XINJIANG
Xinjiang is a land that blends magnificent natural scenery with profound cultural heritage. Located in northwest China, this mysterious region boasts vast and captivating landscapes as well as rich ethnic cultures. From the lakes and snow-capped mountains of Northern Xinjiang to the deserts and oases of Southern Xinjiang, every corner holds breathtaking charm.
This guide will show you how to explore both Northern and Southern Xinjiang, including must-visit attractions, food recommendations, cultural highlights, and tips on staying connected during your trip so you can easily share your travel moments and enjoy an unforgettable journey.
The Difference Between Northern and Southern Xinjiang: What First-Time Visitors Must Know
Northern Xinjiang: A Paradise for Nature Lovers
Scenery Features: Northern Xinjiang is known for its lakes, grasslands, and forests—perfect for those who love natural landscapes.
Famous Attractions: Kanas Lake, Heavenly Lake of Tianshan, Nalati Grassland, etc.
Best Travel Season: Spring, summer, and autumn are ideal, especially from June to October when the grasslands and autumn scenery are at their best.
Travel Style: Attractions in Northern Xinjiang are relatively concentrated, making it ideal for self-driving trips or private car tours, especially for families.
Southern Xinjiang: Cultural Exploration and Desert Adventures
Scenery Features: Known for deserts, poplar forests, and historical sites, with strong ethnic cultural influences—perfect for travelers interested in culture and arts.
Famous Attractions: Kashgar Old City, Taklamakan Desert, Tarim Poplar Forest, etc.
Best Travel Season: September to November, when the weather is pleasant and the autumn poplar forests are at their most beautiful.
Travel Style: Southern Xinjiang is better suited for in-depth travel, allowing more time to explore local culture and immerse yourself in daily life.
Must-Visit Attractions in Northern Xinjiang
1. Kanas Lake: A Paradise for Photographers
Known as a “fairyland on earth,” Kanas Lake features sapphire-blue waters surrounded by mountains, making it a dream destination for photographers. (Image source: Shutterstock)
Renowned for its magical beauty, Kanas Lake offers unique scenery in every season. Encircled by mountains, the lake reflects changing colors, creating dreamlike, postcard-worthy views.
Highlights: Climb the Fish-Watching Pavilion for a panoramic view, or ride a horse along the lakeside to experience its poetic charm.
Best Season: Autumn (September), when the landscape turns golden and the crystal-clear lake reflects light and surrounding scenery like an oil painting.
Location: Burqin County, Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang
2. Heavenly Lake of Tianshan: Serenity in the Mountains
Located in the majestic Tianshan Mountains, this clear alpine lake offers picturesque scenery year-round and is an ideal place to enjoy peace and nature. (Image source: Shutterstock)
The mirror-like blue waters are surrounded by snow-capped peaks, making it a refreshing summer retreat and a great spot for hiking and mountaineering.
Highlights: Take a boat ride around the lake, walk along scenic trails, and explore the surrounding natural beauty.
Best Season: June to August, when the weather is mild, greenery flourishes, and wildflowers bloom, creating a poetic summer landscape.
Location: Fukang City, Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang
3. Sayram Lake: The Last Tear of the Atlantic
Sayram Lake, the largest alpine lake in Xinjiang, is famous for its stunning scenery and rich ecology, making it perfect for hiking and camping. (Image source: Shutterstock)
With crystal-clear water reflecting the sky and mountains, it is known as “the last tear of the Atlantic.” Untouched by pollution, the lake shines like a diamond nestled among mountains.
Highlights: Enjoy lakeside camping and stargazing at night for a romantic and tranquil experience.
Best Season: May to September, when wildflowers bloom across green grasslands, forming a breathtaking landscape ideal for photography.
Location: Bole City, Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang
4. Nalati Grassland: A Green Oasis at the Foot of the Tianshan Mountains
Vast and picturesque, Nalati Grassland is an excellent place to experience Kazakh culture and steppe scenery. (Image source: Shutterstock)
The endless grassland showcases rich Kazakh traditions. It’s perfect for outdoor activities like horseback riding, camping, and photography.
