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If one word could describe Xinjiang, it would be magical. Xinjiang, a vast region, boasts magnificent mountains and rivers, boundless seas, a blend of snow-capped mountains and grasslands with deserts and Gobi, and a place where the history of the Silk Road coexists with the culture of its peoples.
If you have never been to Xinjiang, you won’t know what world-class scenery is. If you have never photographed Xinjiang, you will not believe that there is such a photography holy land in China!
Located in China's far northwest, Xinjiang boasts a vast territory of 1.6 million square kilometers, accounting for one-sixth of the country's total land area. Its unique topography, defined by "three mountain ranges sandwiched between two basins," is shaped by the Altai Mountains in the north, the Tianshan Mountains in the middle, and the Altun and Kunlun Mountains in the south, creating a diverse landscape. Snow-capped mountains, forests, wetlands, grasslands, lakes, rivers, deserts, Gobi deserts, canyons, and Danxia glaciers abound.
Xinjiang not only has rich geographical and geomorphological resources, it is also an important node on the ancient Silk Road. The mysterious Western Regions and the Silk Road civilization have created its unique regional customs and ethnic characteristics. It is home to 47 ethnic groups including Uyghur, Han, Kazakh, Hui, Mongolian, Kyrgyz, etc., and it is also a holy land for humanistic creation.
(Picture from the Internet)
Because Xinjiang is so rich in resources, countless photography enthusiasts flock to it every year. But with so many photography subjects in Xinjiang, how do we classify and choose?
We usually divide photography into two categories: [Landscape Photography] and [Humanistic Photography]
【Landscape Photography】
The main factors affecting photography are climate and seasons, which we usually categorize as: spring flower photography, summer grassland photography, autumn photography, and winter photography.
Of course, in addition to seasonal photography, there are also some photography hotspots that are not affected by seasonal changes and can be photographed year-round: all-season photography.
【Humanistic Photography】
There are 47 ethnic minorities in Xinjiang, with the main populations being Uyghurs, Kazakhs, Tajiks, Mongolians, etc. There will be differences depending on different regions, ethnic characteristics, shooting environments, etc., which will be introduced in detail below.
(Photo by China TravelNote)
Xinjiang has natural scenery from all over the world, with beautiful scenery in all four seasons. It is not enough to come here once or twice to see it all!
[Pamir Apricot Blossom]
Every year in late March, spring in Xinjiang begins with the blooming of apricot blossoms in the Pamirs. At China's westernmost tip, in the heart of the Karakoram Mountains, these tenacious apricot trees thrive, coexisting alongside the Tajik people and overcoming the harsh conditions. By the end of each year, the nearly 300-kilometer-long Tashkurgan River Valley is transformed into a spectacular corridor of apricot blossoms.
Best flowering period:
From March 20th to early April every year, the flowers in Datong Township bloom first, followed by Tal Township, and finally Kukosiluk Township. The flowering period lasts for about a week.
Shooting suggestions:
Apricot blossoms are primarily found in the valleys, so a particularly long focal length isn't necessary for photography. A 24-70mm lens is generally best. If you want to capture authentic humanistic scenes, a 70-200mm lens is sufficient. A prime lens with an 85mm focal length or higher is recommended. Using a 35mm or 50mm focal length for capturing human figures is not recommended, as it's considered impolite. Drones are welcome; aerial photography isn't permitted in Datong Township, but it's not a problem in other villages.
(Photo from China News Network)
【Turgen Apricot Blossom】
Xinjiang boasts the largest area of apricot tree cultivation in my country. Turgen Apricot Blossom Forest, a pristine wild apricot forest dating back to the Middle Ages, covers over 30,000 mu (approximately 1,000 hectares) and is the largest and most concentrated wild apricot forest in Xinjiang. As a result, the stunning blossoms blanket the mountains and fields every April, attracting a large number of photography enthusiasts.
Best flowering period:
Combined with the flowering period in previous years, the apricot blossoms bloom around April 5 and last for about 7-10 days.
