[2025 Gongliu Attraction] Travel Guide for Kurdenin Scenic Area (Updated Nov)

Tucked away in the heart of the Tianshan Mountains in the Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, the Kurdnin Scenic Area is a little-known, breathtaking natural wonder. Home to magnificent alpine meadows, clear streams, and lush primeval forests, it resembles a timeless painting, quietly showcasing the purity and mystery of nature. Wandering through Kurdnin, you'll be greeted by rolling mountains and lush green meadows, dotted with colorful wildflowers and herds of cattle. In the early morning, mist shrouds the valley, while sunlight filters through the treetops, casting a gentle glow over the landscape. The fresh air invites you to forget the hustle and bustle of life and return to inner peace. Kurdnin is not only a paradise for nature lovers, but also an ideal destination for photographers capturing breathtaking scenery. The warm hospitality of the local Kazakh people adds a human touch to your journey. Whether you're exploring on foot or simply appreciating the natural beauty, Kurdnin offers a unique and profound experience. 🌿 Traveler's Notes: • Best Time to Travel: June to September, for pleasant weather and the most stunning scenery. • Transportation Tips: Access to scenic areas often relies on chartered vehicles or self-driving, so be sure to check road conditions in advance. • Recommended Experiences: Hiking, nature photography, and exploring ethnic customs. Kurdening, a shining pearl in Yili, Xinjiang, invites you to journey into this pristine world and experience the stunning beauty and tranquility deep within the Tianshan Mountains. ⸻ 🔖 Tags #KurdeningScenic ...

| Just back from Xinjiang, this guide is super practical! I've prepared a super detailed Xinjiang travel guide for you today, hoping to help those planning a trip to Xinjiang! 🌸 Must-sees in Northern Xinjiang (4-7 day trip) Sayram Lake: In April, Sayram Lake boasts the spectacle of ice shoves and lakeside wildflowers, offering stunning views! A second visit is recommended for better photo opportunities. Turgen Apricot Valley: The world's largest wild apricot forest, with the best viewing period for the pink sea of flowers from late March to mid-April. Xiata Trail: A hiker's paradise in May, with picturesque scenery featuring snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and grasslands. Kuerdening: A lesser-known spot with pristine spruce forests, perfect for photos and features the same photo spots as Yi Mengling. Tip: Nalati Grassland doesn't turn green until May. For early spring, consider heading to Qasi Grassland for more scenic beauty. 🕊 Must-do experiences in Southern Xinjiang (3-7 day trip) Kashgar Old City: Wander through the maze-like city of the Western Regions and take Uyghur-style photos. Renting traditional clothing is a bargain at just CNY 50/day during the off-season. Baisha Lake: The "blue tears" of the Pamir Plateau, with a dreamy half-ice, half-water lake surface in March. Panlong Ancient Road: 75 kilometers with 600 bends, perfect for aerial photography capturing the essence of "taking all the detours today." Taxkorgan Apricot Village: The apricot blossoms are in full bloom from March 15th to April 2nd. Stay in a century-old Tajik stone house and experience the local culture. Note: Visiting Muztagata Glacier requires a 4WD vehicle with snow chains, and access is easier after April. 🍲 Xinjiang Food Recommendations Dapanji (Big Plate Chicken): Tender chicken and soft potatoes, paired with onions, create an irresistible aroma. Lamb Skewers: Grilled to perfection, these fragrant skewers are a signature Xinjiang dish. Nang Pit Meat: Aromatic roasted meat, paired with nang bread, is incredibly satisfying. Pilaf: Fluffy rice served with mutton, carrots, and raisins, offering a nutritious and flavorful meal. Baked Buns: Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, these are a traditional Xinjiang snack. Yogurt Rice Dumplings: Indulge in these at local food streets and savor their unique flavor. Xinjiang Banmian (Mixed Noodles): La Tiao Zi noodles are hand-pulled from high-quality flour and served with mutton, tomatoes, peppers, and various vegetables for a truly satisfying meal. Fried Rice Noodles: Thick and chewy rice noodles in a rich broth, available with chicken, beef, mushroom, and other flavors. 🗓 7-Day, 6-Night Itinerary for Spring Flower Viewing in Ili 📅 Day 1: Arrival in Urumqi from various locations nationwide 📅 Day 2: Urumqi - S101 - Kenswat - Dushanzi Grand Canyon - Kuitun 📅 Day 3: Kuitun - Sayram Lake Loop - Sayram Lake Afternoon Tea - Trip Moments at Sayram Lake 📅 Day 4: Sayram Lake - Turgen Apricot Valley/Kuerdening - Nalati 📅 Day 5: Nalati - Nalati Aerial Grassland - Jinghe/Shuanghe 📅 Day 6: Jinghe/Shuanghe - International Grand Bazaar - Urumqi 📅 Day 7: Departure from Urumqi 🌟 Xinjiang is a place full of natural beauty and ethnic charm. Whether it's the snow-capped mountains and grasslands of Northern Xinjiang or the ancient cities of Southern Xinjiang, your trip is sure to be filled with excitement. I hope this guide helps you plan your trip with ease and enjoy a perfect Xinjiang adventure! Save it and get ready to go!

The grassland scenic areas in Ili are mostly located in east-west valleys, but Kurdening in the eastern mountainous area of Gongliu County, Ili, is situated in a north-south valley. It stretches about 14 kilometers long and is about 1 kilometer wide at its widest point, with an average valley floor elevation of 1500 meters. 'Kurdening' means 'crossing ditch' in Kazakh. The unique north-south orientation makes Kurdening warm in winter and cool in summer, with a pleasant climate throughout the year. Therefore, Kurdening is not only a famous scenic spot in Ili but also a popular summer resort. It combines the charming and delicate beauty of Jiangnan's mountain villages with the vast and rugged grassland scenery, attracting more and more domestic and international tourists. With an average elevation of about 1500 meters, it boasts the largest primeval spruce forest in China. The national-level spruce nature reserve is located here, offering beautiful and pleasant scenery. It's definitely worth a visit!

【Introduction】: ◆ The scenery of the Ili region is the most representative and popular in Xinjiang. From May, the grasslands of Ili begin to turn green, with vast seas of flowers and clouds that seem to come straight out of an anime. If I hadn't seen it with my own eyes, I wouldn't believe that such beautiful scenery exists in the world. 🛬【Itinerary】: Kanas Ili 10-Day Tour 1 - Urumqi - Burqin Attractions - Wulungu Lake - Colorful Beach Sunset Accommodation - Burqin Colorful Beach 2 - Burqin - Hemu Attractions - Haden Viewing Platform - Aid Bridge Accommodation - Hemu Hemu Scenic Area 3 - Hemu - Kanas Attractions - Kanas Lake - Guanyu Pavilion Accommodation - Kanas Kanas Burqin 4 - Kanas - Burqin Attractions - Kanas Three Bays - Burqin River Night Market Accommodation - Burqin 5 - Burqin - Kuitun Attractions - Devil City Accommodation - Kuitun World Devil City 6 - Kuitun - Yining Attractions - Sayram Lake - Guozigou Bridge Accommodation - Yining Sayram Lake 7 - Yining - Nalati Attractions - Nalati Grassland Accommodation - Nalati Nalati Tourist Scenic Area 8 - Nalati - Bayinbulak Attractions - Bayinbulak Accommodation - Bayinbulak Bayinbulak Grassland 9 - Bayinbulak - Kuitun Attractions - Duku Highway - Tangbula Accommodation - Kuitun Duku Highway 10 - Kuitun - Urumqi Attractions - Anjihai Grand Canyon - Hundred Mile Danxia - S101 National Defense Highway Accommodation - Urumqi Anjihai Grand Canyon 🧡【Tips】: 💬 For more customized routes, feel free to leave a message or contact me👇🏻

If you ask me whether to choose Nalati or Kuerdening for a trip to Yili, Xinjiang during the May Day holiday, I can only tell you that it's a tough choice, because I like both places. Kuerdening is a small but exquisite beauty spot that has really become beautiful during this time. Kuerdening means 'horizontal ditch' in Kazakh, and it is a niche attraction in Xinjiang that has become popular in the past two years. I did some research online before and discovered its advantages 'few people, suitable for self-driving' plus the pictures online were very tempting! So I set off, and I really don't regret it. Navigation location: Kuerdening Zhonggou Ticket Checkpoint Currently, the West Gully and East Gully are closed, and you can only visit Kuerdening Zhonggou. After driving to the scenic area, follow the wooden plank road for a light hike. Zhonggou is at a low altitude, with streams, and the scenic spot is on the opposite side of the river in the forward direction, with parking spaces and a cable bridge to cross, suitable for picnics and camping. There are also many beautiful sceneries along the way, and of course, hiking is tiring, but it's all worth it. I really like one of the spots here, the Qimengde Viewing Platform. This is the highest viewing platform in Kuerdening. Follow the wooden plank road all the way up, and you can see the same kind of little wooden house as in the movie 'Heidi and Grandfather', and because I really like this movie, I feel it's really worth it. Note: Currently, you cannot drive to Qimengde. You can only park at the 'Kafeng Campsite' parking lot at the intersection of Zhonggou and Donggou, and then walk or ride a horse in. The entrance fee is 30 RMB per person, no other fees are required for driving in, and the indoor parking is free. Horse riding is also available, 80 RMB for 1 hour of fun. The opening hours are from 9 am to 7 pm, so pay attention if you plan to go. You can also refer to my route Shili Gallery - Fengxiang Post Station - Kafeng Base Camp - Qimengde Viewing Platform - Ayusai Viewing Platform - King of Spruce - Cloud-top Grassland Please note 1. There is no signal in many places on the mountain, so it's better to download an offline map in advance. 2. Prepare food and water in advance, so you can replenish energy if you get hungry on the mountain. 3. There are no hotels in the scenic area, but there are camping sites and wooden houses, felt tents of the herdsmen, and you can also stay in the town of Kuerdening, so there are more choices. 4. It is recommended to go there in the morning or after 7 pm to catch the good light and shadow, which is key for taking good photos. If you go at noon, the sun is very strong, and the photos taken with a mobile phone are gray and not very good 😫 Welcome everyone to Xinjiang 👏👏

