Live Your Best Lives
Some people love the vast apricot blossoms of Turgen, Ili, the horses and aerial grasslands of the Kalajun grasslands in summer, and the majestic autumn colors of Kanas. But winter is often overlooked, seemingly too cold and too distant. But do you really know how beautiful Xinjiang is in winter?
(Photo source: @tourists老布)
In Xinjiang in winter, everything falls silent. Kanas bids farewell to the bustling crowds, its silence so tranquil that one can hear the call of the ancients; Hemu is as quiet as an ink painting, with wisps of smoke making it a true paradise; the blue ice of Sayram Lake is crystal clear, and the Youbi swans of Yining Swan Spring are like elves.
(Photo credit: @touristsfly)
Air tickets
Xinjiang is a long way away. Air tickets to Xinjiang in the summer and fall can easily start at 3,000 or 4,000 yuan. However, in the winter, round-trip flights from Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou to Urumqi are only around 1,000 yuan. And Urumqi to Altay is only 200-400 yuan. Isn't that a 80% discount?!
Tickets
The ticket prices for tourist attractions in Xinjiang are almost the highest in the country. In summer and autumn, the ticket price for Kanas and Hemu is more than 500 yuan, and the shuttle bus is more than 100 yuan. In winter, tourism implements a one-ticket pass for Kanas, Hemu and Baihaba scenic spots, with a ticket price of 100 yuan per person.
stay
After the peak season when rooms were hard to come by, hotel prices have fallen. Rooms that used to cost three or four hundred yuan now only cost one or two hundred yuan.
As a place that has not been fully developed, Xinjiang is rarely listed as a tourist destination in winter due to its long distance. Therefore, it has preserved its most precious original appearance. You can roll around freely on the snow that is forty to fifty centimeters thick, and run and have fun in the snowy forest without a single footprint. You don’t have to worry about the crowds or the lack of camera seats. Here, you can see the Snow Town of ten years ago. Before the snow in Altay is known to a large number of people, you must come as soon as possible to take a look!
(Photo source: @tourists神之悟之)
In the winter with heavy snow, Kanas bids farewell to the tourists who flocked to it, and the businessmen from other places lock up their doors and go home. The Tuva people also return to their homes from the mountains and forests, busy preparing for the New Year. During the long winter, people are very good at finding fun for themselves, and the snow-covered mountains have become their playground. Horse-drawn sleighs, sheep-grabbing in the snow, skiing, and horse-drawn sleighs are all available in Xinjiang during the off-season. There are not only pure and beautiful scenery, but also the most authentic Tuva culture and customs.
(Photo credit: @touristsTunan)
Altay lies at 45 degrees north latitude, a "golden snow region." The Altai Mountains boast a wealth of grassland historical and cultural heritage, including rock carvings, cave paintings, and carved stone figures. Known as the "earliest origin of human skiing," the Altai Mountains, nestled in Altay City, boast some of China's best mountain, climate, and snow resources. It's also the only place in the country where you can experience helicopter skiing, boasting an annual snowfall of 2-3 meters of powdery snow. The surrounding mountains offer a dramatic drop of 1,000-1,500 meters, creating an exceptional skiing experience. These unique natural conditions have made this a mecca for skiing enthusiasts.
(Photo source: from the Internet, if there is any infringement, please contact us to delete)
Recommended ski resorts:
Xinjiang Urumqi Silk Road International Ski Resort
Silk Road Ski Resort, one of the venues for the 2016 National Winter Games, features an upgraded ski equipment hall, a computerized card settlement system, and barrier-free access control. It is also a 5S-level ski resort certified by the International Ski Federation and capable of hosting international competitions. It is the fifth largest ski resort in China and has been named "China's Best Ski Resort."
(Photo source: from the Internet, if there is any infringement, please contact us to delete)
Tips:
Geographical location
It is 40 kilometers away from the capital of Xinjiang, located in Pingxiliang Village, Shuixigou Town, Urumqi County, and within the Urumqi Silk Road International Resort.
