island poplars with their dreamy reflections in the water. 6. Jiangxi · Wuyuan (early to mid-November) ▶️ Autumn drying village: At Huangling, chili peppers and chrysanthemums contrast with white walls and black tiles. The century-old sweetgum trees shrouded in morning mist at Shicheng are a photographer’s “fairyland.” 🕒 Best time: Morning mist is best from 6:30 to 8:00 AM. 7. Anhui · Tachuan (mid to late November) ▶️ One of China’s four great autumn scenes: The Chinese tallow trees change from green to yellow to red, complementing the Hui-style horse-head walls. Hiking toward Hongcun is recommended, with scenic views throughout the fields. 8. Yunnan · Tengchong (mid to late November) ▶️ Golden fairy tale: Jiangdong Ginkgo Village has over 3,000 ancient trees, covering the village in a golden carpet of leaves. Sitting under the trees with a pot of roasted tea is extremely relaxing and healing. ⏰ Reminder: The best viewing period is very short, centered around November 20. Be sure to plan carefully. Suggested itineraries: For photography enthusiasts: Guangwu Mountain + Jiuzhaigou route, or Wuyuan + Tachuan Hui region route. For leisure and vacation: Fly directly to Tengchong for a few days, or explore the Southern Xinjiang cultural poplar route.

These 8️⃣ underrated cities have fewer crowds, beautiful scenery, great value, and high-speed rail access, making them perfect for weekend trips. Stop crowding the popular spots—some places are seriously underrated. For example, Laibin’s karst landscapes rival Guilin’s, and you can reach it by high-speed rail on the weekend. Accommodations are so cheap it’s almost funny. After this trip, I think these places deserve a spot on your weekend itinerary. 1️⃣ Laibin | Guangxi Jinxiu Lotus Mountain is a hidden gem I found in Guangxi. Enter the mountain at 8 AM when the mist hasn’t lifted yet, and the stone peaks look like they’ve grown out of an ink painting. ⏰ Be sure to reach the mountaintop viewing platform before 10 AM. That’s when the sea of clouds swirls, and even your breathing slows down. Don’t go back the same way—take the back mountain plank road to save half an hour of walking. At the foot of the mountain, there’s a Yao grandmother’s oil tea stall. A bowl costs 5 yuan, with a strong ginger aroma that warms you up instantly. 🚄 It’s about a 40-minute taxi ride from Laibin North Station to the scenic area. Carpooling is more cost-effective. ⚠️ The plank road is slippery when wet. Wear non-slip shoes. Don’t be like me and slip three times wearing canvas shoes. 2️⃣ Xianning | Hubei The ancient battlefield of Chibi is perfect for history lovers who want to avoid crowds. The scenic area is grand, but the real highlight is the row of cliff inscriptions by the river. Visit at 3 PM when the sunlight slants over the characters for “Chibi” and the sound of waves hitting the shore is deep—you could stand there for a long time. 🍜 Don’t rush into the restaurants at the entrance. Head into town to try “Chibi fish cake,” which is springy and costs half the price of what’s inside the scenic area. ⚠️ The scenic area clears out by 5:30 PM. Plan your time accordingly. 🚄 There’s a tourist shuttle from Xianning North Station that takes 40 minutes. If you’re traveling with elderly or children, stick to the core area and skip the back mountain’s ancient-style buildings to save energy. 3️⃣ Ganzhou | Jiangxi Ganzhou is a city so low-key it tugs at your heart. Bagua Brain in Shicheng County is covered in red leaves in autumn and endless green in summer. I hiked 40 minutes to the top, where the wind dried my sweat and the whole valley spread out beneath my feet. Sanbai Mountain is wilder. The hiking trails are well maintained but have many steps, so it’s not recommended if you have knee problems. ⏰ Enter the mountain after 2 PM. The light filters through the trees, so you don’t need filters for photos. 🍜 Try the “Ruijin beef soup” with rice in the county town. It’s spicy and satisfying, and you’ll feel refreshed after finishing it. ⚠️ The last shuttle at Sanbai Mountain leaves at 4:30 PM. Don’t miss it by lingering too long. 4️⃣ Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture | Xinjiang This stop is better if you have more time. The sunset on Bayinbuluke Grassland is the quietest I’ve ever seen. The winding river reflects the sunset like 18 suns. The wind passes by your ears, leaving only your heartbeat. The Taklamakan Desert is a completely different scene. Enter at 7 AM. The sand dunes look like they’ve been carved by a knife, but feel soft and unsettling underfoot. The Tarim Poplar Forest Park is most beautiful in late October, with golden leaves everywhere. But it’s crowded then, so I recommend early November when half the leaves have fallen, creating a more desolate atmosphere. 