2-week itinerary with travel + skiing, about 20,000 RMB per person. Outbound flight from Guangdong to Chengdu with a transfer to Yili. Return flight from Altay to Urumqi with a transfer back to Guangzhou. ✈️¥4111 Day: Guangzhou → Chengdu, stay at airport hotel 🏨¥483 Day: Chengdu → Yining, 4 hours from airport to hotel. This time I was forced to choose Xigu, but it turned out to be a pleasant surprise❗️The hotel facilities, privacy, and scenery inside the hotel are all very good. The snow is thick and clean, perfect for lying around everywhere. Day: Kuerdening, stay at Xigu Camp 🏨¥788 Horseback riding through the woods, feeling the sound of snow falling. Spent some time in the public area of Bairui, which made up for not staying there. Dinner at Xigu was lamb hotpot, quite tasty. Day: Kuerdening → Sailimu Lake, stay at Shuiyunshan Hotel 🏨¥1699 Departed at noon, 4-hour drive to Sailimu Lake, just in time for sunset! Entered the lake loop from the north gate, went halfway around, and exited from the east gate. Chased the blue-pink sunset and also met a little fox symbolizing luck. The night road to Shuiyunshan is very difficult to drive, but looking up you can see the Milky Way P8, and the starry sky is moving. Day: Sailimu Lake → Karamay, stay at Atour Hotel 🏨¥449 Entered the other half of the lake loop from the east gate of Sailimu Lake. Departed in the afternoon for Karamay. The itinerary for these two days was not very reasonable; if you had left earlier the day before, you could have completed the lake loop that day and left the next day for hotel leisure and photos. Shuiyunshan is quite beautiful, a bit of a pity. Day: Karamay → Ulungu Lake → Burqin, stay at Lavande Hotel 🏨¥209 The goose egg yolk reflected on the ice surface is actually orange-pink! Best to arrive at Ulungu Lake between 5:30 and 6:00 PM to enjoy the sunset and take photos without missing either. Day: Burqin → Baihaba → Kanas, stay at Kanas Nanxi Villa 🏨¥2380 The first viewing platform entering Baihaba is great for photos, but there are no more after that! This place is no longer the quiet little village; the whole street is filled with guesthouses and restaurants. On the way to Kanas, there is a lonely tree; people line up trying to find angles to be lonely together. Kanas village is very small; on New Year's Day, no cars are allowed to come and go, luggage is carried by hand into the guesthouse, and no performances are allowed at night. Dinner and drinks 🍺 are done at the guesthouse, celebrating the New Year. The most expensive night of the entire trip, and the least worthwhile! Day: Kanas → Hemu, stay at Suporis Hotel 🏨¥1960 The winter Shenxian Bay is not completely frozen; the distant snow mountains, nearby flowing water, and the clouds in front look like a fairy tale~ The scenery on the way to Hemu is great, but do not stop! Arriving at Hemu, the snow on the ground is pressed into a dirt yellow by cars. Like Baihaba, it’s all guesthouses and restaurants; the so-called scenic rooms are just about who has the bigger window… Day: The next 4 days are all in Jiekepulin 🏂🏻, stay at Holiday Inn 🏨¥11382 Lazy travelers must sleep until naturally waking up; P-style travel emphasizes spontaneity! A treasure travel destination worth visiting many times.

Qiongkushitai and Kurdining have very similar landscapes, so it is recommended to choose one. Qiongkushitai requires crossing three big mountains, the journey is longer and more difficult, while Kurdining has better road conditions and is easier to reach. The landscapes both feature seasonal snow-capped mountains + forest grasslands + snowy spruce ridges. Visiting Qiongkushitai requires an extra day, while Kurdining does not. 🌳 Route 1 12.1 Yining city walk 12.2 Yining Qiongkushitai 12.3 Qiongkushitai Tekes 12.4 Tekes Sailimu Lake loop 12.5 Second visit to Sailimu Lake Yining 12.6 Yining ✈️ 🌳 Route 2 12.1 Yining city walk 12.2 Yining Kurdining Tekes 12.3 Tekes Sailimu Lake loop 12.4 Second visit to Sailimu Lake Yining/Bole 12.5 Yining/Bole return trip 🌟 Route design ideas 1️⃣ The weather at Sailimu Lake in winter is unstable, so the visit is split over two days to cover both sunrise and sunset. Even if the weather is bad, you will see at least one. 2️⃣ Qiongkushitai is a longer and more exploratory trip, so an overnight stay there is necessary. 3️⃣ Kurdining in winter only opens the middle valley, with just one route. Whether horseback riding or not, it can be completed in half a day. 4️⃣ Adding Bole/Yining for the return flight considers different people's 🎫 tickets, offering more flexibility. 5️⃣ Either 12.1 or 12.2 works, as long as you can make it on 12.2. 6️⃣ 2-4 people 👯‍♀️, easy, comfortable, and free.

Autumn trip to Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture and nearby places, this 11-day itinerary is absolutely amazing! Enjoy the sunset cable car at General Mountain to admire the beautiful autumn scenery and unlock a slightly tipsy moment at the mountaintop; have a blast at the ski resort and even party with snow disco; experience the wonder of water turning to ice, gaze at the dazzling starry sky at night, and capture it all with a drone vlog—don’t miss out! -- 🚗 Route Plan: This trip’s itinerary is tight, allowing you to visit a ton of attractions within limited time~ DAY 1: ✈ Arrive in Urumqi, enjoy 24-hour airport/train station pick-up service, start the Urumqi City Walk, and feel the unique charm of this city🌆 DAY 2-3: Depart from Urumqi, cross the S21 Desert Highway, arrive at Altay in northern Xinjiang, experience night skiing or take the cable car to see the ski resort’s night view at General Mountain🎿, then head to Hemu Scenic Area the next day, stay in a Hemu wooden cabin, open the window to the view, and enjoy breathtaking sunrises and sunsets🌄 DAY 4-5: Sleep in naturally in Hemu, enjoy the healing picturesque moments🏞️, then head to Populus Euphratica River, stay in a 5-star hotel to recharge for the upcoming journey💤 DAY 6-7: Depart from Populus Euphratica River/Dushanzi, VIP tour & 270° in-depth tour of Sayram Lake, check in at a 5-star hotel in Yining City🏨, then head to Nalati Scenic Area the next day, no rush, enjoy the beauty of nature at a slow pace🌿 DAY 8-9: Depart from Xinyuan County, visit Kuerdening Scenic Area, stay in Bole City, then head to Dushanzi Grand Canyon the next day to feel the awe of the billion-year-old canyon shaped by time🌉, finally return to Urumqi and stay in a 5-star hotel DAY 10-11: Urumqi City Walk or go to Kumtag Desert on your own (transportation not included), enjoy leisure time🏜️, finally have breakfast at the Urumqi hotel, then 24-hour private transfer to the airport to end a wonderful trip, having seen mountains and rivers, you’ll feel life is truly worthwhile🌈 -- Must-Visit Attractions: 🏞️ Hemu Scenic Area 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Address: 7 km east of Hemu Village, Hanas Mongolian Ethnic Township, Burqin County, Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region ⏰ Opening Hours: Unknown ⏳ Recommended Duration: 2-3 days 🌲 Simple wooden cabins scattered in mountain valleys, rustic and quiet, like a paradise on earth🌿 🌊 Kanas Scenic Area 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Address: Provincial Road 232, Burqin County, Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region ⏰ Opening Hours: Unknown ⏳ Recommended Duration: 1-2 days 🌈 Mysterious lake monster, color-changing lake water, the beauty of Kanas is breathtaking💫 💧 Sayram Lake 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Address: Along National Highway 30, Bole City, Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region ⏰ Opening Hours: Open all day ⏳ Recommended Duration: 1-2 days 🌊 Clear blue lake water, blooming wildflowers on the grassland, as beautiful as a painting🖼️ 🏜️ Dushanzi Grand Canyon 🌟🌟🌟🌟 Address: Along National Highway 217, Dushanzi District, Karamay City ⏰ Opening Hours: September 1 - December 31, 09:30-20:30 ⏳ Recommended Duration: 2-3 hours 🌄 Steep cliffs, desert grassland, nature’s masterpiece is truly stunning💥 -- 🧥 Travel Preparation: What to bring when visiting these places in Changji? This article has you covered!** 👗 Clothing: In November, Changji has a big temperature difference between day and night, bring a windbreaker + warm inner layers, windproof pants for hiking at Tianshan Tianchi, and lightweight sports shoes are practical. 🧢 Accessories: Strong UV rays require sunglasses + sunscreen, bring a sand-proof face scarf for desert areas, a thermos with hot water, umbrella/raincoat for sudden weather changes. 🪪 Documents: ID card is a must (checked at scenic spots), student/senior cards for discounts, driver’s license + vehicle registration for self-driving, electronic backups for peace of mind. 📱 Electronics: Power bank + charging cables (charging is difficult in scenic spots), camera for snow mountains and grasslands, common medicines (cold medicine, motion sickness pills), and some cash as backup. -- This group tour in Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture will definitely leave you fully satisfied and make the trip worthwhile, just go for it!😎