Shooting suggestions:
Turgen's apricot blossoms are primarily distributed between the mountainside and summit, with some tucked away in the valley. Flexible camera positions allow for easy roaming and finding your preferred perspective. A longer focal length is essential; a 70-200mm is essential, while a 24-70mm is ideal for capturing smaller scenes. The best times for photography are in the morning and evening, when the sky glows red and the hillsides are a stunning sight. Aerial photography is currently prohibited, so proceed with caution.
Turgen's apricot blossoms are primarily for scenic photography. China-TravelNote also features beautiful Kazakh women leading horses along the blossom-covered hillsides, further highlighting the unique cultural landscape.
[Daxigou Apricot Blossoms & Wild Fruit Blossoms]
Starting from early April every year, wild apricot flowers, wild cherry flowers, wild plum flowers, wild sour plum flowers, wild hawthorn flowers, and wild apple flowers bloom in turn, and the flowering period lasts for more than a month.
The apricot forest in Daxigou Township blooms about a week later than the apricot blossom ditch in Turgen Township. After taking photos of the apricot blossoms in Turgen Township, you can go and take photos of the apricot blossoms in Daxigou Township. The apricot blossom forest in Daxigou Township is picturesque all year round and is a good place for photographers.
Best flowering period:
Combined with the flowering period in previous years, the flowering time of Daxigou is concentrated around April 10. There are many types of flowers, and the flowering period lasts about 10-20 days.
Shooting suggestions:
The apricot blossoms in Daxigou are mainly distributed between the mountainside and the valley. Shooting mainly along the scenic plank road requires a longer focal length. A 70-200mm is a must. The 24-70mm can capture some large scenes, and wide-angle lenses are rarely used. Aerial photography is not currently prohibited, but the wind can be strong, so please fly with caution.
[Nalati Grassland Apricot Blossoms & Wild Fruit Blossoms]
The subalpine meadow vegetation zone, one of the four largest grasslands in the world, has been a famous pasture since ancient times. Its crisscrossing rivers, flat river valleys, high peaks and dense forests complement each other.
In late April every year, the wild apricot and apple blossoms on the hillsides of Nalati Grassland gradually bloom, the snow and ice on the grassland melt, the grassland recovers, and the cattle and sheep migrate.
Best viewing period:
Late April to early May
Shooting suggestions:
The grasslands in the sky are quite large, offering a high angle of view. A telephoto lens of 70-200mm is a must-have, while the 24-70mm lens can capture some large scenes. Wide-angle lenses are rarely used. Aerial photography is not currently prohibited, but the wind can be strong, so please fly with caution.
Sailimu Lake opening and ice melting
Every winter, Sayram Lake freezes over, creating a spectacular blue ice lake and ice bubble lake. If you missed the winter blue ice, don't worry. In late March and early April, the ice on Sayram Lake begins to melt, and thick ice blocks are pushed to the shore by wind and waves, piling up layer by layer. Under the sunlight, you can still capture stunning blue ice photos.
Best viewing period:
From the end of March to the end of April every year
Shooting suggestions:
If you want to photograph blue ice, it's best to shoot in midday light. A blue sky will make the ice appear more vivid. Use a wide-angle lens or a 24-70mm lens; telephoto lenses are rarely used. You can also shoot in the morning or evening light, as the ice will appear more colorful under the glow of the sunset. Aerial photography is currently prohibited in Sai Lake, so please exercise caution.
【Tianshan safflower】
Every year in mid-to-early May, a kind of red wild flower similar to poppy blooms on the grasslands in the Ili area of the Tianshan Mountains. The bright red flowers cover the hillsides, and people affectionately call it "Tianshan Red Flower".
Its scientific name is Poppy, a plant of the Poppy family, but it is safe and harmless. It is mainly distributed in Sangong Township, Huocheng County, Ili and Musi Township, Nileke County.
Best flowering period:
The flowering period is relatively short, from mid-to-early May to the end of May and early June.
Shooting suggestions:
Tianshan safflower is mainly distributed on the grassland. It does not grow tall, and the best angle for shooting is from a low perspective, mostly using wide-angle and medium-focus lenses.
(Picture from the Internet)
【Huocheng Lavender】
Huocheng is known as "China's Provence" and is "one of the three largest lavender planting bases in the world" (the other two are: Provence in France and Furano in Hokkaido, Japan).