🚄 You can rent a car from Korla Station for about 600 yuan a day. Split among four people, it’s affordable. ⚠️ Don’t stray too far from the vehicle in the desert. The dunes look close but are exhausting to walk on. 5️⃣ Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture | Guizhou The night view of Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village is stunning, but I recommend staying overnight and waking up at 6 AM. The village is still asleep, smoke rises from the black tiles, and crisp bird calls replace the nighttime bar noise. Zhaoxing Dong Village is quieter. Under the drum tower, elders weave bamboo baskets. You can sit beside them for half an hour without them looking up. Zhenyuan Ancient Town is best visited at dusk when lanterns light up along both sides of the Wuyang River, their reflections broken in the water like a dream. Xianghuo Rock requires a two-hour hike to reach the waterfall. ⏰ Visit after rain when the water flow is strongest. The mist hits your face, chilling you to the bone. 🍜 Street vendors sell sticky rice balls stuffed with pickled vegetables for 3 yuan each—more authentic than any trendy shop. ⚠️ The commercial street in Qianhu Miao Village is expensive. Buy silver jewelry in Zhenyuan, where you can bargain. 6️⃣ Xinxiang | Henan The water in Baoquan Tourist Area is so green it doesn’t feel like northern China. I walked along the plank road with the sound of waterfalls following me. In summer, the spray cools you down completely. ⏰ Arrive before 9 AM when the light is soft and the water looks like a clear emerald. Baligou is wilder, with steep mountains and many steps. Your legs will ache for three days after, but the view from the top is worth it. 🚄 There’s a direct shuttle from Xinxiang East Station to the scenic area every hour. ⚠️ Wear non-slip shoes at Baligou. The stones are slippery after rain, almost like ice. If you have kids, Baoquan is better with flatter paths and stroller-friendly routes. 7️⃣ Yinchuan | Ningxia Yinchuan is best explored at a relaxed pace. Mingcui Lake National Wetland Park hides various birds in the reeds. ⏰ Visit early morning to hear their overlapping calls. Helan Mountain rock carvings are best seen in the afternoon when the sun heats the cliffs, making the ancient engravings stand out as if greeting you across thousands of years. Lingwu Shuidonggou Tourist Area connects the hidden soldier caves and the Ming Great Wall. It’s cool inside, with a bit of an adventurous vibe. The Western Xia Tombs are most striking for their emptiness. The earthen mounds stand on the barren land, and when the wind blows, yellow dust flies. It’s hard to say if it feels tragic or desolate. 🍜 The “Huaiyuan night market” in the city is a must-try. Spicy porridge and grilled eggs are favorites. You can eat your fill for about 30 yuan per person. ⚠️ The Western Xia Tombs are windy. Wear a hat or you’ll get a headache. 8️⃣ Yueyang | Hunan Yueyang Tower needs no introduction, but I want to tell you that visiting at 7 AM means so few people you can hear your own footsteps. Standing on the tower looking out over Dongting Lake, the water and sky blend into one. Suddenly, the phrase “worry before all others” makes sense. Dongting Lake is perfect for a boat tour. ⏰ After 4 PM, the wind picks up, and the waves hit the boat’s side. It’s a bit shaky but very pleasant. On Junshan Island, the tea gardens in May let you see tea pickers, and the air is filled with fresh tea fragrance. 🍜 After leaving the island, visit “Bianhe Street” to find a small restaurant selling “returning fish.” The fish meat is so tender it falls apart with chopsticks. ⚠️ Yueyang Tower stops admitting visitors at 5 PM. Don’t arrive too late. Each of these eight places has its own charm and quirks. If you only have two days, I recommend Laibin and Yueyang—one wild, one cultured, perfectly complementary. Share in the comments which one caught your eye or if you have your own hidden gem city. Don’t keep it to yourself—share it.