There is no standard answer for winter in Yili. But "Qiongkushitai + Kuerdening" is the best solution I boldly recommend to you this year. This site inspection completely dispelled a long-standing industry misconception for me: it’s not that Qiongkushitai can’t be visited in winter, but that most itineraries are too "single-point," failing to place it within the correct narrative structure. 1. Why did I choose the "quiet + active" dual grassland structure? In winter, all top experiences in Yili revolve around two things: a quiet place to stop, and a free place to play. Qiongkushitai is the answer to "stop." Kuerdening is the answer to "play." Both are indispensable, like two ends of breathing—one slows you down, the other lets you release. During the inspection days, I kept pondering one question: if I could only give everyone one version of winter in Yili, what should it look like? My final conclusion is simple—it's not about taking you to scenic spots, but about immersing you in "winter in Yili" itself. Qiongkushitai’s high-altitude valleys, wooden cabins, cooking smoke, and snowfields are Yili’s most original backdrop; Kuerdening’s river valleys, spruce forests, and outdoor activities represent Yili’s winter vitality. Only by combining these two experiences can you truly experience "winter in Yili." 2. Why bring Qiongkushitai back to winter? This inspection made me very certain: Qiongkushitai in winter is not "unplayable," but "should not be overlooked." In recent years, most content has portrayed Qiongkushitai as a "summer-only" destination, but I think that’s a misunderstanding. Winter Qiongkushitai is another dimension—snowfields, wooden cabins, spruces, herders’ winter homes... after the summer bustle is gone, what remains is a clean texture. 3. Kuerdening is the "active line" I value most this winter. If Qiongkushitai is responsible for "resetting your heartbeat," Kuerdening is responsible for "reigniting it." The winter experience in Kuerdening is not about "viewing scenery," but truly "playing into it." Snowfields, river valleys, spruce forests, outdoor activities, off-road experiences... this is a place that convinces you only when your feet step on it and your body moves. I chose it for three reasons: 1⃣️ High landscape complexity 2⃣️ High freedom of outdoor activities 3⃣️ Relatively stable winter road conditions 4. Why am I unwilling to "compress" experiences to fit in more attractions? During the inspection, we repeatedly encountered one problem: many routes cram in points that are unsuitable for winter just to boost "popularity," making the itinerary overly rushed. But I am increasingly clear about one thing: a truly good trip must have a high "experience density," not a large number of "points." 5. So we finally settled on a direction: A route that represents the complete temperament of winter in Yili is not about piling up scenic spots or chasing trendy places, but about piecing together winter in Yili through an "experience logic"—the quiet and blank space of Qiongkushitai, the freedom and activities of Kuerdening, the ice and snow wonders of Sayram Lake, the winter vitality of Swan Lake. These "winter fragments" come together to form the full picture of "winter in Yili." The detailed itinerary is now online.

Winter in Ili｜The Ice and Snow I Found in Xinjiang❄️ So beautiful it leaves you speechless!! Just got back from Ili! Can't wait to share this hidden gem with you all! I originally thought winter in Xinjiang might be a bit niche, but I was moved to tears by the beauty😭 What a magical place!! 【My 7 Days】 📍Day 1-2: Urumqi - Skiing ▪️ Visited the Xinjiang Museum, very few people in the off-season, great experience, remember to book in advance ▪️ Ate casually downstairs at the hotel, more exploring in Yining later · 📍Day 3: Sailimu Lake + Yining ▪️ The driver took us on a self-driving tour around Sailimu Lake, winter only shows blue, white, and pink ▪️ Arranged a tea brewing around the stove, very cozy ▪️ Went straight to Kazanqi Folk Street upon arrival in the afternoon ▪️ Local aunties were super friendly, taught us how to make naan, warm naan with milk tea was amazing! · 📍Day 4: Galloping on Nalati Snowfield ▪️ Finally fulfilled my dream of horseback riding on snow! 🐎 ▪️ The Kazakh guy was super nice, helped take photos and guided poses ▪️ Stayed in a cabin at night, looking up at a sky full of stars ▪️ Ate lamb hotpot around the fireplace, happiness overload · 📍Day 5: Kuerdening ▪️ The most beautiful part of the trip! ▪️ Snow weighing down green firs, the forest is super dense, just as beautiful as in summer ▪️ Must ride horses through the forest! Perfect for photos · 📍Day 6: Swan Spring ▪️ Morning fog + swans + rime, looks like a fairyland ▪️ Phone storage warning popped up, every photo is wallpaper-worthy ▪️ Warm tip: definitely use heat packs, toes will get numb from the cold - 【Practical Tips】 ✅ Clothing: Down jacket + thermal underwear + snow boots are a lifesaver combo ✅ Gear: Power bank is a must! Phone battery drains super fast ✅ Skincare: Moisturize! Moisturize! Moisturize! Important enough to say three times ✅ Others: Bring plenty of heat packs, camera warm covers are very necessary This trip was truly worth every penny! Not many people now, ladies, hurry up and go!

Urumqi 7-Day Treasure Route is here! Private car and guide + adjustable itinerary, explore the exclusive wonders of Zhaosu Tianma Bath River, self-drive Nalati with no queue to cross Tianshan, light hiking in Qiaxi Forest, in-depth tour around Sailimu Lake, plus epic cliff photo spots at Guozigou—this trip is truly worth it! -------- Don’t miss this chance if you come across it! Keep reading for new discoveries~ -------- 🌈 Travel Route: Day 1️⃣: Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar 📍 Stroll and snack at Xinjiang’s characteristic market, feel the rich ethnic atmosphere~ Day 2️⃣: Urumqi 101 Provincial Road Danxia Landform — S101 Hundred-Mile Danxia Viewing Platform — Kangjia Shimenzi Rock Paintings — Lujiaowan Tourist Scenic Area — Dushanzi Grand Canyon 🚗 Traverse the Danxia secret realm, check in at the hundred-mile viewing platform, explore ancient rock paintings, encounter the Lujiaowan grassland, and finally experience the stunning landforms at Dushanzi Grand Canyon! Day 3️⃣-4️⃣: Dushanzi — Duku Highway — Nalati Town — Nalati Tourist Scenic Area (VIP no-queue self-drive) 🚗 Cross the epic scenic Duku Highway, enjoy all four seasons in one day 🌲 Arrive at Nalati, VIP no-queue self-drive over Tianshan, deeply explore the secret wonders of Nalati Grassland! Day 5️⃣: Kuerdening Scenic Area — Qimengde Viewing Platform — Qiaxi Grassland Scenic Tourist Area (light hiking in Qiaxi Forest) 🌿 Stroll through Kuerdening, climb Qimengde Viewing Platform for panoramic views, then light hike in Qiaxi Grassland to feel the tranquility and beauty of nature~ Day 6️⃣: Sailimu Lake (in-depth around the lake) — Guozigou (popular cliff photo spot) — Yili Old Town Kazanqi Folk Tourism Area — Yining Six-Star Street 💧 Deeply circle Sailimu Lake, check in at Guozigou cliff photo spot, visit Yili Old Town Kazanqi, and finally experience exotic vibes at Six-Star Street~ Day 7️⃣: Yining — End of itinerary 🔚 🚗 Private car free all-day airport and station transfers, looking forward to seeing you next time~ -------- 🧥 Travel Essentials: Practical checklist for having fun in Urumqi! 👔 Clothing: November in Urumqi is bitterly cold, thick down jacket + fleece pants are a must, scarf, hat, and gloves set to stay alive! 💊 Medicine: Prepare altitude sickness medicine (Tianshan Tianchi is high altitude), stomach and cold medicine for peace of mind in your luggage. 📄 Documents: Keep your ID card on you! Don’t forget student or senior cards, tickets can save you the price of a milk tea~ 📱 Accessories: Fully charged power bank! Selfie stick for snowy mountain photos, sunglasses to block snow glare, thermos for hot water anytime! -------- What are you waiting for👇! Click the card below to start a worry-free journey

