2026 Bayingolin Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in July)

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The vast Xinjiang is too big to imagine. There is only one Taklimakan desert road. It took 7 hours to drive from Aksu to Hotan. Taklimakan means the big desert below the mountain. It is called The Sea of Death and is the second largest mobile desert in the world. It is also rated as one of the five most beautiful deserts in China. The compound sand hills and sand ridges are like the dragons suffocating on the earth. Hetian, Xinjiang, which is located in the border of the motherland, has been a place of cultural integration since ancient times. The mountains and rivers are magnificent and deserted. The multiculturalism and folk customs here are beautiful and colorful. The site of the Hot Wake Buddha Temple, with a height of about 3 meters, is located in the desert 50 kilometers northwest of Luopu County in Hotan. The site was built in the 2nd to 3rd centuries. Its unique Buddhist temple architecture and Buddha image retain the original Gandhara style. It was an archaeological aid for the early study of Buddhism's introduction to the Western Regions and ancient sculpture art. Now it is the national focus. Cultural relics protection unit

The Tianshan Mountains are a crucial east–west mountain range in China, mainly located within the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. They serve as an important dividing line between southern and northern Xinjiang. Dividing Xinjiang by the Tianshan, the region splits into the scenic and majestic northern Xinjiang and the historically and culturally rich southern Xinjiang. At the same time, the Tianshan Mountains form a unique scenic belt that blends the landscapes and cultures of both north and south Xinjiang. Therefore, the Tianshan Grand Loop is the most convenient route to fully experience Xinjiang’s natural scenery and cultural heritage. [Cute] Main regions and attractions along the route: The Tianshan loop starts from Urumqi, circles around the Tianshan Mountains, and returns to Urumqi. The route passes through and includes major attractions such as: Sayram Lake, Horgos Port, Nalati Grassland in the Ili region, Kalajun Grassland, Bayingolin region, Hejing County, Tekes City, Bosten Lake, Bayinbuluke Grassland, Tuokexun County, Turpan region, Shanshan County, Kumtag Desert, Jiaohe Ancient City, Gaochang Ancient City, and more. 🚗 [Itinerary] Day 1: Depart from Urumqi in the morning, visit Sayram Lake in the afternoon, arrive at Horgos in the evening. Day 2: Visit Horgos Port in the morning, arrive in the Ili region in the afternoon. Day 3: Explore Nalati Grassland or Kalajun Grassland, arrive in Tekes by evening. Day 4: Head to Bayingolin Hejing County, arrive at Bayinbuluke Grassland by evening to enjoy the grassland sunset. Day 5: Reach Turpan via G3012 highway. Day 6: Visit Flaming Mountains, then arrive at Shanshan County to explore Kumtag Desert. Day 7: Tour Gaochang Ancient City and Jiaohe Ancient City, stay overnight in Turpan. Day 8: Return to Urumqi. [Congratulate]

Everyone says traveling during summer break is like “paying to suffer,” with popular attractions doubling ticket prices and crowds baking under the sun. But what you don’t know is that China is so vast, there are hidden gems where it’s cool in summer, prices haven’t risen, and visitors are sparse. I checked three map apps and analyzed weather and traffic data for half a month to pick these 8 spots. They’re either reachable by high-speed train within 2 hours or perfect for flexible road trips, offering vibes from rustic countryside to wild nature. Don’t be just another dumpling filling in crowded cities—follow me for a cool and peaceful summer vacation with your kids this year. 01 Jiangmen | Guangdong While others squeeze into Guangzhou Tower in Guangdong, I take my kids exploring the diaolou (fortified towers) in Jiangmen. ⚠️ Don’t assume it’s scorching in summer. Most diaolou clusters in Kaiping are hidden deep in rice fields and bamboo groves. The cross breeze feels cooler than air conditioning. 📍 Navigate directly to Zili Village. At the entrance, there’s a lady selling “pot cake” with the best red bean flavor. 🎫 The inside of the diaolou is very cool, perfect for kids aged 6–12 to listen to diaolou stories while counting the gun holes. 🍜 Don’t eat lunch inside the scenic area. Drive 20 minutes to Chikan Old Town and find “Guan’s rice rolls.” The skin is so thin it’s transparent, and a plate costs only 8 yuan. 🚄 A taxi from Jiangmen Station costs about 40 yuan. It’s best to start early; the diaolou cluster is least crowded in the morning. 02 Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture | Yunnan Yuanyang terraced fields aren’t just for photographers. Taking kids in elementary school or older is like a walking geography lesson. ⏰ Early rising is a must, but you don’t have to squeeze into Duoyishu viewing platform. I left at 5:30 AM, walked along a path to the edge of Bada terraces, where morning mist rose from the ground. My kid said it felt like walking in the clouds. 📸 After morning photos, head to Jianshui Ancient Town in the afternoon. 📍 Visit the backyard of Zhu Family Garden, where there’s an ancient well. Papaya juice chilled with well water costs 5 yuan a cup and is sweet and refreshing. ⚠️ Note! The “narrow-gauge train” in Jianshui Ancient Town is often packed during summer break. To avoid an hour-long queue, stroll to the “Spoon noodle old shop” for grilled tofu, filling and only 10 yuan. 💡 In Yuanyang, the fog thickens around 6 PM. Bring an extra fleece jacket for your kids. 03 Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture | Xinjiang If you want your kids to experience “four seasons in one day, different weather every 10 miles,” come to Bayingolin. 🍜 Have lunch at a herder’s guesthouse by Bayinbuluke Grassland. Order a pot of local hotpot; the lamb is so tender it doesn’t need chewing, and kids can eat two bowls of rice. 📍 After lunch, drive deeper into Bayinbuluke Scenic Area. The winding river looks like a silver necklace under the sun. ⚠️ But don’t think about coming out at dusk! The mosquitoes in the park are so bad they could carry you away. Keep mosquito repellent handy. 📍 Spend the second night in a town on the edge of the Taklamakan Desert. At sunset, let your kids walk barefoot on the sand. It’s warm but bearable. 🌙 At night, look up at the stars—they’re unbelievably bright. 🌟 Kids in middle school or older will be fascinated by the Tarim Poplar Forest Park. Standing on the sand, listening to the sound of poplar trees weathering is a hundred times more vivid than reading about the “poplar spirit” in textbooks. 04 Hinggan League | Inner Mongolia Arxan National Forest Park is like a giant glacier air conditioner for summer. 📍 Take the eco-friendly shuttle from the entrance to Tianchi Lake. The whole route is shaded by greenery, and the temperature feels no higher than 25℃. 🎒 It’s perfect for young kids because the trails are flat and stroller-friendly. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM at Santan Gorge. The mist hasn’t lifted yet, and the forest smells of moss. Little squirrels might jump near your feet looking for snacks. 🍜 Don’t eat at the park restaurant for lunch. Outside the exit is “Mountain Spring Villa,” where hand-pulled meat dipped in chive flower sauce tastes so good it’ll make your tongue melt. ⚠️ Arxan often has sudden summer showers. A raincoat is more practical than an umbrella because the wind is strong enough to break umbrellas. 05 Xiangtan City | Hunan Don’t just think of Zhangjiajie when visiting Hunan in summer. Shaoshan in Xiangtan hides waterfalls and tranquility. 📍 Head straight to Caojia’ao Waterfall, deep inside the Shaoshan tourist area. Drive to “Dripping Water Cave” and then hike 20 minutes to hear the water. 🌊 The pool below the waterfall is shallow, only knee-deep for kids, so children under 7 can splash around. It’s ten times cooler than Huangguoshu Waterfall and almost empty on weekends. The whole valley feels like it’s just our family. 🍜 After hiking, return to town and find a local restaurant near Yangmeizhou Wharf. Order chopped chili fish head, spicy enough to make you sweat, and the fish soup with rice can fill you up with two bowls. 💡 Many places in Shaoshan tourist area require reservations. Search “Shaoshan tourism reservation” on WeChat mini-program before you go to avoid long queues. 06 Dongying City | Shandong If your kid loves classical poetry, the Yellow River Estuary Ecological Zone is a must-visit. 📍 Walk 3 km south from the estuary to a red carpet-like salt marsh with seepweed. It’s reddest in autumn, but the lush green in summer is also beautiful. 🌅 After 4 PM, be sure to visit the birdwatching platform. Egrets and red-crowned cranes fly low in flocks, creating a magnificent scene straight out of the “Book of Songs.” 🚄 Dongying Station is far from downtown. It’s better to take the high-speed train to Dongying South Station, then a taxi for about 30 yuan to the ticket office. ⚠️ Don’t rent bikes in the park. Family bikes are hard to ride and the sun will make you dizzy. Electric carts are more cost-effective. 🍜 At the park entrance, a small stall sells scallion pancakes rolled with pickles and eggs for 10 yuan each. The taste is pretty good. 07 Chengdu | Sichuan When it comes to Chengdu, don’t just focus on squeezing into the panda base. 📍 Take your kids to Tiantai Mountain first. Streams flow from the top, forming pools of various sizes. The water is ice-cold, perfect for kids aged 7–10 to wade and have water fights. 🔫 The stone steps on the way up are slippery like they’re oiled, so make sure your kids wear non-slip water shoes. 🌲 In the evening, head down to Dujiangyan at the foot of Qingcheng Mountain. Just see the “Anlan Suspension Bridge” section. Kids will be curious about how the bridge seems to float. 🍜 For dinner, stop by Anren Ancient Town and find “Yang’s tofu pudding.” The soft tofu drizzled with chili oil and eaten with guokui (flatbread) costs less than 15 yuan per person. 🐼 Save half a day for the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding on the last day, but remember! ⚠️ Don’t enter through the south gate. The west gate is less crowded and leads straight to the panda nursery. ⏰ Arrive before 8:30 AM to see pandas outdoors. After 9 AM, they go inside to cool off. 08 Shijiazhuang | Hebei In Shijiazhuang’s summer, Zhaozhou Bridge is an underrated treasure. 📍 Navigate to Zhaozhou Bridge Park. The river under the bridge is shallow, only ankle-deep, so kids as young as 5 can splash on the cobblestones. 🌉 Green moss grows in the stone cracks under the bridge, feeling cool to the touch. 🍜 Skip the group meal at noon. Go to “Shijia Dumpling House” at the west end of the bridge. Their pork and scallion dumplings cost 15 yuan a serving and burst with juice when bitten. ⚠️ After 3 PM, the bridge’s shadow covers the river, making it the best time for photos—no glare or harsh sun. 💡 If your child is in fourth grade or above, visit the Hebei Provincial Museum nearby. Admission is free with advance booking. See the Mancheng Han tomb and Changxin Palace lanterns, which are a hundred times more vivid than textbooks. After years of chasing cool spots and avoiding crowds, I always imagine everywhere should be cool and quiet. But some places you only understand by experiencing them yourself—grasslands cold enough to wear down jackets in July, tofu stalls in ancient towns so fragrant you forget about trendy shops. If you have tips or stories about escaping the summer heat with kids, share them in the comments. I want to hear about your hidden gems.