Everyone says to escape the heat in August, but don’t just focus on Yunnan and Guizhou. This year I explored many places and found that the truly cool and peaceful spots are often cities with less famous names. No crowds, affordable prices, and perfect for an August trip. These 8 places each have their own microclimate, and I’ll break them down by different ways to enjoy them. 01 Shiyan | Hubei Many know Wudang Mountain, but few realize that Shiyan city itself is like a giant air-conditioned room. In August, climbing during the day is too sunny. My approach: get to the Golden Summit before 7 AM, when the mist hasn’t cleared yet. The steps are covered with pine needles and dew, and the breeze cools you to the bone. Come down at noon, but don’t rush. Stop by the Daoist vegetarian restaurant in Wudangshan town. The mushroom soup and steamed wild vegetables are local favorites. You can eat well for about 40 yuan per person. In the afternoon, skip the line at Zixiao Palace and head to the Nine-bend Yellow River Wall at Taizipo. It’s less crowded, and the red walls and green tiles with the mountain breeze make for great photos. In the evening back in the city, be sure to stroll along the riverside path by Bai’er River. Locals walk there, and the evening breeze carries moisture, feeling even better than air conditioning. ⚠️ The cable car stops running at 4:30 PM. If you want to ride, go early. If you don’t want to hike, the city’s People’s Park and Sifangshan Botanical Garden are perfect for a relaxing afternoon with plenty of shade. 02 Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture | Xinjiang This isn’t a typical summer escape, but in August, Bayinbuluke’s grasslands are so green they seem to drip water, with temperatures around 20 degrees Celsius. You’ll need a jacket in the morning and evening. My route: head straight to Bayinbuluke grassland during the day. Don’t waste time at the visitor center; take the shuttle to the Nine-bend Eighteen-turns viewing platform. After 6 PM, the light is best. The grassland glows warm gold, and Swan Lake’s surface is like a mirror. After sunset, don’t rush off. The town’s night market opens, and grilled lamb chops with yogurt rice dumplings are a perfect match. One lamb chop with naan bread is enough for two people and costs about 70 yuan. The next day, if you’re brave, visit the edge of the Taklamakan Desert. But I recommend not going too deep. Instead, experience desert off-roading and camel riding at the Lop Nur village in Yuli County. The sand dunes there are much cooler than inland. If you prefer quiet, the Tarim Poplar Forest Park in August isn’t golden yet, but the green poplars by the Tarim River have a unique desolate beauty. It’s so quiet you can hear the wind rustling through the leaves. ⚠️ There are many mosquitoes on the grassland. Long pants and insect repellent are essential. Avoid sandals. 03 Ganzhou | Jiangxi Ganzhou is my top secret pick because it combines cool weather and great food perfectly. In August, go to Shicheng not to see stones but to visit Tongtianzai. The Danxia landform mountains glow golden red in the morning and evening light. At the foot of the mountain is Dasha Village with hundreds of acres of lotus ponds. The lotus flowers are in full bloom this season, and the fresh scent of lotus leaves mixed with moisture leaves you feeling cool all over. At noon, have a bowl of Shicheng meatballs in the village. They’re springy enough to bounce back and taste great with chili sauce. Sweating feels refreshing. In the afternoon, drive to Sanbai Mountain, the real summer escape core — the Dongjiangyuan waterfall cluster. The mist cools the air, dropping the perceived temperature by 5 degrees. My route: enter from Zhiyin Spring, walk along the waterside trail to Fu’ao Pond. The whole path is shaded, so you won’t get sunburned. In the evening back in town, be sure to visit Jianchun Gate under the ancient city wall. There’s a local stall selling cold jelly noodles with mint flavor. One bowl will revive you. ⚠️ Sanbai Mountain Scenic Area closes entry at 5 PM. Plan your time accordingly. 04 Dehong Dai and Jingpo Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan August is the rainy season in Dehong, but don’t worry. The rain comes fast and leaves quickly, and the air after rain feels freshly washed. My plan: during the hottest part of the day (around 26 degrees), retreat into the corridor of Menghuan Golden Pagoda. The pagoda shines under the post-rain sun, but the corridor is cool. You can sit on the steps and watch monks walk slowly by, with wind chimes ringing — very calming. In the evening, visit Shubao Pagoda, where a tree embraces the entire pagoda. The dappled light makes for great photos. At night, don’t miss Mangshi’s Best Food City. Try puluda, lemon salad, and grilled pork belly. You can eat well for about 30 yuan per person. ⚠️ Rain showers come suddenly during the rainy season. Carry an umbrella but don’t worry — they usually stop within half an hour. If you want to visit Ruili, stroll the street near Jiegao Port, but remember to compare prices before buying. 