In the season when lavender flowers bloom, large patches of blue-purple flowers in the vast fields sway in the wind like waves, and the wind is filled with refreshing floral fragrance. The sea of flowers is vast, and the purple-blue sea of flowers undulates with the wind.
Best flowering period:
June to July is the best viewing period. At the end of June, the lavender in the farmland will be harvested. You can also visit the lavender museum and keep it until the end of July.
Shooting suggestions:
Lavender doesn't grow very tall, so it's best to have someone standing in the field. Choose an angle where the field is planted vertically, and use a medium or long focal length. Aerial photography isn't currently prohibited, but it's popular with tourists, so fly with caution.
[Grassland Wildflowers - Sayram Lake]
Sayram Lake is a breathtaking sight in every season. As temperatures rise, the blue ice gradually shatters, and the grasslands surrounding the lake begin to sprout. Starting in mid-to-late May each year, wildflowers blanket the ground: yellow nasturtiums, yellow buttercups, and purple snow mountain primroses burst into bloom.
Due to the rain, the flowers in Sailimu Lake have not been in good condition in recent years. It is difficult to see the sea of flowers that used to cover the mountains and fields. The area of the sea of flowers is relatively small, and you need to be patient to look for it.
Best flowering period:
Mid-May to early June
Shooting suggestions:
The wildflowers of Saihu Lake are mainly distributed in the grasslands and do not grow tall. The best angle to shoot them is from a low angle, and wide-angle and medium-focus lenses are more commonly used. Aerial photography is currently prohibited, and there is a bird sanctuary within the scenic area.
[Grassland Wildflowers - Kalajun Grassland]
The Kalajun Grassland has become the epitome of the Yili Grasslands. With its rolling grasslands and perpetually snow-capped Tianshan Mountains, the grasslands are breathtakingly beautiful from every angle. Starting in May each year, the wildflowers on the grasslands burst into bloom, creating a boundless sea of blossoms. The Kalajun Grassland's fertile soil allows for a limited variety of wildflowers, yet they form a vast carpet of blossoms stretching as far as the eye can see.
Best flowering period:
From mid-May to mid-to-late June, different flowers may bloom at different times.
Shooting suggestions:
The wildflowers of Kalajun are mainly distributed on the grasslands. They are not very tall, so you can use low-angle shooting, or use wide-angle and medium-focus lenses to shoot large scenes, including grasslands, forests, snow-capped mountains, and the sky. Aerial photography is currently allowed, but you need to be careful of falcons.
【Kokesu Grand Canyon】
The Koksu Grand Canyon is located next to the Kalajun Grassland. The two scenic areas are adjacent, yet each has its own unique attractions. There's the "Crocodile Bay," shaped like a giant crocodile, and the curvaceous "Human Body Grassland," also known as "Human Body Mountain" or "Beautiful Buttocks." The name stems from the undulating curves of the grassland, which, from a distance, resemble the graceful figure of a woman.
Best viewing period:
From May to August, there are not many wild flowers in the Kuoksu Grand Canyon, but the grassland curves here are more graceful, making it suitable for photography throughout the summer.
Shooting suggestions:
The main attraction of the Koksu Grand Canyon is the vast grasslands, which require a telephoto lens of 70-200mm. The human grasslands also require a telephoto lens, so wide-angle lenses are rarely used. Aerial photography is not currently prohibited, but the wind is quite strong, so please fly with caution.
【Qiongkushitai】
Qiongkushitai Village is a famous historical and cultural village in China, a little-known paradise at the foot of the Tianshan Mountains. Due to poor transportation, it was unknown to the world until the first photographer came here and unveiled its mystery.
The village is small, with only a few dozen households. It's peaceful and tranquil, and the local herders are down-to-earth, hospitable, and welcoming. If you're a photography enthusiast, stay a night here to experience Kazakh life. In the mornings and evenings, you'll be able to capture some stunning photos.
Recommended time:
From late May to September, the rolling grasslands, together with the yurts and wooden houses, make the grasslands full of vitality and vigor. If you are lucky enough, you can also see the unique Kazakh sheep-grabbing competition.
