Winter Must-Visit Spots in Ili

Embark on a magical snowy journey in Ili🌨️, winter in Xinjiang is truly amazing! Snow-capped mountains, glaciers, snowy cabins... every place feels like stepping into a fairy tale world❄️ 📝 Itinerary Highlights Day 1-2 Explore Yining City 📍 Liuxing Street: A uniquely charming ethnic minority style street, full of hostel vibes 📍 Kazanqi Folk Village: The blue-toned houses are perfect for artistic photos, don’t forget to try the handmade ice cream🍦 Recommended Hotel: Ili Hotel (No. 122 Jiefang West Road), European architecture + large courtyard, great value for money Day 3-4 Sailimu Lake + Guozigou 🔷 Sailimu Lake: The fully frozen lake in winter looks like a sapphire, sunrise views in the morning are stunning 🔹 Tips: It’s windy on the lake, be sure to wear a scarf and hat 📍 Guozigou Bridge: One of China’s most beautiful canyon bridges, aerial shots are breathtaking Opening Hours: Open all day Day 5-6 Kalajun Grassland + Tekesi 🏔️ Kalajun Grassland: The summer flower grassland turns into a silver world, snow trekking is very healing ⭕ Tekesi Bagua City: The largest Bagua City in the world, only drones can capture the full view Entrance Fee: Kalajun 120 RMB/person (winter discount price) ✨ Practical Tips 1. December to February is when the snow is thickest, but temperatures can drop to -20℃, so dress warmly 2. It’s recommended to bring two pairs of shoes, snow boots + waterproof hiking shoes are the best combo 3. Bring hand warmers and a thermos to keep your energy up anytime 4. Keep your camera and phone warm, low temperatures can cause automatic shutdown 🍴 Food Recommendations 🔸 Yining Old Brand: Ailijiang Nang Pit Meat (Xinhua East Road) 🔸 Must-try in Tekesi: Kuoketierke Pasture Lamb Chops and Jiu Pian Ozi