Dare to challenge yourself to borrow the Banana Fan in the scorching summer?

Preparation

- **Documents**: Bring valid IDs like your ID card.

- **Clothing**: In summer, opt for lightweight, breathable, and light-colored clothing, along with sun-protective gear like UV jackets, sun hats, and sunglasses. For spring and autumn, pack long-sleeved outerwear. In winter, bring thick coats, scarves, and gloves.

- **Sun and Heat Protection**: High-SPF sunscreen, spray sunscreen, parasols, portable fans, and heatstroke prevention medicine.

- **Other Essentials**: Power banks, cameras, plenty of water, and some snacks.

**Transportation Guide**

- **By Air**: After arriving at Turpan Airport, take a taxi (about 40 minutes, ~¥100).

- **By Train**: From Turpan Railway Station, take Bus No. 1, 2, or 3 (fare: ¥1–2) or a taxi (~20 minutes, ¥30–40).

- **Self-Drive**: From Turpan city, drive ~10 km north along National Highway 312 to reach the scenic area, which has parking.

**Itinerary Suggestions**

- **One-Day Trip**: Depart from Turpan city in the morning to explore the Flaming Mountains core area, Journey to the West Cultural Corridor, and Flaming Mountains Geological Hall. Have lunch nearby, then visit Grape Valley in the afternoon for grape-picking and local culture.

- **Two-Day Trip**:
- **Day 1**: Depart from Urumqi by high-speed rail or flight to Turpan. Enjoy local cuisine for lunch, visit Sugong Pagoda in the afternoon, then explore the Flaming Mountains main area (canyon and museum). Stay overnight in Turpan.
- **Day 2**: Visit the Karez Well system to learn about ancient irrigation, then explore the Jiaohe Ruins to experience Silk Road history before returning to Urumqi.

**Attractions**

- **Flaming Mountains Core Area**: The real-life inspiration for *Journey to the West*’s "Borrowing the Banana Fan" episode. The red mountains glow like fire under the sun, and the giant "Golden Cudgel" thermometer is a must-photo spot.

- **Journey to the West Cultural Corridor**: Features lifelike statues of characters from the classic tale, immersing visitors in the mythical world.

- **Flaming Mountains Geological Hall**: Learn about the unique geology and formation of the mountains.

**Food Recommendations**

- **Grilled Lamb Skewers**: Tender, juicy, and aromatic.
- **Pilaf**: Fragrant rice with lamb, carrots, and raisins.
- **Sand-Baked Eggs**: Eggs cooked in hot sand for a unique flavor.

**Accommodation**

- **Turpan City**: More options with better amenities (e.g., Hanting Hotel) to suit various budgets.
- **Near Flaming Mountains**: Stay in local guesthouses for an authentic experience, though facilities may be basic.