Complete Guide to Must-Visit Attractions in the Hometown of Tianma, Unexpected Surprises Await

Zhaosu, located in the Ili River Valley of Xinjiang, is famous for its vast grasslands, magnificent snow-capped mountains, and rich folk culture. Here is a travel guide:

Recommended Attractions
- Xiata Scenic Area: 75 kilometers from the county town, you can hike or horseback ride through the essence of the ancient trail, admire the Muzart Glacier, and enjoy beautiful scenery such as snow mountains and pine forests along the way.
- Zhaosu Wetland Park: In summer, you can watch flocks of migratory birds; from May to October each year, there is the Tianma River Bathing performance; in winter, you can see frost-covered trees and snow horse racing.
- Tianma Cultural Park: Watch equestrian performances, experience horseback riding and other activities, and see world-famous horses and Akhal-Teke horses. In winter, witness the grand spectacle of "Ten Thousand Horses Galloping."
- Zhaosu Yuhu Lake: The lake changes color with the light and is known as the "Color-Changing Lake." In winter, you can enjoy the rare sight of blue ice bubbles on the frozen lake surface.
- Yizhao Highway: A section of the ancient Silk Road "Gongyue Road," the road is steep and scenic with views of snow mountains and grasslands. Only vehicles with 7 seats or fewer are allowed, and it is open from June to October each year.

Recommended Food
- Wild Mushroom Soup Rice: Made with wild yellow mushrooms and morels from high-altitude forests, simmered into soup and served with handmade pulled noodles, fresh and delicious.
- Lamb Chop Pulled Noodles: Large chunks of lamb chops stewed until the meat falls off the bone, pulled noodles coated with rapeseed oil fragrance, and soft potatoes.
- Horse Meat Naren: Smoked horse sausage served with hand-rolled noodles, rich in meat flavor, a thousand-year secret taste of nomadic people.
- 2 Yuan Lamb Skewers: Freshly slaughtered lamb skewered and grilled on the spot, sprinkled with cumin and spicy powder, fragrant and tender.

Recommended Accommodation
- Zhaosu Mountain and Valley Homestay: Comfortable environment, excellent facilities, located at No. 2 East Third Road, Lighthouse Ranch.
- Zhaosu Gongyue Homestay: Exquisitely decorated rooms, rich breakfast, providing guests with a warm lodging experience.
- Zhaosu Shengjiangye Grand Hotel: Located at Tianma International Tourism and Culture Plaza, offers a rich breakfast and great value for money.

Transportation Guide
- Airplane: You can take a direct flight from Urumqi Diwopu Airport to Zhaosu Tianma Airport.
- Train + Bus: Take a train to Yining Railway Station, then take a bus or route vehicle to Zhaosu County.
- Self-driving or Charter: Zhaosu attractions are scattered, so self-driving or chartering is more convenient; SUV models are recommended.

Notes
Zhaosu attractions are scattered, so self-driving or chartering is recommended.
- July is the best time to see rapeseed flowers and participate in the Tianma International Tourism Festival; winter is suitable for ice and snow activities.
- Zhaosu’s average altitude is 2100 meters; pay attention to sun protection and cold resistance, and prepare motion sickness medicine and oxygen bottles.