Highlights
At the Silk Road International Resort, skiing has become a highlight of Xinjiang tourism. It's more than just a sport; it's a lifestyle. In the pristine forest oxygen bar, breathing in the fresh air, basking in the warm sunshine, and gliding along the pristine snowy slopes, you're truly connecting with nature in a unique way. The Silk Road Ski Resort boasts the largest outdoor training center in the five northwestern provinces and is a premium Xinjiang tourist destination integrating sightseeing, leisure vacations, conferences, exhibitions, and fitness. It's one of the three most comprehensive ski resorts in Xinjiang.
Ticket prices
About 150 yuan.
transportation
Silk Road International Ski Resort Bus Routes: A. Take a bus from the Zhongqiao Bus Station on Huanghe Road in Urumqi to Xigou Town, Urumqi County, and then transfer to the ski resort shuttle bus directly to the ski resort. B. Take the ski resort shuttle bus from the International Grand Bazaar directly to the ski resort. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes and costs 15 yuan per person round trip.
Xinjiang Tianshan Tianchi Ski Resort
Tianshan Tianchi International Ski Resort, invested in and built by the Xintian Group, boasts a state-of-the-art 5S-rated ski resort, making it a must-see for ski enthusiasts and avid skiers. To ensure visitors experience world-class snow quality, the resort has also introduced state-of-the-art Priest snow groomers. The resort boasts two state-of-the-art four-person sightseeing buses, one tow truck, and two magic carpets. The resort caters to skiers of all levels, offering a variety of trails, including children's, beginner, intermediate, and advanced, to meet the needs of skiers of all levels. Beyond skiing, there are numerous snow recreational facilities and activities, including backcountry skiing, snowmobiling, and powered paragliding. The resort also boasts a professional team of event organizers and coaches, allowing it to host a variety of large-scale snow activities, such as snowboarding and group gatherings. The ski school at Tianshan Tianchi International Ski Resort is staffed by instructors with national teaching qualifications at the beginner, intermediate and advanced levels. They can provide one-on-one personal guidance for students of different skiing levels, allowing you to eliminate tension and instantly experience the charm of skiing.
(Photo source: from the Internet, if there is any infringement, please contact us to delete)
Tips:
Geographical location
It is nearly 100 kilometers away from Urumqi, at the foot of Tianshan Tianchi Scenic Area, a famous national 5A-level scenic spot in Xinjiang, with an altitude of 1,200 meters and 27 kilometers away from Fukang and Zhundong. It has convenient transportation and unique natural scenery.
Highlights
Tianshan Tianchi International Ski Resort is one of Xinjiang's three most comprehensive ski resorts. Its snowboard halfpipe is the only professional slope in Xinjiang that meets all the requirements of the 13th Winter Olympics and is the only slope certified by the International Ski Federation (FIS), making it suitable for hosting large-scale international competitions.
Ticket prices
The skiing price at Tianshan Tianchi is relatively high. Transportation, tickets and meals cost about 200 yuan. It is definitely worth a visit. It is one of the venues for the 13th National Winter Games.
transportation
The self-driving route to Tianshan Tianchi International Ski Resort is: Drive along the Hetan Expressway to the Tuwuda Expressway, head towards Fukang, and turn right at the Tianchi Scenic Area exit. Drive 18 kilometers onto the Tianchi Scenic Area Highway and turn right at the Wangmu Pharmacy intersection.
Sailimu Lake, known as the Atlantic Ocean's last teardrop, boasts a unique location and climatic conditions, offering spectacular views of the Blue Ice Lake and its ethereal bubbles. Towering ice, azure water, and ethereal ice bubbles create a scene as if the breath of the deep earth is emanating from the lake's depths, imbuing the tranquil, virginal lake with the rhythm of life. Nature's magnificence often lacks rules; the ice bubbles spit freely, cascading and drifting like musical notes.
(Photo source: @touristsAxin)
(Photo source: @Leader Shadow, Mo Qing)
Tips:
Starting from December every year, the lake freezes over and a lot of early broken ice has been photographed on the shore. The lake begins to thaw and you can stand on the shore to photograph the blue ice.