Shooting suggestions:
Kazakh culture and grassland scenery are primarily photographed with a telephoto lens, so a 70-200mm lens is sufficient. In Qiongkushitai Village, you can capture slow-motion shots of water flows, so a wide-angle lens and a neutral density filter are recommended. Aerial photography is not currently prohibited, but it can be quite windy, so proceed with caution.
[Zhaosu rapeseed flowers, perilla, and sunflowers]
Zhaosu County, located in the Tekes River Valley Plain, has always been a fertile grassland pasture, where farming teams grow large areas of economic crops: perilla, rapeseed, and sunflower.
Vast fields of brilliant yellow rapeseed, perilla, and sunflowers burst into bloom, resembling a vast oil painting. Each year, farmers plant rapeseed or sunflowers at intervals depending on soil conditions, creating a vibrant display of color across over 100,000 mu (approximately 1,000 acres) of farmland.
Best flowering period:
From mid-June to late July, rapeseed flowers and perilla are more abundant, while from mid-July to mid-August, sunflowers are more abundant.
Shooting suggestions:
Zhaosu rapeseed and perilla are both economic crops, with a large planting area. The 24-70mm medium focal length is more common, allowing for capturing large scenes. Aerial photography is not currently prohibited, but the wind is quite strong, so please fly with caution.
(Picture from the Internet)
【Bayinbuluke】
Bayinbuluke is located in a high alpine basin in the middle of the Tianshan Mountains, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. At an altitude of approximately 2,500 meters, it is China's second-largest grassland. With its flat terrain and abundant grass and water, it is a typical grass meadow and one of Xinjiang's most important livestock breeding bases.
The grassland not only has a paradise surrounded by snow-capped mountains, the elegant and charming Swan Lake, but also the magnificent Kaidu River with its "Nine Bends and Eighteen Turns Sunset".
Best viewing period:
May-October
Shooting suggestions:
To view the sunset at the Nine Bends of Bayinbuluke, you'll need a wide-angle lens and a tripod. A gradient filter is also recommended. Bayinbuluke is a bird sanctuary, and drones are prohibited.
Jiangbulake
Jiangbulake is located in Qitai County, Xinjiang. It is a model of the perfect combination of the vertical natural landscape of the Tianshan Mountains, the cultural landscape of dry fields, and the historical relics of the ancient Silk Road. The scenic area is rich in tourism resources, including snow-capped peaks, glaciers, lakes, canyons, colorful meadows, snow-capped spruce, ancient cities, wheat fields, villages, etc. It is a holy place for leisure, vacation, tourism and photography in Xinjiang.
Best viewing period:
The tulip show begins in late May, followed by wheat fields starting to germinate and continue until the golden wheat waves are harvested in late September, making it a great time for photography.
Shooting suggestions:
Jiangbulake wheat fields are mainly distributed on the hillside, so the 24-70 medium focal length or 70-200 telephoto focal length are more popular. Aerial photography is not currently prohibited, but the wind is quite strong, so please fly with caution.
Duku Highway
The Duku Highway, running from Dushanzi to Kuqa, is a 561-kilometer highway connecting southern and northern Xinjiang. Hidden deep within Xinjiang's Tianshan Mountains, this impenetrable road traverses the Tianshan Mountains from south to north, passing through grasslands, canyons, snow-capped mountains, lakes, wetlands, and the Gobi Desert. It is a truly breathtakingly beautiful scenic thoroughfare, recognized by China National Geographic as one of the "most beautiful highways."
Best viewing period:
The entire section is only open for 4 months each year (early June to late September and early October)
Shooting suggestions:
I mainly shoot along the way, using a medium focal length of 24-70 to capture large scenes. Aerial photography is not currently prohibited, but the wind is quite strong, so please fly with caution.
(Picture from the Internet)
【Kanas】
Kanas is located in the Altai Mountains, the northernmost tip of Xinjiang. Its autumn colors were named the most beautiful in China by National Geographic China. In Kanas, every tree is a master of color, captivating countless photographers.
