Artux travel guide and discussion

It is the highest natural stone arch in the world. Only when you stand in front of it can you truly feel what it means to have your heart shaken. Billions of years of wind and sand have carved out this miracle, with the sheer cliffs and canyons exuding a wild energy. When dusk crosses the mountain ridge and the sunset dyes the entire rock formation a gentle golden yellow, and the light fills the valley, you will be deeply moved by the beauty of nature! This is definitely a must-visit hidden gem on any Xinjiang trip🌄 🗺️ Atushi Tianmen Tourist Scenic Area, Xinjiang 📍 Address: Atushi City, Kizilsu Kirghiz Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang ⏰ Opening Hours: 10:00 AM - 7:30 PM 🎫 Ticket: 45 RMB per person 🚡 Cable Car: 60 RMB one way, 90 RMB round trip ✔️ How to get there ✈️ By plane: 2 hours from Urumqi, 5 hours from Chengdu, 6 hours from Guangzhou, Shanghai, and Beijing 🚗 From Kashgar city, rent a car or drive yourself, about 1 hour direct to the site ✅ Suggested route for a visit Kashgar city → Atushi Tianmen Scenic Area → Take the mountain cable car → Tianmen panoramic secondary viewing platform → Beehive Wall → Echo Cave → Primitive Canyon plank road ⏰ The whole trip takes about 3-4 hours 📷 Great photo spots [1] Main Tianmen View The world’s highest natural stone arch, standing 500 meters tall, imposing on the plateau. The secondary viewing platform offers the best panoramic view, overlooking the entire arch. At sunset, golden light spills over the rock face, creating an incredible atmosphere—every shot looks like a masterpiece. [2] Tianmen Sightseeing Cable Car A distinctive high mountain cable car in southern Xinjiang. From the air, you can see the Gobi, canyons, and the full view of Tianmen, passing between sheer cliffs and fully experiencing nature’s craftsmanship. Photos taken on the cable car are also stunning. [3] Beehive Wall The rock face is covered with natural honeycomb-shaped holes, very interesting and unique. Shout into the holes and you can hear a clear echo. When the sun shines, the rock textures look especially beautiful. Don’t miss this photo spot. [4] Primitive Canyon Hiking Walk along the plank road in the canyon, passing through sheer cliffs formed over billions of years. The path is rocky, with magnificent mountain views on both sides, full of a wild, untouched feeling. A must for hiking enthusiasts. ⚠️ A few reminders ❶ The scenic area is at an altitude between 2000 and 3000 meters. The cable car takes 5 minutes to reach the canyon core. UV rays are very strong, so bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, and be sure to protect yourself from the sun. ❷ The canyon is windy with large temperature differences, so bring a jacket. The roadside is rocky and there are plank roads suspended in the air. The walk is not short, so wear non-slip sports shoes for safety. ❸ Food and drinks are not very convenient to buy inside the scenic area, so prepare water and snacks in advance. The afternoon light is best for photography, and if you want to see the sunset, enter a bit later. Hiking is only allowed on the plank road; do not leave the path or climb the rock walls. ✅ Drones are allowed; just register at the scenic area and you can easily capture stunning canyon shots🌄 ✅ The scenic area is pet-friendly. You can bring your furry friends, but be sure to keep them on a leash and behave responsibly during your visit.

Here’s a super off-the-beaten-path but absolutely breathtaking travel spot🌄 A world-class secret tucked away on the Pamir Plateau in Southern Xinjiang✨ You’ll regret not going! This is the world’s highest natural stone arch, and only by seeing it in person can you truly feel the soul-stirring impact! A breathtaking wonder sculpted by billions of years of wind and sand erosion, the sheer cliffs and canyon exude a wild, untamed atmosphere. At sunset, it’s stunningly beautiful to the point of taking your breath away🌅 When dusk spreads over the mountains and the sunset glow bathes the entire rock formation in a gentle warm yellow, and the light and shadows fill the valley, you’ll be utterly amazed by nature’s grandeur! This is definitely a must-visit hidden treasure on any Xinjiang trip in your lifetime🌄 🌟Quick Travel Info Card🌟 🗺️ Atushi Tianmen Tourist Scenic Area, Xinjiang 📍 Address: Atushi City, Kizilsu Kirghiz Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang ⏰ Opening Hours: 10:00 AM - 7:30 PM 🎫 Ticket Price: 45 RMB/person (worth every penny!) 🚡 Cable Car: One-way 60 RMB / Round-trip 90 RMB (round-trip recommended) 🚗 Transportation Tips 🚗 ✈️ Direct flights available from major cities 👋 Highly recommend starting from Kashgar! 1-hour drive or private car to the scenic area (Road conditions are good, even novice drivers can handle it) 🔥 Must-Do Route 🔥 Kashgar City → Atushi Tianmen Scenic Area → Take the mountain cable car 🚠 up to the sky → Tianmen panoramic secondary viewing platform → Explore the Honeycomb Wall → Echo Cave creative experience → Trek the primitive canyon plank road ⏰ Recommended visit duration: 3-4 hours 📸 Stunning Photo Spots 📸 1️⃣ Tianmen Main Attraction The world’s highest natural stone arch at 500 meters tall! The secondary viewing platform offers an incredible perspective. At sunset, golden light floods the rock face, making every shot look like a National Geographic masterpiece✨ 2️⃣ Tianmen Sightseeing Cable Car A unique high-altitude cable car experience in Southern Xinjiang! Glide between sheer cliffs with a god’s-eye view of the canyon. Selfies on the cable car come with an instant boost🤳 3️⃣ Honeycomb Wall Super cool honeycomb-shaped rock wall! Shout into the cave opening and hear a clear echo. The sunlight highlights the textures perfectly—an Instagram-worthy photo spot✔️ 4️⃣ Primitive Canyon Hiking Walk through a canyon formed over billions of years, with rocky trails underfoot and majestic mountain views all around. It’s like a real wilderness survival experience! A must for hiking enthusiasts🏃 ⚠️ Super Useful Tips ⚠️ ❶ Altitude ranges from 2000-3000 meters; the cable car takes 5 minutes to reach the core area ❷ UV rays are intense! Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential ❸ Big temperature swings and strong winds, so bring a jacket ❹ Afternoon light is best; arrive later to catch the sunset ❺ Few supply points, bring plenty of water and snacks ❻ Pet-friendly! But remember to keep pets on a leash and be respectful 🎥 Drone use requires prior approval You can easily capture stunning canyon footage (Be sure to post on social media and make your friends jealous!)