From early January to early March every year, you can go to the ice surface to take pictures. There is a lot of blue ice and ice bubbles, the climate is dry, and there are many sunny days.
Every March, the lake begins to thaw, and you can enjoy the melting ice and see large amounts of ice being pushed to the shore.
You can charter a car to circle the lake. Saihu Lake is located at the windward edge of the Tianshan Mountains, so northwest winds are particularly strong. The southeast side of the lake is exposed to the wind, and the lake surface is covered with windblown icicles and ice debris, making the ice surface uneven (Figure 1 below). The best photo spots are on the northwest side of the lake, where the ice surface is relatively smooth and flat, perfect for photographing blue ice and ice bubbles (Figure 2 below). The road around Saihu Lake is relatively smooth, and the 90-kilometer circle around the lake is enough to spend most of the day.
Over 100 kilometers from Lake Sai, the Ili River Valley boasts the famous Swan Spring. Every winter, a large number of wild mute swans migrate from Russia to spend the winter there. The Ili River Valley's unique landscape often features rime, beneath which flocks of pristine white swans swim, creating a picturesque scene reminiscent of a paradise. A must-see if you have time.
(Photo credit: @tourists光影无声)
Tips: It is recommended to visit Swan Spring twice, once in the morning and once in the evening. In the morning, take pictures of the swans under the morning mist and rime, and in the evening, take pictures of Swan Spring under the sunset light and shadow.
Winter in Hemu is eerily quiet, almost as if you could hear the snapping of branches in the snow. Nature is truly wondrous; a few light snowfalls wipe out all traces of autumn colors. Winter arrives quietly, leaving the snow-covered mountains, forests, and grasslands extraordinarily beautiful and pure. Climbing to the Hemu observation deck offers a panoramic view of the entire village, with wisps of smoke rising from the chimneys. The village resembles an ink painting, akin to stepping into a snowy fairytale.
(Photo credit: @touristsNingge)
(Photo credit: @touristsNingge)
(Light column on a cold night, picture from the Internet)
In January 2019, Hemu County witnessed numerous nights of the natural wonder "Icicles on Cold Nights" (see the image above). This remarkable phenomenon is based on the principle of reflection. Light bounces off these ice crystals (snowflakes) like a mirror, and when it reaches the human eye, it appears as a virtual image of a beam of light reflected upward. With a bit of luck, you might even see one.
Tips:
Activities
In winter, you can take a horse-drawn sleigh up the mountain to see the snow scenery, or go to the ice and snow park to experience fur skiing, snow wall jumping and other games.
Travel suggestions
For 1-2 days, it is recommended to stay one night in Hemu, where you can enjoy the sunrise and morning mist of Hemu and the brilliant starry sky.
Tickets
Winter off-season Kanas + Hemu package 100 yuan (including scenic area transfer)
Opening hours
All day
address
Burqin County, Xinjiang
Every winter, Kanas Lake is graced with a breathtaking spectacle of snow mushrooms, a truly breathtaking spectacle that captivates the eye. Clumps of snow mushrooms on the pristine white ground, illuminated by the setting sun, appear magical and ethereal, while the snow in the water appears even more pristine, creating a fairytale-like world of ice and snow. Just like a child, you can step on the snow mushrooms and leave your own adorable footprints...
(Photo credit: @touristsNingge)
(Photo credit: @tourists神之悟之)
After crossing Camel Neck Bay and continuing upstream along the Kanas River, the shimmering corridor of rime will transport you to a dreamlike world. Here, young girls dance gracefully, their youthful spirit soaring; there, gentle scholars recite poems and chant odes; here, children play, their spirits adorable; there, elderly men with flowing silver hair, their benevolence and generosity. Here, you'll find white orchids, white plums, silver chrysanthemums, and reed catkins, as well as snowcocks, snow rabbits, snow deer, and snow butterflies. The rime here lasts a long time, so there's no need to worry about it disappearing.