Best viewing period:
The leaves begin to turn yellow in early September each year, and the peak viewing period for autumn colors in northern Xinjiang begins around September 20th. If the weather is stable, the leaves can remain yellow until after National Day. However, frequent cold snaps can cause the leaves to fall earlier. Hemu is the first to fall, followed by Kanas, and Baihaba the last, with a difference of about 3-5 days.
Shooting suggestions:
There are many subjects to shoot, and both wide-angle and telephoto lenses are needed. Aerial photography is not currently prohibited, but it is crowded, so you should also pay attention to policy changes in scenic areas and fly with caution.
【Hemu】
Hemu and Kanas are less than 60 kilometers apart, both nestled in the Altai Mountains' golden autumn zone. Known as the "God's Private Reserve," Hemu boasts rows of Tuva wooden houses nestled among vast birch forests. With morning smoke curling and mist thickening, it's a photographer's dream.
Best viewing period:
The leaves begin to turn yellow in early September each year, and the peak viewing period for autumn colors in northern Xinjiang begins around September 20th. If the weather is stable, the leaves can remain yellow until after National Day. However, frequent cold snaps can cause the leaves to fall earlier. Hemu is the first to fall, followed by Kanas, and Baihaba the last, with a difference of about 3-5 days.
Shooting suggestions:
There are many subjects to photograph, and both wide-angle and telephoto lenses are needed. For example, shooting the sunrise and morning mist in Hemu on the hillside requires a medium-to-long focal length. Aerial photography is not currently prohibited, but it is quite crowded, so you should also pay attention to policy changes in the scenic area and fly with caution.
【Bai Haba】
Northwest China's premier village, a secluded village on the China-Kazakhstan border, is less visited than Kanas and Hemu, and its autumn colors arrive later. As the fall colors of Hemu and Kanas draw to a close, vast expanses of golden birch trees can still be seen here. During National Day, the village committee holds a flag-raising ceremony at the village entrance. Watching the five-star red flag rise slowly on the border of our motherland is a profound experience, instilling a deep love and pride for our motherland.
Best viewing period:
The leaves begin to turn yellow in early September each year, and the peak viewing period for autumn colors in northern Xinjiang begins around September 20th. If the weather is stable, the leaves can remain yellow until after National Day. However, frequent cold snaps can cause the leaves to fall earlier. Hemu is the first to fall, followed by Kanas, and Baihaba the last, with a difference of about 3-5 days.
Shooting suggestions:
There are many subjects to shoot, and both wide-angle and telephoto lenses are needed. Aerial photography is strictly prohibited because this is a border area.
【Autumn Colors of Pamirs】
The Pamir Plateau lies at the westernmost tip of China. Starting in Kashgar, you'll ascend along the Karakoram Highway, visiting Baisha Lake, Karakul Lake, Muztagh Ata, and the Taheman Wetlands. You can spend a whole day photographing the plateau's autumn scenery. Finally, you'll arrive in Tashkurgan County, where you can continue along the highway to Khunjerab Pass, which leads to Pakistan.
Best viewing period:
Early October to late October
Shooting suggestions:
There are many subjects to shoot, and both wide-angle and telephoto lenses are needed. Aerial photography is strictly prohibited in places such as Tashi County and Lake Kazakhstan, and you should be cautious when taking off in other places.
Winter is off-season for tourism in Xinjiang, with round-trip flights to the coastal areas costing just over 1,000 yuan, making it a great bargain. More importantly, the scenery is beautiful and less crowded in winter. The entire Kanas Scenic Area has fewer than 100 people, giving you the entire area to yourself. Of course, Xinjiang in winter also offers a wealth of photo opportunities.
【Blue Ice of Sailimu Lake】
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.
Best viewing period:
The lake freezes over from the end of December each year. From early January to early March, you can go out on the ice to take photos, with plenty of blue ice and ice bubbles. The weather is dry and sunny. In mid-March, the lake begins to thaw, and you can enjoy the melting ice and the large ice blocks being pushed to the shore.
Shooting suggestions:
If you want to photograph blue ice, it's best to shoot in midday light. A blue sky will make the ice appear more vivid. Use a wide-angle lens or a 24-70mm lens; telephoto lenses are rarely used. You can also shoot in the morning or evening light, as the ice will appear more colorful under the glow of the sunset. Aerial photography is currently prohibited in Sai Lake, so please exercise caution.