For budget summer travel, don’t just squeeze into popular cities. Ningde’s coastal mudflats, Nujiang’s canyon secrets, and Huizhou’s West Lake and Luofu Mountain offer fewer crowds and beautiful scenery. You can reach them by high-speed train or bus, and spend just over 1,000 yuan for a 3-day trip. July to September is the perfect time—whether you want to see the sea or escape the heat, there’s an option for you. 1 Ningde | Fujian Ningde’s sea is completely different from Xiamen’s. At Beiqi mudflats in Xiapu, after 4 PM when the tide recedes, bamboo poles and fishing boats cast long shadows in golden light. Every photo looks like a postcard. ⚠️ To catch the best light on the mudflats, check the tide schedule—it’s not every day. Summer is perfect for Baishuiyang and Yuanyang Creek. Barefoot on the shallow stones, the water is cool to the bone. You can play in the water all afternoon. 🍜 Local seaweed pancakes and fish balls cost just a few yuan at street stalls. Don’t buy the expensive ones in tourist spots. Stay in Xiapu county town for many affordable guesthouses. After arriving at Xiapu station by high-speed train, take a bus or carpool to Beiqi for about 10 yuan. 2 Nujiang | Yunnan Nujiang Prefecture hides true secrets. The winding mountain road to Bingzhongluo is heart-stopping, but the first bend of the Nujiang River makes the bumpy ride worth it. ⏰ It’s most beautiful early morning when the mist hasn’t cleared, and it feels like you have the place to yourself. Nanjiluo is even harder to reach, requiring an off-road vehicle plus hiking. The alpine lakes and primeval forests here are wilder than Switzerland. ⚠️ You need to book a local guide in advance for Nanjiluo. A solo guide costs about 300 yuan. Carpooling is the most cost-effective. 🚄 Take a bus from Dali to Liuku, then transfer. The whole trip costs under 200 yuan. Accommodation in Bingzhongluo town is just over 100 yuan per night. Try the lacquer oil chicken—it’s spicy enough to make you sweat. 3 Huizhou | Guangdong Huizhou is underrated. West Lake is free to enter. Su Causeway, Gushan, and Diancui Islet are ten times quieter than Hangzhou’s West Lake. 🍜 Nearby old street offers ai rice cakes and sweet soups for 5 yuan until you’re full. Luofu Mountain tickets cost 60 yuan, but entry is free before 7 AM. Climb to the summit to see the sea of clouds. ⚠️ Don’t take the cable car—climbing yourself is more rewarding. Xunliao Bay is crowded in summer, but if you go on a non-weekend afternoon, lying on the beach and feeling the sea breeze is more relaxing than waiting in line for rides. 📍 Stay in Huicheng District for easy access to West Lake and Luofu Mountain. After arriving at Huizhou South station by high-speed train, a taxi to West Lake costs about 20 yuan. 4 Bayingolin | Xinjiang Bayingolin’s Bayinbuluke has nine twists and eighteen turns. At sunset, you can see ten sun reflections. You won’t believe it until you see it yourself. ⏰ Around 7:30 PM is the best time at the viewing platform for perfect light. The Taklamakan Desert is even wilder. At the end of the desert highway are poplar trees that turn golden in autumn, but summer visits are less crowded. ⚠️ The desert is scorching. Bring plenty of water and wear long sleeves. 🍜 Ku’erle’s roasted buns and hand-pulled rice fill you up for 10 yuan. 🚄 Take a train from Urumqi to Ku’erle. A hard seat costs 80 yuan. Then rent a car to the scenic area. Stay in Ku’erle city center; budget hotels start at 150 yuan. 5 Hohhot | Inner Mongolia Hohhot is 26–27 degrees in summer, perfect for escaping the heat. At Laoniuwan Yellow River Grand Canyon, take a boat to see the cliffs on both sides—it’s better than air conditioning in the city. ⏰ Before 10 AM, the light is soft and the crowds are thin. The Chilechuan Grassland Cultural Tourism Area is free. Ride a horse for a stroll and feel the wind through the grass. ⚠️ Don’t buy souvenirs at the scenic area entrance—they double the price. 🚄 A taxi from Hohhot station to Laoniuwan costs about 80 yuan. Carpooling is cheaper. 🍜 Shaomai and milk tea are delicious at any small local shop. 6 Harbin | Heilongjiang Harbin is a summer escape. The Ice and Snow World is closed, but Volga Manor’s Russian-style castles and churches feel like Europe. ⏰ At 3 PM, light filters through the birch forest, adding a natural filter to photos. The exterior of Saint Sophia Cathedral is free to see. Entry costs 15 yuan, but photos from outside are better. ⚠️ Don’t be tempted by Russian goods shops on Central Street—they’re overpriced. 🍜 Madie’er popsicles cost 5 yuan each. Lao Chujia’s sweet and sour pork is 40 yuan per serving. 🚄 There’s a direct shuttle from Harbin station to Volga Manor for 20 yuan. 7 Yueyang | Hunan Yueyang Tower tickets cost 70 yuan, but standing on the tower overlooking Dongting Lake brings to mind the phrase “worry before all others.” ⏰ Go at dusk when the sunset turns the lake golden and the crowds are thin. Take a boat to Junshan Island for 20 yuan round trip. The island’s bamboo varieties are dazzling. ⚠️ Don’t trust roadside touts offering “cheaper tickets.” Buy from official counters. 🍜 Fish noodles by Dongting Lake cost 10 yuan a bowl. The broth is incredibly fresh. 🚄 A taxi from Yueyang East station to Yueyang Tower takes 15 minutes. Stay near the train station for about 110 yuan per night. 8 Jinhua | Zhejiang Hengdian World Studios is a paradise for fans. Qinwang Palace and Riverside Scene at Qingming Festival each cost just over 100 yuan, but you can spend a whole day exploring. ⏰ Avoid weekends and holidays to skip lines for photos. Shuanglong Scenic Area’s underground caves are cool in summer, like air conditioning. 🍜 Jinhua ham and crispy pastries are recommended. Try the “Xuefang Jiang” brand, which is cheaper in supermarkets. 🚄 There’s a bus from Jinhua station to Hengdian for 30 yuan. Stay in Hengdian town; guesthouses start at 120 yuan. Top picks: Ningde for mudflats, Nujiang for exploration, Yueyang for lake views. These three places have fewer crowds, low costs, and great experiences—perfect for summer travel. What other small-budget cities do you recommend? Share in the comments.

In September, plane tickets are 300 yuan, and high-speed rail takes 2 hours directly. They offer both urban charm and wild landscapes. Stop crowding into popular cities; these small cities are the hidden gems from July to September—low prices, fewer tourists, and a richer experience. 01 Panjin | Liaoning ⏰ At 4:00 PM, the Red Beach has just been sun-kissed into a warm orange, and the color of the Suaeda salsa truly pops after the tide recedes. 📍 Enter through the main gate of the scenic area, take the electric shuttle directly to the "Delta" station, get off, and walk back 500 meters. There will be fewer people and good photo spots. 🍜 Find a "Liu Family Roast Chicken" in the city. It's 50 yuan for one, still steaming when torn open. Paired with a bowl of plain congee, it's a local's dinner. ⚠️ Don't buy crabs at the scenic area entrance; they are expensive and skinny. Go to the Zuanjing Market to pick your own; 20 yuan per jin for live crabs that steam up full of roe. 02 Chuxiong | Yunnan Which to choose: Wumao Earth Forest or Yuanmou Earth Forest? 📍 Wumao Earth Forest is larger, and a 2-hour hike offers varied scenery. At 3:00 PM, the sunlight hits diagonally, making the earth pillars look like red-hot pottery. Yuanmou Earth Forest is closer, and tickets are 20 yuan cheaper, but it closes at 5:00 PM, so you'll need to rush for photos. If your stamina is average, Wumao is enough. ⏰ Leave before 6:00 PM and take a taxi to Yiren Ancient Town. The night view is free, and roasted milk fan from street vendors is 3 yuan per skewer, with brown sugar flavor wrapped in milky aroma. ⚠️ Don't go to those "Yi ethnic song and dance banquets" in the ancient town; they cost 80 yuan per person and are tourist traps. 03 Zhuzhou | Hunan The Mausoleum of Emperor Yan is hidden in a mountain valley. Upon entering, you first smell a mix of camphor and moss. The stone slabs in front of the main hall are polished smooth from footsteps, revealing 600-year-old chisel marks. 🍜 An old lady sells mugwort cakes at the entrance, 2 yuan each, freshly fried, sizzling in the pan. ⏰ Go early. Before 9:00 AM, there are fewer people in the mausoleum area. Enter through the Meridian Gate and exit through the Sacrifice Hall; you can stroll around in half an hour. ⚠️ Don't take the scenic area's electric shuttle; the distance is very short, and you can see everything by walking. On your way back to the city, make a detour to "Hejiatu." The night market's spicy snails are 10 yuan a plate, so spicy your tongue will tingle. 04 Bayingol | Xinjiang Q: Is Bayanbulak's Nine Bends and Eighteen Turns worth photographing? A: Yes, but it depends on the weather. ⏰ Arrive at the visitor center before 6:00 PM, take the shuttle bus up, and choose the fifth observation deck. In early September, the sunset is right in the middle of the river bend. ⚠️ There are so many mosquitoes they can cover your face; bring long sleeves and mosquito repellent. Q: How to explore the Taklamakan Desert for free? A: Find a desert highway, like the section from Qiemo to Minfeng. Just park by the roadside, walk barefoot on the sand. The 50-degree sand is scorching hot but makes for amazing photos. Q: When do poplars turn yellow? A: They start turning yellow in early October. In July, they are all green, but green poplars against a blue sky are also beautiful, and tickets are half price. 05 Foshan | Guangdong 📍 Enter Qinghui Garden through the East Gate and exit through the West Gate; you'll be right on Huagai Road Pedestrian Street. 🍜 Ximei Niuzai is hidden in an alley, 12 yuan a bowl, and the radish is more flavorful than the meat. ⏰ It's cool to stroll in the garden in the morning. Before 11:00 AM, you can photograph the rockery's reflection without backlight interference. 📍 Go to Xiqiao Mountain in the afternoon. Take the cable car up to Baofeng Temple, then walk down the stairs to Tianhu Lake. The lake water is emerald green. Halfway down, there's a large banyan tree, and under it, mountain tofu pudding is sold for 5 yuan. ⚠️ Don't eat at the foot of Xiqiao Mountain; it's expensive and bad. Go back to Chancheng District for "Huiji Tangshui"; almond paste is 4 yuan a bowl. 06 Huangnan | Qinghai Kanbula Scenic Area is divided into water and land routes. If you're with family, choose the water route; take a cruise through the Yellow River Canyon, which saves your legs and is cool. ⏰ On a July evening, the water of Lijiaxia Reservoir is sun-baked into a dark blue, and the mountains are reddish, like an oil painting. 🍜 There's a Tibetan teahouse in the village outside the scenic area. Butter tea is 5 yuan a bowl, served with tsampa, which can keep hunger at bay for 3 hours. If you come alone, rent a bicycle and ride to Nanzonggou. There's a nunnery in the gully, and the prayer beads sold at the entrance are 10 yuan for three strings, ten times cheaper than in the scenic area. 07 Jingdezhen | Jiangxi ⏰ At 10:00 AM, Taoxichuan Cultural and Creative Park has just opened, and the air conditioning is strong in the red brick factories. 📍 First, go to "Taogongguan" to do pottery. It's 80 yuan an hour, and a master craftsman will teach you how to throw clay by hand. The feeling of getting your hands covered in mud is very stress-relieving. 🍜 At noon, turn to "Fanshi Niugufen." It's 20 yuan a bowl, the meat on the bones is stewed until it falls off, and the spiciness is satisfying. ⚠️ In the afternoon, go to the Ancient Kiln Folk Customs Exhibition Area. Don't buy the package ticket; just the entrance ticket is enough. You can see master craftsmen painting blue and white porcelain on site, but don't buy those ceramics; they are three times more expensive than outside. In the evening, leave the scenic area and go to "Letian Taoshe" night market; you can find a small tea cup for 5 yuan. 08 Qianxinan | Guizhou 📍 For the "seam" section of Maling River Canyon, walk the east bank in the morning and the west bank in the afternoon; the light is completely different. ⏰ Arrive before 9:00 AM. The fog in the canyon hasn't dispersed yet, and the sound of waterfalls fills your ears first, with cool water droplets splashing on your face. 🍜 There's a "Buyi Sour Fish Soup" restaurant at the scenic area exit. It's 48 yuan for one fish, and you can eat two bowls of rice soaked in the sour soup. 📍 Go to Wanfenglin in the afternoon. Rent an electric scooter and ride into the fields. There's a Bagua Field in the middle of Nahui Village, where the rice paddies glow green. ⚠️ Don't take the sightseeing car; only by riding yourself can you turn into the small paths. Find a spot under a large banyan tree and eat roasted corn, 2 yuan per cob. These 8 places: see the sea in July, play in the sand in August, chase the sunset in September. The total budget might be less than the cost of a single plane ticket to a popular city. Which one do you want to visit this summer? Shout it out in the comments, and I'll help you dig up more detailed ways to play.