(Photo credit: @touristsNingge)
Tips:
Activities
Enjoy the unique ice and snow wonders of Kanas Three Bays, drift on the surface of Kanas Lake with snow rings, or take a snowmobile to the Fish Viewing Platform to overlook the entire Kanas.
Travel suggestions
1-2 days is enough for the Kanas Scenic Area, as it is too large to be visited.
Tickets
Kanas + Hemu off-season ticket 100 yuan (including scenic area transfer)
Opening hours
8:00-19:00, the opening hours will be adjusted according to holidays and seasonal changes, please refer to the announcement of the scenic spot.
address
Deep in the mountains in the north of Burqin County, Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang (about 140km from the county seat)
Hemu Village is the concentrated living place of Tuva people. Tuva people are not good at doing business, so during the peak tourist season in summer and autumn, they usually rent out their houses to businessmen from the mainland, and come back to live here in winter when there are no tourists. So after the heavy snow, it is the most real life of Tuva people, catching sheep, horse racing, archery, chasing girls, sawing wood, carrying stones, etc. When you visit a local Tuva family, they will treat you with special food and invite you to sing and dance. Those simple and sincere eyes, the melodious music, and the ancient and primitive sacrifices will surely move you.
(Photo credit: @tourists神之悟之)
(Photo credit: @touristsTunan)
(Photo credit: @tourists神之悟之)
Sheep-grabbing, girl-chasing and horse racing are the Tuva people’s favorite winter snow entertainment activities.
Sheep grabbing is more competitive than horse racing. As nomads on the grassland, how can they not have beautiful horsemanship? Galloping on the vast snowy plains, enjoying the feeling of the cold wind and snow blowing on the face, with infinite pride emerging in the heart, this is horse racing, and it is also the favorite event of all grassland peoples; sheep grabbing is more of a skill. Everyone rides their horses together to compete for the specially made lamb body. After the fight, they show each other their most superb equestrianism. Finally, the winner is the one who puts the lamb body back to the starting point. These local events will make you excited no matter where you are from.
Chasing girls is more entertaining. Originally, it was more common during weddings, but its entertainment value has become so popular among the Tuvans that it's now a regular winter activity, attracting enthusiastic participation from the locals. A man and a woman form a team, and they head toward the same destination. On the way there, the man can joke with the woman freely, and the woman is not allowed to get angry and fight back. On the way back, the positions are reversed, and the woman can whip the man with a whip. Of course, these days, it's mostly for fun and actual physical activity is unlikely. If you're confident in your horsemanship and are traveling from afar, you can still join in and enjoy the fun.
Horse-drawn sleighs and fur skiing have always been known as the oldest and most convenient means of transportation in Kanas in winter.
(Photo credit: @touristsTunan)
Unlike fur skiing, which requires you to master and learn, horse-drawn sleighing only requires a horse that knows the way, a sled, and a local to act as the driver.
(Photo source: @tourists老布)
Sit on a sled and follow the locals as they explore winter trails known only to the Tuvans. Continue onward to the source of the Hemu River and learn about the origins of this beloved river. Feel the sled's friction against the powdery snow, and watch the Tuvans whip their horses forward. It's as if this journey is a journey through history, carrying us back to ancient Tuva.
(Photo source: @tourists老布)
You've seen poplar forests blanketed in golden glory, but have you ever seen one covered in ice and snow? Winter's poplar forests, bidding farewell to the golden autumn, return to their most pristine and unspoiled state, the veins of life blossoming freely in the depths of the desert. If you're lucky, you might even witness the spectacle of rime hanging from branches. Poplar trees along the river are covered in pure white, shimmering silver in the sunlight, creating a vast expanse of white, like a fairyland forgotten by the mortal world.
The winter in Kanas is very cold, so keeping warm is the most important thing.
A three-piece outfit (jacket, fleece jacket, and thermal underwear) is required. Winter clothing such as padded jackets, down jackets, leather jackets, and wool sweaters are recommended. Elderly and infirm individuals should wear thick cotton jackets, winter coats, or down jackets. Bring a change of clothes if necessary.