Highlights: Ride across the grasslands or stay overnight in a traditional Kazakh yurt.
Best Season: July to September, when the grass is lush and green, resembling a vast natural carpet—ideal for camping with friends.
Location: Xinyuan County, Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang
5. Turpan: Home of Flaming Mountains and Sweet Grapes
An oasis in the desert, Turpan is famous for attractions like the Flaming Mountains and Grape Valley, with a long history and rich culture. (Image source: Shutterstock)
Known for its intense heat, vineyards, and the ancient city of Jiaohe, Turpan offers a unique desert experience. You can feel the extreme climate and enjoy fresh grapes from local vineyards.
Highlights: Explore the ancient Silk Road, visit the Karez irrigation system, the ruins of Jiaohe, and the famous Flaming Mountains.
Best Season: July to September, when fruits like grapes and melons are ripe and at their freshest.
Location: Turpan, Xinjiang
Must-Visit Attractions in Southern Xinjiang
1. Kashgar Old City: A Thousand-Year-Old City
Kashgar Old City is rich in Uyghur culture, featuring ancient streets, traditional crafts, and delicious local food—perfect for cultural exploration. (Image source: Shutterstock)
As the only well-preserved historical district along the ancient Silk Road in China, Kashgar is the heart of Uyghur culture. Its maze-like streets are unique and full of character.
Highlights: Wander through narrow alleys, admire traditional architecture, and taste authentic baked buns.
Best Season: August to October, when days are sunny and nights are cool—ideal for exploring the old city and nearby landmarks like the Id Kah Mosque.
Location: Kashgar City, Xinjiang
2. Taklamakan Desert: A Romantic Desert Adventure
Known for its vast dunes and extreme environment, the Taklamakan Desert is ideal for adventure seekers. (Image source: Shutterstock)
Called the “Sea of Death,” it is China’s largest desert. Its endless golden dunes and unpredictable climate offer a unique sense of solitude and awe.
Highlights: Stay overnight in a desert tent, gaze at the star-filled sky, and experience the vastness and tranquility of the desert.
Best Season: October to February, when the weather is milder and avoids the intense summer heat and sandstorms.
Location: Between Hotan and Aksu regions, Xinjiang
3. Tarim Poplar Forest: A Golden Desert Wonder
The Tarim Poplar Forest symbolizes resilience, and in autumn it becomes a golden paradise for photographers. (Image source: Shutterstock)
As locals say, “Poplars live for a thousand years, stand for a thousand years after death, and remain intact for another thousand years.” This forest showcases incredible vitality in extreme conditions.
Highlights: In autumn, golden leaves shimmer under sunlight, creating breathtaking scenery where forest, desert, and blue sky merge.
Best Season: October to November, when the colors are most vibrant and ideal for photography.
Location: Luntai County, Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang
4. Kuqa Grand Canyon: A Colorful Geological Wonder
Famous for its colorful rock formations, Kuqa Grand Canyon is a must-visit for hikers and nature explorers. (Image source: Shutterstock)
Its red-brown rock layers and dramatic formations create a stunning visual spectacle, making it a paradise for photography and trekking enthusiasts.
Highlights: Hike through winding canyons and admire the vibrant “hidden landscapes of the Tianshan.”
Best Season: Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October), when the weather is pleasant and scenery most beautiful.
Location: Kuqa County, Aksu Prefecture, Xinjiang
5. Hotan Jade Culture: Discover the “City of Jade”
Hotan, known as the “City of Jade,” is famous for producing high-quality Hetian jade and is one of the birthplaces of Chinese jade culture with thousands of years of history. Visitors can explore jade origins and craftsmanship.
Highlights: Visit the Hotan Jade Museum, admire exquisite jade carvings, purchase jade jewelry, or interact with artisans to learn about jade-making.
Best Season: Year-round, especially autumn (September to November) when the weather is comfortable for exploring markets and cultural sites.
Location: Hotan City, Xinjiang
Xinjiang Food Recommendations: An Irresistible Culinary Journey
Xinjiang’s cuisine is renowned for its diversity, shaped by its rich ethnic cultures and unique geography. Whether in the alpine lakes of Northern Xinjiang or the desert oases of Southern Xinjiang, every local dish brings a delightful surprise.