Where to go this summer? Avoid the crowded popular cities. Find a place with low costs, fewer people, and wild scenery—that’s the right way to enjoy summer. These 8 hidden gems are reachable within 2 hours by high-speed train or 3 hours by plane. They span from plains to grasslands to snowy mountains, so there’s one for everyone. Plus, the cost is unbelievably low—you can have fun for 3 days with just 300 per person. 01 Zhumadian | Henan Want to hike but hate crowds? Chaya Mountain in Zhumadian is a hidden treasure. ⏰ Arrive at 8 AM when the park opens. The air smells of pine and earth. The rocks are oddly shaped, like bonsai piles. The climb isn’t tiring—you can reach the top in 2 hours. The wind at the summit feels refreshing. After descending, head to Laoleshan for more peace and quiet. 🍜 At the farmhouse at the foot of the mountain, a pot chicken dish costs only 40 yuan. The chicken is tender, and dipping the flatbread in the broth is so tasty I ate two bowls of rice. ⚠️ Don’t buy water at the park entrance—it’s twice as expensive. Bring an empty bottle; there’s drinking water everywhere. For lodging, budget hotels near Zhumadian train station cost just over 100 yuan per night. Taxi rides to both mountains are under 30 yuan. Spend the money you save on food—it’s worth it. 02 Handan | Hebei Handan’s Guangfu Ancient City and Nuwa Palace offer water and mountain views, but you have to choose wisely. If you’re with elders or kids, go straight to Guangfu Ancient City. 📍 Enter from the south gate of the city wall. A full walk takes about 40 minutes. Below is a moat with ducks that kids can watch for a long time. On the old street inside, 🍜 a bowl of pulled noodles costs 8 yuan. The noodles are chewy, and the sauce is savory. ⚠️ The northern section of the city wall is shaded by trees after 4 PM, so photos don’t look good. It’s better to visit in the morning. If you like steep climbs and history, visit Nuwa Palace. ⏰ Go in the morning when it’s less crowded and the stairs are shaded. The mountain path is narrow but the scenery is stunning. The temple on the cliff looks like it’s growing out of the rocks. 🚄 There’s a direct bus from Handan station for 5 yuan. Don’t take a taxi—you can save enough for a bowl of cold noodles. 03 Ningbo | Zhejiang Tianyi Pavilion & Moon Lake, Xikou Tengtou, and Qiantong Ancient Town can be split into 2 to 3 days. Don’t try to do them all in one day. 📍 Tianyi Pavilion is right by Moon Lake in the city. Visit at 3 PM when sunlight streams through the library windows, warming the courtyard. 📖 It has a large collection of books but few visitors. You can even sit on the stone bench and daydream. 🍜 At Moon Lake, try “Gangyagou” soup dumplings for 18 yuan. The sesame filling melts in your mouth—sweet but not greasy. On day two, start at Xikou Tengtou. ⏰ In the morning, explore Tengtou Village, which has old stoves and farming tools. Kids can touch plows and rakes, which is quite novel. Then take a bus from Xikou town to Qiantong Ancient Town. 🚄 From Ningbo station, take a bus to Ninghai station, then transfer to a local bus. The total cost is just over 20 yuan. The stone roads in the ancient town are polished shiny, and locals still wash vegetables by the river, giving a strong sense of daily life. ⚠️ Don’t buy souvenirs inside the ancient town—they’re twice as expensive as outside. 04 Chenzhou | Hunan If you can only pick one place to escape the heat, I recommend Chenzhou. Gaoyiling Danxia, Dongjiang Lake, and Mangshan Wuzhifeng each have completely different vibes. To save energy, combine Gaoyiling and Dongjiang Lake in one day. ⏰ Get up at 5 AM to see the mist over Dongjiang Lake. Fishermen casting nets make a classic scene. The water surface is white and misty, like a fairyland. After the mist clears, have a bowl of fish noodles for 15 yuan. The fish is tender, and the broth is fresh and spicy. Then take a taxi to Gaoyiling. 📍 Enter from the south gate and climb for half an hour to the top. The red Danxia rock formations contrast with the green lake. Photos at sunset don’t need filters. ⚠️ Save Mangshan Wuzhifeng for a separate day. Take the cable car up. The mountain-top boardwalk is flat and easy for elders and kids. 🍜 Instant noodles are sold at the top, or bring your own. Avoid weekends—lines get unbearable. 05 Huangshan | Anhui Hiking Huangshan in summer isn’t cheap, but if you stick to the classic route, you can keep your budget down. Don’t rush to the West Sea Grand Canyon. Start with the front mountain. 📍 Take the cable car from Ciguang Pavilion, see the welcoming pine at Yupinglou, then hike to Bright Summit. ⏰ After 2 PM, the front mountain is less crowded. You’ll be alone on the stone steps, with cool wind blowing through the pines. If you’re worried about tiring yourself, go to Hongcun instead. 🚄 Take a bus from Huangshan North station to Hongcun for 20 yuan. The village alleys are narrow, but every turn brings a surprise. 🍜 You must try the stinky tofu, freshly pan-fried by an elderly lady on the street. It’s crispy outside and soft inside. Dip it in chili sauce. It costs 8 yuan per serving. ⚠️ Choose either Xidi or Hongcun to visit—they’re very similar. Doing both will wear you out. 06 Bayingolin | Xinjiang Bayingolin in Xinjiang has lush green grasslands in summer and a hot desert that’s still fun to explore. 📍 Bayinbuluke Grassland’s winding sunset is iconic. ⏰ Arrive before 6 PM, take the shuttle to the viewing platform, and wait for the sun to set. The sky turns orange, the water looks like a mirror, and the nine suns seem stacked. ⚠️ It gets cold at night. Bring a windbreaker for the big temperature difference. If you have energy the next day, visit the edge of the Taklamakan Desert. 🚄 It’s a 5-hour bus ride from Bayinbuluke to Korla, but the scenery is worth it. Camel rides cost 80 yuan per trip, and sandboarding is free. 🍜 Korla’s baked baozi are 3 yuan each, filled with lamb. The crust is flaky and crumbly. Save Tarim Poplar Forest Park for autumn. The leaves aren’t yellow in summer, so don’t waste your time. 07 Wuzhong | Ningxia Wuzhong has only one attraction—the Qinglongxia Yellow River Grand Canyon—but it’s worth a special trip. 📍 There’s a shuttle at the park entrance for 10 yuan to the canyon entrance. The Yellow River splits here, and the cliffs on both sides look like they were carved by knives. Taking a boat inside, the wind makes you squint. ⏰ Morning visits are best for good light and clear green water. 🍜 Nearby is “Wuzhong morning tea,” where a bowl of eight-treasure tea and some lamb offal costs 20 yuan per person and fills you up. ⚠️ There’s no shade in the canyon. From June to mid-August, the midday sun can burn your skin. Bring an umbrella and water. 🚄 Take the high-speed train from Yinchuan to Wuzhong in half an hour. Tickets cost 20 yuan, and you can explore the city too. 08 Baishan | Jilin Want to see Tianchi at Changbai Mountain this summer? Avoid the crowded north slope and go to the west slope instead. 📍 The west slope requires climbing over 1,000 steps but has fewer people. You can see alpine rhododendrons along the way. ⏰ Leave Baishan city at 7 AM, take a bus to the west slope, then transfer to a shuttle. The total cost is just over 100 yuan. The summit offers a wide view and a better angle of Tianchi than the north slope. ⚠️ It’s windy and only about 10°C at the top. Without a jacket, you’ll freeze. If you don’t want to hike, walk the boardwalk in the nearby primeval forest. 🍜 Baishan’s Korean cold noodles cost 15 yuan a bowl. The broth is icy, sour, and spicy—perfect for summer. 🚄 Take the high-speed train from Changchun to Baishan in 2 hours. Tickets are under 100 yuan. Spend the money you save on cold noodles and bibimbap. Among these 8 places, I most recommend Chenzhou and Huangshan—one is perfect for a family summer escape, the other for mountain forest oxygen. If you have your own hidden gems, feel free to share them in the comments.