05 Shijiazhuang | Hebei I know Shijiazhuang doesn’t sound like a summer escape, but in August, mornings and evenings are already cool, and city attractions are less crowded, making for a surprisingly good experience. In the morning, visit Zhaozhou Bridge. Don’t just look at the bridge; the park under it along the Xiao River is shaded with trees. The breeze from the river carries moisture and feels very comfortable. At noon, return to the city and hide from the sun at Wanxiang City or Letai Center. The malls have strong air conditioning, perfect for shopping or lunch. After 3 PM, sit by the lake in Chang’an Park. Locals play chess and sing under the trees. You can sit on a bench watching ducks swim slowly. Time seems to stop. In the evening, be sure to visit Zhengding Ancient City. The south city gate lets you climb the wall for free. The city tower glows warm orange at sunset, with long shadows — ten times better than during the day. ⚠️ Some lights in Zhengding Ancient City turn off after 10 PM. Don’t go too late if you want to see the night view. 06 Shizuishan | Ningxia Shizuishan is a hidden gem I discovered this trip. It’s so uncrowded you can have the place to yourself. In August, the best times at Shahu Lake are before 10 AM and after 5 PM. The water is warmed by the sun, but the wind is dry and cool, never sticky. My plan: take a boat to Bird Island in the morning and watch egrets take off from the reeds. The breeze from the boat ride is especially refreshing. At noon, eat a bowl of Helan Mountain purple mushroom noodles outside the scenic area. The flavor is incredibly fresh. In the afternoon, avoid walking in the desert area. Rent a sunshade umbrella and nap on a lakeside lounge chair or visit the wetland museum to enjoy air conditioning and see specimens. At sunset, rent a camel and stroll slowly along the lake. The sun dyes the dunes and water golden. At that moment, you’ll feel this trip was totally worth it. ⚠️ UV rays are strong at Shahu Lake. Apply enough sunscreen and don’t skimp on hats and sunglasses. 07 Jiaxing | Zhejiang August in Jiaxing is all about comfortable mornings and evenings. Days are hot, but mornings in Wuzhen and Xitang are cool. My suggestion: stay inside Xitang scenic area. Get up at 6:30 AM and walk slowly along the Misty Rain Corridor before the tour groups arrive. Thin mist floats over the river, and grandmas light stoves by the riverbank. You can smell the mix of coal cakes and rice porridge. After touring Xitang in the morning, have a bowl of old duck wonton soup in Jiashan County at noon. The broth is so fresh it’s unforgettable. When it gets hot in the afternoon, visit the Muxin Art Museum in Wuzhen West Scenic Area. It’s air-conditioned and quiet, with exhibitions to enjoy. In the evening, return to West Scenic Area and take a gondola ride to watch red lanterns light up on both riverbanks. The boatman’s oar strokes mix with local opera — this is the true Jiangnan experience. ⚠️ Xitang is free after 9 PM, but ticket checks remain at the entrances inside. To save on tickets, enter early and don’t leave. 08 Xining | Qinghai August in Xining offers the ultimate summer escape, and you’ll still need a blanket at night. My route: visit Ta’er Monastery in the morning. Don’t just follow the crowd for a quick look. Be sure to see the Golden Tile Hall. The golden roof shines so brightly in the sun it’s hard to look at, but inside the hall is cool. The wooden handles of the prayer wheels are polished shiny from use. At noon, eat a bowl of Ga Mian Pian noodles at the monastery entrance. The broth is rich and the noodles smooth, especially appetizing with pickled vegetables. In the afternoon, return to the city and visit Dongguan Mosque. It’s very quiet outside prayer times. You can sit in the courtyard watching pigeons take off and land. The breeze from the temple roof carries a faint sandalwood scent. In the evening, be sure to go to Nanshan Park. It’s the best spot to overlook all of Xining. At sunset, the city is bathed in warm gold, and the cool breeze makes you not want to leave. ⚠️ Ta’er Monastery tickets cost 70 yuan. The site closes at 5:30 PM, so don’t go too late. Xining has a big temperature difference between day and night, so bring a light jacket even in August. When traveling in August, don’t just focus on popular cities. These 8 places offer cool weather, great food, or pure peace and quiet. Which one excites you most? Let me know in the comments — maybe we’ll meet on the road.