【Yili Swan Spring】
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.
Best viewing period:
Late December to late February and early March
Shooting suggestions:
It's recommended to visit Swan Spring twice, once in the morning and once in the evening. In the morning, take photos of the swans under the morning mist and rime, and in the evening, take photos of Swan Spring under the sunset light. A telephoto lens is essential for this. Aerial photography is strictly prohibited.
【Ice and Snow Kanas】
Kanas regains its former beauty in winter. Clusters of snow mushrooms on the white snow appear so dreamy and magical under the setting sun, like a fairytale world of ice and snow!
The entire north of Kanas Lake is frozen solid, allowing vehicles to drift and spin on the surface. Water rushes out from beneath the ice, flowing through three bends and creating a thin morning mist that lingers over the mountains. Photography enthusiasts visiting Kanas will be captivated by this world of ice and snow and will be reluctant to leave.
Best viewing period:
Early December to early March
Shooting suggestions:
There are many subjects to shoot, and both wide-angle and telephoto lenses are needed. Aerial photography is not currently prohibited, but it is crowded, so you should also pay attention to policy changes in scenic areas and fly with caution.
【Ink Painting of Grass and Trees】
The winter in Hemu is so quiet that you can even hear the sound of broken branches falling in the snow. Nature is truly amazing. After a few light snowfalls, the autumn colors are gone. Winter comes quietly like this, and the mountains, forests and grasslands covered with snow are particularly beautiful and holy.
Climbing up to the viewing platform of Hemu, you can overlook the whole Hemu Village. With wisps of smoke rising, Hemu Village looks like an ink painting, as if you have walked into a fairy tale of ice and snow.
Best viewing period:
Early December to early March
Shooting suggestions:
There are many subjects to shoot, and both wide-angle and telephoto lenses are needed. Aerial photography is not currently prohibited, but it is crowded, so you should also pay attention to policy changes in scenic areas and fly with caution.
【Wusu Populus euphratica Forest】
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 hues, return to their most pristine and primitive state, the veins of life blooming freely in the depths of the desert.
If you are lucky, you will see the spectacular sight of rime hanging from branches. The poplar trees along the river are covered with white and crystal frost flowers, which sparkle in the sunlight. The sky and the earth are covered in white, like a fairyland forgotten by the world.
Best viewing period:
Late December to late February and early March
Shooting suggestions:
For winter photography of poplar trees, use medium and long focal lengths, and find a tree with a good shape to take some close-ups. Aerial photography is also possible.
(Picture from the Internet)
Xinjiang has beautiful scenery all year round. In addition to these photography holy places that change with the seasons, what other scenic spots can be photographed all year round?
Kumtag Desert
The Kumtag Desert, located south of Shanshan County and part of the Taklamakan Desert, is known as the "most beautiful feathery desert." Its primary element is not sand dunes, but sand mountains. These mountains rise and fall like continuous peaks, one layer higher than the other. The majestic and magnificent golden desert, with its boundless scenery, has coexisted with the oasis for thousands of years, with the sand remaining constant and the greenery undulating.
Best viewing period:
Suitable all year round, with slightly warmer summers and occasional snow in winter
Shooting suggestions:
The desert is large, with many undulating dunes. Telephoto lenses are ideal for portraits or camel caravans, adding a finishing touch. Be careful to protect your equipment from sand. Aerial photography is acceptable.
[Hongshan Grand Canyon (Anjihai Grand Canyon)]
Hongshan Grand Canyon (also known as Anjihai Grand Canyon) is located 60 kilometers southeast of Kuitun City. A crisscross of ravines stretches from the canyon's edge to the valley floor. The canyon is renowned for its precipitous and unique scenery, with its sheer cliffs, winding streams, majestic ravines, and colorful rocks, all of which leave visitors spellbound.
Best viewing period:
All year round, covered with snow in winter, unique
Shooting suggestions:
The canyon is majestic and needs wide angle photography. You need a wide angle of at least 16 or 14 to capture the entire canyon. Aerial photography is possible.