Summer trips don’t have to be a battle with the sun. Some brave the 104°F heat, while others hide in natural air-conditioned spots at 68°F. Within a two-hour high-speed train or three-hour flight radius, there are several small towns so cool you won’t want to turn on the AC—some require jackets by the river, some share shade with giant pandas, and others live summer like spring. This guide is honest and straightforward. 01 Nujiang | Yunnan Standing by the Nujiang River in Bingzhongluo at 3 PM, the sound of rushing water clears the buzzing in my head. You’ll need a light fleece in the morning and evening. After sunset, it gets so cold you’ll wonder if it’s really July. ⏰ Arrive at Bingzhongluo viewing platform before 9 AM. When the morning mist lingers, mountain shadows reflect on the emerald river like a painting cut out. 📍 To reach Nanjilu, you must drive a winding mountain road. Navigation takes you to the village entrance, where you switch to a local off-road vehicle—the road is too narrow for two cars to pass. Stay seated and don’t use your phone. 🍜 Halfway there is a stall called “A Luo Snacks.” Their cured meat fried rice costs 20 yuan per serving, spicy and fragrant. Pair it with a hot bowl of butter tea to power through the afternoon. ⚠️ If you have kids, watch out for slippery stones by the river. Don’t let them get too close—the fast current is nerve-wracking. 02 Qingdao | Shandong Qingdao is the best at “cheating” summer heat—the sea breeze cuts the perceived temperature by 30%. But if you visit the pier during the day, the sun will scorch your scalp, and it’s packed with tour groups waving flags. ⏰ Arrive at the pier around 5:30 PM. The light turns warm orange, the tide recedes so you can collect small shells, and there are more sketch artists on the rocks than tourists. 📍 For Laoshan, I recommend the Taiqing Palace route. Avoid Jufeng peak—climbing it with kids is risky. Taiqing Palace has gentle steps, dense shade, places to rest every few steps, and you can watch Taoist priests sweeping the grounds. 🚄 A taxi from downtown to the Laoshan visitor center costs about 60 yuan. Don’t trust roadside touts. 🍜 Near the Olympic Sailing Center is “Chuan Ge” dumplings. The squid filling bursts with juice. A 58-yuan plate is enough for three people. ⚠️ Taiqing Palace is closed on Mondays. Don’t make a wasted trip. 03 Chengdu | Sichuan Chengdu’s summer is sticky, but Qingcheng Mountain’s bamboo forest cools the temperature by 10 degrees. I took a 20-minute high-speed train from Chengdu to Qingchengshan station, then a 10-minute taxi to the back mountain. 📍 The back mountain has half the visitors of the front. Streams flow down stone steps, and stepping in feels refreshingly cold. ⏰ The best time to hike is 8 AM. Stop at “Youyicun” for a bowl of cold noodles for 10 yuan. The chili oil is as flavorful as any city restaurant. 🍜 At the panda base, arrive before 10 AM. The pandas are still munching bamboo—after noon, they all nap. ⚠️ Don’t buy plush pandas at the base entrance—they cost twice as much as downtown. 📍 Anren Ancient Town is best visited at dusk. After the crowds leave, the lights shine on the cobblestones. A 5-yuan cup of tea in an old teahouse lets you sit for two hours without being rushed. If you bring parents, choose Qingcheng front mountain for fewer steps. For kids, the panda base is great, but book tickets in advance via the official account due to strict limits. 04 Jiayuguan | Gansu Before visiting Jiayuguan, I thought it was just a pile of earth walls. When I arrived, I was stunned—the walls glow warm orange in the afternoon sun, shadows stretch long, and standing on the fortress, the northwest wind blows dry and cool, so dry you barely sweat. 📍 The Jiayuguan fortress area is small. Enter from the east gate and a full tour takes about two hours. ⏰ Arrive around 4 PM for perfect slanting light. No filter needed for portraits. 🍜 Outside the scenic area is “Qilian Renjia” restaurant. Their hand-pulled lamb costs 68 yuan per jin, served with garlic and onions. So flavorful you forget you’re in a desert city. ⚠️ If you have kids, don’t let them run on the fortress walls. The wind is strong and the steps are steep. 🚄 A taxi from downtown costs 15 yuan. Avoid unlicensed drivers at the gate. 05 Bayingolin | Xinjiang Bayanbulak Grassland in summer is a cure for heat-sensitive travelers. At 2,500 meters elevation, daytime temperatures hover just above 68°F, and you’ll need a windbreaker at night. 📍 Enter the park around 6 PM, take the shuttle to the Nine Bends and Eighteen Turns, and wait for sunset. ⏰ After 9 PM, the sun dips, turning the bends golden red. Swans glide across the water—kids nearby suddenly go quiet, all eyes fixed. 🍜 Mongolian yurts on the grassland serve yogurt for 10 yuan a bowl. It’s sour enough to make you frown but impossible to stop eating. ⚠️ Don’t bring kids to the Taklamakan Desert. The sand burns feet and dehydration sets in after a few steps. The Tarim Poplar Forest Park is worth an early visit. In August, the poplars are bright green, unlike autumn, but there are many bugs, so bring insect repellent. 06 Shaoyang | Hunan Langshan is the most “annoying” Danxia landform I’ve seen—stunning enough for a magazine cover, yet pitifully few visitors. 📍 Take a bus from Shaoyang city to Langshan town, about two hours. ⏰ Climb Camel Peak at 7 AM. The red rocks glow fiercely under the sun. The 40-minute climb isn’t tiring even for kids. 🍜 At the foot of the mountain is “Langshan Local Cuisine.” Their blood duck costs 68 yuan per serving, spicy enough to make you slurp rice nonstop. ⚠️ Tianyi Alley is very narrow. Larger people must turn sideways to pass, but kids love it. 🚄 If driving, set navigation to “Langshan North Gate.” Parking is free. 07 Chifeng | Inner Mongolia Hashhatu Stone Forest sounds like a pile of rocks, but it’s actually giant granite pillars shaped by wind erosion, translucent and cool to the touch. 📍 It’s a two-hour drive from Chifeng city with good road conditions. ⏰ Arrive before 10 AM. Light filters through the stones, casting shadows perfect for playing chess. 🍜 At the entrance, a Mongolian yurt serves hand-pulled lamb for 80 yuan per jin, with fried rice and milk tea. ⚠️ There’s no shade in the stone forest. Apply sunscreen generously. Hold kids’ hands tightly—some stone edges are sharp. 08 Shennongjia | Hubei Shennongjia blocks summer heat with dense primeval forest shade. 📍 Enter from Muyutown and take the Shennongding route. At 3,100 meters elevation, you’ll regret not bringing a jacket. ⏰ Morning hikes to Jinhouling are best. The waterfall roars, and the mist feels like a humidifier on your face. 🍜 The “Wildman Restaurant” in town serves cured pork rib hotpot for 138 yuan per serving, enough to fill four people. ⚠️ Avoid Dajiuhu—it’s a four-hour round trip and the meadows bleach in July. If you bring elders, stick to Shennongtan for fewer steps and fresh air. For these eight spots, I just want to say: escaping the heat doesn’t mean avoiding people. Coolness and tranquility can go hand in hand. Which pitfall did you avoid or treasure did you find this year? Share in the comments.

