With The Hutchinsons ...
[video v=04gP3daMK18]Videos about Xinjiang, China
The awesome People’s Park, Kashgar, XinJiang
With Walk For You ...
[video v=27MkKsFKaCo]The awesome beautiful natural landscapes of XinJiang – visitor guide
With Beijing Old Liu ...
[video v=oPMoGbcbtL8]Xinjiang Visitor Guide: Natural Landscapes & Practical Travel Tips
Xinjiang is one of China's most captivating and culturally diverse regions, offering travelers a mix of stunning landscapes, rich history, and a variety of ethnic cultures. From the vast deserts of the Taklamakan to the snow-capped Tianshan Mountains, Xinjiang has something for every type of traveler, whether you're an adventurer, a culture seeker, or a nature lover. This guide provides an in-depth look at Xinjiang's natural wonders and offers practical travel tips to ensure a smooth and unforgettable visit.
The Tianshan Mountains (Heavenly Mountains)
Overview: The Tianshan Mountains are a UNESCO World Heritage site with dramatic alpine landscapes, including towering peaks, lush valleys, and pristine glacial lakes. The region is excellent for hiking, sightseeing, and experiencing the local nomadic culture.
Key Highlights:
- Bogda Peak: A breathtaking snow-capped peak rising over 5,445 meters, ideal for experienced mountaineers.
- Tianchi (Heavenly Lake): A stunning alpine lake, perfect for day trips and boat tours, located about 110 km from Urumqi. It’s surrounded by spruce trees and offers picturesque hiking trails.
Travel Tip: It is best to visit Heavenly Lake during late spring or summer (May-August) when the weather is most favorable, and the trails are accessible. Always bring layers as temperatures can drop significantly in the mountains.
Taklamakan Desert
Overview: The Taklamakan Desert, one of the largest shifting-sand deserts in the world, is known for its extreme beauty and harshness. Visiting this desert is an adventure in itself, where you can explore the golden dunes and see rare desert plants and animals.
Key Highlights:
- Kumtag Desert: A dramatic expanse of sand dunes in the eastern part of the Taklamakan, easily accessible from Turpan.
- Yarkand Poplar Forest: A rare sight of poplar trees thriving in the desert. Visit in autumn for a golden spectacle as the leaves change color.
Travel Tip: Be prepared for extreme conditions in the desert. Pack plenty of water, sunscreen, and lightweight, breathable clothing. It’s best to go with a guided tour or a local expert as navigating the desert on your own can be dangerous.
Kanas Lake
Overview: Located in the Altai Mountains, Kanas Lake is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, dense pine forests, and breathtaking autumn landscapes. It's a popular destination for hikers and photographers looking to capture the stunning seasonal colors and wildlife.
Key Highlights:
- Kanas Nature Reserve: A pristine natural park home to wildlife such as snow leopards and elk. The area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Kanas Monster Legend: Local myths speak of a mysterious creature lurking in the lake, adding a bit of intrigue to your visit.
Travel Tip: The best time to visit Kanas is from June to September. In autumn (September), the scenery turns golden and is incredibly photogenic. Access is more difficult in winter due to heavy snowfall, but the area is still open for adventurous travelers.
Ili River Valley
Overview: The Ili River Valley is a picturesque region characterized by vast green pastures, rolling hills, and wildflower meadows. The valley contrasts beautifully with Xinjiang's deserts and rugged mountains, making it a favorite spot for nature lovers and photographers.
Key Highlights:
- Nalati Grassland: A scenic area with endless pastures and colorful wildflowers in summer. Ideal for horseback riding and experiencing the local Kazakh culture.
- Lavender Fields: Famous lavender fields bloom in June, turning the valley into a sea of purple and offering a unique contrast to the green hills and blue skies.
Travel Tip: Visit the Ili River Valley in late spring (April-May) or early summer (June) to see the lavender fields and wildflowers at their peak. Horseback tours are highly recommended to explore the vast grasslands.