I canceled my ticket to Switzerland because Xinjiang here is even more beautiful… In Kuerdening, I found the ultimate form of snowy mountain grasslands! Who understands, family! Kuerdening in Yili, Xinjiang It's so beautiful that I canceled my flight to Switzerland Here, the combination of snowy mountains + spruces + grasslands is a triple hit It's like a fairy tale come to life 🏔️ 🌟 Why Kuerdening? • The last secret realm of the Western Tianshan: few tourists, pristine scenery • Triple landscape overlay: snowy mountains as the background, spruces as the main feature, grasslands as the carpet • Great value for money: saves you a lot compared to flying to Switzerland! 📍 Basic Information Address: Eastern mountainous area of Gongliu County, Yili Prefecture, Xinjiang Transportation: Recommended to drive yourself (60 km from Gongliu County town) Features: snowy mountains, spruce forests, grassland pastures 📸 Must-visit spots Spruce King Check-in Point • 300-year-old Xueling spruce, trunk wide enough for five people to hug • Photo tip: shoot upward at the trunk with snowy mountain background for maximum impact Kabanbay Peak Viewing Platform • Facing the second highest peak of the Tianshan, wildflowers in summer with snowy mountains • Hidden activity: horseback riding deep into the grasslands (50 RMB/hour) 💡 Important Reminders • 🍔 No restaurants in the scenic area, bring your own snacks and thermos • 🧥 Large temperature difference! Bring a light down jacket and sunscreen • ✈️ Drones must be reported in advance (border control area) 🍢 Food Bonus On the way back, be sure to try "Aili Nang Keng Rou" in Gongliu County town Freshly slaughtered lamb slow-cooked in a nang pit oven, tearing it apart is super satisfying! 🗓️ Best Seasons • Summer (June-August): wildflowers bloom, comfortable temperature • Autumn (September-October): colorful foliage, rich colors Xinjiang Travel Trust me, the beauty of Kuerdening really rivals Switzerland! And here it’s more original and pure Save this guide and plan your next trip here～

Think Ili is only about summer lavender fields and grasslands? In winter, the Ili River Valley transforms into a hidden gem overlooked by many! From the magical blue ice of Zhaosu Yuhu Lake to the graceful swans dancing at Swan Lake Wetland, from the snow-covered spruce forests of Kuerdening to the silver-clad Nalati, this region holds the most poetic and vibrant winter in Northern Xinjiang. 🚗 7-Day Detailed Itinerary Day 1: Various Locations - Yining City Arrive in Yining City and visit [Six-Star Street Scenic Area]. Tour the [Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture Museum]. Accommodation: Hotel in Yining City. Day 2: Yining City - Zhaosu Head to Zhaosu and visit the [Xibe Ethnic Museum]. Explore the [Heavenly Horse Tourism and Culture Park]. Accommodation: Hotel in Zhaosu County. Day 3: Zhaosu Full Day Visit [Zhaosu Yuhu Lake] to marvel at the blue ice spectacle. Tour the [Bagua City Scenic Area]. Accommodation: Hotel in Zhaosu County. Day 4: Zhaosu - Karatohai - Kuerdening Explore [Karatohai Lake]. Head to the [Kuerdening Nature Reserve]. Accommodation: Hotel in Kuerdening Town. Day 5: Kuerdening - Qiaxi - Nalati Visit [Qiaxi Forest Park]. Proceed to the [Nalati Scenic Area]. Accommodation: Hotel in Nalati Town. Day 6: Nalati Full Day Spend the entire day exploring the [Nalati Scenic Area]. Experience the majestic winter grasslands. Accommodation: Hotel in Nalati Town. Day 7: Nalati - Tangbula - Swan Lake - Yining City Visit [Tangbula National Forest Park]. Tour the [Swan Lake Wetland Park]. Return to Yining City to conclude the trip. ✨ Highlights of the Journey Hidden Gems: Discover the lesser-known yet stunning winter attractions of the Ili River Valley. Dancing Swans: Witness the enchanting scene of swans and rime ice at Swan Lake. Blue Ice Spectacle: Marvel at the magical blue ice of Zhaosu Yuhu Lake in winter. Snow-Covered Spruce: Admire the grandeur of snow-laden spruce trees in Kuerdening. 🧳 Travel Tips Road Conditions: Heavy snowfall in the Ili River Valley during winter may lead to road closures; check road conditions in advance. Photography Gear: Bring a telephoto lens for swan photography and a wide-angle lens for capturing vast snowy landscapes. Warm Clothing: The high humidity in the Ili River Valley makes it feel colder; ensure adequate warmth. Flexible Itinerary: Adjust plans based on weather conditions, prioritizing safety.

Want to experience a unique romance in Yining this autumn? Still worrying about itinerary planning? Don't miss this 6-day customized Yining travel guide! It clearly outlines autumn scenery and unique activities. Follow it to easily embark on an amazing autumn trip to Yining~ . 🌈Advantages of Customized Tours: ✨ 🌟【Reasonable Arrangements】1-on-1 exclusive itinerary planning, with the pace of the route entirely under your control! No need to wake up early to rush, no need to force yourself to visit crowded hotspots, avoid popular tourist traps, and spend your time where you truly love～🚗 💰【Transparent Pricing】All service details are clearly listed! Flights/hotels/car rentals/tickets are quoted separately, supporting price comparison across all platforms without fear of scams, rejecting hidden consumption, so you can spend clearly and travel with more peace of mind～💸 🌍【In-depth Exploration】Say goodbye to superficial sightseeing! No group tours or rushing around. Slow down, have a coffee, learn to cook local dishes, chat with artisans, and discover hidden stories in old alleyways. That's the true meaning of travel～🍵 . 🗺️Itinerary Overview: Day 1: Depart and arrive at Yining Airport, then wait for a private car to pick you up and take you to the hotel. After settling in, enjoy some free time! Day 2: Sayram Lake Day 3: Tuergen Township Day 4: Nalati Scenic Area Day 5: Kuerdening Scenic Area — Yining Six Star Street Day 6: Yining Airport drop-off and return trip✈️ . Don't hesitate, quickly save this guide! Follow this route, and your Yining trip will surely be unforgettable and scream-worthy!

❄️ Who says you have to go to Northern Europe in winter? The hidden icy secret of Ili, Xinjiang "Every frame here is like a movie scene" In the rarely visited snowy land, we take you to fully enjoy this frozen paradise. . 💎【Three Must-Experience Ice and Snow Adventures】 ｜Sayram Lake · Blue Ice Secret Realm｜ 💠 Stand on the crystal-clear ice surface 💠 As if stepping into the magical world of Frozen 💠 Watch the sunset during exclusive sunrise/sunset times 💠 Enjoy the blue ice photo moments alone without crowds ｜Kuerdening · Snowy Spruce Ridge｜ 🌲 Ride a horse through the frost-covered primeval forest 🌲 Sunlight casts dappled shadows on the snowfield 🌲 View the snowy forest and plains from a mountain cabin ｜Nalati · Song of Ice and Fire｜ ♨️ Take a cable car to the snowy mountain peak ♨️ Soak in hot springs embraced by snowy mountains ♨️ Experience the romance of ice and fire —— 🏕️【Wild Luxury Camps · Sleep in the Scenery】 Kruger Wild Luxury Camp → Detached villas with stargazing terraces → Real fireplaces + heated stargazing swimming pool → Bonfire parties + helicopter rides + snow mountain hiking... → 24-hour butler service Sayram Lake Yilai Elaine → Panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows facing the lake → Intelligent temperature control + floor heating system → Private and excellent viewing experience Kuerdening Bairui Camp → Unbeatable views facing the snowy mountains → Floor heating + smart home system → Ultimate romance of stargazing on snowy nights Nalati Xicheng Holiday Farm → Panoramic skylight for sleeping under the stars → Detached design for privacy → Thoughtful stove + hot drink service . 🎯【Exclusive Custom Services】 ✓ One order, one group, independent travel ✓ Experienced driver-guide exclusive service ✓ Flexible itinerary adjustment ✓ Special activity arrangements —— 💫 Trip Highlights: Exclusive routes｜Luxury accommodations｜Thoughtful service 👉 Click the product inquiry below to customize your exclusive ice and snow journey