Worried about crowds and high prices when traveling in July and August? Don’t just focus on popular cities. These 8 destinations are reachable by high-speed train in 2 to 6–7 hours, and each offers a wilder summer experience. Some are cool enough to skip the air conditioning, some ancient towns are so quiet you can hear the wind, and some night markets let you eat from start to finish for under 50 yuan. I’ve uncovered these underrated summer gems for you. 1️⃣ Nanchong | Sichuan ⏰ After 6 PM, Langzhong ancient town truly comes alive. During the day, tour groups crowd the stone-paved streets, but after 5 PM, the crowds disperse and shops start hanging red lanterns. That day, I turned into Xuedao Street from the west gate. The sizzle of the frying oil and the sour aroma of Baoning vinegar mixed with the warm breeze hit me. 🍜 I personally recommend the unmarked beef noodle shop diagonally opposite the famous Zhang Fei beef restaurant. The thick noodles coated in red chili oil deliver a mouthful of numbing Sichuan peppercorns that tingle from tongue to ear. 📍 Be sure to walk along Huaguanglou pier to the riverbank. The Jialing River breeze is strong in summer. Locals bring small stools to cool off on the stone steps while the river water laps below. ⚠️ Don’t buy vinegar at the scenic entrance. Walk two streets in, and the same handmade vinegar is almost half the price. 🚄 It takes about 40 minutes by bus from Nanchong North Station to the ancient town. A taxi costs around 35 yuan. 2️⃣ Guyuan | Ningxia If you have to choose between summer cooling and seeing grottoes, I pick Guyuan. The Xumishan grottoes are hidden in the loess cliffs, so quiet you can hear your own breath. I arrived at 10 AM, and on the entire plank road, it was just me and two sketching students. ⏰ The best time is right after opening at 8:30 AM. Sunlight slants into Cave 5, highlighting the folds in the Buddha’s robes with clear layers. Every photo you take has texture. ⚠️ Bring your own water and snacks. There’s only one supply point at the entrance, and you’ll regret it if you get thirsty halfway up the mountain. Also, some caves close for maintenance on Monday mornings, so avoid that time. 📍 It’s about 40 minutes by shared car from Guyuan city center. Round trip costs 50 yuan per person, half the price of a private car. 🍜 After descending, try a bowl of raw boiled noodles in the city. The lamb broth is clear, and the noodles are like wide ribbons, much better than the cold noodles near the scenic entrance. 3️⃣ Guangzhou | Guangdong Many people avoid Guangzhou in summer because of the heat, but I say: wake up two hours earlier, and the whole city is yours. ⏰ At 7 AM, visit Chen Clan Ancestral Hall. The wooden carved screens glow in the morning light, the gray clay lions on the eaves stand out against the blue sky, and the whole hall is so quiet it feels like another dimension. After 9 AM, tour groups flood in, and the experience drops. 📍 At the hottest time around noon, I hide inside the tram under Canton Tower. A round trip costs 2 yuan, with air conditioning and river views. At 4 PM, hike Baiyun Mountain. The shaded path from the south gate to Nengren Temple is the coolest. Wait for sunset at the mountaintop plaza, watching the Zhujiang New Town skyline shift from orange to deep blue. ⚠️ Lines at Chimelong Water Park are crazy in summer. If you must go, buy a night ticket (after 5 PM) to avoid half the crowd. 🍜 Ten minutes’ walk from Chen Clan Hall is “Wu Caiji” wonton noodles, which suit the palate better than the popular shops on Shangxiajiu. 4️⃣ Jincheng | Shanxi Huangcheng Xiangfu is an underrated summer destination. I entered the scenic area at 3 PM. The sun made the bluestone ground hot, but stepping into Heshan Tower in the inner city, the cool breeze instantly gave me chills. 📍 Walk from Yushulou to Dianhantang. The brick, wood, and stone carvings along the central axis are fully exposed to sunlight, with clear light and shadow. Any corner is perfect for photos. ⚠️ Avoid the “free guides” who take you to shopping spots. Just wave them off. The real highlight is the “hidden soldier cave” on the city wall. It’s at least 5 degrees cooler inside than outside in summer, and walking the full circle offers a great view of the entire Xiangfu. 🍜 Afterward, eat a bowl of Jincheng oily meat mixed noodles at the snack street outside the scenic area. The meat slices are tender, and 12 yuan fills you up. 🚄 It’s about 25 minutes by taxi from Jincheng East Station. Shared cars save even more. 5️⃣ Mudanjiang | Heilongjiang Summer in Northeast China is perfect for cooling off. Jingpo Lake’s water level peaks in July. When the waterfall cascades from Diaoshuilou, the mist can drift dozens of meters away. I stood under the viewing pavilion, and my hair was soaked in 5 seconds. That misty coolness beats any air conditioner. ⏰ The best time is before 10 AM when sunlight through the mist creates small rainbows. 📍 From Mudanjiang city, there’s a tourist shuttle bus in peak season. It takes 2 hours one way and costs 50 yuan per person. ⚠️ Don’t order “Jingpo Lake fish” at the farmhouses near the scenic entrance. It’s expensive and not authentic. For fish, go to the “Old Fish Restaurant” on Dongyi Road in the city. If you’re short on time, the riverside park along Mudanjiang is worth a visit. Walk along the river at dusk, enjoy the cool breeze, and watch locals walking dogs and dancing—very relaxing. 6️⃣ Quanzhou | Fujian Summer in Quanzhou is best experienced at a “from dawn to dusk” pace without backtracking. ⏰ At 6:30 AM, visit Kaiyuan Temple. The twin towers stand out clearly in the morning light. Ancient banyan branches hang to the ground, and the air smells of sandalwood and freshly watered grass. Before 9 AM, the temple is quiet except for birdsong. 📍 From Kaiyuan Temple, walk along West Street to the bell tower, then turn onto Zhongshan Middle Road, lined with red brick arcades. Qingyuan Mountain is most comfortable after 4 PM. A half-hour climb leads to Laojun Rock, where the sunset lights the old deity’s face with a kind expression. ⚠️ If you only want to see the city wall at Chongwu Ancient Town, don’t buy a ticket. Enter through the back fishing village path instead to see the reefs and sea. 🍜 Next to the Quanzhou cliff carvings, have a cup of Tieguanyin tea in the nearby tea garden. It’s more than half the price of city tea houses. 7️⃣ Dandong | Liaoning Summer in Dandong means natural air conditioning by the Yalu River. At 5:30 PM, I walked onto the Yalu River Broken Bridge. The river breeze puffed my shirt, and a few steps let me see buildings and farmland across the river. 📍 At the end of the broken bridge, bullet holes remain on the iron frame. The sunset reflects half gold and half gray on the river. ⏰ The best time is dusk when the light is soft and the crowds are thin. ⚠️ The steps on Phoenix Mountain are slippery in summer. Families with kids shouldn’t climb too high on the Laoniubei section. The middle “Fairy Lake” path is enough. Kuandian River estuary mainly offers boat tours. Bring a jacket because it’s windy on the river. 🍜 Green River Village is better for self-driving. In summer, rapeseed fields and river views stretch together. Stay a night at a guesthouse. The owner will take you to watch the sunset by the river and serve freshly caught Yalu River carp. 8️⃣ Bayingolin | Xinjiang Summer is the most beautiful season in Bayinbuluke. The grasslands shine bright green, and the winding sunset reflects nine suns—if you stand in the right spot. ⏰ Arrive before 6:30 PM and take the shuttle directly to the “Nine Bends and Eighteen Turns” viewing platform. Secure your spot and wait for the sunset. ⚠️ Don’t waste too much time at the first stop, Swan Lake. Swans only appear in winter; in summer, there are just a few ducks. 📍 The Taklamakan Desert heat is like a pure oven. If you go, enter before 7 AM and leave before 11 AM. The Tarim Poplar Forest Park is best in autumn. In summer, it’s just green but has no crowds, perfect for road trip photos. 🍜 In Korla city, “Loulan pilaf” is worth a special trip. The lamb is tender and stewed, the rice grains separate perfectly, and a bowl of yogurt finishes the meal perfectly. 🚄 Shared cars from Korla to Bayinbuluke cost about 100 yuan per person, more flexible than the bus. Among these 8 places, Nanchong and Quanzhou are great for food, Guyuan and Dandong for escaping the heat, and Bayinbuluke requires some luck to catch the sunset. Which one will you pick this summer? Share in the comments, and I’ll help you plan the most cost-effective route.

During the season when attractions are packed and airfares double, some places are always underestimated. They don’t top the popular lists, but with genuine experiences and reasonable prices, they receive unanimous praise. From a 2-hour high-speed train radius to flying across half of China, from bustling city life to wild secret spots—these 8 places are the directions to head this summer. 01 Changzhou | Jiangsu Global Dinosaur City is Changzhou’s top family travel attraction, but there’s a trick to enjoying it. If you’re bringing kids, definitely buy a two-day unlimited pass: spend the first afternoon on thrilling rides, and the next morning visit the China Dinosaur Museum. ⚠️ The museum is closed on Mondays, so don’t go in vain. Want to avoid crowds? Rush to “Jurassic Adventure” before 10 a.m. on weekdays; the wait is under 20 minutes. The Spring and Autumn Yancheng Tourist Area is often overlooked but is more enjoyable than expected. Enter after 5 p.m. to watch a live water shadow show—it’s much better than standing in the sun waiting during the day. Tianmu Lake is better for a slow pace. ⏰ It’s recommended to choose the Nanshan Bamboo Sea side, take the ground cable car up, walk through the bamboo forest where bird calls replace noisy tourists. If you’re short on time and have to choose between Tianmu Lake and Dinosaur City, I vote for Dinosaur City—kids go wild, and adults won’t be bored. 02 Hefei | Anhui Sanhe Ancient Town is a pleasant surprise in Hefei. One afternoon is enough to explore the core area. 📍 Enter from East Street, pass through One Person Alley, then turn toward Yang Zhenning’s former residence—fewer people and better scenery. 🍜 There’s a 30-year-old “Sanhe Rice Dumplings” stall in town. Freshly made, the crispy shell wraps tofu filling, and you can hear a crunch when you bite. After 4:30 p.m., tourists gradually leave, and the ancient town’s stone paths turn warm orange under the sunset—perfect for sitting by the covered bridge and enjoying the breeze. ⚠️ Don’t spend 30 yuan on the sightseeing bus—the town is small and walkable. The summer evening ancient town is cool and quiet, like returning to your grandmother’s alley in childhood. 03 Xilin Gol League | Inner Mongolia Ulagai Grassland truly lives up to the name “Grassland at the Horizon.” 🚄 It’s recommended to fly to Xilinhot, then rent a car eastward—a three-hour drive straight to the grassland’s heart. The summer grassland has such a big temperature difference between morning and night it’s unbelievable. ⏰ Short sleeves at noon, but you must wear a windbreaker in the evening. Stay one night in a Mongolian yurt, get up at 3 a.m. to watch the Milky Way; the surroundings are so quiet you only hear the wind and the occasional snort of distant horses. 📍 The grass around Ulagai Reservoir is the greenest, looking like a matcha cake from aerial shots. If you just want to take photos on the grassland, remember to bring a red dress—when the wind blows, the scene is stunning. ⚠️ There are many areas without signal on the grassland, so download offline maps in advance. Also, don’t wear light-colored shoes on the grass; morning dew will make you regret it. 04 Linyi | Shandong The Underground Grand Canyon is Linyi’s summer savior. Entering the cave, the temperature drops from 35°C to 18°C instantly. Ride a small train through the karst cave; stalagmites and stalactites under colorful lights look like another world. 🍜 After exiting, don’t miss the Yimeng Mountain pancake stall at the entrance. Freshly made pancakes rolled with scallions and sauce, one bite fills your head with the aroma of wheat. The Firefly Water Cave requires waiting until it’s completely dark. Around 7:30 p.m., swarms of fireflies start glowing, as if the starry sky has come down before your eyes. ⏰ It’s recommended to stay inside for more than five minutes to let your eyes adjust to the dark and see the densest light spots. If you bring elderly family members, the Underground Grand Canyon has many steps, so you can take it slow; the Firefly Water Cave is flat throughout, suitable for the whole family. 05 Bayingolin | Xinjiang Bayingolin’s Bayinbuluke’s nine bends and eighteen turns is a must-see spot in Xinjiang during summer. ⏰ Arrive at the viewing platform by 7 p.m., wait for the sun to set at the grassland’s edge, and you’ll see nine sun reflections in the river bends. The Taklamakan Desert shows a completely different face. 📍 Depart from Korla, drive two hours along the desert highway flanked by endless yellow sand. It’s best to enter after 5 p.m.; barefoot on the sand, the warm grains flow between your toes. The Tarim Populus Euphratica Forest Park’s way to enjoy is by riding the park’s small train through the poplar forest. In summer, the poplars are green, offering a lively contrast to the golden autumn. ⚠️ Prepare plenty of water and sunscreen in the desert; when the wind blows, sand hitting your legs feels like being pelted by small stones. 06 Hezhou | Guangxi Gupo Mountain is a local secret summer retreat. 📍 It’s about a 50-minute taxi ride from Hezhou city. Once inside the mountain gate, the temperature drops quickly. Walk the Fairy Creek trail; the water is icy cold, and you can take off your shoes to wade in the shallow stream. Dongtanling is suitable for those who want to see the sunrise without too much effort. There’s a viewing platform at the summit accessible by car. At 5:30 a.m., mist rises from the valley, and the sun shines golden behind the fog. 🍜 After watching the sunrise and descending, don’t miss the old beef tripe sour soup stall in Huangtian Town at the foot of the mountain. Sour soup cooked beef offal with a bowl of plain porridge—refreshing and appetizing, all for under 10 yuan. If you only stay one day, visit Gupo Mountain in the morning and Dongtanling for sunset in the evening—the timing is just right. 07 Bazhong | Sichuan Guangwu Mountain is most famous in autumn, but summer is the real treasure. Enter the mountain and you’ll hear water everywhere. 📍 The recommended route is the Eighteen Moon Pool trail, with many waterfalls and pools strung together like emeralds. The water is a clear blue-green, almost unreal. ⏰ It’s best to stay overnight in Guangwu Mountain town and enter the mountain early the next day. Before 10 a.m., sunlight hasn’t fully reached the canyon; mist lingers, and light beams filter through the leaves. ⚠️ The mountain path has many stone steps, so wearing non-slip shoes is important. Some areas get slippery after rain. If you like hiking, the full Guangwu Mountain trail takes about 5 hours with several rest pavilions. Bring enough water; there are no shops inside. 08 Wuzhong | Ningxia Qingtongxia Yellow River Grand Canyon is the most hardcore scenery on this trip. Take a boat through the canyon; the river has carved neat patterns on the rock walls. ⏰ Depart at 4 p.m.; when the boat reaches the highest water level, sunlight reflects off the yellow-green river like scattered gold. 📍 The highlight is to go ashore and see the 108 Pagodas. This ancient Western Xia pagoda group is hidden at the canyon’s end, with very few visitors. Standing at the highest point overlooking the Yellow River’s bend, the wind passes by your ears, and you can hear the pagoda eaves’ wind chimes tinkling. 🍜 Back in the city, Wuzhong’s morning tea culture rivals Guangzhou’s. Recommended is “Delong Building,” where a bowl of eight-treasure tea pairs with beef noodle soup—the broth is clear, and the beef tender. ⚠️ The Qingtongxia scenic area has some stairs to walk up and down; if bringing elderly, consider just taking the boat tour without climbing the pagoda group. Conclusion Among these 8 places, Linyi and Wuzhong surprised me the most—one with an 18°C cave, the other with Yellow River wind chimes tinkling; both experiences exceeded expectations. How many have you been to? Or do you have your own secret summer spots? Feel free to share in the comments, and I’ll follow your lead next time.