🗺️ Atushi Tianmen Tourist Scenic Area, Xinjiang 📍Address: Atushi City, Kizilsu Kirghiz Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang ⏰Hours: 10:00 AM - 7:30 PM 🎫Ticket: 45 RMB/person 🚡Cable Car: One way 60 RMB / Round trip 90 RMB ✔️ Transportation Guide ✈️ Flight: Urumqi 2h | Chengdu 5h | Guangzhou 6h | Shanghai 6h | Beijing 6h 🚗 Transport: From Kashgar city center, charter car/self-drive 1 hour direct access ✅ Suggested Itinerary Kashgar city center → Atushi Tianmen Scenic Area → Take the mountain cable car up → Tianmen Panorama Secondary Viewing Platform → Honeycomb Wall → Echo Cave → Primitive Canyon Walkway → Return to Kashgar ⏰Tour Duration: 3-4 hours

Just returned from Southern Xinjiang❗️I was really amazed by the local scenery 💯From the unique Kashgar Old Town to the magnificent Atushi Tianmen – Southern Xinjiang has become the unforgettable highlight of my trip⛰️ If you only have two days in Xinjiang and want to experience both culture and scenery, here’s a guide for you💌 Day 1️⃣: Airport or Kashgar Station 👉 Atushi Tianmen 📍Atushi Tianmen 🚗 Transportation: You can book a carpool or taxi in advance to the visitor center (about 40 minutes) 🉑️ Reserve a full day, round trip possible in one day Arrive early in Kashgar and head to Atushi Tianmen⛰️ Before this, I had never seen such a magnificent mountain⛰️ It’s a world-class scree rock geological landscape – Tianmen stands between heaven and earth⛰️, towering 500 meters high, with a winding plank road In the face of such grandeur, humans feel so small Photos can’t capture the shock here⛰️, you have to experience it yourself From the visitor center, there is a shuttle bus to the scenic area entrance🚍 There are two ways to climb Tianmen⛰️ ✅ Hiking: There are gravel paths along the way, hiking is quite fun, about four to five hours to Tianmen, also doable ✅ Cable car (this is Southern Xinjiang’s 1️⃣st scenic area cable car🚠): take the cable car to Tianmen, then climb for about ten to twenty minutes~ It was snowing❄️ the day we visited, but it’s even more beautiful on clear days with blue skies and sunsets🌇 Whatever the weather☁️, it offers different feelings~ But it’s quite cold on the mountain, dress warmly and protect against wind🧣 There is accommodation in the scenic area, staying overnight after hiking is more convenient Day 2️⃣: Atushi Tianmen 👉 Kashgar Old Town 📍East Gate of Kashgar Old Town 🚗 Transportation: Taxi or book a carpool in advance 🉑️ Reserve 1-2 days You haven’t really been to Xinjiang if you don’t visit Kashgar. The old town is divided into East and West parts It takes a whole day to explore🟡 It feels like entering a world of colors, perfect for photos❗️The decorations in the alleys are very ethnic, with food, drinks, shopping, cultural and creative items everywhere~ 🍜 Food recommendations: Kangzi meat, lamb skewers, apricot kernel tea, Xinjiang mixed noodles (the lamb skewers have no gamey taste, even I, who usually don’t eat lamb, ate quite a lot) ✅ Photo spots: Rainbow Alley, Bag Alley, Oil Painting Alley, Old Town corners Shika Coffee, Guli’s Stage, Taha Alley ❗️Friendly tip: No need to specifically look for photo spots! The alleys are all connected, and many photo opportunities come up naturally while exploring

#chinaadventures #shiptonsarch #hike #amazinglandscape #travelfreak Shipton’s Arch, also known as “Toshuk Tagh” in the Uyghur language or (Ātúshi tiānmén) in Chinese, is considered to be the tallest natural arch in the world. It’s located in China’s western Xinjiang region. It takes about an hour hike through a sublimely lunar landscape, first along a dry river bed, then a bit up (wooden and metal stairs), finally several hundred wooden stairs to the arch which is comfortable however may be tiring due to height level and a bit thinner air. View from down is a bit misleading as to the real size of the arch - Photos do not do justice to this amazing place! You have to see it for yourselves!

When I take you through this city embraced by the Tianshan mountain range, nourished by the Kizilsu River, famous in Northwest China as the "Hometown of Figs," with a soul rooted in a "Millennium Ancient Mulberry Forest," awakening your morning taste buds with a bowl of "glossy and fragrant hand-pulled rice," connected by the "Southern Xinjiang Railway" that runs through Kashgar’s lifeline, and warmed on a cool autumn night by a plate of "roasted buns + yogurt zongzi," you will find: this is a city more mysterious than its name, more vivid than its impression, and more worth exploring than its map—a "Silk Road Oasis · Origin of Kyrgyz Culture." Today, I have customized a "Atushi 4 Days 3 Nights · In-depth Journey Through the Silk Road Oasis and Ethnic Customs" authentic local experience for you: 6000 RMB (per person) Route Keywords: Hometown of Figs | Kyrgyz Culture | Southern Xinjiang Customs | Border Secrets | Intangible Cultural Heritage Cuisine Best Seasons: · Summer (June-August): Fig Harvest Season ✅【Highly Recommended!】 · Autumn (September-October): Stable Climate + Dried Fruit Harvest 🏨 Accommodation Recommendations (3 nights total 1500 RMB) | Night | Accommodation | Cost | Highlights | | D1 | "City · Ethnic Boutique Inn Standard Room" | 600 RMB | Window view of mosque dome, 5-minute walk to bazaar | | D2 | "Upper Atushi Town · Guesthouse Scenic Room by Fig Orchard" | 500 RMB | Truly stay under millennium-old fruit trees, fall asleep to insect sounds | | D3 | "Songtake Township · Folk Culture Village Family-style Room" | 400 RMB | Convenient travel, experience authentic Kyrgyz life | 🗺️ Detailed Itinerary (Oasis × Ethnicity × Flavor Fusion) Day 1: Arrive in Atushi → First Encounter with the Silk Road Gateway · 🚄 Arrive at Atushi Station (train from Kashgar about 40 minutes, ticket approx. 25 RMB; from Urumqi about 12 hours, hard sleeper approx. 180 RMB) → Taxi to city center (about 20 minutes, 30 RMB) · 🎒 Check in at "Ethnic Boutique Inn," drop off luggage and head straight to Atushi Grand Bazaar (one of the most lively markets in Southern Xinjiang) · Must-do: · Taste "freshly baked Nang pit meat" and "handmade yogurt" · Pick "Maren candy (cut cake)" and "dried figs" · For photography enthusiasts, shoot cultural portraits with "colorful headscarves + bustling stalls" · 🍽️ Lunch: Bazaar "Adili Hand-pulled Rice Restaurant"|Approx. 50 RMB per person · 🌇 Evening: Visit Atushi Ancient City Wall Ruins or mosque exterior · Free admission / no entry inside for visitors · Must-capture: "Sunset + Islamic architecture silhouette" peaceful scene · 🍽️ Dinner: Inn-provided "Welcome Family Feast"|Included in room rate > ✅ Today's expenses: Transport 30 RMB + Accommodation 600 RMB + Meals 50 RMB = 680 RMB Day 2: Oasis Origins → Figs Reaching for the Sky · ☀️ Morning: Charter a car to Upper Atushi Town fig plantation base (China’s largest contiguous fig orchard) · Round-trip charter 200 RMB (about 1 hour each way) · Free entry / picking +50 RMB/kg · Must-do: · Hike the "Millennium Ancient Mulberry Forest Trail" to feel the strength of century-old trees · Visit the "Fig Processing Factory" to learn dried fruit production techniques · For photography enthusiasts, capture cinematic shots of "sunlight filtering through leaves + glistening fruit" · 🍱 Lunch: Villagers’ "Farmhouse Restaurant"|Approx. 50 RMB per person · 🌇 Afternoon: Deep intangible cultural heritage handicraft workshop · Content: Learn to make "traditional Maren candy or weave Kyrgyz belts" · Cost: +100 RMB (take home finished products) · Outcome: Handcraft a small authentic Maren candy piece + woven bracelet · 🍽️ Dinner: Guesthouse customized "Countryside Dinner"|Approx. 60 RMB per person (ingredients included) > ✅ Today's expenses: Transport 200 RMB + Accommodation 500 RMB + Workshop 100 RMB + Meals 110 RMB = 910 RMB Day 3: Border Pilgrimage → Beacon Tower Traces · ☀️ Morning: Charter a car to Togait Airik Grassland & ancient beacon tower ruins · Round-trip charter 300 RMB (about 1.5 hours each way) · Must-do: · Wait for sunrise and sea of clouds at "Grassland Viewing Platform" (recommended arrival before 5:30 AM) · Explore Tang Dynasty beacon tower ruins, imagine Silk Road guards on lookout · For photography enthusiasts, shoot epic scenes of "galloping horses + snowy mountain backdrop" · 🍱 Lunch: Carry packed food (Nang + sausage + fruit) · 🌇 Afternoon: Visit Kyrgyz Folk Museum or Songtake Township Song and Dance Workshop · Free admission / performance +80 RMB (choose one) · Must-experience: · Watch the "Manas" epic oral performance · Learn a "Komuz dance" · 🍽️ Dinner: Villagers’ "Fireside Night Talk Dinner"|Approx. 70 RMB per person (includes homemade fermented milk wine) > ✅ Today's expenses: Transport 300 RMB + Accommodation 400 RMB + Performance 80 RMB + Meals 70 RMB = 850 RMB Day 4: Closing Memories → Flavor Heritage · ☀️ Morning: Return to city → Participate in "Atushi Flavor" intangible cultural heritage cooking class · Location: City "Western Region Food Research Workshop" · Cost: +100 RMB (includes teaching, tasting, certificate) · Content: Learn to make "authentic hand-pulled rice & roasted buns" · Outcome: Take home "a bottle of homemade spice mix + handwritten recipe card" · 🍱 Lunch: Enjoy your own dishes at the workshop|Included · 🌇 Afternoon: Buy souvenirs + prepare for departure · Recommended purchases: · "Vacuum-packed dried fig gift box" (geographical indication product, 80 RMB/box ×3) · "Maren candy combo (low sugar version)" (popular online product, 60 RMB/jin ×3) · "Kyrgyz embroidered pendant or handmade copper kettle" (collector’s item, 100 RMB each ×2) · "‘Manas’ epic CD or ethnic style postcard set" (must-have for culture lovers, 50 RMB/set) · 🚄 Return: Taxi to Atushi Station transfer point (about 20 minutes, 30 RMB) > ✅ Today's expenses: Transport 30 RMB + Meals 0 RMB (included in class) + Shopping 830 RMB + Workshop 100 RMB = 960 RMB 💰 Total Budget Breakdown (per person) | Item | Cost | | Accommodation (3 nights) | 1500 RMB | | Transport (taxi + charter) | 760 RMB | | Tickets + Experiences | 280 RMB | | Meals (4 days) | 230 RMB | | Souvenirs | 830 RMB | | Emergency Reserve (medicine/snacks/souvenirs) | 2400 RMB | | Total | ≈ 6000 RMB | ✅ Precisely controlled, fully immersive experience!