Karakul Lake and Pamir Mountains
Overview: Located along the famous Karakoram Highway, Karakul Lake is one of the most beautiful high-altitude lakes in the world. Set against the backdrop of the snow-covered Muztagh Ata and Kongur mountains, it offers stunning reflections and an opportunity to witness the nomadic life of Kyrgyz herders.
Key Highlights:
- Muztagh Ata Mountain: Known as the “Father of Ice Mountains,” it’s popular with mountaineers. The lake reflects the snow-capped peak beautifully.
- Nomadic Culture: Visitors can stay in traditional yurts and experience the simple lifestyle of Kyrgyz and Tajik herders.
Travel Tip: The altitude at Karakul Lake is over 3,600 meters, so be prepared for high-altitude conditions and take time to acclimate. The best time to visit is from May to October, as the winters are harsh.
Flaming Mountains and Turpan Basin
Overview: The Flaming Mountains, located in the Turpan Basin, are famous for their red, flame-like appearance under the hot desert sun. This region is not only rich in unique landscapes but also home to significant historical sites, including ancient cities and Buddhist caves.
Key Highlights:
- Gaochang Ruins: An ancient city that was once a major hub on the Silk Road. The ruins are a fascinating blend of history and desert scenery.
- Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves: A series of Buddhist cave paintings dating back to the 5th century. A must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Travel Tip: Turpan can get extremely hot in summer (up to 50°C), so plan to visit in the early morning or late afternoon. Bring plenty of water and sun protection.
Practical Travel Information for Xinjiang
When to Visit
The best time to visit Xinjiang depends on the specific regions you plan to explore. In general, late spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer the most pleasant weather for travel. The summer can be hot, especially in desert areas, but it is also the best time for visiting the mountains and high-altitude lakes.
Transportation
By Air: Xinjiang has several international airports, including Urumqi Diwopu International Airport (the main gateway), Kashgar Airport, and Kanas Airport. Domestic flights connect Urumqi with most major Chinese cities.
By Train: The railway network connects Urumqi with other Chinese cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi’an. The journey is long but scenic, especially on the high-speed trains.
Local Travel: To explore Xinjiang’s remote areas, it is highly recommended to hire a local guide or driver. Public transportation can be limited in the more rural regions, and self-driving is an option for those familiar with local road conditions.
Accommodation
Xinjiang offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels in major cities like Urumqi and Kashgar to guesthouses and homestays in rural areas. Staying in a yurt with local nomads in regions like the Ili Valley or Karakul Lake is a unique experience.
Cultural Sensitivity
Xinjiang is home to a diverse mix of ethnic groups, including Uighur, Kazakh, Kyrgyz, and Tajik peoples. Respect for local customs, particularly around religion, is essential. Many locals are Muslim, so it is important to be mindful of dress codes, especially in rural areas and when visiting mosques. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or inside religious sites.
Language
Mandarin Chinese is the official language, but many locals, especially Uighurs and Kazakhs, speak their own languages. English is not widely spoken outside major tourist areas, so it’s helpful to learn a few basic phrases in Mandarin or Uighur, or have a translation app handy.
Food and Cuisine
Xinjiang is famous for its lamb kebabs, hand-pulled noodles (laghman), pilaf (polo), and naan bread. Uighur food is flavorful, with a blend of Central Asian and Middle Eastern influences. Be sure to visit the local markets in Urumqi or Kashgar to sample the regional specialties.
Important Note: Always carry your passport and travel documents. Xinjiang has a heavy security presence, and travelers may encounter frequent security checks.
Turpan in the Gobi desert, XinJiang, Kazakh prefecture
With Little Chinese Everywhere ...
[video v=SbLVD99Eaa4]Bonus film - Uyghur life in Turpan desert oasis ...
Plus more videos ...
A trip to Kashgar, XinJiang province
With Alan & Shannon ...
[video v=TT-20Smu-kE start=11:33] Plus more videos ...
Rafa in Urumqi, XinJiang
With Rafa Goes Around! ...