Welcome to Xinjiang's hidden gem! This guide will help you explore Kuerdening while avoiding any pitfalls👇 🌟【Why You Must Visit Kuerdening】 📍Location: Southeast Gongliu County, Ili Prefecture, Xinjiang ✨The world's largest snow ridge spruce forest! Pristine natural scenery of World Natural Heritage level 🏔️Unique north-south valley with breathtaking views beyond photos 📸Fewer people, more beautiful scenery! A more untouched photo paradise than Nalati 🍂Autumn from September to October is legendary! Colorful like an oil painting 🌄【Best Time to Visit】 May-June｜Wild lilies and ice flowers bloom❄️ July-August｜Lush greenery, perfect summer retreat🌿 September-October｜Golden fairy tale world🍁 (Highly recommended!) November-April｜Snow-covered forest and plains❄️ 🚗【Recommended Itineraries】 🔸1-Day Tour (Compact) Visitor Center → Kafeng Base Camp → Qimengde Viewing Platform (must-go!) → Ayusai Viewing Platform → Spruce King Hiking → Exit Scenic Area 🔸2-Day Tour (In-depth Experience) Day 1: Depart from Yining → Ayusai Viewing Platform → Light Hiking → Stay at Scenic Area Guesthouse Day 2: Deep tour of Qimengde Viewing Platform → Exit via East Valley 💡Tips: - Allow 2-3 hours for hiking and photography at Qimengde Viewing Platform - Buying a package ticket is more cost-effective for self-driving tours 🎫【Tickets & Transportation】 ⏰Opening Hours: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM (Peak Season) 💰Tickets: 60 RMB/person + 30 RMB shuttle bus (Booking in advance recommended) 🚙Self-driving: 3.5 hours from Yining (Navigate to "Kuerdening Scenic Area") 🏡【Accommodation & Food】 ▪️Scenic area guesthouses: Immersive experience under snowy mountain stars✨ ▪️Must-try Kazakh dishes: Hand-pulled lamb + horse milk yogurt ⚠️Accommodations are in high demand during peak season! Book early 💼【Pre-Trip Essentials】 ☑️Bring enough cash (poor signal in mountainous areas) ☑️Sun protection essentials: sunglasses + hat + sunscreen ☑️Big temperature difference! Thin down jacket is a must ☑️Protect the environment! Please take your trash with you 📸【Photography Hotspots】 Spruce forest in the morning light🌲 Panoramic view of the golden mountain at sunset🌄 Boardwalk + forest + snow mountain combo📷 (The boardwalk spot in the photos is perfect for shooting!) 🔥The stunning scenery here is definitely worth a special trip! Save this guide and get ready to go～

Who says you can only visit Ili in Xinjiang during summer? This winter, we’re doing the opposite Breaking into the little-known "Ili Ice and Snow Secret Realm" The per capita price is not only cheaper than in summer📸 But you can also exclusively enjoy the joy of contracting an entire snowfield! . ❄️ All the highlights of the itinerary in one go ✨ Sayram Lake · Double Wonders of Blue Ice and Starry Sky - Shoot stunning photos standing on the crystal-clear blue ice🧊 - Gaze at the breathtaking Milky Way at night🌌 - Experience the unique fun of skiing at Sayram Lake ✨ Kuerdening · Snowy Fairy Tale Wooden Cabin - Stay in a warm wooden cabin in the snowy mountains - Stroll through the silver-covered snowy spruce forest - Capture Nordic-style winter portraits ✨ Nalati · Ice and Snow Entertainment Paradise - Ride a horse-drawn sleigh through the rime forest - Overlook the ice and snow kingdom from the mountain cable car - Ultimate hot spring experience in the icy snow ✨ Wild Luxury Accommodation · Sleep in the Scenery Stay the entire time at a luxury camp, enjoying 25℃ warm indoor comfort . 🏔️ Must-try TOP List 1️⃣ Sayram Lake Blue Ice Photography Best spots: Dijiangtai panoramic view, Kele Yongzhu ice bubbles, popular S curve 📸 Soft light from 4-6 PM, wearing bright colors makes photos pop! 2️⃣ Nalati Snow Carnival ✅ Snow mountain cable car overlooking the snowfield ✅ Snowmobile through the forest sea ✅ Horseback stroll through the rime gallery ✅ Hot spring experience of ice and fire duality 3️⃣ Kuerdening Secret Realm Hiking 🚶‍♀️ Optional guided tours to explore the little-known snowfield secret realm 🏡 Stay at Bairui Camp, watch snow fall on spruces through floor-to-ceiling windows . 🏔️ Sayram Lake Area Hotels Yilai Elaine · Hechuan Yunjin Wild Luxury Camp ✨ "Romance of watching the Milky Way from bed" - Full lake view floor-to-ceiling windows, Sayram Lake blue ice in full sight - Smart floor heating + humidifier, perfect winter comfort Kruger Hot Spring Wild Luxury Camp ✨ "Luxurious experience of ice and fire duality" - Private standalone villas facing the snow mountains for better privacy - Snowfield hot springs facing Sayram Lake, perfect for photos - Fully smart home, quality in every detail - Bonfire party + customized dinner, a feast for your taste buds too . 🌲 Kuerdening Secret Realm Hotel Bairui Camp ✨ "Live in a fairy tale world of snowy spruce" - Standalone wooden cabins embraced by century-old spruces - Huge floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking snowy mountains and forests - Nighttime tea by the stove, stargazing and chatting - Professional floor heating + fireplace, warm as spring . 🏞️ Nalati Valley Hotel Xichengdu Holiday Farm ✨ "Ice and snow beautiful lodging full of design" - Located in the prime spot of Nalati Valley grassland - Perfect blend of modern design and Kazakh style - Room views directly overlook snowy mountains and rime wonders . This winter, why not take an impromptu Ili ice and snow trip In the little-known winter secret realm Find your own ice and snow fairy tale❄️ 👉🏻 👉🏻 "Click the product link below to inquire and get your exclusive winter custom itinerary"👉🏻 👉🏻

Kuerdening, Xinjiang: The Green Wonderland Deep in the Tianshan Mountains, an Absolutely Stunning Secret Realm! Stroll through the sea of spruce trees and encounter the most pristine poetry of the Tianshan Mountains In the southeastern mountainous area of Gongliu County, Ili, Xinjiang, lies a secret realm known as the "Most Beautiful Green Valley of the Tianshan"—the Kuerdening Scenic Area. This World Natural Heritage site, with its unique natural landscapes and pristine beauty, is waiting for you to explore. Kuerdening Essential Travel Guide 🚗 Transportation and Tickets · Ticket: 60 RMB per person (peak season), self-driving vehicles can enter the scenic area for free. · About a 3-hour drive from Yining City; about 1.5 hours from Gongliu County. · The scenic area has a one-way road; enter from Zhonggou and exit from Donggou. 📸 Must-See Attractions 1. Qimengde Viewing Platform: The scenery here resembles scenes from "Heidi and Grandpa," and it is the essence of Kuerdening. Hike along the wooden plank road, flanked by lush spruce forests and sprinkled with fairy-tale wooden cabins. In the distance stands the magnificent snow-capped Kabanbay Peak. It is recommended to visit in the morning when the light is soft and front-lit for better photos. 2. Ayusai Viewing Platform: From here, you can overlook the spectacular S-shaped mountain road, with Kabanbay Peak snow mountain seemingly within reach. It’s an excellent spot to capture both the snow mountain and forest in one frame. 3. Ten-Mile Gallery: The first stop after entering the scenic area, with towering spruces on both sides of the road, lush green grass, wildflowers everywhere, and the Kuerdai River gently flowing like a slowly unfolding landscape painting. 4. Spruce Forest Hiking: Kuerdening boasts the largest area of Xueling spruce forest in Asia. Walking through the forest, sunlight filters through the branches creating dappled shadows, the air is fresh and filled with the scent of pine needles, as if taking a natural forest bath. 💡 Practical Tips · Accommodation Options: You can choose to stay in a Kazakh yurt inside the scenic area (about 200-400 RMB/night), with snow mountains visible right outside the door and a dazzling Milky Way overhead at night; or return to Gongliu County for accommodation with more complete facilities. · Food Experience: Try a bowl of freshly brewed milk tea at a herder’s home, rich in creamy flavor; then enjoy some local grilled lamb skewers with authentic taste. · Travel Preparation: Mountain weather is changeable with large temperature differences between day and night, so bring a jacket even in summer. UV rays are strong, so be sure to take sun protection measures. The beauty of Kuerdening lies in its primitive and simple natural atmosphere, in the harmonious picture woven by snow mountains, forests, grasslands, and streams. This "Green Valley of the Tianshan" quietly interprets the magnificence and diversity of our motherland’s mountains and rivers. So, what is the true meaning of travel? Is it to find your original self in another place, or to finally understand the belonging of your heart in the vast world? Feel free to share your stories and insights in the comments.

Healed by the morning sunrise We ran out before dawn Who understands the joy of swinging at the foot of a snowy mountain Original photo posted directly Isn't this the scene I dreamed of? 🏔️

