Urumqi | International Grand Bazaar: A Millennium-Old Journey to Savor the Charm of the Western Regions

Hidden Paradise at the Foot of the Tianshan Mountains! Must-Visit Spots in Urumqi 🌄

🏔 Why Visit:
The ultimate Western Regions experience! Snow-capped mountains and grasslands at your fingertips.

🚗 Transportation:
📍 Address: Tianshan District, Urumqi, Xinjiang
✈️ Airport: Diwopu International Airport, ~30 min taxi ride to downtown
🚇 Metro: Line 1 goes directly to the International Grand Bazaar

🔥 Must-Visit Spots:
1️⃣ Red Hill Park
The city’s highest point! Breathtaking panoramic views of Urumqi, especially at sunset.
📸 Tips: Capture the city and snow-capped mountains together from the hilltop observatory.

2️⃣ Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar
The largest market in Central Asia! A paradise for handmade carpets and ethnic musical instruments.
🍢 Food: Baked buns for 3 yuan each, freshly squeezed pomegranate juice is super sweet.

3️⃣ Tianshan Tianchi Lake Day Trip
(1.5-hour drive from downtown)
A fairy-tale wonderland! Take the cable car up Mayashan for stunning summer views.
⚠️ Ticket includes shuttle bus; last bus departs at 18:00.

🍴 Food Recommendations:
Big Plate Chicken: A small portion feeds 3! Best with wide noodles.
Grilled Lamb Skewers: Authentic only when skewered on red willow branches.
Pilaf: Yellow carrots + lamb ribs, a Urumqi breakfast staple.

🏔 Unique Experiences:
• Horseback riding in Nanshan Pasture (best from June to September)
• Visiting a Uyghur family to learn how to make naan bread
• Enjoying ethnic song and dance performances at Erdaoqiao Night Market

💣 Tips to Avoid Scams:
• Bargain for handicrafts at the Grand Bazaar.
• Tianchi Lake is 10°C cooler than downtown—bring warm clothes.