[video v=RonSVxtnINI]Bonus films - with Nook Cranny ...
Plus more videos ...
XinJiang – a natural wonderland
With CGTN ...
[video v=yp_JP63p-no] Plus more videos ...
China from above – XinJiang
Don't miss it.
With CGTN ...
[video v=LVjnASDa6Pw]Beautiful natural scenery in north west China (north XinJiang 新疆)
North XinJiang province, including Kanas Lake. Awesome !
With Hogin Chen ...
[video v=pzHBCWyi1wA]
Plus more videos ...
[video v=SbLVD99Eaa4]
Plus more videos ...
Visit XinJiang – explore beautiful natural landscapes and vibrant ethnic cultures
The Spring Festival Gala, 2024 - Don't miss it
Some highlights from the annual spectacular. Performers showcase Xinjiang's splendid musical culture ... Reunion (awesome music and dance) ... Celebration ... Preparing for the Year of the Dragon (animation) ... The poetic dance, "The Painting Journey – The Legend of a Panorama of Mountains and Rivers", highlights the aesthetics of traditional Chinese painting ... Beautiful patterns ... The magic of tea ... Hanfu show, 'Ni Chang' ... Martial arts dance ... Hanfu dance ... A special performance with the traditional Chinese instruments of the Sanxian and the Doumbek, as well as the Flamenco guitar - the sound of the dessert ... Sending good wishes ... More to come ...
Kashgar trip, XinJiang province
With Little Chinese Everywhere ...
A trip to Kashgar, XinJiang province
With Li JingJing ... Visitor Guide to Kashgar, XinJiang Overview Kashgar, located in the XinJiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of China, is a city steeped in history and culture. It is known for its rich Silk Road heritage, bustling markets, and beautiful mosques. Kashgar is a melting pot of different cultures and ethnicities, with a unique blend of Uyghur, Han Chinese, and other influences. Getting There By Air: Kashgar Airport (KHG) is the main airport serving the city, with regular flights from major cities such as Urumqi, BeiJing, and ShangHai. The airport is located about 10 kilometers northeast of the city center. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle bus to reach your destination. By Train: Kashgar Railway Station is connected to major cities in XinJiang and beyond. The train journey from Urumqi to Kashgar offers stunning views of the region's diverse landscapes. The railway station is located about 5 kilometers from the city center. By Bus: Long-distance buses connect Kashgar with other cities in XinJiang. The main bus station is located in the city center, making it a convenient option for travelers. Getting Around Public Transport: Kashgar has a local bus network that covers major areas of the city. Buses are an affordable way to get around. Taxis: Taxis are widely available and relatively inexpensive. Make sure to have your destination written in Chinese or Uyghur for ease of communication. Biking: Bike rentals are available for those who want to explore the city at their own pace. Main Attractions Id Kah Mosque The Id Kah Mosque is the largest mosque in China and a central landmark in Kashgar. Built in 1442, it is a place of worship for the city's Muslim population and a beautiful example of Islamic architecture. Visitors can explore the mosque's courtyards, prayer halls, and gardens. Kashgar Old Town Kashgar Old Town is a maze of narrow streets, traditional mud-brick houses, and bustling bazaars. It's a great place to experience the city's unique culture and heritage. Wander through the streets, visit local shops, and try some traditional Uyghur cuisine. Sunday Market The Kashgar Sunday Market is one of the largest and most vibrant markets in Central Asia. Held every Sunday, it attracts traders and buyers from all over the region. You can find everything from fresh produce and spices to textiles, handicrafts, and livestock. Abakh Hoja Tomb The Abakh Hoja Tomb, also known as the Xiangfei Tomb, is a beautiful mausoleum built in the 17th century. It is the burial place of the famous Uyghur ruler Abakh Hoja and his family. The tomb is renowned for its stunning architecture and intricate tilework. Karakul Lake Located about 200 kilometers from Kashgar, Karakul Lake is a high-altitude lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The lake's crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery make it a popular destination for trekking and camping. Historical Significance Kashgar has a long and rich history as a major stop on the ancient Silk Road. It was