Astana: Experience the futuristic vibes of Central Asia and explore the "Dubai of Central Asia"

Ark-like architecture, glittering golden buildings, star chains on the grasslands... Astana, a city that perfectly blends nomadic customs with cyberpunk style, awaits your exploration with its unique charm! Things to Know Before You Go - Visa: Chinese passport holders can enjoy 14 days of visa-free travel. Even with a blank passport, you can easily embark on a Central Asian journey. - Transportation: Direct flights from Urumqi are the most convenient. Round-trip tickets with China Southern Airlines cost around CNY 2,000, including taxes. Booking in advance may get you better deals. - Currency: The local currency is the Tenge (₸). The exchange rate is approximately CNY 1 ≈ ₸64. Remember not to exchange currency at the airport; rates in the city are better. - Must-have app: Yandex Go is a great app for getting around. It's half the price of regular taxis, making your travel more affordable. - Hidden perk: Visit City Hall for a chance to get a free limited-edition city badge. It's super cool and makes a unique travel souvenir. Top 5 Must-See Attractions 1. Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center - Unique experience: Inside this giant, post-apocalyptic-style tent, you'll find an indoor beach, as if you've stepped into another world. - Thrilling activity: The transparent slide is a must-try. It offers stunning views of the city from above (only CNY 80 per ride). - Night view: The light show at 20:00 transforms the building into an alien base, a truly magical sight. 2. Bayterek Tower - Wishing spot: At the top of the tower, you can make a wish by touching the golden handprint of the president. The top-level glass bridge is thrilling and might make your knees weak. - Photo op: Capture the golden sphere and the Islamic Center together at sunset for a breathtaking shot. 3. Nur-Astana Mosque - Architectural marvel: As the world's third-largest mosque, its 24K gold dome shines brightly in the sun, exuding luxury. - Note: Women are required to wear a robe, provided free of charge. The blue ones are best for photos. Remember to respect local dress codes. 4. National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan - Cultural feast: The museum houses precious artifacts such as golden warrior armor and the Hunnic crown. For just CNY 30, you can explore the chronicle of nomadic civilization. - Special treat: On the fourth floor, you can try on a traditional Kazakh bridal headdress (CNY 50, including photography) for a unique cultural experience. 5. Expo 2017 Astana - Journey to the future: The Nur Alem sphere and the space-themed pavilion are full of futuristic technology. Night tickets are only CNY 60 and include a spectacular laser show. - Hidden gem: The abandoned Nazarbayev University is a great spot for cyberpunk-style photos. Food Adventures - Navat: Enjoy a state banquet-level horse meat plov with sour cream for only CNY 40. - Astana Continental: Dine at the highest revolving restaurant in Central Asia. Enjoy caviar pancakes for CNY 200 while taking in the city views. - Zheltoksan: This Soviet-style canteen offers smoked horse sausage with kvass for just CNY 15, taking you back in time. - Street food: Find a stall selling Baursak (fried dough balls). Dip them in honey for a taste of heaven (CNY 5). Shopping List - Nomadic silver jewelry: Bargain at the Green Bazaar for exquisite silver jewelry (around CNY 200), perfect as souvenirs or gifts. - Shanyrak totem tapestry: A unique item found at the National Museum shop, featuring distinctive totem patterns. - Soviet retro cameras: The old town flea market is a great place to find vintage cameras for around CNY 150, perfect for capturing travel memories. - Astana-exclusive chocolate: Buy astronaut-themed chocolates at the airport. The unique packaging and delicious taste make them a great gift. Getting Around - Airport → City center: Take bus No. 10 for only CNY 3, a much cheaper option than a taxi (CNY 50). - Crossing the river: Take the cable car across the Ishim River for CNY 15 and enjoy a different perspective of the city. - Driving advisory: Traffic is heavy during rush hour, so plan your driving route carefully. - Hidden route: Take a vintage trolleybus and capture photos of Soviet-era architecture along the way. Unique Experiences for Hardcore Travelers - Stargazing yurt stay: Stay in a yurt at a grassland camp 30 km from the city center, gaze at the stars, and experience nomadic life. - Ishim River night tour: Walk on the ice along the illuminated path (winter only) for a unique romantic experience. - Horseback riding through the new city: Find a horse riding group at Ak Orda Presidential Palace and explore the new city on horseback. - Dombra singing lessons: Take a CNY 100 trial class at the music academy and learn to play the traditional Dombra. - Nuclear bunker tour: Explore a mysterious nuclear bunker with a local guide and uncover a hidden side of the city. Important Notes - Dress code: Shorts are not allowed in mosques. Long skirts can be rented at the entrance. Please respect religious dress codes. - Payment methods: Cash is more widely accepted. 90% of small shops don't accept credit cards, so be sure to have cash on hand. - Winter warmth: Winter temperatures can drop to -30°C, so dress warmly and use hand warmers. - Scam alert: Be wary of people selling pigeon feed in the square. Once you accept the feed, you may be asked to pay CNY 50. 3-Day Itinerary - Day 1: Khan Shatyr → Bayterek Tower → Islamic Center night view - Day 2: National Museum → Expo 2017 → Ishim River cruise - Day 3: Green Bazaar shopping → Horseback riding on the grasslands → Soviet-style dinner In this city, where nomadic culture blends seamlessly with futuristic technology, you can enjoy a delicious lamb hot pot for CNY 50 or chase the aurora on horseback for CNY 100. Take this guide and embark on an unforgettable Central Asian adventure in Astana!