My long-held dream of a winter trip to Xinjiang has finally come true.

As the cold wind blows, the land of Altay is gently enveloped by winter snow, unfolding a romantic encounter with ice and snow. This pristine land in northern Xinjiang resembles a fairy-tale world in winter, and the three villages of Kanas, Hemu, and Baihaba are the most enchanting chapters of this fairy tale. Stepping into Kanas is like entering a dreamy ice and snow kingdom. The lake surface, covered with a thick layer of ice, resembles a giant silver mirror, reflecting the pure white snow-capped mountains and dark green pine trees along the shore. Strolling along the lakeside, the crunching sound of the snow underfoot seems to be a winter symphony. In the distance, clouds and mist linger among the valleys, adding a touch of mystery to the towering peaks. As sunlight streams down, Kanas Lake shimmers with a myriad of tiny lights after the snowfall, creating a dreamlike scene. Hemu Village, a Tuvan village blanketed in ice and snow, is tranquil and serene. In the early morning, when the first rays of sunlight pierce through the mist and fall upon the scattered wooden houses, the entire village seems to be illuminated. The thick snow on the rooftops looks like soft white hats adorning the wooden houses. Wisps of smoke rise from the chimneys, slowly blending into the crisp air, painting a peaceful and warm winter scene. Wandering through the village, you might occasionally spot a few leisurely cows and horses foraging in the snow. Their figures blend seamlessly with the surrounding snowy landscape, creating a harmonious natural beauty. Ascending the viewing platform to overlook the entire Hemu Village, the rolling mountains, snow-covered forests, and tranquil village come into full view, evoking awe for the wonders of nature. Baihaba, known as the "First Village of the Northwest," is even more pristine and tranquil than Kanas and Hemu. The houses here are all built of logs, exuding a rustic and charming ambiance. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, the glistening white snow shines with a sacred glow under the sunlight. Stepping into Baihaba feels like traveling back in time, where everything becomes simple and pure. At night, lying in the warm wooden house, listening to the howling wind outside, and experiencing the tranquility of this secluded world, one's heart finds an extraordinary sense of peace. Every scene on this winter journey through Altay is captivating, and every moment is worth cherishing. The dreamlike quality of Kanas, the tranquility of Hemu, and the rustic charm of Baihaba together create the unique winter allure of Altay. This world of ice and snow is not only a feast for the eyes but also a baptism for the soul, allowing people to find inner peace and a sense of belonging in the embrace of nature.