an important hub for trade and cultural exchange between the East and West. Over the centuries, Kashgar has been influenced by various cultures, including Persian, Indian, Greek, and Arab, which is reflected in its diverse architecture and cultural heritage. The city has also been a center of Islamic learning and culture in China. The Id Kah Mosque and other religious sites in Kashgar attract pilgrims and scholars from all over the Muslim world. Local Cuisine Uyghur cuisine is a highlight of any visit to Kashgar. Here are some must-try dishes: Pilaf (Polo): A flavorful rice dish cooked with lamb, carrots, onions, and spices. Laghman: Hand-pulled noodles served with a savory sauce made of meat, vegetables, and spices. Kebab: Grilled skewers of marinated lamb or chicken, often served with flatbread and salad. Samsa: Baked pastries filled with minced meat and onions, similar to samosas. Nan: Traditional Uyghur bread baked in a tandoor oven, perfect for accompanying any meal. Shopping Sunday Market: The best place to buy local handicrafts, textiles, spices, and souvenirs. Don't forget to haggle for the best prices. Night Market: Explore the night market for a variety of street food and local snacks, as well as traditional Uyghur music and dance performances. Local Shops: Numerous shops in Kashgar sell unique items such as silk scarves, carpets, pottery, and jewelry. Accommodation Luxury Hotels: Kashgar offers several high-end hotels with excellent amenities, such as the Radisson Blu Hotel Kashgar and the Yue Xing Jin Jiang International Hotel. Mid-Range Hotels: There are numerous mid-range options providing comfortable accommodations at reasonable prices, including the Seman Hotel and the Kashgar Old City Youth Hostel. Budget Accommodations: Budget travelers can find affordable guesthouses, hostels, and budget hotels throughout the city. Tips for Visitors Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit Kashgar are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Clothing: Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Light, breathable clothing is recommended for the hot summer months, and warm layers for the colder seasons. Respect Local Customs: Be respectful of local customs and traditions, particularly in the predominantly Muslim areas. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people. Language: While Mandarin is widely spoken, knowing a few basic phrases in Uyghur can be helpful. English may not be commonly understood, so consider using a translation app. Plan Your Visit: Kashgar offers a rich mix of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. Plan your visit to include a variety of experiences to fully appreciate the city's diverse offerings. Conclusion Kashgar, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes, offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. Whether you're exploring the ancient streets of the Old Town, marveling at the architectural beauty of the Id Kah Mosque, or enjoying the breathtaking scenery of Karakul Lake, Kashgar promises a journey filled with discovery and wonder. Plan your visit carefully to make the most of your time in this extraordinary city in XinJiang.
XinJiang and the Uighurs - fact and fiction
With The New Atlas ... Bonus film ...
With The New Atlas ...
Wonderful landscapes ...
Planning war on China - part 31
With Danny HaiPhong and Brian Berletic ... *** Meanwhile ...
Planning war on China - part 22
The mainstream media in the West is a key part of the 'defense' (offence) department - it's all about hegemony / imperialism. Disinformation is always the first act of war. These 'journalists' are simply sycophants of an elite that wants total control; they think they are a part of the 'winners'. Totally disgusting. With Daniel Dumbrill ... With The New Atlas ... With Living In China ... With the Moderate Rebels ... On Desmond Tutu, with Democracy Now ... (Ignoring the lack of understanding China, and the climate change hysteria) ... YT comment : China today is committed to being more green. Her programs on Solar, Wind and Hydro power is advanced. President Xi has compared clean waters and forests as the real gold. YT comment : China has sought hegemony; never colonized; even when it could easily have done so. China id all about trade and building, not conquest. The China threat - the threat of a good example. In China, the people are family. In the West, the people are livestock.