A day in Southern Xinjiang with the kids 🌄 In the morning, we headed to the Atushi Stone Arch. The giant stone arch, a masterpiece of nature, left the kids in awe as we stood amidst the vast mountains and felt the grandeur of the landscape. In the afternoon, we strolled through the Id Kah Mosque, soaking in the rustic and profound exotic architecture, and took our time experiencing the local atmosphere of the Western Regions. In the evening, we had dinner at the Qishi Grand View Garden and were lucky enough to stumble upon an authentic local wedding banquet 💃 With lively Meshrep songs and dances, guests in their finest attire, and music intertwining with dance, we were fully immersed in the festive atmosphere of Xinjiang. This trip brought unexpected surprises and became a precious memory for our family.

1. Id Kah Mosque (cultural landmark in downtown Kashgar) 🕌 📍Address: Center of the Ancient City of Kashgar, Jiefang North Road, adjacent to the old town alleys ⏰Hours: 10:00 AM–2:00 PM, 4:00 PM–7:00 PM; closed for prayer from 2:00 PM–4:00 PM (no entry to the main hall); avoid the noon period on Fridays for Jumu'ah prayer 💰Ticket: Approx. CNY 30; free to take photos in the square outside, no ticket needed if not entering the main hall ✅Key highlights 1. The largest mosque in China, with 500 years of history, featuring goose-yellow Islamic architecture and two minarets, perfect for photos with a Western Regions vibe 2. 140 unique carved wooden pillars inside the prayer hall, with no statues of people, only pure geometric patterns 3. The large square in front, where thousands gather for prayer during Eid al-Adha and Eid al-Fitr, creating a spectacular scene ⚠️Strict visiting rules (avoid these pitfalls) · Long sleeves and long pants are required; women must not expose shoulders or legs; headscarves can be borrowed for free at the entrance, no need to buy one · Keep quiet inside the hall; during prayer times, you can only observe from the perimeter and cannot enter 2. Atushi Tianmen Scenic Area (Pamir wilderness wonder) ⛰️ 📍Address: Shangatushi Town, Atushi City, about a 1-hour drive from downtown Kashgar, approx. 55km, with good road conditions ⏰Hours: 10:00 AM–8:00 PM; the golden light on the rock walls during sunset (6:00 PM–7:30 PM) is legendary for photos 💰Fees: Admission ticket + shuttle bus; round-trip cable car is CNY 90, which shortens the 1.5-hour hike to 10 minutes, making it easy for seniors and children to reach the top ✅Key highlights 1. Guinness World Record: The world's highest natural stone arch (approx. 500 meters high), a giant "Heavenly Gate" formed by wind erosion, offering an immersive wilderness canyon atmosphere 2. Two ways to play: Save energy by taking the cable car directly to the viewing platform; if you have the stamina, hike through the canyon to see the Danxia rock walls, the "Thread of Sky," and the large and small Heavenly Gates 3. A niche secret spot in Southern Xinjiang, far less crowded than Baisha Lake or Muztagh Ata, suitable for aerial photography (drone registration required) ⚠️Travel tips · Bring plenty of drinking water, a sun hat, and sunglasses; it is dry in the mountains with a large temperature difference between day and night · Mobile signal is weak in the scenic area, so download offline maps in advance; allow 3–4 hours for the full visit 3. Optimal one-day itinerary (no backtracking) Morning (natural wilderness): Atushi Tianmen (9:00 AM–2:00 PM) Depart from Kashgar by chartered car/self-drive, head into the mountains early to avoid the midday sun; take the cable car up, take photos of the Heavenly Gate, and return to downtown Kashgar at noon. Afternoon (ancient city culture): Id Kah Mosque (4:00 PM–6:00 PM) This avoids the midday closure; after visiting the mosque, head straight into the alleys of the Ancient City of Kashgar to visit old teahouses and eat baked buns. Transportation options 1. Self-drive: Round trip between Kashgar and Tianmen, fuel + tolls under CNY 100, offers the most freedom; 2. Carpooling/chartered car: Round trip per person is CNY 80–120, the most worry-free option; 3. Public transportation is inconvenient and not recommended.