Dear friends! The 7-day route of Bortala-Ili-Karamay is a must-recommend! You can ride UTV snowmobiles at Sayram Lake, enjoy tea by the fire while admiring the snowy scenery which is super healing, soak in snowfield hot springs, and fill your trip with romance and happiness! -------------------- 🚗 Itinerary: This trip is tightly scheduled, allowing you to visit many attractions within a limited time~ DAY 1: Arrive in Urumqi, rest well to prepare for the upcoming journey 💤 📝 Upon arrival in Urumqi, take a short break to adapt to the environment. DAY 2-3: Head to Sayram Lake to deeply experience the winter romance of Sayram Lake. You can ride UTV snowmobiles, enjoy tea by the fire in the snowy scenery, and soak in snowfield hot springs ♨️ -> On the third day, visit Guozigou Bridge to admire the spectacular bridge and natural scenery. 📝 Deep exploration of Sayram Lake, feeling the collision of ice, snow, and hot springs; Guozigou Bridge witnesses the perfect blend of nature and engineering. DAY 4: Have fun on the Sky Grassland, feel the vastness and grandeur of the grassland -> Return to Sayram Lake to appreciate its beauty from a different perspective 🌄 📝 The dual beauty of Sky Grassland and Sayram Lake offers a visual feast for your eyes. DAY 5: Kurdeng Scenic Area, explore the mysteries of nature and ecology 🌳 📝 Walk through the primeval forest in Kurdeng Scenic Area, breathe fresh air, and feel the charm of nature. DAY 6: Dushanzi Grand Canyon, challenge your visual limits and experience the wonders of nature’s craftsmanship 🌉 📝 Stand at the edge of Dushanzi Grand Canyon, feeling awe and amazement. DAY 7: Return from Urumqi, bringing back full memories and photos, back to your warm home 🏠 📝 End a pleasant journey and look forward to the next trip. -------------------- Travel Tips: 1️⃣ **Photo Spots**: Sayram Lake lakeside boardwalk, Dushanzi Grand Canyon cliff café, Guozigou Bridge viewing platform. Wearing light-colored dresses makes photos stand out 📸 2️⃣ **Must-Try Foods**: Ili roasted baozi with kvass, Karamay cold noodles, Bortala Mongolian milk tea with fried rice, prepare your stomach capacity 🍢🥛 3️⃣ **October Climate**: Large temperature difference between morning and night. Bring a windbreaker by Sayram Lake, wear a light down jacket on Ili grassland, and don’t forget sunscreen in Karamay during the day ☀️🧥 4️⃣ **Customs and Taboos**: Avoid stepping on the threshold when entering a Mongolian yurt, don’t touch children’s heads in Kazakh herders’ homes, carrying small snacks as gifts is thoughtful 🎁🙏 5️⃣ **Transportation Reminder**: Yizhao Highway may be closed in October, check road conditions in advance. It’s recommended to charter a car from Karamay to Devil City for more freedom 🚗💨 -------------------- 🎉 Friends, this group tour of Bortala-Ili-Karamay is awesome. Wishing everyone a fun trip without any mishaps!

In autumn, come to Kurdinning in Xinjiang to start a unique journey with yoga! Kurdinning is located in the southeastern forest area of Gongliu County, 55 kilometers from the county seat. It is a World Natural Heritage site and a national AAAA-level scenic area. Covering a total area of 1,176 square kilometers, with an average altitude of about 1,500 meters, it enjoys warm winters and cool summers with a pleasant climate. It features the 4,257-meter-high snow peak Kabanbay Peak and a naturally formed hidden reclining Buddha. Forests and grasslands create a magnificent landscape, making it a natural oxygen bar and one of China's top ten forests with negative oxygen ions. Practicing yoga here allows visitors to experience natural tranquility and gain relaxation and comfort. Come to Kurdinning to stretch your body and mind amidst beautiful scenery and encounter a different kind of autumn!

Having been to Xinjiang three times, I recently happened to watch the animated film "The Adventures of Nalati" and realized that the animation is actually very realistic! The endless grasslands Healing cartoon clouds The adorable Ili pika Tianshan snow chrysanthemums blooming all over the hillsides Grilled buns, baked naan, and other delicacies unique to Xinjiang …… Each scene in the animation takes me back to my travels in Ili~ Looking back at the photos I took, I have to say: the scenes in "The Adventures of Nalati" are truly faithfully recreated! . 👇Here are some of my favorite travel spots in Ili 📍Nalati Grassland Among all of Xinjiang, the grasslands here are top-notch! I recommend self-driving tours; the scenic area is very large, so it's best to set aside a whole day. . 📍Kuerdening A relatively less popular forest grassland scenic area, with fewer people and very pristine scenery~ I recommend a full self-driving tour, with about half a day to explore. There are tent campsites in the scenic area, and you can also bring your own gear to stay overnight. . 📍Qiaxi Qiaxi is very close to Kuerdening, so you can visit both together. The weather here is very changeable; when we went in May, it even snowed heavily! . 📍Qiongkushitai No entrance fee, but relatively more popular. There are homestays and campsites for overnight stays, and you can hike the ancient Wusun Trail. - Attached is a 7-day itinerary DAY 1 Urumqi - Yining (high-speed train recommended) Rent a car in Yining and drive to Tekes 🏨Stay in Bagua City - DAY 2 Tekes ➡️ Qiongkushitai Drive and explore along the way, the scenery is amazing 🏨Stay in Qiongkushitai - DAY 3 Qiongkushitai ➡️ Nalati Spend a full day in Nalati, you won’t want to leave 🏨Stay in Gongliu DAY 4 Gongliu ➡️ Kuerdening One-day tour of Kuerdening, return to Gongliu for accommodation 🏨Stay in Gongliu - DAY 5 Gongliu ➡️ Qiaxi ➡️ Yining Half-day tour of Qiaxi, return to Yining 🏨Stay in Yining - DAY 6 Yining ➡️ Sayram Lake ➡️ Guozigou One-day tour of Sayram Lake, watch the sunset at Guozigou in the evening, return to Yining and return the car 🏨Stay in Yining - DAY 7 Yining ➡️ Urumqi Spend the day in Yining, fly to Urumqi at night 🏨Stay in Urumqi

Gongliu 2 Days 1 Night Travel Guide | A Secret Journey at the Foot of the Tianshan Mountains Day 1: Prairie Pastoral Song + Forest Secret Morning: Kuerdening Scenic Area 09:00-12:00 Drive or charter a car to [Kuerdening] (60 km from the county seat, about 1.5 hours by car). This is the core area of the Tianshan Heritage Site. Hike along the wooden plank road to the "Kabanbay Peak Viewing Platform," where the snowy spruce and wildflowers frame a scene like a Windows wallpaper! Lunch recommendation: Have a bowl of rich milk tea and hand-pulled lamb at a Kazakh herder’s home inside the scenic area (about 50 RMB per person). Afternoon: Qiaxi Prairie 14:00-18:00 Drive 40 minutes to [Qiaxi Prairie], ride horses through the valley (about 80 RMB/hour). From June to August, the prairie looks like a green ocean, and the chance to spot marmots is very high! Dinner & Accommodation: 19:30 Return to Gongliu County, go to [Kuergan Food Street] to eat roasted buns and belt noodles; Stay overnight in a prairie starry sky room (recommended "Qiaxi Yunding Camp," book in advance, about 400 RMB/night). Day 2: Canyon Light & Shadow + Pastoral Poetry Morning: Tarim Forest Park 08:30-11:30 Explore [Tarim Canyon], hike 3 km along the stream, ending at "Fairy Lake." The Tyndall effect when sunlight passes through the canyon is stunning (a must for photographers). Lunch: At the canyon entrance, try wild black mushroom stir-fried meat at "Tarim Farmhouse." Afternoon: Diehu Park & Return Trip 13:30-15:00 Return to the county seat to visit [Diehu Park], shaped like a butterfly, perfect for reflection photos. Local honey is sold by the lake (30 RMB/jar); 15:30 On the way, visit [Walnut Valley] to pick wild walnuts (autumn only). Transportation Tips: Best by self-driving (about 6 hours from Urumqi); If no car, join a local one-day tour group (about 200 RMB/person). Seasonal Highlights: May: Pink sea of apricot blossoms in the valley; September: Apple picking (Gongliu is the "City of Apples"). Estimated total cost: about 800 RMB/person (including fuel/charter). —— Follow me to discover 100 ways to explore Xinjiang! 🌄

Kuerdening Scenic Area is located in Gongliu County, Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang. Its uniqueness lies in the fact that while most mountain valleys descend along the mountain slopes, this wide valley runs parallel to the snow-capped mountains. It is a north-south oriented mountain valley, approximately 14 kilometers long and up to 1 kilometer wide, with an average elevation of 1,500 meters at the valley floor. In 1984, Kuerdening Scenic Area was designated as the Autonomous Region's Xueling Spruce Nature Reserve. The reserve is home to over 1,000 species of higher plants, 146 species of terrestrial vertebrates, and 196 species of insects. The peaks in Kuerdening Scenic Area range from 3,000 to 4,200 meters, with the highest peak being Kabanbay Peak, which is snow-covered year-round. The climate is mild and humid, with lush greenery, offering scenic views throughout all four seasons.