Planning war on China - part 21
On Myanmar - with The New Atlas ... On Venezuela, Nicaragua, Bolivia and Cuba - with the Moderate Rebels ... On Central America, Biden ... On Australia - with Geopolitics In Conflict... On XinJiang and the Uyghurs - with Pivot to Peace / Professor Ken Hammond ... On Hong Kong ... On Julian Assange ... On the post-western world - with Martin Jacques ... With YChina re the New York Times ... With Daniel Dumbrill ...
The 'Uyghur Tribunal' : predictable and dangerous propaganda
Brian Berletic : "It is no coincidence that the so-called 'Uyghur Tribunal's 'final ruling' coincided with a dump of supposedly 'leaked' documents and the US-led 'diplomatic boycott' of the BeiJing 2022 Olympics. This is a massive propaganda campaign aimed at building hatred for China and justification for conflict with China." Circus, lies, propaganda, theater, kangaroo court. Manufacturing consent. And the mainstream media play their role as war propagandists; a disgrace to the human race. With The New Atlas ...
Planning war on China - part 13
With The New Atlas. Brian Berletic and Angelo Giuliano cut through the propaganda and shine light on realities ... Bonus films ... On Thailand ... On Nicaragua ... On Palestine ... On Syria ... On Cuba ... On Yemen ... On Taiwan ... On Western propaganda puppets ...
Planning war on China - part 12
An example of how the western MSM (main stream media) tries to convince you of their lies (hate). The real aim is to destroy the Chinese economy. In reality, it is the viewers who are being coerced / exploited. Mind control is controlling what one 'knows'. Demonisation of the 'other' is the first act of war. All about hegemony - colonialism rebranded as 'freedom and democracy'. With Daniel Dumbrill and Brian Berletic, dissecting what you are supposed to believe ... Because truth is sacred. Ben Norton of the Moderate Rebels on Intersectional Imperialism ...
*** Planning war on China - part 11 - don't miss it ***
"US-sponsored separatist groups, backed by Washington for decades, are being mobilized to attack and undermine activities related to the BeiJing 2022 Olympics, starting with the torch relay in Greece. I explain the background of the “Free Tibet” movement and how the US government, through the CIA, backed it as early as the 1950s and transferred its operations to the National Endowment for Democracy (NED) [or 'Dominion' / enslavement]." With The New Atlas ... Bonus films - terror activities by US-backed 'opposition' in Myanmar ... Bonus film 2 - subverting the 'left' ... Bonus film 3 - on Ecuador ... Bonus film 4 - on Cambodia ... They say : "How dare you put your face in front of my fist ! Serve your master. Or else." More ... On the US plan to nuke Chinese cities - as revealed by Daniel Ellsberg, famous for the 'Pentagon Papers', with NuMuves ... On the Falun Gong cult ...
Planning war with China - part 7
With The New Atlas ... US sanctions on Cambodia, for declining US interference ... Australian Puppets of American Empire - with Daniel Dumbrill and Robbie Barwick ... Bonus film - with The Grayzone ... Bonus film 2 - with The Moderate Rebels ... Bonus film 3 ... Bonus film 4 ... Bonus film 5 ...
Planning war with China - part 4
Planned for 50 years. Expected by 2025. With The New Atlas - Angelo Giuliano and Brian Berletic - don't miss it ... Bonus film - on Myanmar - with The New Atlas ... Bonus film 2 - on Thailand - with The New Atlas ... Bonus film 3 - with Professor Michael Hudson ... Bonus film 4 - the US / UK plot to assassinate Julian Assange - with The GrayZone ... Bonus film 5 - the US / UK plot to assassinate Julian Assange - with Going Underground / RT ... Bonus film 6 - the US / UK plot to assassinate Julian Assange - with The Moderate Rebels ... Bonud film 7 - How will AUKUS impact the ASEAN countries - with The New Atlas ...
American empire and global propaganda - part 2
Illusion and control. 'Democracy' allows elite rule, with your consent; its about empire. Don't you just hate being lied to ? With The New Atlas - don't miss it ... "A relentless propaganda war is being waged by the US and its allies against China in a desperate bid to maintain Western hegemony and obstruct the rise of China and Eurasia."