Amid the vast grasslands of Bayinbuluke, one of the most enchanting sights isn't the sweeping prairie or the winding Kaidu River—it's the elegant whooper swans that return each year to these pristine wetlands. As one of China's most important breeding grounds for wild swans, Bayinbuluke has earned the beautiful nickname "Swan Lake of the Grasslands." Against a backdrop of snow-capped Tianshan peaks, the swans glide effortlessly across tranquil lakes and marshes, their white feathers mirrored in the crystal-clear water. Some swim gracefully in pairs, others spread their wings before taking flight, while young cygnets follow closely behind, bringing life and vitality to this untouched wilderness. The peaceful coexistence of wetlands, grasslands, rivers, and wildlife makes Bayinbuluke a paradise for nature lovers. Here, the calls of wild birds replace the noise of the city, and every sunrise brings another breathtaking scene of harmony between wildlife and the highland landscape. 📍 Location: Bayinbuluke Scenic Area, Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang, China 🦢 Highlight: One of China's most important habitats and breeding grounds for wild whooper swans 🌿 Feature: Swan-filled wetlands, alpine grasslands, tranquil lakes, snow-capped mountains, and rich birdlife 🍃 Atmosphere: Peaceful, pristine, and full of natural wonder 📸 Best for: Wildlife photography, birdwatching, nature lovers, and peaceful highland escapes ✨ Signature feeling: Watching graceful swans glide across mirror-like waters, where the silence of the grasslands is broken only by the gentle sound of wings over the wetlands. Some places are known for their scenery. Bayinbuluke is remembered for the graceful swans that call its wetlands home. 🦢💙✨

【Introduction】: Core Highlights: "Ili Grassland + Duku Highway + Southern Xinjiang Culture + Pamir Plateau" all in one. Route Direction: Urumqi (start) → Ili (Sayram Lake, Nalati) → Bayingolin (Bayingbulak) → Aksu/Kuche (Southern Xinjiang heartland) → Kashgar (major city in Southern Xinjiang) → Taxkorgan (Pamir Plateau) → Kashgar (end). Geographical Span: From the humid forest grasslands of Northern Xinjiang, crossing the Tianshan Ice Pass, directly entering the Gobi desert and high mountain snowfields of Southern Xinjiang, with the greatest contrast in landscapes and the strongest visual impact. 🛬【Itinerary】: D1: Flight - Urumqi - Hotel - Food D2: Urumqi - Touring Tianshan Mountains, Sayram Lake Moon Bay - Sayram Lake Town D3: Sayram Lake - Transport - Jinghe D4: Jinghe - Qiaolma Martyrs Cemetery - Nalati Sky Grassland - Nalati Town - Food D5: Nalati - Bayinbulak Grassland - Bayinbulak Town D6: Bayinbulak - Southern section of Duku Highway - Touring Big and Small Dragon Pools - Hestan Old Street - Kucha Alley - Kuqa D7: Kuqa - Flaming Spring - Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves - Aksu D8: Aksu - Kashgar Old City - Leisurely stroll in Han Bazaar - Rainbow Alley - Bag Alley D9: Kashgar - Baisha Lake - Karakul Lake - Mustagh Glacier Park - Taxkorgan D10: Taxkorgan - Wakhan Corridor - Panlong Ancient Road - Bandier Blue Lake - Kashgar D11: Kashgar - Departure 🧡【Tips】: For details, click the bottom left to consult guide Hou Binbin with one click

At 10:50 AM on January 16, the Tianshan Wulei Tunnel in Xinjiang was successfully completed, becoming the longest secondary highway tunnel in the region. The tunnel is located in the Horashan branch of the Tianshan Mountains, with a maximum elevation of 3,867.4 meters and a maximum burial depth of nearly 1,300 meters. It is a typical high-altitude, cold-climate highway tunnel. Facing extreme challenges such as a minimum temperature of minus 42 degrees Celsius, a long winter, and a short effective construction period, the builders overcame multiple difficulties including high ground stress, water inflow risks, and ventilation challenges to successfully complete the tunnel breakthrough. After the tunnel is opened, driving through Horashan will take less than 13 minutes, directly connecting Luntai County with the Bayinbuluke Scenic Area, ending the history of detours. At that time, the driving time from Korla City to the Bayinbuluke Scenic Area will be greatly reduced from more than 7 hours to 3 hours, saving tourists a lot of time. Currently, the tunnel is undergoing secondary lining support and subsequent auxiliary works, steadily progressing toward the goal of full opening. This highway will become an important transportation link for Bazhou to optimize its road network structure and promote tourism economic development. Start planning your trip now and look forward to a convenient journey through Bazhou once this highway opens!

🌌 Into Bayingolin | Mythical Landscapes in China's Largest Prefecture! Ultimate Guide to Grasslands/Desert/Swan Lake "In Bayingolin, grasslands mirror the sky, deserts write poetry on earth, and swan wings stir light across the Nine-Bend River!" 🌿 【Grassland Wonders】Visual Feast on Cloud Pastures ·Bayanbulak Grassland 1. Sunset Gold at Nine-Bend River: Catch the 20:30 sunset! Wear white on the viewing deck, watching the sun cast nine reflections on the Kaidu River bends🌅, with red-robed lamas playing eagle flutes in silhouette. 2. Hardcore Experience: Stay in a yurt overnight, photograph the Milky Way arching over snow-capped mountains at 3 AM, then savor wild berry milk rolls while dawn awakens Swan Lake. ·Künes Valley · Celestial Garden 1. July Fantasy: Rush to Arxan Hot Springs! Soak in mineral waters amid wildflower carpets, while marmots steal your picnic blueberries🍇. 2. Photo Hack: Drone-capture the "heart-shaped valley" in Banchin Grove’s spruce forest, or ride horses through misty fairy-tale realms. 🏜️ 【Desert Epic】Extreme Romance in the Sea of Death ·Taklamakan Desert Highway 1. Lonely Road Aesthetics: Drive G218 through sand seas! Pose in red dresses by "Must-Drive" signs, photograph poplar skeletons piercing blood-orange dusk🌵. 2. Hidden Gem: Visit Lop Village—centenarians grill fish with tamarisk, stuffing them with wild hemp leaves for primal aroma. ·Huludao Poplar Sanctuary 1. October Gold Explosion: Deep-water poplars in Yuli County! Canoe through "flaming waters," capture mirror images of poplars burning between blue waves and golden sand📸. 💧 【Lake Mirage】Turquoise Symphony of Western China ·Bosten Lake · Desert’s Eye 1. Photo Ops: ✅ Capture reed maze light-play at Lotus Lake, egrets gliding like ink brushstrokes. ✅ Freeze fishing nets at Ahongkou—golden splashes clash with sunset! 2. Taste Attack: Overnight in fishing villages devouring "Five-Black Fish" with chili sauce, mopping up broth with belt noodles🌶️. ·Swan Lake · Winged Ballet 1. April Spectacle: Witness 10,000 swans nesting! Telephoto their heart-shaped neck curves (drones banned to protect chicks)🦢. 2. Secret: Springs never freeze—watch swans dance in -30°C frost! 🪨 【Hidden Trails】Alien Worlds Through Time ·Lop Nor Yardang 1. Mars Photography: ✅ Pose in astronaut suits atop "castles" at Dragon City, shooting cracked salt crusts like alien battlegrounds. ✅ Collect wind-carved stones as props during pink-gold sunset at White Dragon Mounds✨. ·Altun Mountains · Wild Kingdom 1. Hardcore Access: Book permits for the reserve! Spot Tibetan wild asses racing, blue sheep on cliffs, or track snow leopards🐆 (May-Sept only). 2. Survival Tip: 4,000m altitude + no signal—guides & satellite phones mandatory. 🛖 【Cultural Immersion】Live as Nomads for a Day Mongolian Ovoo Rituals: Stack stones with herders, listen to "Jangar" epics echoing with horsehead fiddles. Lop Wedding: Weave tamarisk boats, dance "Lion Dance" in jujube blossom necklaces, sip herbal tea after fish feasts. Baluntai Yellow Temple: Spin prayer wheels under golden stupas, glimpse fading smiles on Qing-era thangkas. ❗️ Survival Guide | Wilderness Rules Transport: ✔️ Scattered sites! Hire off-road veterans (know animal routes + desert tracks). ✔️ Fuel up + weld spare tires/sat phones to your Taklamakan ride. Outfit Hacks: → Grasslands: White/bright dresses (Nine-Bend photo ops). → Desert: Neon scarves + boots (sunproof/heatproof). → Altun Mountains: Never remove windbreakers (four seasons daily!). Taboos: → Swan Lake: No drones/feeding (¥5,000 fine!). → Ovoo: Don’t step on stone piles; spin prayer wheels clockwise. → Lop Village: Never cut tamarisk/climb sacred poplars. Food Radar: 🌟 Sip Khordak milk tea (dried meat + millet keeps you full for 6hrs). 🌟 Gnaw tamarisk-grilled Lop lamb ribs (with Kunlun cumin—finger-licking good). "Bayingolin’s vastness holds nine suns in river bends, galaxies at desert highways’ end, and freedom so boundless even Tianshan’s peaks can’t contain it."