Clothing: Recommended tops: thermal underwear + cashmere sweater or fleece jacket + long thick down jacket with hood. Pants: Combat pants + down pants or fleece pants + thermal underwear.
Hat: If your down jacket has a hood, a thin knitted hat will suffice. If not, a thick hat with fur (such as a Lei Feng hat or woolen hat) is recommended, and it must cover your ears.
Shoes: High-top hiking boots or snow boots are recommended (requirements: good quality, suitable for slipping over wool socks and leaving some room for movement; avoid tight-fitting socks; bring several pairs of thick socks). Wool leather outdoor boots are best. (The cold starts in the feet, so never wear shoes alone; no matter how thick your socks are, they won't help.)
Sunscreen: 50+ sunscreen is recommended. The sunny days in northern Xinjiang in winter are very comfortable. The warm sunshine on the body is refreshing, but the ultraviolet rays are very strong, so sun protection work needs to be done well.
(Photo source: @touristsTunan)
Common medicines: (cold medicine, diarrhea medicine, antibiotics, motion sickness medicine or patches for those who are prone to motion sickness; the low temperature can easily cause acclimatization)
Photographic equipment: (camera, lens, charger, SD card and other storage devices, spare camera batteries, tripod, shutter cable, waterproof, dustproof and cold-proof cover, etc.)
Cash: (Cash cannot be withdrawn in Kanas, Hemu and other places, so you need to bring cash)
Sunglasses (to protect your eyes in the snow), snow gaiters (to prevent snow from getting into your shoes and also keep you warm), gloves (fleece is best; thicker ones are inconvenient), scarf (to keep your face warm), thermos (about 1L; in cold and dry weather, keep plenty of water), skincare products, hot packs. (After-sun repair cream, moisturizing skincare products, lip balm, etc.; in dry weather, your skin is prone to dryness and cracking.)
Personal toiletries, various chargers, flashlights.
Important documents (ID card is required)
Trolley cases and camera bags
train
Xinjiang is a vast region, and trains are the cheapest mode of transportation. Currently, only the Lanzhou-Xinjiang Railway connects to Xinjiang, and these are generally slow. To reach northern Xinjiang, trains run to Altay and Beitun, but the journeys are also longer.
car
Driving is the most convenient mode of transportation in northern Xinjiang, with large passenger terminals located in every prefecture capital. However, due to Xinjiang's vast territory, journeys can often be hundreds or even thousands of kilometers, and speed limits are common. If you choose to drive, be prepared for long journeys.
airplane
Xinjiang is the province with the most civil airports in China. Almost every prefecture has an airport, and some regions even have more than one. There are almost daily flights to and from Urumqi. If you only want to go to Kanas, you can choose to fly to Altay Airport or Kanas Airport.
Self-driving
Many self-driving enthusiasts like to drive there by themselves, but the tolls from the mainland are not small, the journey time is too long, and Xinjiang's speed limits and complex road conditions are a great test of the driver's skills and physical strength. Someone once drove in Xinjiang for 15 days and rented a car to drive in Xinjiang, but he was still deducted 26 points when he came back, so it is not recommended to choose this method.
Charter
Besides group tours, chartering a car is the most common and popular travel method in Xinjiang. There are two types of chartering: short-distance charters, ideal for local excursions, where you can charter a car for one or two days to visit certain attractions. Longer-distance charters typically depart from Urumqi and can last from a few days to over ten days, depending on your itinerary. Most chartered cars are privately operated and lack operating licenses or even insurance, making them unsafe. Choose carefully.
Join the group
Joining a tour group is the easiest and most worry-free option. You don't have to worry about itinerary planning, car and hotel reservations, or meeting people. You can also make new friends along the way. Simply choose a well-designed plan and experience the most beautiful scenery at the perfect time. Of course, choosing a reputable and responsible travel agency and a high-quality, guaranteed itinerary are paramount. Don't fall for cheap tours just to save a few hundred yuan. You'll end up wasting money and have to navigate the various schemes.
