Located in the west of China, Xinjiang is a large autonomous region, once an indispensable part of the legendary Silk Road. Through thousands of years of historical ups and downs, this land still retains the wild, majestic beauty of nature, the ancient imprint of architectural works, along with the diverse cultural colors of ethnic minorities. The East-West cultural exchange has turned Xinjiang into a unique destination, attracting all tourists who want to explore a very different China, where history, culture and nature blend into one.
Kanas Lake - A hidden gem in the heart of the Altay Mountains
Among the countless beautiful natural landscapes of Xinjiang, Kanas Lake is known as the “green pearl” of this land. In Mongolian, the name “Kanas” means “beautiful and mysterious lake”, and indeed, the beauty of this place is enough to captivate anyone who sets foot here. Nestled in the valley of the majestic Altay Mountains, Kanas Lake makes a strong impression with its characteristic emerald green water, crystal clear to the bottom. This is also the deepest mountain freshwater lake in China, creating a wild, poetic landscape like a fairyland.
Surrounding the lake are towering snow-capped mountains and endless dense forests. Coming here, visitors can enjoy the fresh air, stroll on small trails to feel the tranquility and wild beauty of nature. Kanas Lake is not only famous for its spectacular scenery but also home to a diverse ecosystem, the "roof" of many rare species of flora and fauna.
Hemu Village - Where Time Stops
Not far from Kanas Lake is Hemu (or Hoa Moc), one of the last three ancient Tuvan villages in the world. The village is nestled in a valley in the Kanas Nature Reserve, surrounded by rolling mountains and vast birch forests. The Tuvan people, believed to be descendants of soldiers who followed Genghis Khan, have lived here for generations, preserving a rustic, nomadic culture and lifestyle.
Stepping into Hemu village, visitors will immediately feel the slow and peaceful pace of life. Small, simple wooden houses are scattered among the vast hills and green grasslands, creating a peaceful scene, completely opposite to the hustle and bustle of modern life. Visitors can leisurely stroll on the stone-paved village roads, enjoying the fresh air. Horse riding on the vast steppe or fishing by the gentle river are also unforgettable experiences. In particular, visiting traditional houses will help visitors learn more about the history and unique customs of the Tuvan people, like a journey back in time.
Ili Valley of Dreams
Ili Valley is considered one of the most beautiful spring destinations in Xinjiang and across China. Every spring, the green grasslands here are dotted with the romantic pink of blooming wild apricot trees. Blending into that lyrical natural picture is the imprint of humans, present through simple ethnic houses and leisurely grazing cattle. All of this makes Ili an ideal flower viewing and check-in coordinate in Xinjiang, and at the same time a peaceful paradise on earth for those who want to temporarily escape the hustle and bustle of urban life.
Kashgar Ancient City - "Living Museum" of Local Culture
For those who are passionate about exploring culture and history, the ancient city of Kashgar is a must-see destination in Xinjiang. Once an important border town on the southern route of the Silk Road, Kashgar is considered a “living museum”, reflecting the daily life and strong Islamic cultural imprints of the Uyghur people. It is also a witness to the process of East-West cultural exchange in China over thousands of years.
Coming to Kashgar, visitors will get lost in a maze of small streets, hundreds of years old houses and massive architectural works. Kashgar Old Town is the "heart" of the city, more than 2,000 years old, which was the setting for the famous movie The Kite Runner. In addition, visitors can visit famous places such as Xinjiang's largest mosque, Id Kah, the mausoleum of the Muslim master Abakh Hoja, or immerse themselves in the bustling atmosphere at traditional markets such as Kashgar Bazaar and the Sunday livestock market. At the end of a day of exploration, don't forget to stop at the old Kashgar teahouse to enjoy tea and snacks, listen and feel the peaceful life of the local people.
Sayram Lake - Where nature calls
Dubbed “the last tear of the Atlantic” because this is where the warm and humid air currents stop after a 7,000km journey, Sayram Lake attracts visitors with its romantic and impressive beauty. Located in a high mountain basin in the west of the Tianshan range, Sayram Lake stands out with its blue water like the sky, clear as crystal. Along the lake are immense grasslands dotted with brilliant wildflowers, in the distance are snow-capped mountains and green forests. All create a peaceful, poetic scene like a painting.
One of the best ways to explore the beauty of Sayram is to take a tram ride around the lake or cycle along the shore. In particular, if you come here in the 7th lunar month, you will have the opportunity to join the vibrant Nadam festival of the Kazakh people with traditional horse racing, wrestling and archery.