On the road to happiness : XinJiang
The real XinJiang - don't miss it. With CGTN ...
With Angelo Giuliano and Brian Berletic. They also discuss China's infrastructure and the development of XinJiang, Tibet, etc. ... In depth ... The West likes to trumpet 'individualism' - but is this really for the elite to divide the people, an excuse for the lack of infrastructure, and that if one is poor, it is your fault ? Compared to China's development and poverty alleviation, what has the West achieved over recent decades ? There are around 200,000 Chinese students in UK alone. China has 120 million outbound overseas tourists each year. There are 850,000 expats living and working in China. XiaoMi sells more smart phones than Apple. Etc. - Reality versus fake news. As for Western MSM, the more ridiculous the bias, the more obvious it becomes. In China, the people are family; in the West, the people are merely livestock.
With YChina! ...
More on XinJiang - lies and reality (and why)
With Daniel Dumbrill ...
Important information on today's geopolitics. Do not miss it. XinJiang and the US empire's war drive ... More from the Moderate Rebels channel ... The 'threat' is that of a good example. In China, the people are family. In the West, the people are merely livestock. In the West, it is government by and for the elite (though wrapped in the candyfloss of elections). The Military Industrial Complex plays a part, but the biggest part is the western elites' superiority complex - colonialism never went away, it just became more subtle (but no less brutal).
China 中国 from the air - a breathtaking journey ...
These amazing films capture the beauty of nature and city ... Don't miss it ! The best videographers. The best music. Turn up the volume; relax; let's go ... Hong Kong The Great Wall (JinShanLing / SiMaTai, close to Beijing) QingHai province JiuZhaiGou and HuangLong, SiChuan province Crescent Moon Spring / Lake, 6 km from DunHuang, GanSu province, north west China Guilin and YangShuo, GuangXi province The Tibetan Plateau, far south west China HuiZhou, GuangDong province, south east China TianShan Mountain area, XinJiang province, far west China MoGao Grotto, YuMenGuan, YangGuan, JiaYuGuan, YaDan, DanXia; all in GanSu province Tian Tan Giant Buddha, Hong Kong GuangZhou, provincial capital of GuangDong and close to Hong Kong Various places in China
Explore beautiful XinJiang 新疆 province ...
An awesome film - don't miss it ... September trip, in 2017; charming couple. XinJiang, north west China, includes the Tien Shan and Kunlun Shan mountains, the Taklimakan Desert, and the Tarim Basin.
Beautiful scenery around WuSu 乌苏 in XinJiang province
Far north west China ...
Cycling the Karakoram Highway, from Kashgar to the Pakistan border
There are beautiful mountains, lakes and grasslands along one of the world's highest modern roads - XinJiang province ...
FuKang was an important stopover on the ancient Silk Road ...
Kashgar, KaShi in Chinese 喀什, XinJiang province
Kashgar is the western-most city in China, located near the borders with Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan. Kashgar has a rich history of over 2,000 years and served as a trading post and strategically important city on the Silk Road between China, the Middle East, and Europe.
XiaMen, FuJian province, Urumqi, XinJiang province, and DunHuang, GanSu province
A few of the great China videos by Stick2r ...
Urumqi 乌鲁木齐, XinJiang province : along the old Silk Road
With Sticker Travel. The second film shows scenes from the dances at the XinXiang International Bazaar Theater in Urumqi.
XinJiang style dance fun in BeiHai Park 北海公园, BeiJing
XinJiang-style dance in BeiHai Park 北海公园, BeiJing
Filmed in October 2010.
Silk Road travels, including JiaYuGuan and DunHuang - video
Scenes along the Silk Road in China. Places include Hohhot (Inner Mongolia), YinChuan (NingXia), LanZhou (Gansu), TianShui (Gansu), ZhangYe (Gansu), JiaYuGuan (Gansu), DunHuang (Gansu), Urumqi (XinJiang). Most notably, the western end of the Great Wall at JiaYuGuan and the Grottoes at DunHuang.