🌌 Into Bayingolin | A 5D4N Ode to Wilderness & Swan Lake! Grasslands/Desert/Starry Skies Full Guide "Where nine suns flow in the river bends, the Milky Way drapes over desert highways, and swan wings stir the breath of snow-capped mountains!" Best seasons: June-Sept (flower seas) | Oct (golden poplars) | Survival gear mandatory! 📅 Itinerary Highlights Day 1: Pastoral Symphony · Sunset Gold at Nine-Bend River Day 2: Desert Epic · Dancing with Dead Poplars & Galaxies Day 3: Lake Mirage · Bosten Lake's Seafood Feast Day 4: Sacred Peaks · Time-Limited Raid into Arjin Wild Kingdom Day 5: Cultural Finale · Ovoo Prayer Flags & Lop Nur Wedding Banquet 🚗 Daily Breakdown **Day 1: Love Letter to the Grasslands** 15:00 Arrive at Bayanbulak Town. Revive with Hurdak milk tea (dried meat+millet = ultimate hunger killer). 18:30 Charge to Nine-Bend Viewpoint! Wear white for sunset dipping into Kaidu River’s curves, photograph red-robed lamas playing eagle flutes🌅 (tripod essential!). 21:00 Sleep in yurt. Shoot Milky Way over snow peaks with wild berry cream rolls, await swan lake dawn at 3AM. **Day 2: Romance in the Sea of Death** 9:00 Drive G218 Desert Highway! Red dress photos at "Must-Drive" sign, capture dead poplars stabbing blood-orange skies🌵. 16:00 Raid Lop Nur Village: Wear jujube flower necklaces for lion dances, learn century-old willow-grilled fish (stuffed with apocynum leaves!). 22:00 Camp by Tarim River. Chew yak jerky by fire as star trails coil through ancient poplars🌌. **Day 3: Bosten Lake's Flavor Revolution** 10:00 Storm Lotus Lake! Shoot egrets in reed mazes, crouch on fishing boats for golden splash captures. 13:00 Devour Five-Black Fish Feast! Garlicky meat + Anjihai chili sauce, hand-pulled noodles soaking up lake essence🌶️. 17:00 Canoe through reed tunnels at Ahongkou, drone-mirror the jade waters & golden sands📸. · *Day 4: Arjin Mountains' Last Invitation** Full-day (May-Sept only!) hardcore Arjin Reserve expedition: ✅ Track Tibetan wild ass races, spot blue sheep on cliffs ✅ Wait for wild yaks drinking at Sand Spring, snow peak reflections like divine mirrors ✅ Guide-led snow leopard tracking, collect wind-carved stones as star photo props✨ Sleep at ranger station to wolf howls (⚠️4,000m altitude—bring oxygen!). · *Day 5: Sacred & Savory Finale** 9:00 Spin prayer wheels at Baluntai Yellow Temple, glimpse fading Qing-era thangka smiles amid incense chants. 12:00 Help herdsmen stack ovoo prayer flags, learn Jangar Epic verses with horsehead fiddle. 15:00 Detour to Yuli County: Gnaw willow-grilled Lop Nur lamb ribs with Kunlun cumin—lick fingers clean! 🍖 Wilderness Gourmet Checklist Hardcore Romance: Mongol "cannon" buns (wild onion-lamb juice explosions! Serve odd numbers), Iced noodles + charcoal lamb drenched in garlic-chili sauce. Lake Freshness: Reed-grilled fish (charred aroma + wild mushroom soup), Bosten crab roe tofu (autumn-only!). Survival Snacks: Apocynum tea noodles, camel milk curds dipped in jujube honey (sour-addictive). ✨ Hidden Gems Swan Lake Rime (-30℃ winter spectacle): Shoot swans dancing in frost feathers. Hulu Island Poplars (Oct only): Hanfu-clad canoe through "flaming" reflections. Gongnais Hot Springs: Boil eggs in snowmelt, chew yak jerky till temples ache♨️. ❗️ Blood-Tested Survival Rules Transport: ✔️ 4WD + satellite phone mandatory! Arjin permits require 30-day advance. ✔️ Desert highways: Full tank + spare tires—park immediately during sandstorms. Outfit Alchemy: → Grasslands: White/colorful dresses | Desert: Neon scarves + crocs (sun/heat proof) → Arjin: Waterproof shells + fleece (four seasons in a day!). Taboos: → No drones/feeding at Swan Lake (¥5,000 fine!) → Don’t step on ovoos, point at thangkas, or carve poplars. Wilderness Protocol: 🌟 Carry naan + jerky (lifesavers in dead zones) 🌟 Stay 100m from Arjin wildlife🐺. "Bayingolin’s vastness is the arc of blue sheep leaping snowlines, the primal smoke of Lop Nur grills, the freedom of standing on a desert highway yet seeing no end."

🌟 If you've never chased the golden sunset over the Nine Bends of Bayanbulak Grassland, or tasted the crispy, aromatic whole lamb roasted with red willow wood in Lop Nur, then Bayingolin in Xinjiang is your perfect destination! This "Backbone of the Western Regions" weaves together snow-capped mountains, ancient desert cities, and the fragrant steam of milk tea rising from Mongolian yurts, crafting a grand epic where Silk Road legends meet wilderness poetry. Unlock the dual soul of Bayingolin with this 48-hour in-depth guide—from starlit deserts to swan-filled lakes. 🏨 **Where to Stay: Stargazing on the Grassland · Desert Hideaways** ✨ **For Stargazers:** · *Bayanbulak Jupiter Capsule Camp**: 73° panoramic skylight for galaxy views, smart climate-controlled pods + bonfire parties, just a 5-minute walk to the Nine Bends viewpoint (from ¥980, includes astrophotography lessons). · *Bosten Lake Wooden Villa**: Wake up to reed marshes and snow-capped mountain reflections, lulled by waterbirds at night (¥650/night). 🏙️ **City Convenience:** · *Korla Pear Garden Hotel**: Smart riverside rooms with lavender sleep pillows, close to night markets (¥420/night). 🍜 **24-Hour Flavor Adventure** ⏰ **9:00 Nomadic Morning** · *Bayanbulak Blackhead Lamb Hand-Ripped Meat**: Tender rib stew dipped in wild leek sauce, infused with morning dew (try at Hejing County herder’s homestay). ⏰ **13:00 Heritage Feast** · *Lop Nur Roasted Whole Lamb**: Crackling skin drips fat onto naan, paired with Korla fragrant pear juice (Yuli County’s Lop Village). ⏰ **19:00 Lake Delicacy Extravaganza** · *Bosten Lake Five-Striped Fish Banquet**: Steamed fish drizzled with sizzling oil, naan soaked in rich broth (limited at Huxi Fish Restaurant). 🌙 **22:00 Midnight Snack Code** · *Yanqi Night Market Thin-Skinned Buns**: Translucent wrappers burst with molten lamb tail fat (Jiefang Road Snack Street). ⏰ **Timed Deep-Dive Itinerary** 🚩 **Day 1: Grassland Ballad · Starry Night Stage** · *8:00-12:00 Nine Bends Illusion** Horseback through Bayanbulak’s flower marshes, spot cygnet hatching (May-June), photograph demoiselle cranes. · *14:30-18:00 Kaidu River Rafting** Paddle through rapids, splash-proof gear optional—watch marmots peek from riverbanks. · *20:00-23:00 Galactic Night** Jupiter Camp’s skylight reveals the Big Dipper; snack on jerky to Kazakh dombra melodies. 🚩 **Day 2: Desert Code · Ancient Echoes** · *9:00-13:00 Crossing the Sea of Death** Camel trek to Loulan’s ruins in Taklamakan Desert, touch Buddhist stupa remnants, shoot wind-carved "Devil City" yardangs. · *15:00-18:00 Immortal Poplars** Dance in red dresses through Yuli’s Euphrates forest, silhouette "tree demons," visit Lop people’s dugout canoe workshops. · *19:30-22:00 Bosten Sunset Ritual** Climb Longju Island lookout, watch reeds blush gold, drone-capture water-sky fusion. 💡 **Pro Tips** 🚗 **Transport**: Korla Airport flies direct to 21 cities; rent off-roaders for desert routes (¥600/day). 🗝️ **Hidden Gems**: Track Tibetan antelope in **Arjin Mountains**; photograph Han Dynasty forts under **Milan Ancient City** stars. 🎁 **Souvenirs**: **Luntai apricot jam** for naan; **Lop Nor tea** to cool heat (Korla Jinquan Mall). When the last lamb-fat aroma lingers over the Kaidu River at dusk, when Taklamakan’s dunes swallow Loulan’s moonlight—you’ll understand: · *Bayingolin’s grandeur simmers nomadic passion into steaming hand-torn meat, carves millennia into poplar rings, and where the Milky Way’s bends meet desert ruins, births an eternal Western Regions epic.** Your wilderness tale awaits, penned by swan-song dawns and the smoke of roasting lamb.