Atushi Tianmen Scenic Area is located in the southern Tianshan Mountains, Shangatushi Township, Atushi City, Kizilsu Kirghiz Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. The scenic area features a naturally formed "stone gate," which is certified by Guinness World Records as the "world's largest natural stone arch." Atushi Tianmen Scenic Area sits at an altitude of over 2,800 meters and is located more than 30 kilometers from the city center. The scenic area includes landscapes such as the Heavenly Gate, glaciers, grasslands, forests, canyons, and hot springs. Known as the world's "number one natural stone arch," the Xinjiang Atushi Tianmen Scenic Area is a naturally formed wonder. It is 150 meters long, 30 meters wide, and 30 meters high. This majestic, world-class wonder is an ecological and cultural tourism zone that perfectly blends nature with human history. The scenic area is divided into: 1. Entrance area: The entrance features primitive canyon landscapes and dense Tianshan spruce forests. 2. Glacier area: Walk 2 kilometers along the Heavenly Gate to reach the alpine meadows and glacier area. 3. Heavenly Gate area: Primarily features the world-class natural stone arch—the Heavenly Gate—and its surrounding landscapes. 4. North Gully area: Follow the North Gully to reach alpine meadows and flower fields, where you can also see snow-capped mountains and wildlife. 5. South Gully area: In the spruce forest of the South Gully, there is a "Happiness Bridge" inscribed with the characters "Halahan." 6. Cloud and Mist area: The main observation deck of the scenic area is located here, offering views of sunrises, sunsets, and spectacular sea of clouds. Recommended visit duration: 3–4 hours (adjust based on your personal schedule). We recommend visiting from November to March of the following year for snow scenery and glaciers; from April to June for alpine meadows, flower fields, and clouds/mist; and from July to September for grasslands, forests, and alpine waterfalls. Opening hours: Open year-round from 10:00 AM–8:00 PM (ticket sales stop at 6:30 PM) . Best time to visit: We recommend visiting between 10:00 AM and 7:00 PM. Avoid prolonged sun exposure during the hotter midday hours. Temperatures are low in winter, so please dress warmly. In summer, when temperatures are higher, please take precautions against heatstroke. Ticket price: CNY 45/person (includes sightseeing bus ticket); half-price for students and seniors with valid ID; local residents with ID are exempt from the entrance fee (sightseeing bus ticket must be purchased).

As the saying goes, "You haven't truly visited Xinjiang until you've been to Kashgar." This implies that Kashgar is very distinctive, holding a significant and widely representative position in Xinjiang. On August 4 and 5, 2026, we took our child to explore Kashgar Old City. Kashgar, officially known as Kashi Gar, means "jade" in Turkic, while "Gar" means "stone" or "mountain" in Persian. Combined, it means "jade" or "jade mountain." Li Si's memorial to King Ying Zheng of Qin, "Admonitions Against Expelling Guest Officials," describes "jade from Kunlun Mountain." Even earlier, "The Book of Songs · Minor Odes · Crane Cry" contains the line, "The stones from other mountains can be used to polish jade." Kashgar is located at the foot of the Kunlun Mountains, proving the ancients were indeed truthful! Kashgar Old City has a history of 2,000 years and is currently a national 5A-rated scenic area. During the Han Dynasty, Kashgar was known as Shule and served as the convergence point for the northern, central, and southern routes of the ancient Silk Road in the Western Regions. Today, the old city features the World Intangible Cultural Heritage "Twelve Muqams" and Dolan "Meshrep," as well as attractions like Xiangfei Garden, Mor Pagoda, Maimaiti's House (Bayi Lord's residence in "The Story of Afanti"), and Id Kah Mosque. Wandering through the two major old city districts, East City and West City, you'll find many tourists from various places, as well as a few Europeans. Everywhere you look, there are Islamic-style buildings, a dazzling array of unique goods, and adults, children, and seniors from ethnic minorities like the Uyghurs. Therefore, Kashgar Old City is a vibrant, living ancient city.

✨Atushi Tianmen✨ Today I finally stood at the foot of Kunlun Mountain and had an epic encounter with the mysterious Tianmen Mountain🏔️ The world’s tallest natural stone arch is right before your eyes its 500-meter grandeur piercing the clouds🌤️ rising on the 3,000-meter-high Pamir Plateau framed by blue sky and set against the vast wilderness like a celestial gate opened by the gods🚪 Every inch of rock here tells the ancient legends of the Kunlun fairyland from the Classic of Mountains and Seas standing beneath Tianmen Mountain you truly feel the vastness of the world and the smallness of ourselves🧚♀️ 📍Location: West Tianshan South Ridge, Shang Atushi Township, Atushi City, Kizilsu Prefecture, Xinjiang ⏰Opening hours: 10:00 AM–7:30 PM (last entry at 6:00 PM) 🎫Ticket: 45 yuan 📸Photo tips: 1. Wearing red or white clothes makes photos stand out 2. The light is softest from 4:00 to 6:00 PM 3. Rest at the small pavilion if you get tired on the boardwalk

Atushi Tianmen

Some say you haven’t truly been to Xinjiang until you’ve been to Kashgar. But only when you set foot in southern Xinjiang will you understand that this place is not just the well-known ancient city of Kashgar. It also holds countless tender memories wrapped gently by time. There’s no need to rush to check in at popular spots or join a bustling tour. Just stroll slowly through the alleys in the morning light, watch the earth-toned courtyard walls weathered by decades of wind, with cracks hiding stories; listen to the copper ring on the wooden door creak, as if greeting the years gone by. Days in southern Xinjiang are like a poem, unhurried and calm. At the end of an alley in Atushi, wait for a breeze to carry the scent of figs from the courtyard. Take a bite of the ripe fruit—that’s the taste of southern Xinjiang’s sunshine gathered all summer long. In a century-old teahouse in Kashgar, sit cross-legged on a felt carpet, listen to a melodious muqam, and watch sunlight dance through carved wooden windows on the gray hair of the old tea drinkers. In fact, coming to southern Xinjiang is not just about sightseeing but about rediscovering the true essence of life. There’s no rush to get up early, no anxiety about the evening, just the moment dusk spreads over the rooftops and every household’s stove lights up. Break off a piece of freshly cooked lamb, listen to the wind through the trees, watch the stars on an Atushi night, and hear children’s laughter at dusk in Kashgar. The everyday life of southern Xinjiang has long been waiting for you to meet it somewhere on this land.

My road trip through Southern Xinjiang took me to Artush, the capital of Kizilsu Kyrgyz Autonomous Prefecture, where I stayed at the Artush Wanda Meihua Hotel in the city center. This is the first Wanda Meihua brand hotel in Southern Xinjiang. Here's my experience and some suggestions for nearby attractions. 📍Hotel Location: · Located on Tianshan East Road in Artush Kizilsu, in the city center, the hotel is adjacent to Hong Kong City Pedestrian Street, with abundant dining and shopping options nearby. · Approximately 6 kilometers from Artush Railway Station and 39 kilometers from Kashgar Laining International Airport, making it convenient for travel to and from Kashgar and the Westernmost Route. · The hotel offers free ground parking in the courtyard in front of the building. 🏨Hotel Environment: · Opened in 2023, this hotel is the first Wanda Meihua hotel in Southern Xinjiang. The lobby has a very high ceiling, giving it a five-star hotel feel. It's also the Wanda Meihua with the largest public area I've stayed at during my trip through Southern Xinjiang. · The hotel also features a gym and self-service laundry and drying rooms. 🛏Room Facilities: · I stayed in a Superior Deluxe King Room, which was a spacious 45 square meters. The decor was Wanda Meihua's standard modern minimalist style. · The room had good natural light, although my room faced the city buildings, and a sandstorm that day slightly affected the view (see attached photo). · The standard mattress provided excellent support and a good balance of firmness and softness. The room also had a small refrigerator, which was very useful in the summer. · However, the hotel's overall maintenance seemed somewhat lacking. Despite being only three years old, it showed signs of wear and tear, making it seem like the hotel had been open for much longer. 🍲Hotel Dining: · Breakfast was served in the hotel's first-floor restaurant. The ambiance was nice, and the selection was decent, nothing special. 🖼Nearby Attractions: · The hotel is located right next to Hong Kong City Pedestrian Street, making it convenient for evening walks, dining, and shopping. It's a bustling commercial area in Artush city. There's also Happiness Square nearby, where locals dance and stroll with their children in the evenings. · A short drive within the city limits takes you to the Kizilsu Kyrgyz Autonomous Prefecture Museum. The museum is very new and a great place to learn about Kyrgyz culture; it's free and worth a visit. · A 1 hour and 10 minute drive takes you to the Artush Tianmen Scenic Area, a popular natural attraction in the area. [GlassesUU] Summary: Overall, my experience at the Artush Wanda Meihua Hotel was quite good. As the first Wanda Meihua hotel in southern Xinjiang, it's located in the heart of Artush, next to a food street, making it convenient for dining, entertainment, and sightseeing. The rooms are spacious, making it a high-value chain accommodation choice for self-driving trips in southern Xinjiang.