【Dushanzi Grand Canyon (Kuitun Grand Canyon)】
Dushanzi lies on the northern side of the Tianshan Mountains. Snowwater from the Tianshan Mountains flows through here, carving a vast, deep impact gorge. Fertile grasslands dominate the upper reaches of the gorge, while the cliffs, pounded by rain and snow, have shaped the undulating rock formations on both sides. At the bottom of the gorge, the Tianshan snowwater still flows, making it a must-see for photography enthusiasts.
Best viewing period:
All year round, covered with snow in winter, unique
Shooting suggestions:
The canyon is majestic, so I mainly use medium and long focal lengths to shoot. If you get closer, you can use wide angles to shoot some parts. Aerial photography is also possible.
Kuqa Tianshan Grand Canyon
The mysterious Kuqa Tianshan Grand Canyon, a canyon on the southern side of the Tianshan Mountains, was formed from reddish-brown rock through eons of wind and rain erosion. Its winding paths lead to secluded caves and hidden gems, with peaks reaching the sky. The light filtering down from the canyon's summit creates a rich play of light and shadow, enough to captivate any photographer. It's known as the "Antelope Valley of Xinjiang."
Best viewing period:
annual
Shooting suggestions:
The light is strongest at noon, and it can penetrate deep into the canyon, making it the best time to take photos. The canyon is relatively tall, so wide-angle shots are preferred. Aerial photography is possible, but the canyon is very narrow and not suitable for flying.
Turpan: Tuyugou
Tuyugou, the most mysterious region in the Western Regions, is a confluence of many renowned religions, histories, and cultures, earning it the nickname "Little Mecca of the East." Tuyugou Mazar Village, a "Famous Historical and Cultural Village of China," is the oldest surviving Uyghur village in Xinjiang, boasting over 1,700 years of history. It still preserves the most ancient Uyghur customs and practices, earning it the nickname "a living fossil of folklore."
Best viewing period:
annual
Shooting suggestions:
Tuyugou is mainly used to shoot the earthen buildings and humanities, mainly with medium and long focal lengths. Aerial photography is also possible.
Turpan: Flaming Mountain
The Flaming Mountain is a key filming location for the TV series Journey to the West. Not only does it boast scorching temperatures, it also boasts a vibrant Danxia landform stretching for dozens of kilometers. China-TravelNote specially arranged a visit to the sparsely populated and beautiful Houshan Grand Canyon to capture the scenery of the Grand Canyon and the Danxia landforms of the Flaming Mountain.
Best viewing period:
All year round, it is hot in the summer at noon, so try to avoid
Shooting suggestions:
The main purpose of shooting Danxia landform is to use medium focal length and long focal length. Aerial photography is possible and very suitable for aerial photography perspective.
【Wurhe Ghost City】
The Urho Ghost City, a masterpiece of wind-eroded landforms and known as the mysterious Dragon City, was named "China's Most Beautiful Yadan" by National Geographic China for its unique geographical features. It is also the filming location for blockbusters such as "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" and "Seven Swordsmen".
Admire the wind-eroded Yardang landforms and experience the wonders of nature. Formed over millions of years of wind and rain, the Urho Ghost City features thousands of mounds in a variety of shapes, some resembling human faces, others standing like apes, each image changing from a different perspective. The Yardang landforms become even more mysterious, captivating, and breathtaking at sunset.
Best viewing period:
All year round, there is snow cover in winter
Shooting suggestions:
Use medium and long focal lengths, find a tree with a good shape and take some close-ups. Morning and evening are the best light. Aerial photography is also possible.
Xinjiang boasts not only world-class scenery but also China's richest collection of humanistic photography subjects. From the hardworking and down-to-earth Tajiks, the charming Uighurs, and the Kazakhs roaming the grasslands, you'll find the diverse cultural landscapes you crave on every street in Xinjiang.
[Pamir Plateau: Tajik Culture]
The Tajiks are China's only native Caucasian ethnic group (Russians and Tatars are also Caucasian, but are immigrants). They are of Caucasian descent, and both men and women are very attractive. They speak a dialect of the East Iranian branch of the Indo-European language family, practice Shia Islam, and are relatively secular.
