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Do Hong Anh (29 years old, currently living and working in Hanoi) has had many opportunities to explore famous landmarks around the world, from Europe to Asia. However, it wasn't until she set foot in Lijiang and Dali last year that she truly fell in love.China.
Her first 15-day trip to China ignited in Hong Anh a passionate love for the country's beautiful scenery and unique culture. Over the next year, she made seven more trips to China, exploring new places and making many new friends.
Through her friends, Hong Anh was introduced to Xinjiang – a region known as the "Switzerland of China".
It was through these friends that Hong Anh was introduced to Xinjiang – a region dubbed the "Switzerland of China." After researching and admiring the picturesque photos, she decided to put aside her dream of traveling to Switzerland and plan a trip to Xinjiang. Her 12-day journey exploring Xinjiang took Hong Anh from Northern to Southern Xinjiang, allowing her to fully experience the majestic and diverse beauty of this land.
“My first impression of Xinjiang was that the security here is excellent; there are more police than civilians. In Urumqi, you'll see tanks and two police officers with guns at every intersection. Security regulations here are very strict. On the flight to Urumqi airport, the police reminded us: 'This is a military airport; photography is strictly prohibited,'” Hong Anh confided.
Xinjiang, which covers one-sixth of China's land area, holds an irresistible charm for both domestic and international tourists.
Hong Anh's 12-day journey exploring Xinjiang took her from Northern Xinjiang to Southern Xinjiang, allowing her to fully experience the majestic and diverse beauty of this region.
This vast region, covering one-sixth of China's land area, holds an irresistible allure for both domestic and international tourists. Visiting Xinjiang, you'll be immersed in magnificent palaces, ancient, moss-covered ruins, bustling markets, and museums preserving the mysteries of its long history.
Xinjiang is closely associated with the mysterious Western Regions in Chinese history. The term "Western Regions" has been used since ancient times to refer to the territory of present-day Xinjiang, stretching from ancient times to the Qianlong Dynasty of the Qing Dynasty.
Tan Cuong's long history and unique geographical location have shaped its distinctive cultural identity. It is a melting pot of diverse cultures, from Chinese and Persian to Indian. This blend has resulted in a rich and varied culture with numerous historical, cultural, and religious sites.
Tan Cuong's long history and unique geographical location have shaped its distinctive cultural identity.
12 days of impressive exploration of Xinjiang.
During her journey exploring the vast Xinjiang region, Hong Anh visited many famous landmarks such as Nalati, Sayram Lake, Baishahu, Kashgar, and the ancient Panlong Road... However, the most profound impression remains that of Sayram Lake - a hidden emerald gem nestled high in the mountains.
When Hong Anh arrived in Sayram in the spring, the scene before her was like a captivating ink painting. The lake was still partially frozen, interspersed with patches of melting water, creating a shimmering emerald green under the sunlight. The pristine, tranquil beauty of Sayram stirred her soul.
A 75-kilometer-long mountain road in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region of Northwest China is dubbed the "worst nightmare" for those prone to motion sickness, with hundreds of winding curves.
Lake Sayram, nestled in the majestic Tian Shan mountain range, is known as the "Last Tear of the Atlantic" due to its breathtaking natural beauty. It captivates visitors with its crystal-clear waters and the majestic snow-capped mountains in the distance.
Lake Sayram's surface is like a giant mirror, reflecting the deep blue sky and the snow-capped mountains. The water is so clear that you can see schools of fish swimming freely. This dreamy and majestic natural scenery gives visitors a strangely peaceful and serene feeling.
Baishahu is a tranquil lake nestled beneath the towering snow-capped mountains of the Pamir Plateau.
Sayram Lake is not only a popular tourist destination but also an endless source of inspiration for poets and musicians. It has been described as "paradise on earth," "a fairy hidden amidst the mountains and forests."
Even more fortunately, during the trip, Hong Anh encountered a fox foraging by the lake. The driver said that spotting a wild fox here is extremely rare, with foxes appearing only about once every 15-20 days.
The Nalati Grassland is one of the six most beautiful grasslands in China and one of the four alpine and valley grasslands in the world.
In a conversation with Travellive, Hong Anh shared: “What I found most interesting was probably the day it snowed. The night was clear and cold, but when I woke up at 8 a.m., it was still dark and snowing. That day, I had to take a mountain road to get back to the city, and the snow was very thick, a blanket of white. After stopping for a while, the snow covered half the wheels and was blocking the road. The weather was harsh, but it was definitely worth the experience.”
The weather is harsh, but it's well worth the experience in Xinjiang.
Xinjiang through the four seasons
Xinjiang, a vast region in northwestern China, boasts majestic beauty and a characteristic temperate continental climate, surrounded by towering mountain ranges, setting it apart from much of the rest of the country. It offers visitors unique and fascinating experiences in every season.
Spring (April to June) is the peak flowering season, painting Xinjiang in vibrant colors. Visitors can immerse themselves in the romantic scenery of the Plum Blossom Valley, Tianshan Lake, Hemu Scenic Area, Kanas Scenic Area, Sayram Lake, or revel in the romantic purple hues of the lavender fields in Huocheng. The warm, pleasant weather is ideal for sightseeing, boat trips, and hiking.
Xinjiang, a vast region in northwestern China, boasts majestic natural beauty and a characteristic temperate continental climate.
July and August are peak summer tourist months with cool weather and ripe fruits. Visitors can enjoy sweet melons in Turpan, Hami, and Kashgar or explore lush green grasslands such as the Nalati and Bayinbuluk steppes.
The vibrant autumn season brings a picturesque landscape to Xinjiang. This is the ideal time to admire the golden leaves in Kanas and capture stunning photographs. The dry season, with fewer dust storms and mosquitoes in the Taklimakan Desert, allows visitors to explore the desert and admire the rows of golden Populus euphratica trees.
Xinjiang offers visitors unique and exciting experiences in each season.
Between mid-November and March, the snow blankets Xinjiang, transforming it into a winter wonderland. Visitors can enjoy winter sports like skiing at over 30 resorts in the Tianshan and Altay mountain ranges.
"Everyone always says Xinjiang is most beautiful in the summer and also its peak tourist season. The grasslands are dyed a vibrant green, dotted with countless plants and flowers, and sheep peacefully graze everywhere. But for me, the spring experience is truly worth it, with its many colors," Hong Anh said.
The grasslands are dyed a vibrant green, dotted with countless plants and flowers, and sheep graze peacefully everywhere.
Secrets to Conquering Xinjiang
Xinjiang is a land that enchants tourists with its pristine, majestic beauty and unique experiences. However, to have a complete exploration of this place, Hong Anh would like to share some tips to help you easily conquer Xinjiang.
Xinjiang's climate is quite harsh, with large temperature differences between day and night, making it easy for tourists to get sick. Regular exercise is recommended to boost your immune system before you go. Motion sickness medication, headache medicine, cold and flu medicine, and digestive aids are essential. You should also bring sunscreen, moisturizer, a hat, and sunglasses to protect your skin from the harsh sun. Pack warm clothes for evenings and early mornings, light clothing for daytime, and appropriate attire for outdoor activities.
Xinjiang – a land that enchants tourists with its pristine, majestic beauty and unique experiences.
You need to clearly define your destinations, transportation, accommodation, and the time you'll allocate for each location. It's advisable to book flights, hotels, and attractions in advance to avoid disappointment. Don't try to visit too many places in one day; allow time for rest and recuperation to fully enjoy each location. Travelers should also account for unexpected events and adjust their itinerary if necessary to ensure optimal health and well-being throughout the trip.
Xinjiang has a harsh climate, with large temperature differences between day and night.