Yueyue Travel | Southern Xinjiang’s hidden secret ✨ Atushi Tianmen detailed guide Discovered a rare treasure on the Pamir Plateau! Most travelers rush to Baisal Lake and Muztagh Ata Peak but overlook this world-class natural stone arch. Seeing it in person is the only way to feel its breathtaking impact 🌄 Carved by wind and sand over millions of years, the 500-meter-tall giant Tianmen stands amid wild, rolling canyons. Highly recommend arriving at dusk when the sunset glow washes over the cliffs, bathing the entire mountain in warm golden-orange hues. The atmosphere is unforgettable, and every photo looks like wallpaper material. 📸 Must-visit spots ▫️ Tianmen main viewing platform | The prime spot! Stand on the second-level platform and look through the arch at the surrounding mountains. The sunset light and shadows are stunning ▫️ Alpine sightseeing cable car | A rare canyon cable car in southern Xinjiang, it passes between sheer cliffs and offers a breathtaking aerial view of the vast canyon, making the trip effortless ▫️ Honeycomb rock wall | The mountain surface is covered with honeycomb patterns. Shout toward the rock wall to hear a long echo. The texture is amazing ▫️ Canyon light hiking | Walk along the original rocky trail and get up close to the earth’s textures. Outdoor enthusiasts should not miss this 📍 Location: Atushi Tianmen Scenic Area 🚗 Transportation: About 1 hour by car from Kashgar. The road is in good condition and accessible by sedan ⏰ Best time to visit: Around sunset 💡 Yueyue’s thoughtful tips The scenic area is at a high altitude with strong canyon winds and significant temperature differences between day and night. Remember to bring a windbreaker. The UV rays on the plateau are intense, so pack full sun protection. Supplies are limited in the park, so bring enough drinking water and snacks. Wear non-slip sports shoes for the rocky paths. If you want to avoid crowds in southern Xinjiang, be sure to include Atushi Tianmen in your itinerary and experience the wild romance unique to the Pamir Plateau 🏔️

Not sure where to take the kids on a hot summer day? Atush Tianmen Scenic Area is the perfect choice! ✨ 🌳 Highlights: Atush Tianmen is definitely a can't-miss summer retreat! The naturally formed stone arch is spectacular, making it a great place for kids to learn and explore 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 🎒 Essentials: · Sunscreen & sun hat (strong UV rays) · Sneakers (lots of gravel paths) · Thermos with warm water & snacks (few supply points inside the park) · Light jacket (big temperature difference between morning and evening in the mountains) 💡 Tips: 1⃣️ Best photo time is 3–5 PM, with soft light perfect for pictures! 2⃣️ Recommended visit duration is about 3 hours 3⃣️ If you have kids, feel free to walk and play at your own pace—no need to rush~ 🌟 Special experiences: · Discover various unique geological formations · Experience the wonders of nature’s craftsmanship · See local plants unique to the area along the way This summer, take the kids on a spontaneous geological adventure! 🏞️

Just stood under the shadow of what might be the tallest natural arch on Earth — Shipton’s Arch in Xinjiang. Hundreds of meters of pure rock hanging in the sky like it shouldn’t even be possible. Hard to believe this place stayed hidden from the outside world for so long. One of those rare spots that makes you feel properly small. Located near Artux, west of Kashgar at nearly 3,000 meters elevation, this massive conglomerate arch was first reached by British explorer Eric Shipton in 1947. Standing roughly 460 meters high with a 55-meter span, it remained almost unknown internationally until a National Geographic expedition rediscovered the route in 2000. Today a short hike from the road leads to staircases and a viewing deck that finally make this incredible natural wonder accessible. #xinjiang #kashgar #china

I recently checked out a newly opened four-star business hotel in Artux City, and it was absolutely amazing! 💫 · 📍Excellent Location: Just 80 meters east of the intersection of Pamir Road and Chengdong Road, within walking distance of so many places! 🚶‍♂️ · The Kizilsu Kyrgyz Autonomous Prefecture Museum is right next door 🏛️ · Surrounded by government offices 🏢 · Very close to the train station 🚉 or highway 🛣️! · 🚗Super Convenient Transportation: 3km to the train station / 2.7km to the highway 30 minutes to Kashgar Laining Airport✈️ Explore Artush Grand Canyon🏞️ + Tianmen Pass + Kashgar Old City within 1 hour🏰 · ✨Star-Rated Amenities: 15-story high-rise building🏢 251 luxurious guest rooms to choose from🛏️ Luxury décor, perfect for taking photos📸 · 🎯Comprehensive Amenities: · Free parking🅿️ · Gym💪 · Spa🧖‍♀️ · Large conference hall📊 · Popular restaurants to check out✓ · 🍽️Dining Experience: A must-try is the 38 RMB/person buffet breakfast! Chinese, Western, and halal options available🥙 From Hai Zhi Yan Restaurant🦞 · 👍User Reviews: A 4.9 rating on Ctrip is no exaggeration! The service was heartwarming 🥰 The room was clean and bright 🧹 The breakfast selection was so plentiful it was dazzling 👀 I recommend saving this for future reference. For specific room rates or booking information, feel free to contact me anytime! 💁‍♂️