Xinjiang uses Beijing time
throughout the year, but Urumqi is in the GMT+6 time zone, while Beijing is in the GMT+8 time zone. Therefore, Xinjiang has a two-hour time difference with most cities in mainland China. Hotel check-in and check-out are generally at 2:00 PM. Lunch is around 2:00 PM, and dinner is around 8:00 PM. Some phones have an automatic time zone adjustment feature, so remember to disable it to avoid misplacing your phone with your friends.
Flight Seating
: Tourists flying to Xinjiang are recommended to choose a window seat on the left side for breathtaking views of the Eastern Tianshan Mountains, including Bogda Peak (5,445 meters), the highest peak in the region. With a bit of luck, you might even see Tianchi Lake. For the return trip, choose the right side.
Security:
Xinjiang's security is arguably the strictest in China. Whether you're visiting a tourist destination, at a hotel, supermarket, hospital, or any other public place, there will be security scanners and security guards at the entrance. Please cooperate with these checks to avoid unnecessary inconvenience. Always carry your ID card with you! Do not leave it in your luggage.
Language:
Xinjiang's majority population is Uyghur, and their primary language is Uyghur. However, in northern Xinjiang and Yili regions, Han Chinese are the ones doing business, and Chinese is widely spoken. The proportion of Han Chinese in Urumqi has even reached 70%, so there is no need to worry about language issues.
Banks
are the same as in most cities. Banks in every city in Xinjiang are spread all over the streets and alleys, and the financial services are very complete. Major domestic banks have branches in Urumqi.
Consumption index
Most of the consumption in Xinjiang is relatively normal, with an average meal costing about 20 to 40 yuan per person (mainly pasta and stir-fried dishes). The consumption in or near scenic spots will be higher. Most people in Xinjiang do not use Alipay, and WeChat Pay is used a little more, and it is gradually becoming popular.
If you don’t buy anything, it is recommended that one person bring 100 yuan in cash a day for enough spending, or you can withdraw it locally. We usually stay in the city
network at night.
In most areas of Xinjiang, mobile phones only have 3G signals, and some areas still have 2G signals, which will have a certain impact on communication. However, most hotels in Xinjiang have broadband and provide free wireless networks.
Eid al-Adha is
a grand annual festival for the Uyghur people. Early in the morning, Muslims bathe in fragrant incense, dress neatly, and attend prayers in the mosque. Grand Maixilaifu singing and dancing rallies are held in squares in cities and villages. Among Xinjiang's Kazakh, Kyrgyz, Tajik, and Uzbek ethnic groups, the festival also features sheep-grabbing, horse racing, and wrestling competitions.
Date: December 10th of the Islamic calendar .
Tips:
Other considerations
1. You can't say "zhu" (pig), nor "PIG" (pig). If you really have to say it, say "darou" (pork). Xinjiang Muslims are forbidden to eat the meat of pigs, dogs, donkeys, mules, and wild beasts and birds of prey. They also avoid eating the meat of animals that died naturally without being killed, and they also avoid consuming the blood of all animals.
2. Don’t shake your hands after washing them, as this is a taboo for Uyghurs.
3. All food in Xinjiang is sold by kilogram. Don't mention jin, or you'll be ripped off.
4. It is strictly forbidden to fart in public, whether loud or silent;
5. When visiting temples, be sure to observe local customs. Generally, photography is strictly prohibited in temples and mosques, and the consequences of secretly taking photos are very serious.
6. When photographing people, especially monks and women, be sure to get their permission before framing to avoid unnecessary trouble;
7. Xinjiang boasts rich tourism resources and stunning scenery, but most areas are relatively underdeveloped. Accommodation and dining options are inferior to those in central and eastern Xinjiang and major cities. Meals are simple, consisting primarily of pasta and beef and mutton, with strong flavors. It is essential to bring some gastrointestinal medication.
Xinjiang in winter offers countless possibilities on every inch of land. You can find any winter spectacle you can imagine in Xinjiang. The scenery is beautiful, the crowds are few, and the airfare is cheap. It would be a shame to miss out!