Some people say that the food held at the 22nd Dongna Nadama Festival in Bayinbulak Town is all hard food, which is true. Into the food event scene, a variety of food and snacks have been put in place, showcase the exquisite cuisine at the food festival, not only to make people feel good, but also to direct the index finger. Xinjiang roast whole sheep, secret hand-caught meat, black pepper tortoise steak, pizza and mutton, and the material is actually the delicious and beautiful looking "double dragon play beads" made by eggplant, and so many foods are seen in one breath. Are you only able to swallow in the distance?

XinjiangDuku Road | The southern section of the Dukuku, the dream of the 360° snow-capped mountains out of the Bayinbulak, all the way to the south, the altitude climbs, the road trip becomes a dream surrounded by 360° snow-capped mountains. The most beautiful scenery in Xinjiang is on the road. The sheep's white body here is a black head, climbs up the alpine meadow and climbs to the clouds. : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : Doku Road is another road section that is strongly recommended not to doze: Bayinbulak - Tielibu Tunnel, all the way to the snow-capped mountains.

If the Bayinbulak Prairie is a national 5A-level tourist attraction, the Jiuqu 18 Bay is the most beautiful section of the Kaidu River. Have you imagined? Looking at the entire grassland with a helicopter, what a spectacular sight? Xinjiang Wing Tiger General Aviation Co., Ltd. is not a dream to let the low-altitude open to the blue sky. From this year, visitors can also experience different perspectives and experience the nine-curve and eighteen bends. Bayinbulak is a mountain basin surrounded by snow-capped mountains. It is about 2,500 meters above sea level and covers an area of 2,380,000 square kilometers. It is the second largest grassland in China after the Ordos grassland, in Bayingo, Xinjiang. Located in Hejing County, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Prefecture, it is located in the northwest of Hejing County and in the hinterland of the southern foothills of the Tianshan Mountains. It has a flat terrain and abundant water and grass. It is a typical meadow grassland and the most fertile summer pasture in the southern foothills of the Tianshan Mountains. It is also known as the dream grassland, the horse paradise, the hometown of the east, the hometown of the swan###

5,000 km of bicycles for two people in Xinjiang, Xinjiang, self-driving through Xinjiang eleven days, the whole journey is nearly 5,000 kilometers, driving an average of 10 hours a day, crossing the world's longest mobile desert highway, China's most beautiful highway, the only road, experienced Deserts, grasslands, snow-capped mountains, canyons, plateaus, poplar forests, cliffs, exotic customs... feel like centuries. In this world, you can meet a lot of people who accompany you on a journey, but it is very difficult to meet people who are very close to the camera and willing to accompany you to the world. Cherish every journey of tacit understanding [love]

The terrain of Bayinbulak belongs to a basin in the mountains, surrounded by snow-capped mountains that are not perennial. Plus the altitude is around 2,500, so you won't feel hot in Bayinbulak, even in the hot summer, where the temperature is usually between 10-20 and at night it will drop to a few degrees. Therefore, the official who plans to travel to Bayinbulak must bring enough clothes. Don't just check the city temperature, because sometimes the online temperature is the closest to Bayan Brook and the temperature of the county, there are several degrees of deviation between the county temperature and the mountain. This is what I want to tell everyone first. The winding mountain road and river channel of Bayinbulak. These two elements are the soul of Bayinbulak. Hanshan Highway, enter a section of the mountain road through Bayinbulak. Although our so-called devil track does not exist, it does not mean that this road does not exist, but there is no Baring Brocade, and there is no devil track. Therefore, even if you can't get the car on the "Devil's Track", as long as you come to Bayinbulak, the mountain roads here can be called "Devil's Track". Why the Bayinbulake road is so special, the snow mountain is indispensable. Viewed from the drone, the road of Bayinbulak going up the mountain, like a majestic dragon. And the corners are powerful, giving a great visual impact. In addition to the elevation, there is always snow in the area, so this mountain road is more unique. . Friends who have done the Raiders must know that the two most famous spots in Bayinbulak, except for Swan Lake, are the nine bends and eighteen bends. The nine bends and eighteen bends are the river landscape of Bayinbulak's most scenic spots. Although we did not enter the scenic spot this time, the river landscape seen along the way was equally amazing. As shown in the picture below, at the height of 500 meters overlooking the river channel of Bayinbulak, it is magnificent. Far away, there are snow-capped mountains and towering hills. Some of them are lush mountains. This color is like a painting. It is difficult to praise with words. At the same time, I sigh the wonders of nature, so that mortals can penetrate. The reason why we walk is to feel the smallness of human beings and use the power of nature to balance human power. Reading thousands of books, you can know the world, travel thousands of miles, you can pass the world. It is unbeaten to understand the feelings of all things. Finally, share the shooting tips. In the Bayinbulak drone can be free to fly, and the road can also be parked anywhere, as long as you parked on the side of the road, double flash. Then Bayinbulak is basically a big scene, so the drone basically needs to fly more than 300 meters to shoot, and the weather is cold, it is necessary to properly preheat the drone, or fly to the air. If you fall, you will be embarrassed. Finally, the wind of Bayinbulake is relatively large. Pay attention to the safety of the small aircraft while flying under strong winds. In this regard, you can look for the wetland near the Hetao, but pay attention to the wet land is very soft, stepping on it is easy to sag, and it will seep out of the water, so pay attention to safety, it is best to wear shoes that are not easy to wet. Model clothes, I suggest it is better to compare the larger red. Put a few portraits underneath, throwing bricks and jade for everyone to enjoy.

I remember @ once said: "The most beautiful picture in my heart is the Wanma Pentium on the vast grassland" the vast Bayinbulak grassland, located in the middle of the Tianshan Mountains, about 2,500 meters above sea level, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, " The opening of the nine-curve and eighteen bends passes by, and the "East to the Heroes", the Bashu, the Territory, and the Ministry of Mongolia, moved to this place. refers to the grassland, many people immediately sketched a scene of a minority warrior galloping on horseback. The horse on the grassland is called the "Turkey's Wings" and is tall and strong. Temperament and temperament. More than 500 horses are indulging in galloping, and the lonely shackles in the wilderness, the yurt under the twilight gather together into a beautiful picture. Enthusiasm, freedom, free and easy, ambition, feasible Wanli Road

The journey from Jixian to the Bayinbulak prairie was a long time. Since the speed was limited to three or forty miles, after ten hours of bumps, we finally reached the destination. However, the beauty of the Bayinbulak grassland makes us feel that these hardships on the journey are worthwhile. on the way, we passed the Xinjiang Bay Chahan Nurda, next to National Highway 218 in Baluntai Town, Jing County, is 3,680 meters above sea level. Because it is often a snow and ice world, people also call it Fengxue. Next to the Chahan Nurda sign, there is a satchel named Zhastai. The bag was first marked by people with stones. It gradually evolved into a symbol of sacrifice and prayer, happiness and peace. Therefore, there are few exceptions when passers-by pass through Zhazistai, or pray or take pictures. When the summer is coming, the Bayinbulake grassland is covered with greenery, the green fields are infinite, and the lakes are widely distributed. Cattle and sheep are everywhere, a thriving scene. The famous Swan Lake is located in the southeast of the grassland. There is a tourist resort in the area of Gongnaisilin. The area is lush, full of flowers, streams, rocks and moss, and the scenery is extremely beautiful.

Utu Ajele Village has a history of more than 1,300 years. The ancestors here have created a rich and splendid national culture, and the village still retains the complete Hessian Mongolian folklore. Utu Azheele Village is located in Bohu County, close to the mat Muhuer Village, surrounded by mountains and waters, good locals

Robman Village, connected to the Taklimakan Desert, China's largest desert. The entire desert is about 1000 kilometers long. In Uyghur, Tucker, Tag and Borg are up The "Da (g / grid, soft voice)" is the meaning of the mountain. "Lamagan", the accurate translation should be "great desert", and the extension has the meaning of "broad". Therefore, "Taklimakan" means "the big desert below the mountain." The locals mentioned the Taklimakan Desert and always said: "If you go in, you can't come out..." The Taklimakan Desert is mainly located in the center of the Tarim Basin in southern Xinjiang, a warm temperate arid desert. . What we are seeing now is just the tip of the edge. In the evening, everyone ate local roast lamb in the village. In the Luobu village you can eat the most authentic lamb of the plow, and do it yourself. Happiness, Xinjiang people eat to promote disc action, so be sure to eat clean to go.

Bayinbulak Mongolian means rich spring water. The grassland is flat and the water and grass are rich. It is a typical grass meadow grassland. After experiencing the journey, the vast and innocent green carpet that suddenly appeared in front of the eyes gave people a sense of sudden and cheerful feelings like a peach blossom. The exhaustion has also been wiped out. Prairie water supply is mainly composed of ice and snow dissolved water and rainfall, and groundwater recharge in some areas, thus forming a large number of swamp grasslands and lakes. The abundant resources have attracted many wild animals and formed the swan protection zone of China's largest wild swan population. Although the swan was not photographed this time.

From the Xinyuan County Jingyi Road, you will enter the 217 National Road again, and proceed to the Bayinbulak Prairie. From east to G218, you will go to Baluntai to go north to 216 National Road to Urumqi, and south to Korla to the south of Xinjiang. The road is smooth. The G217, which turns eastward and then turns southwest, walks through the heavy mountain makeup that is woven in nature! If the trip of the Duku Road is to let us feel the bleakness and coldness of the Tianshan Mountain in the gloom of autumn and winter, then today we are completely bathed in a spring full of vitality, blue sky and clear water, birds and flowers, and the car is walking through the forest. The tall, straight pines blocked the line of sight, and turned a mountain corner. The eyes suddenly opened up. On the gentle hillside, groups of cattle and sheep were dotted with pictures on green rice paper. Occasionally, they saw smoke. The small felt bag is very poetic.

Because the circumstance just entered Bayinbulak and passed the Swan Lake Reserve, it was also a stop on the roadside. These stops have now evolved into scenic spots on the roadside. In fact, the most beautiful scenery along the way is On the road, those pictures that are too small to be frozen are the most attractive souls of the Northwest.