Opening highlights Having visited countless old streets in Xinjiang, only Kezhou’s 3,000-year cultural street blends the 3,000-year nomadic history of the Pamir Plateau and Kyrgyz folk customs into the summer evening breeze🌿. No need to travel deep into the mountains or grasslands—just one street lets you experience festivals, scenery, food, and intangible cultural heritage. When visiting southern Xinjiang in summer, this is definitely a must-see treasure spot! 1. Geographic origins: the land of ten thousand mountains, the origin of a 3,000-year-old name📍 Kezhou, officially Kizilsu Kyrgyz Autonomous Prefecture, lies at the foot of the Pamir Plateau, surrounded by the Kunlun and Tianshan Mountains. It has long been a key passage where Eastern and Western civilizations meet. The street’s name, “3,000 years,” comes from the local poplar culture. Nomadic ancestors thrived here 3,000 years ago. The resilient poplar trees symbolize the enduring spirit of the herders. The entire street is located in Atushi city, a free 3A-level scenic area with convenient transportation, making it the first stop to experience Kyrgyz culture. 2. Summer highlights: enjoy the scenery by day, join lively festivities by night✨ Summer is the street’s peak season for beauty. During the day, blue skies and white clouds frame the red-brick ethnic archways. The man-made lake with a musical fountain makes every photo a masterpiece. The liveliest time is from dusk to early morning at the night market. Manas-themed square is packed with people. On weekends and ethnic festivals, the street hosts grand folk events with singing, dancing, and intangible cultural heritage parades. Visitors can fully immerse themselves in the highland festival atmosphere, enjoying food, shopping, and entertainment all in one place. 3. Millennia of heritage: ethnic history and culture hidden in the alleys📜 This is the only cultural tourism street in Xinjiang dedicated to Kyrgyz culture. The entire street is like an open-air folk museum. The cultural treasure is the world-class intangible heritage epic “Manas.” Folk artists perform segments daily with the komuz instrument. The street’s exhibition halls display traditional embroidery, pottery, camel wool crafts, and falconry culture, fully documenting the nomadic people’s thousand-year migration, lifestyle, and artistic development. A thorough stroll reveals the history of this land of ten thousand mountains. 4. Authentic customs: warm and simple highland daily life💃 The Kyrgyz people are naturally hospitable. During summer festivals, the festive atmosphere is at its peak. On traditional holidays, locals wear red and green ethnic costumes and dance together. Even strangers are warmly invited to join. On regular days, herders maintain simple hospitality. Craft vendors patiently share stories behind their handmade goods without hard selling. People prefer sitting on the ground to drink tea and chat casually, creating a relaxed and welcoming vibe that touches travelers from afar. 5. Local flavors: 400 southern Xinjiang snacks all in one place🍢 The entire food plaza gathers specialties from across Kezhou. Summer is perfect for enjoying refreshing meats and fruits. Must-try items include nan kiln-roasted meat, wood-fired grilled fish, thin-skinned juicy steamed buns, and butter sugar cakes called jubuga. The top drink choice is shalang daoke, sweet and sour to beat the heat. Fresh figs, munage grapes, and baren apricots are widely available. Dried fruits and smoked horse meat make great souvenirs. The large food hall can seat over a thousand diners, full of lively local flavor. 6. Practical routes + helpful tips📝 Two-day classic itinerary Day 1: Atushi Tianmen scenic area → evening visit to 3,000-year cultural street (night market, performances, food), stay overnight at a local guesthouse Day 2: shopping at the street’s cultural and creative exhibition halls → head to Yuqitash grassland, then return to rest Travel tips 1. Free admission throughout. Best visiting hours: 6 PM–1 AM 2. Large temperature difference between day and night in the highland summer. Bring a light jacket 3. Bus routes 1 and 2 go directly there. Parking is convenient for self-driving 4. Small bargaining is acceptable for handicrafts, offering better value Closing The midsummer southern Xinjiang is gentle and healing. The 3,000-year cultural street holds the purest Western Region charm and ethnic romance. Pack your bags and head to Kezhou to walk this old street, encounter song, dance, food, and millennia of culture. Capture the summer beauty of the Pamir Plateau in your travel memories and start your relaxing southern Xinjiang journey now.

I. Geographical Secrets: A Western Paradise Embraced by Two Mountain Ranges 🌍 Artush Heavenly Gate is located in Kizilsu Kyrgyz Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang, situated on the eastern edge of the Pamir Plateau where the Tianshan and Kunlun Mountains meet. It's only an hour's drive from Kashgar city, making it exceptionally convenient. Historically a vital passage on the ancient Silk Road, over two thousand years ago, caravans traversed this valley. With an overall altitude approaching 3000 meters, the summer temperatures are cool and comfortable, unlike the sweltering heat of inland areas. Surrounded by mountains and valleys, millions of years of geological changes have sculpted this desolate landscape. Its remoteness and lack of tourists make it an ideal summer retreat from the crowds. II. Scenic Highlights: The World's Highest Natural Stone Arch – A Breathtaking Feast ⛰️ The most famous feature is this 457-meter-high giant natural stone arch, the world's highest natural stone arch, recognized by overseas adventure magazines as one of the world's must-see adventure destinations. Millions of years of wind and sand erosion have sculpted this breathtaking landscape. The right wall of the stone gate is riddled with honeycomb-like caves, creating echoes when you speak; the left rock wall features intricate patterns, resembling a natural hand-painted mural. In summer evenings, the setting sun bathes the cliffs in golden light, creating stunning photos at every turn. The canyon also boasts hidden gems like the "One Line Sky" and figurative rock formations, offering surprises at every turn. III. Millennia-Old Culture: The Epic of Manas Flows with the Spirit of the Plateau 📜 This land is the birthplace of the world-renowned intangible cultural heritage, the epic poem of Manas, sung by the Kyrgyz people for generations. Every July, the Manas International Cultural Tourism Festival is held, with Artush serving as a vibrant sub-venue. Intangible cultural heritage inheritors play the komuz, young and old sing the epic together, and original song and dance dramas depict ancient legends. From ancient nomadic civilizations to today's cultural tourism extravaganza, the rich ethnic culture is deeply rooted in the mountains and rivers, and the unique charm of frontier culture can be felt everywhere during your travels. IV. Folk Customs: The Warm and Simple Daily Life of Highland Nomads 🎉 The Kyrgyz people, who have lived here for generations, have preserved authentic nomadic customs and are exceptionally warm-hearted. During festivals or weddings, local people hold traditional equestrian activities such as horse racing, goat grabbing, wrestling, and courtship games, creating a lively and exuberant atmosphere. Nowruz is their most important New Year festival, where the whole family gathers around to eat a special Khöö meal and crosses a bonfire to pray for good fortune. On ordinary days, visiting the surrounding villages, you can see herders sewing ethnic embroidery and making handmade leather goods. Taking the time to experience these crafts allows you to understand the gentle warmth of frontier life. V. Specialty Foods: Savor the Authentic Flavors of Southern Xinjiang 🍢 After exploring the mountains and rivers, be sure to try the local specialties, which feature authentic nomadic flavors. Tender, highland-style hand-pulled mutton, firm and not greasy; freshly baked onion cakes, fragrant and easy to carry, perfect for a snack while hiking; sweet and sour mare's milk, a refreshing summer treat. In addition, don't miss the baked buns, red willow roasted meat, and dried figs. After the meal, enjoy a bowl of rich, salty milk tea—a refreshing and comforting experience, every sip a unique flavor of southern Xinjiang. VI. Itinerary + Helpful Travel Tips🗺️ Classic One-Day Itinerary: Kashgar (self-driving/chartered car departure) → Artush Visitor Center (ticket purchase) → Take the scenic shuttle bus into the mountains → Cable car directly to Tianmen Viewing Platform → Stroll along the canyon boardwalk to see the Echo Cave and Honeycomb Stone Wall → Watch the sunset at Tianmen → Return to the city. The entire trip takes 3-4 hours, just right. For those with less stamina, taking the cable car up and down the mountain is recommended to avoid the fatigue of hiking. Practical Tips: 1. Entrance fee is 45 yuan, round-trip cable car is 90 yuan, offering better value; 2. Large temperature difference between day and night in the mountains, so be sure to bring a light jacket and wear non-slip sports shoes in summer; 3. There are no shops for supplies inside the scenic area, so prepare drinking water and snacks in advance; 4. The route involves many Gobi desert mountain roads, so pay attention to road conditions and fill up your gas tank beforehand. Conclusion: Summer is the perfect time to travel to the westernmost point of Xinjiang, to Artush Tianmen to touch the texture of millions of years of mountains and rivers, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the fusion of epic folk customs and natural scenery. Pack your bags, escape the hustle and bustle of the city, and personally step into this hidden gem, creating your own unique summer travel memories in southern Xinjiang.