🚗 Transportation Guide: 1. Self-driving (preferred✅): · Navigation setting: "Kurdining Scenic Area Zhonggou Entrance" · Route: Yining → Gongliu County → Kurdining (about 3 hours) | Gongliu County → Scenic Area (about 1.5 hours) · Road conditions: One-way roads inside the scenic area! Enter through Zhonggou → exit through Donggou, missed spots cannot be revisited! · Fee: 60 RMB per vehicle (peak season) 2. Public transportation: · Take a bus from Yining/Gongliu County to Gongliu Bus Station → 2-3 direct buses daily to the scenic area (about 25 RMB/person) (Recommended to go early and return late; if you miss the bus, you need to carpool) --- 📸 Must-visit spots: Attraction Highlights Photo Tips Qimengde Viewing Platform Snowy mountains + spruces + grassland triple scenery, about 1-hour wooden plank trail hike (or horseback riding 80 RMB/hour) Morning light⏰, wear bright-colored dresses and capture running shots! Giant spruces at trail corners + snowy mountain background are stunning Ayusai Viewing Platform Overlooking the hairpin bends of the mountain road & Kabambayi Peak Beautiful at sunset🌄, wide-angle lens a must Heidi Grandpa’s Cabin 10-minute hike, movie scene replica Lean against the cabin or take photos with the dead tree, full of story vibes Cloud Grassland Wildflowers everywhere (June-August), can hug lambs and drink fresh milk🐑 Lying down shots + drone views, feel like blending into the clouds --- 🍢 Food & Accommodation: · Food: Freshly brewed milk tea + naan bread, grilled lamb skewers (7-10 RMB/skewer), handmade yogurt at herders’ homes (Avoid: Food street at the scenic area entrance tastes average, better to bring your own snacks) · Accommodation: · Yurt inside the scenic area (200-400 RMB/night): open the door to see the Milky Way🌌 · Kafeng Camp/Borui Camp: cabins & tents, close-up snowy mountain views · Hotels in Gongliu County: suitable for those sensitive to cold (better conditions) --- ⚠️ Practical Tips: 1. Clothing: Big temperature difference between day and night! Summer clothes + jacket during the day, thin down jacket needed early morning and evening 2. Sun protection: UV is very strong! Sunglasses + hat + SPF50+ essential 3. Signal: Often no signal in mountainous areas! Download offline maps in advance 4. Avoid crowds: Best time June-August but crowded, enter the scenic area early in the morning to avoid crowds 5. Environmental protection: Do not litter, do not trample herders’ grasslands❌ --- 💡 Summary in one sentence: Less crowded than Nalati, more magical than Qiaxi! Self-driving + light hiking + horseback riding fun, unlock the most healing green paradise in the Tianshan Mountains~

Kurdening is the ultimate summer healing paradise in Ili! A picturesque forest and grassland 🍃, a natural oxygen bar filled with the scent of fresh grass! Address: Southeastern mountainous area of Gongliu County, Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture (88 km from the county center) 🚗 Transportation Tips: Recommended to rent a car or drive yourself (about 2 hours from Gongliu County) Ticket Price: 60 RMB Opening Hours: Year-round, 09:30-20:00 🌲 Must-visit Routes: 1️⃣ Qimengde Viewing Platform A cloud meadow reachable with a 20-minute hike! The classic composition of snow-capped mountains and spruce forests resembles scenes from the movie "Heidi and Grandpa." 2️⃣ Kabambayi Peak One of Xinjiang's eight major peaks. From the viewing platform, you can enjoy a triple visual feast of snow-capped mountains, grasslands, and valleys. 3️⃣ Sky Meadow A fairytale world filled with wildflowers from June to August! Hug a newborn lamb and enjoy the sweet, freshly milked cow's milk from the herders. 📸 Best Photo Spots: ✔️ The giant spruce at the corner of the Qimengde boardwalk (with snow-capped mountains in the background) ✔️ Reflection shooting point by the creek (best lighting at 4 PM) 💡 Travel Tips: ▪️ No restaurants inside the scenic area, so remember to bring snacks and water. ▪️ Large temperature differences between morning and evening; thin down jackets and sun hats are essential. ▪️ June to August is the best season, with wildflowers and snow-capped mountains in the same frame.

Ladies, the short holiday is here! How about a fun trip to Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture and other amazing destinations? There's the incredible Jiuyuan Bayi Banquet at Jiuyuan Courtyard, a feast of delicious food waiting for you! Plus, enjoy exclusive dual photography services during specific time slots and VIP access to the Sayram Lake direct shuttle, making your trip even cooler! Check out this travel guide now! 🎉 Itinerary: * DAY 1: Arrive in Urumqi with 24-hour airport pickup service to kick off your Xinjiang adventure! * DAY 2-3: Travel from Urumqi to Burqin/Altay, visit the 5A-rated Heavenly Lake Scenic Area, cross the S21 Desert Highway, enjoy night photography at the Russian-style internet-famous street, and then head to Kanas and Hemu for sightseeing and a stay in cabin-style hotels. * DAY 4-5: Depart from Hemu to admire the sunrise and morning mist, then head to Karamay/Huyanghe to explore the 5A-rated World Devil City. Continue to Sayram Lake to witness the breathtaking beauty of "the last tear of the Atlantic." * DAY 6-7: Depart from Yining to watch the Tianma Bathing River performance, then proceed to Tekes/Gongliu to visit the Nordic-style scenery of Ku'erdening. Finally, experience the healing landscapes of the Nalati Grassland. * DAY 8-9: Depart from Nalati, enjoy a car tour of Tangbula, and traverse the Duku Highway, Dushanzi Grand Canyon, and other hidden gems. If the Duku Highway is closed, the route will be adjusted to Nalati Flower Sea and Bole/Jinghe. * DAY 10: Disband in Urumqi with airport/station drop-off service, concluding an unforgettable Xinjiang journey! 💖 Highlights: Savor the gourmet delights of Jiuyuan Courtyard and the unique Bayi Banquet, enjoy VIP access to the Sayram Lake direct shuttle, and experience dual photography services (aerial and travel photography) during specific time slots! Must-Visit Attractions: 1. 🏔️ Heavenly Lake of Tianshan: A true paradise! The lake reflects the majestic Bogda Peak, surrounded by towering spruces—breathtakingly beautiful! 2. 🌊 Kanas Scenic Area: Curious about the legendary lake monster? Kanas awaits your exploration! The lake's color magically changes, adding to its mystery. 3. 🌸 Sayram Lake: Its crystal-clear waters are mesmerizingly blue. The surrounding grasslands bloom with colorful wildflowers, making it a perfect photo spot! 🎒 Travel Essentials: 👕 Clothing: September in Xinjiang can be chilly, so bring a lightweight jacket or thin down coat to handle the temperature difference between day and night. Comfortable sneakers are a must for exploring the scenic spots effortlessly. 🎩 Accessories: Don't forget a hat and sunglasses for sun protection and style. A portable umbrella is also a good choice for both sun and rain. 📷 Equipment: Bring a camera or smartphone to capture beautiful moments. Spare batteries and chargers are essential to keep your devices powered. 💳 Documents & Finances: Carry your ID, cash, and credit cards—these are travel essentials. Keep them safe for emergencies. 💊 Emergency Items: Pack common medications like pain relievers and band-aids, as well as sunscreen and mosquito repellent—your best allies for outdoor activities. That's it for the group travel guide to Northern Xinjiang, Kanas, and Ili! Hope it helps with your trip planning! 🎉