From grilled lamb skewers to hand-pulled rice dishes, each delicacy carries deep cultural roots, allowing your taste buds to travel alongside this fascinating land and experience its charm and warmth. These foods not only showcase the hospitality of Xinjiang’s people but also immerse you in authentic local flavors during your journey.
Northern Xinjiang Specialties
1. Big Plate Chicken (Da Pan Ji)
Big Plate Chicken is famous for its rich, spicy flavor and aromatic broth. Large chunks of chicken are cooked together with hand-pulled wide noodles, which absorb the savory and spicy flavors of the sauce. The broth is thick, the noodles are smooth, and the dish is deeply satisfying with a lingering taste.
2. Grilled Lamb Skewers
Xinjiang-style lamb skewers are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with an irresistible aroma. High-quality lamb is cut into small pieces, seasoned with cumin, chili powder, and other spices, then grilled to a golden perfection. The combination of cumin and chili creates juicy, flavorful meat that is not greasy.
3. Xinjiang Milk Tea
Unlike the sweet milk tea commonly known elsewhere, Xinjiang milk tea has a savory taste. It blends strong tea with milk (or sheep’s milk) and a hint of salt, resulting in a smooth texture and a rich, creamy flavor that is both unique and memorable.
Southern Xinjiang Specialties
1. Baked Buns (Kao Baozi)
Xinjiang baked buns have thin skins and tender fillings, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The most common filling is lamb with onions, producing a rich and savory aroma. The surface is slightly browned during baking, enhancing the texture.
2. Hand-Pilaf (Grab Rice)
Hand-pilaf is a signature Uyghur dish made with rice, lamb, carrots, and raisins. The long-grain rice absorbs the flavors of the ingredients, creating a layered texture and a fragrant dish that captures the essence of the grasslands in every bite.
3. Uyghur Snacks
These include traditional treats such as Sanzi (crispy fried dough twists) and raisins. Sanzi is crunchy with a rich, slightly sweet flavor. Walking through markets in Southern Xinjiang while tasting these snacks offers a unique cultural experience.
⭕Urumqi · Grand Bazaar
Whether authentic or not, the variety here is definitely the most comprehensive! If you haven’t tried enough regional specialties, this is the place to make up for it.
Must-try list: hand-grabbed lamb, mushroom soup rice / mushroom chicken soup, jar-cooked meat, kvass, stuffed tripe, spicy chicken, naan with meat, milk-skin cake, Xinjiang fried rice noodles, baked buns, grilled skewers/lamb chops, hand-pilaf, horse sausage, handmade ice cream, homemade yogurt, milk tea… 🌮
⭕Urumqi · Haiji Pigeon Restaurant
A long-established local favorite for pigeon dishes. Must-try items include pigeon noodles, stewed young pigeon (large whole serving), crispy roasted pigeon, mixed pigeon offal, and stir-fried eggs with wild onions. 🥘
⭕Shihezi · Stir-fried Eggs with Wild Onions
Near Urumqi, this is a must-order dish. Highly recommended by the show “Go to the Mountains and Seas,” the wild onions are tender and aromatic—so good you could eat them as a main dish. You might not find it far from Shihezi, so enjoy it while you can! 🍛
⭕Sayram Lake · White Salmon
This salmon, found only in Sayram Lake, can be enjoyed steamed with light seasoning or in a dry pot. The fish is tender and smooth. Sashimi requires booking a day in advance—this is a must-try when visiting Sayram Lake. 🐟
⭕Shawan · Big Plate Chicken
The Shawan version of Big Plate Chicken, highly recommended by the show “Go to the Mountains and Seas,” is worth the trip alone. Celebrities like Zheng Kai and Zhang Liang even drove there just to take away a portion. Unlike chain versions, the sauce here is richer and more aromatic, paired with potatoes and noodles that absorb all the flavor, while the chicken remains tender and springy. A good alternative can also be found at “Black Goat” on Liuxing Street in Yining, recommended by CCTV. 🍲