🏨 Check in at the first Wanda Meihua Hotel in Southern Xinjiang! Newly opened in 2023✨ Located at No. 33 East Tianshan Road, Artux City, Kizilsu Kirghiz Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang. Save it now! 📍 Super convenient location: 👉 Only 1.1 km from Tuhe Expressway 🚗 👉 3.6 km to Artux Railway Station 👉 23.6 km directly to Kashgar International Airport ✈️ Surrounded by many food streets and shopping malls, it's super fun to shop and eat. Next to it is Hong Kong City Food Street 🍢 📸 Explore nearby attractions: ▫️ Artux Grand Canyon 24.9 km ▫️ Artux Tianmen 54.9 km ▫️ 50-minute drive directly to Kashgar Old City Truly perfect for travelers visiting Southern Xinjiang! 💯 Excellent room experience: ▫️ 145 stylish and premium rooms to choose from ▫️ Deluxe king/twin rooms available ▫️ Equipped with an extra-large mattress, soft like a marshmallow ▫️ 50-inch HD LCD TV + phone screen mirroring ▫️ Smart toilet + separate wet and dry bathroom Love the rainforest shower head 💦 ✨ Comprehensive facilities: ▫️ 159㎡ LED screen meeting room 💼 ▫️ 24-hour fitness center 🏋️ ▫️ Self-service laundry room 👔 ▫️ Healthy breakfast RMB 68/person (8:00 AM–11:00 AM) ▫️ Popular check-in spot "Wanvita Cafe" ☕ 🎁 Thoughtful services: ▫️ Free parking + charging spaces ⚡ ▫️ 24h self-check-in, super convenient ▫️ Luggage storage 🧳 ▫️ Airport shuttle service (fee applies) ▫️ Join "Wanyue Club" to redeem points for gifts

In Azihan Fig Town, Artush, Kizilsu Kyrgyz Autonomous Prefecture, the trees are laden with sweet figs, each one a delightful treat. Kashgar and Kizilsu Kyrgyz Autonomous Prefecture are adjacent to each other. A half-hour drive from Kashgar city center will take you to Azihan Village in Artush, the capital of Kizilsu Kyrgyz Autonomous Prefecture, making it a highly cost-effective half-day trip destination near Kashgar. Fig trees line the courtyards of every household and the country roads, their branches laden with green figs. The ripe figs are a tender yellow, with a soft, creamy skin. Locals affectionately call figs "sugar buns" because of their thin skin and the dense, soft, sweet flesh inside—a very apt and descriptive name. The simplest way to eat ripe fig buns is to rinse off the dirt with water and break them open to eat. The flesh is juicy, soft, sweet, and not cloying. They taste even better chilled for a refreshing treat. The most classic local pairing is freshly picked figs with grilled meat; the fruit's aroma cuts through the richness of the meat. Any leftover figs can be dried to make dried fruit, suitable for making tea or porridge. Besides the extensive fig groves, the village also grows pomegranates and grapes, creating a lush, cool environment perfect for summer. The village is predominantly inhabited by Kyrgyz people. If you're lucky, you might encounter folk artists playing traditional instruments or singing folk songs, creating a truly authentic rural atmosphere. In your free time, you can chat with the locals and admire their traditional clothing and handmade accessories up close. The village is sparsely populated by tourists, so you don't have to crowd around. Stroll leisurely along the fruit-lined paths at a relaxed pace. Travel Tips 1. Best time to visit: Summer, when figs are in peak season and you can pick them and taste authentic sweet dumplings everywhere. 2. If driving, simply navigate to Azihan Fig Town (Artush City, Kizilsu Kyrgyz Autonomous Prefecture). The roads are paved and smooth, allowing easy passage for regular cars. 3. The open-air orchards in the village have strong midday sun, so be sure to bring a sun hat, bottled water, and sun protection. 4. Allocating half a day is ideal for the entire trip, allowing you to enjoy fig picking, listening to folk songs and dances, and tasting local barbecue—a one-stop experience.

Friends! Want to visit Xinjiang but worried about the cost? Here’s a money-saving guide to explore Pamir for 3,000 yuan💸 All the highlights of Kizilsu are covered, off the beaten path and budget-friendly. Save it now! 🛄 Before you go: ✅ Border pass (available in your registered residence or Kashgar) ✅ Carpool with 4 people for better value (about 1,000 yuan per person) ✅ Sunscreen essentials: sunglasses, hat, sunscreen 🗺️ Daily itinerary detailed guide: 🌟Day 1: Free tour of Atushi city 🔹 Kizilsu museum (free): see Kyrgyz epic costumes 🔹 City government building: check out modern architecture 🔹 Food street: all-you-can-eat baked buns for 3 yuan! 🔹 Azikhan fig scenic area (free): pick fruit in summer 🔹 Evening visit to Tianmen (45 yuan): 1-hour hike to watch a stunning sunset 🏨 Accommodation: hostel 50 yuan per person 🚗Day 2: Must-see spots on the southern Pamir route 🔹 Oyitak Red Mountain: fiery Danxia landform 🔹 Five-color Mountain: vibrant mountain views perfect for photos 🔹 Baisha Lake: silver sand and clear water, a sky mirror 🔹 Karakul Lake (50 yuan): breathtaking reflection of Muztagh Ata peak 🔹 Glacier park (70 yuan): touch the glacier tongue yourself 🔹 Tahaman wetland (free): golden meadows with snow-capped mountains 🏨 Accommodation: yurt by Karakul Lake 80 yuan per person (includes breakfast and dinner) 🌄Day 3: Extreme western landmarks day 🔹 Muji township volcanic crater: the eye of Pamir is stunning 🔹 Westernmost tower: photo spot at China’s westernmost landmark 🔹 Wuqia thousand-year-old poplar forest (free): golden fairy tale in autumn 🔹 Yuqitash grassland: see cattle and sheep in the breeze 🏨 Accommodation: Wuqia hotel 70 yuan per person 🚌Day 4: Flexible return day 🔹 Optional extra photos of poplar forest or grassland 🔹 2-hour return to Atushi 🔹 Buy dried fruit souvenirs on food street 🏨 Accommodation: Atushi 50 yuan per person ✈️Day 5: Free activities + return 🔹 Optional extra photos at the museum or city government 🔹 Visit Five-color Mountain again if you want more photos 💰 Budget breakdown (per person): 🚗 Carpool: 1,000 yuan 🏨 Accommodation: 250 yuan 🎫 Admission tickets: 165 yuan 🍴 Meals: 300 yuan 🛍️ Other: 50 yuan 💰 Total cost: 1,765 yuan (over 1,200 yuan left for a big meal) ⚠️ Important tips: 📅 Best season: May–October ❄️ Muji may be closed in winter 🧥 Bring a windbreaker for cold weather ⚠️ Karakul Lake is at 3,600 meters, watch for altitude sickness Five days and four nights, from figs to poplar forests, from Baisha Lake to snowy glaciers, this 3,000 yuan Pamir trip is one you deserve!💕

Figs that arrived in Southern Xinjiang along the Silk Road two thousand years ago have transformed Azihan Village into an entire town! Artux Fig Town is recognized as the origin of figs in China. Ninety percent of the village's land is planted with fig trees, forming nearly 1,000 acres of orchards. It also preserves over a hundred century-old trees, along with folk streets, handmade shaved ice shops, and intangible cultural heritage embroidery stores, all open to the public for free. Residences and orchards seamlessly blend together. Locals tend to the fig trees as usual and slow-cook fig jam. When they encounter tourists, they often offer freshly picked figs. Visitors wander through the villagers' daily lives, experiencing the authentic and vibrant life of a Southern Xinjiang village at every turn. Locals call figs "sugar buns" because abundant sunshine and significant day-night temperature differences create natural sweetness. Ripe figs have thin, soft skins, and when broken open, thick honey-like juice oozes out. The flesh is dense with no hard core, offering a pure, refreshing sweetness that isn't cloying. Besides eating them fresh, Salang Daoke drizzled with fig jam and naan bread spread with fig jam are local specialties. Fresh figs ripen in batches during two seasons each year, so you can enjoy fresh "sugar buns" from mid-summer to early autumn. A single fig tree supports a livelihood. The fig industry drives local employment and income growth for villagers, with fresh figs and processed fig products sold across the country. This unique sweetness from the oasis at the southern foot of the Tianshan Mountains is the tangible happiness earned by generations of Xinjiang people cultivating the land, bringing the simple, vibrant, and down-to-earth flavor of the border region to every visitor from afar.