🌄Kuerdening Late August Live Guide｜The grassland gradually yellows but looks like a painting, a must-save for self-driving trips! “On 8.23, standing at the Kuerdening viewing platform, I finally understood what ‘eyes in heaven’ means—the golden meadow looks like a velvet carpet, the spruce forest like an emerald necklace, the snow-capped mountains shining above the clouds, even the wind carries the taste of freedom.” 🐎 📅 Late August Kuerdening Current Photos • Grassland colors: • Light yellow + emerald green intertwined: low-altitude meadows have turned yellow, but large areas of green remain under the spruce forest, with strong layering when sunlight shines obliquely. • Best shooting time: before 10 a.m. (soft light, golden meadow shining) or after 6 p.m. (snow mountain reflection turns pink). • Tourist density: 60% less than July, high chance to enjoy the viewing platform alone, no need to dodge crowds when taking photos. • Weather tips: • Daytime 20-25℃ (wear light jacket + sun protection clothing), evening drops to 10℃ (bring a windbreaker). • Fog often appears after rain, but the scenery is more magical after the fog clears (recommend bringing raincoat and non-slip shoes). 🚗 Must-drive routes in Kuerdening｜Avoid crowds, explore deeply 1. Core Loop (4-hour light hiking version) Route: Kuerdening Scenic Area Gate → Zhonggou Forest Farm → King Spruce → Kabanbay Peak Viewing Platform → Return • Highlights: • Zhonggou Forest Farm: wildflowers still bloom in late August (Ussuri fox tail algae, aster), very fun for kids to identify flowers. • King Spruce: 300-year-old Xueling spruce, trunk requires five people to hug, wooden benches under the tree for rest. • Viewing platform: overlooks the “U”-shaped grassland valley, snow mountains, spruce, and meadow in one frame, stunning drone shots. • Tips: • The second half of the loop is gravel road, SUVs can pass, sedans need to drive slowly. • No shops at the viewing platform, bring enough water and snacks. 2. Secret Trail (2-hour off-road version) Route: Kuerdening Town → Ayulet Village → Chasitari Mu Grassland (guide required) • Highlights: • Few people, wild scenery: along the way are private pastures of herders, cattle and sheep roam freely, great for close-up “grassland and wildlife” themed photos. • Snow mountain streams: after passing through the spruce forest, suddenly a stream at the foot of the snow mountain appears, water is crystal clear, kids can play in the water. • Notes: • Some sections require four-wheel drive, muddy after rain, recommend renting a local guide car (about 500 RMB/day). • Respect herders, do not enter tent areas casually. 📸 Late August Photo Guide｜Capture autumn early in your camera 1. Grassland gradient color shooting • Location: gentle slope from Zhonggou Forest Farm to the viewing platform, shoot from a low angle, let the golden meadow occupy 2/3 of the frame, background with snow mountain and spruce. • Settings: set phone to “vivid mode,” exposure compensation +0.3 to highlight color contrast. 2. Spruce forest light and shadow • Time: before 11 a.m., sunlight penetrates the canopy creating “Tyndall effect.” • Technique: have the subject stand in the light beam, wear white or red clothes, blur the spruce branches in the background. 3. Snow mountain reflection • Equipment: bring a polarizing filter to eliminate water surface reflection, or use phone’s “panorama mode” to shoot vertical composition of snow mountain + reflection + grassland. 🐎 Kuerdening Family Fun｜Kids can also have a great time 1. Visit herder’s home: • Find herders with “tourism reception” signs, experience milking cows, making naan (kids can knead dough). • Cost: 50 RMB/person (includes yogurt and naan), get a khata scarf for photos. 2. Light hiking treasure hunt: • Walk 1 km along Zhonggou Forest Farm boardwalk, compete with kids to find pine cones and wild mushrooms (do not eat). • Bring magnifying glass to observe prairie dog holes on the meadow, listen to animal stories from the guide. 3. Grassland picnic: • Bring picnic mat and food, spread under the King Spruce tree, background with snow mountain and cattle and sheep. • Avoid windy spots, strong wind can blow away food. 🏨 Accommodation Recommendations｜Stay in the scenery, save time and worry 1. Inside Kuerdening Scenic Area • Spruce Hotel: the only hotel inside the scenic area, window views of snow mountains, rooms have floor heating (cold at night in late August). • Price: 600-800 RMB/night (includes breakfast + scenic area ticket) • Drawback: must book 1 month in advance, often fully booked in peak season. 2. Kuerdening Town • Muyun Homestay: 10-minute walk to scenic area gate, wooden house style, courtyard with swing and flower bed. • Price: 300-500 RMB/night (kitchen available, family-friendly) • Bonus: owner is a local herder, can arrange next day herder home visit. ⚠️ Late August Kuerdening Pitfall Avoidance Guide 1. Clothing: • Daytime: quick-dry clothes + sun protection clothing (strong UV) • Evening: fleece + windbreaker (windy and temperature drops fast) • Shoes: waterproof hiking shoes (meadow may have dew) 2. Transportation: • Don’t trust “shortest route” on navigation for self-driving, some dirt roads can scrape sedan chassis, follow scenic area signs. • For charter cars, choose local Ili drivers (familiar with roads, can bargain). 3. Food: • Few restaurants in town, recommend “Kuerdening Flavor Restaurant” (hand-grabbed meat + kvass, kids love it). • Bring snacks: no shops inside scenic area, bring energy bars and fruit. 4. Environmental protection: • Do not litter on the meadow (herders will pick up but it affects ecology). • Do not drive on the meadow (fine starts at 500 RMB). 💬 Real Experience Ramble “At 5 p.m. on 8.23, sitting at the viewing platform eating brought naan and watermelon, watching the sunlight dye the snow mountain pink, cattle slowly walking by, I suddenly understood why Xinjiang people always say ‘Kuerdening is God’s backyard’—the yellow here is not decay, but a gift sent early by autumn. This August, go to Kuerdening—let the gradually yellowing grassland tell you that the end of summer can also be the beginning of another kind of beauty.🌿

From the turquoise sea and silver sands of Sanya to the fusion of mountains and sea in Weihai; from the Tujia secret realm of Wufeng in Hubei to the southern Xinjiang of Yili, and then to the poetic scenery of Lijiang—this poetic journey across mountains and seas brings you to the most touching China! 1. Hainan · Sanya **📍Must-visit spots** 1. **Wuzhizhou Island** (Haitang Bay): Glass sea + coral diving 🌊, Address: Linwang Town, Haitang District, Sanya. 2. **Nanshan Temple** (Yazhou District): 108-meter sea Guanyin statue, a sacred place for blessings 🙏. 3. **Yedong Promenade** (Sanya Bay): 20 km coastline dyed red by sunset 🌅, free! **🍜Food recommendations** - Coconut chicken hotpot 🥥, Qingbuliang, salted mantis shrimp - Local market: **First Market** (seafood processing street) **🏠Accommodation** - Luxury: Yalong Bay five-star hotel clusters (such as St. Regis, Park Hyatt) - Cost-effective: Sanya Bay / Dadonghai homestays (200-500 RMB/night) **🚌Transportation** - ✈️ Airport → city: airport shuttle bus (25 RMB) / taxi 50 RMB - On the island: bus + electric scooter rental (50 RMB/day) **❗Tips** 1. Sunscreen! SPF50+ essential, physical sun hat + sunglasses. 2. Choose morning for diving, water is clearer~🐠 2. Shandong · Weihai **📍Must-visit spots** 1. **Liugong Island** (Huancui District): Jiawu War Memorial + seagull flock 🕊️, ticket 122 RMB. 2. **Torch 8th Street**: Japanese manga style coast 🌊, free photo spot! 3. **Chengshantou** (Rongcheng City): The easternmost point of mainland China, "End of the Sky" 🌅. **🍜Food recommendations** - Fish dumplings 🥟, seafood steamed cake, Hanlefong BBQ (near Korean town) **🏠Accommodation** - Sea view: coastal hotels in Huancui District (such as Baina Center) - Artistic: Cat Head Mountain homestay (sea view from the window 🌊) **🚌Transportation** - ✈️ Airport → city: bus 20 RMB / taxi 80 RMB - Coastal cycling: bike rental 15 RMB/hour **❗Tips** - September is the best season for seafood 🦀! - Big temperature difference between morning and evening, bring a light jacket 🧥 3. Hubei · Yichang Wufeng Tujia Autonomous County **📍Must-visit spots** 1. **Houhe Tianmen Gorge**: primeval forest + stilted ancient village 🌲, ticket 80 RMB. 2. **Chaibuxi Grand Canyon**: karst peak forest 🌄, "Hundred-mile secluded gorge" trail. 3. **Tea Horse Ancient Road**: hiking and tea picking experience 🍵 (best in spring tea season). **🍜Food recommendations** - Cured pig trotters hotpot, Hezha (bean dregs paste), corn rice - Tujia feast: **farmhouse fresh-killed native chicken** 🐔 **🏠Accommodation** - Unique: stilted building inns (100-200 RMB/night) - Comfortable: Wufeng town hotels (such as Wufeng International Hotel) **🚌Transportation** - 🚄 High-speed train to Yichang East Station → bus to Wufeng (2 hours, 40 RMB) - Between attractions: car hire 200 RMB/day (mountain roads!) **❗Tips** - Bring anti-slip shoes for rainy days, the gorge mist is like a fairyland ☁️. - Respect Tujia customs, do not touch sacrificial objects~ 4. Xinjiang · Yili **📍Must-visit spots** 1. **Nalati Grassland** (Xinyuan County): horseback riding across the sky grassland 🐎, ticket 95 RMB. 2. **Sayram Lake**: the last drop of the Atlantic Ocean 💧, self-driving around the lake is very healing! 3. **Kazanchi Folk Village** (Yining City): blue streets + handmade ice cream 🍦. **🍜Food recommendations** - Hand-pulled rice, baked buns, kvass (honey beer) - Night market: **Six Star Street Night Market** (all-you-can-eat lamb skewers!) **🏠Accommodation** - Grassland: Nalati Mongolian yurt (experience nomadic life ⛺) - City: Yining chain hotels (such as All Seasons) **🚌Transportation** - ✈️ Fly to Yining Airport → carpool to scenic spots (about 150 RMB/person) - Self-driving: Duku Highway is a must! (open June-October) **❗Tips** - Huge temperature difference! Layer thin down jacket + short sleeves 🧥 - Carry your ID card, many border checks 🛂 5. Yunnan · Lijiang **📍Must-visit spots** 1. **Jade Dragon Snow Mountain**: Glacier Park + Blue Moon Valley 💎, cable car 140 RMB. 2. **Shuhe Ancient Town**: quieter than Dayan, Tea Horse Road Museum 🐎. 3. **Lugu Lake** (4-hour drive): Mosuo walking marriage bridge + pig trough boats 🚣♀️. **🍜Food recommendations** - Cured pork ribs hotpot, chickpea jelly, flower cakes 🌹 - Food street: **Zhongyi Market** (snack gathering place) **🏠Accommodation** - Ancient town: Naxi courtyard inns (150-300 RMB) - Scenic: Baisha Ancient Town snow mountain view homestay ❄️ **🚌Transportation** - ✈️ Sanyi Airport → city: bus 20 RMB / taxi 80 RMB - No cars allowed in the ancient town! Wear flat shoes and walk 👟 **❗Tips** - Altitude sickness ⚠️: drink Rhodiola in advance, avoid intense running or jumping on the snow mountain! - Ancient town maintenance fee 50 RMB (collected by some inns) **TIP:** The itinerary covers a large area; it is recommended to explore by region (such as "Sanya + West Island" or "Yili loop") to avoid rushing through! From coconut breezes and sea melodies to snowy mountains and lakes, from Tujia folk life to vast borderlands—every departure is a heartfelt embrace with mountains, rivers, lakes, and seas 🌈✨