The Tajik people are known for their simple and honest customs and are renowned for their patriotism. They possess a strong sense of identity and belonging to China, a patriotic sentiment passed down through generations. Since the Qing Dynasty, they have served their country on the border without compensation. The film "The Visitor on the Iceberg" tells the story of Tajik border guards, led by soldier Amir, battling foreign separatist forces.
Best shooting locations:
Pamir Plateau, along Tashkurgan County
Shooting suggestions:
When shooting human subjects, a telephoto lens of 70-200 is very practical. Don't use a medium or wide-angle lens to shoot people's faces.
Kashgar: Uyghur Ancient City + Culture
Kashgar - the transportation, economic and cultural center of southern Xinjiang!
Kashgar, short for "Jade-like Place," is China's westernmost city, overlooking the Tarim Basin to the east and the Pamir Plateau to the west. Over 2,100 years ago, Kashgar served as the western confluence of the northern and southern routes of the Silk Road in China, serving as a transportation hub and gateway for China's economic and cultural exchanges with the West.
How many people were drawn to Kashgar by "The Kite Runner," and how many more, after setting foot in Kashgar, were captivated by its unique sense of life. Wander through the intricate Islamic alleys of Kashgar's old city, watch artisans diligently carve their craft, or spend an afternoon enjoying a cup of fruit tea in a century-old teahouse...
Best viewing period:
Suitable for all year round, it is best to leave more than 1 day for shooting
Shooting suggestions:
There are many subjects to shoot, and both wide-angle and telephoto lenses are needed. Aerial photography in urban areas is strictly prohibited.
Yining: Kazanqi Ancient City + Uyghur Culture
A colorful town is hidden deep in the urban area of Yining, where the authentic traditional Uyghur lifestyle is still preserved: quaint Uyghur houses; picturesque bridges and flowing water; tall and simple poplars can be seen everywhere; mellow milk tea and exquisite cakes; classical, traditional and lively Uyghur weddings; unrestrained, cheerful and warm Maixilaifu... These constitute the unique cultural charm of Kazanqi.
Best viewing period:
annual
Shooting suggestions:
The subjects of the photos are diverse, and both wide-angle and telephoto lenses are required. Aerial photography is strictly prohibited.
Ili Grassland: Kazakh Culture
Known as a people on horseback, the Kazakhs have been herding livestock on horseback since childhood, moving their herds across the grasslands from spring to autumn as the seasons change. Most of them live in the Ili region, enjoying a peaceful and tranquil existence on the flower-filled Tianshan grasslands.
Best viewing period:
In summer, herders graze on the Yili grasslands, providing more opportunities for photography.
Shooting suggestions:
If you need to go to the Yili area, you will need both wide-angle and telephoto lenses.
Tuyugou: Uyghur Ancient Village + Culture
Tuyugou, the most mysterious region in the Western Regions, is a confluence of many renowned religions, histories, and cultures, earning it the nickname "Little Mecca of the East." Tuyugou Mazar Village, a "Famous Historical and Cultural Village of China," is the oldest surviving Uyghur village in Xinjiang, boasting over 1,700 years of history. It still preserves the most ancient Uyghur customs and practices, earning it the nickname "a living fossil of folklore."
Best viewing period:
Suitable all year round
Shooting suggestions:
The shooting subjects are rich, and both wide-angle and telephoto lenses are needed.
【Maigaiti: Daolang Muqam】
Maigaiti is the birthplace of "Daolang Culture" and the hometown of Amanishahan, the "Mother of Uyghur Music and Dance." The people living here have not only created abundant material wealth through their hard work and wisdom, but also created a colorful spiritual treasure rich in ethnic and regional characteristics - the "Daolang Culture" represented by "Daolang Maixilaifu," "Daolang Muqam," and "Daolang Peasant Paintings."
Best viewing period:
All year round, artist performances need to be booked
Shooting suggestions:
It is more suitable to use medium focus, mainly to shoot the performance scenes of artists.
(Picture from the Internet)
Xinjiang is a vast and rich region, boasting a wealth of both scenic and cultural resources. I believe every photographer who has visited Xinjiang will be drawn to it and return again and again to create their own photographs there.
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