Driving through the Gobi mountain ranges, you reach Tianmen Gate and see Kunlun! After climbing the Qingyun Ladder, you finally stand beneath the Atushi Tianmen Gate. This massive natural arch, nearly 3,000 meters high, stands among the Gobi mountains. Its huge arch faces the open wilderness, making it a significant geological landmark on the eastern edge of the Pamirs. The ancient imagination of Kunlun’s mountain gate seems to come to life here. Millions of years ago, tectonic movements cracked the rock layers. The dry plateau’s constant fierce winds carried sand and stones, eroding the soft conglomerate day after day. This long process of wind erosion created the world’s highest natural stone arch, preserving the unique geological evolution of arid regions. The entire mountain area still retains its original desert landscape, with drought-resistant plants rooted among the scattered rocks. Wildlife lives and thrives here, and the plateau’s ecosystem continues steadily in this harsh environment. The canyon’s secret, silent for millions of years, is now changing with the arrival of a mountain cable car and ski resort. The scenic area is expanding into a year-round destination. Villages at the foot of the mountain sell local products like figs and grapes to visitors. Many villagers have found jobs supporting the scenic area. The pristine wilderness is gradually driving steady development in the mountain villages. Wind passes through the thousand-year-old stone gate, and time carves the mountains and rivers. Nature has spent ages creating this wild spectacle. People have learned to appreciate this gift from nature, protecting the land’s geology and ecology, uncovering the value of the scenery, and allowing this ancient mountain and river wonder to nourish the land for generations to come.

It takes about an hour to drive from Atushi city to Atushi Tianmen. The road is smooth the entire way, so a regular private car can handle it easily. Initially, I was worried that the mountain attractions in southern Xinjiang would be exhausting, but after arriving, I found the facilities much improved. There are shuttle buses and a cable car up the mountain, saving a lot of climbing effort, so older travelers don’t need to worry. The entire mountain is made up of weathered rock walls. The stone surfaces are densely covered with holes, layered on top of each other. Up close, the texture and patterns are very unique. As you go deeper, the canyon becomes very deep, with steep, oppressive cliffs on both sides. Standing at the bottom and looking up, the spatial contrast is truly striking. The highlight is the giant natural stone gate arch, the iconic Tianmen spot here. Looking out through the gate, the distant Kunlun Mountains are perfectly framed in view. There is also a mirror reflection platform on site, making photos rich in layers with just a casual shot. You can leisurely explore the scenic area for three to four hours, walking along the mountain boardwalk. The arch looks quite different from various angles. At noon, the sun is strong in the mountains. The desert canyon has no shade, so it feels noticeably hot. Be sure to bring sun protection and drinking water. Visitor numbers here are relatively low, so you rarely need to avoid people when taking photos. The overall atmosphere is quiet and relaxed. Here are some practical travel tips. The ticket price is 45 yuan per person. You must buy a shuttle bus ticket for 45 yuan to enter the park. The round-trip cable car costs 90 yuan. It’s recommended to buy the full package since hiking up takes a long time and the mountain roads are steep and tiring. The summer opening hours are from 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM, with ticket checks stopping at 6 PM. In winter, opening hours start one hour later. For self-driving, navigate directly to Atushi Tianmen Visitor Center. Parking is free. Drones are prohibited throughout the scenic area, so don’t bring the equipment unnecessarily. For your visit, wear slip-resistant flat shoes since there are many boardwalk steps. The temperature difference between day and night in the mountains is large, and it will feel much cooler on the way back in the evening.

Travel to Kizilsu to visit Atush Tianmen, a natural stone arch nearly 500 meters tall. Standing at its base, you feel incredibly small. This entire landscape is a geological wonder shaped by millions of years of continuous wind erosion🌬️. The mountains along the way are covered with traces of wind polishing. The rock walls are filled with honeycomb-like holes. Shouting here produces a long-lasting echo. The side walls have irregular, intertwined patterns, like natural murals carved by nature. Take the alpine cable car to the viewing platform for a full view of the arch🚠. Both sides of the canyon are lined with various wind-eroded, shape-like rocks, creating a strong wilderness atmosphere. Stroll slowly along the plank road to closely observe the varying erosion patterns on the conglomerate rock and truly feel the power of wind carving over the years. At sunset, the glow spreads across the rock walls, turning the gray-black rock warm golden. Every photo you take is impressive📸. Tip: The mountain area is windy with significant temperature differences between day and night. Remember to bring a windbreaker and sun protection when you travel.

When driving through southern Xinjiang’s westernmost region, be sure to include Atushi Tianmen in your itinerary! This is definitely a seriously underrated mystical paradise🌄, untouched and free from over-commercialization. The shock you feel seeing it in person can’t be captured even one ten-thousandth by photos! It is the world’s tallest natural stone arch, naturally sculpted by 2.6 million years of wind and sand erosion. The massive 457-meter-high stone gate stands proudly between the valleys⛰️. Its unique arid wind-eroded landscape is rugged and wild, embodying the vast and majestic spirit unique to the Western Regions. Standing beneath it and looking up, you instantly understand what it means for mountains and rivers to be vast and humans to be small! The details of the entire mountain are stunning! The cliff on the right is covered with countless honeycomb-shaped stone caves. Whispering toward the valley, the layered echoes slowly reverberate, as if the mountain is gently responding, creating an immersive atmosphere🤍. The left rock face is crisscrossed with ravines and textures. Sunlight dapples the mountain, like a giant natural mural painted by nature itself, weathered yet healing. The visitor experience is especially friendly! The scenic area offers gentle trails and a high-altitude cable car🚡, so no intense hiking is needed. Families and those who prefer a relaxed pace can easily explore. Don’t miss the popular mirror selfie spot, which clearly reflects the full outline of Tianmen. The sky, mountains, and rivers all frame perfectly, making every shot a high-end wilderness masterpiece! The best time to visit is at sunset, when the soft golden light spreads over the reddish-brown mountains, turning the cool valley warm and romantic🌅. This place is quiet and healing with few visitors. Standing under the giant Tianmen, feeling the mountain breeze, you can fully enjoy the freedom and vastness of the entire Pamir Plateau. It’s an unforgettable geological romance on your southern Xinjiang journey! 📍Detailed address: Shang Atushi Town, Atushi City, Kizilsu Kirghiz Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang (where the Tianshan and Kunlun Mountains meet, eastern Pamir Plateau) 🚗 Transportation: About 54 km from Kashgar city center, a 1-hour drive