Northern Xinjiang forests and autumn light; daily plans are organized by fall departures and three route sections.
18-day journey: 2 hosted days in Chengdu + 16 days aboard the train.
The departure date is train Day 1; arrival in Chengdu is two days before the selected departure.
Urumqi, Altay, and Ili + Kuche: 12 combinations across three route sections.
Jinxiu Tianfu · 2027
Starting with airport pickup in Chengdu, the journey explores lakes, grasslands, and historic towns across northern and southern Xinjiang. Choose a departure first, then choose a route.
Continue here for the itinerary, accommodation, dining and pre-departure details in the Jinxiu Tianfu 2027 Travel Handbook.
CONTENTS · Jump to any section
SIGHTS
The lakeside boardwalk and distant views of Bogda Peak are the main sights today. Use the scenic-area shuttle and keep walks short.
OpenOctober 1–April 15: 09:30–17:00; April 16–September 30: 08:00–19:00. · Hours may change temporarily; follow the scenic area’s notice for the day.
Google Maps ↗Source ↗
Villages, birch forests, and river valleys make for a relaxed northern Xinjiang landscape route. Avoid turning the arrival day into a long hike.
OpenMay 1–October 15: 08:00–22:00; October 16–April 30 of the following year: 10:00–18:00. · Hours may change temporarily; follow the scenic area’s notice for the day.
Google Maps ↗Source ↗
Focus on the lake area and main viewpoints; older travelers can take a short lakeside route.
OpenPeak season: 08:00–20:00; off-season: 08:00–22:00. The seasonal changeover is unspecified; shuttle buses and boat services have separate hours. · Hours may change temporarily; follow the scenic area’s notice for the day.
Google Maps ↗Source ↗
Prioritize the best lakeside sections and roadside viewpoints; there is no need to complete the full loop.
OpenReference: the lake area is open all day; ticket office and Jinghai Road entrance: 08:00–21:00; Xihai Road night entrance: 21:00–08:00 the next day. · Hours may change temporarily; follow the scenic area’s notice for the day.
Google Maps ↗Source ↗
Focus on the scenic-area shuttle and grassland views; check October weather and which sections are open.
OpenReference hours: 08:30–19:00; the last shuttle departure follows the selected route. · Hours may change temporarily; follow the scenic area’s notice for the day.
Google Maps ↗Source ↗
The red rock walls, narrow passages, and changing light in Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon are today’s main sights. Walk only on sections open and safe that day, and leave time for rest and transfers.
OpenCurrent reference hours: 09:00–20:00, last admission 20:00; autumn hours may change. · Hours may change temporarily; follow the scenic area’s notice for the day.
Google Maps ↗Source ↗
Look out toward White Sand Lake and White Sand Mountain along the China–Pakistan Friendship Highway. Take the altitude and short-stop pace into account.
OpenReference hours: 10:00–20:00; last admission at 20:00. · Hours may change temporarily; follow the scenic area’s notice for the day.
Google Maps ↗Source ↗
The public lanes of Kashgar Old City connect homes, craft shops, and teahouses. Walk slowly along open streets and notice the doors, windows, courtyards, and details of daily life. Ask before photographing residents, and allow time to sit and rest.
OpenPublic lanes are open all day; shops, mosques, and paid attractions have separate hours. · Hours may change temporarily; follow the scenic area’s notice for the day.
Google Maps ↗Source ↗
An optional, light visit in central Urumqi, focused on exterior architecture and neighborhood atmosphere.
OpenPublic streets are open all day; shops, the viewing tower, and performances have separate hours. · Hours may change temporarily; follow the scenic area’s notice for the day.
Google Maps ↗Source ↗
One of the Three Bays; start from a viewpoint to see the river bend and forest colors.
OpenMay 1–October 15: 08:00–20:00; October 16–April 30 of the following year: 10:00–18:00. · Hours may change temporarily; follow the scenic area’s notice for the day.
Google Maps ↗Source ↗
Moon Bay is also one of Kanas’s Three Bays. Make a brief stop along the scenic-area shuttle route; no additional hike is planned.
OpenMay 1–October 15: 08:00–20:00; October 16–April 30 of the following year: 10:00–18:00. · Hours may change temporarily; follow the scenic area’s notice for the day.
Google Maps ↗Source ↗
Karakul Lake lies in the Pamir landscape belt, where the lake faces Muztagh Ata. Today’s route is a round trip from Kashgar. Focus on the lakeshore in open viewing areas and distant mountain views; adjust the stop to the group’s fitness and do not plan strenuous hiking.
OpenReference hours: 10:00–20:00; last admission at 20:00. · Hours may change temporarily; follow the scenic area’s notice for the day.
Google Maps ↗Source ↗
For the optional Chengdu city day, choose one main activity: focus on the panda area or allow time to rest.
OpenMarch–October: 07:30–18:00, last admission 17:00; November–February of the following year: 08:00–17:30, last admission 16:30. · Hours may change temporarily; follow the scenic area’s notice for the day.
Google Maps ↗Source ↗SHOPPING
The woven patterns of Shu brocade and a panda motif bring together a Chengdu craft and a city symbol. This is an optional local find along the route, not an added attraction, shopping stop or promise of availability.
Worth a Look or a Purchase
Framed art takes up space. Look for it only if it fits into the scheduled Chengdu rest time; do not add a special stop.Availability: check the seller's current information · Confirm the shop's closing day before departure
Shu embroidery brings traditional stitching into wearable designs, a possible gift for travelers who appreciate craft and design. This is an optional local find along the route, not an added attraction, shopping stop or promise of availability.
Worth a Look or a Purchase
Check the material and craft labels. Do not mistake a printed pattern for hand-embroidered Shu embroidery.Availability: check the seller's current information · Confirm the shop's closing day before departure
A panda-themed keepsake from Chengdu. It is light but may take up luggage space. This is an optional local find along the route, not an added attraction, shopping stop or promise of availability.
Worth a Look or a Purchase
Designs and licensing vary by brand. Choose a legitimate product with clear labeling.Availability: check the seller's current information · Confirm the shop's closing day before departure
The vivid pattern suits outfits and photographs and reflects local textile design. This is an optional local find along the route, not an added attraction, shopping stop or promise of availability.
Worth a Look or a Purchase
Check whether the item is silk fabric or a printed product, and choose according to the material and your budget.Availability: check the seller's current information · Confirm the shop's closing day before departure
Lighter to pack than a full garment, this colorful item can make a small gift. It is an optional local find along the route, not an added attraction, shopping stop or promise of availability.
Worth a Look or a Purchase
Check the workmanship and comfort. A pattern alone does not mean the item is handmade.Availability: check the seller's current information · Confirm the shop's closing day before departure
Ili has a geographical indication associated with lavender fields, making lavender oil a possible keepsake for those who enjoy scent. This is an optional local find along the route, not an added attraction, shopping stop or promise of availability.
Worth a Look or a Purchase
Check the producer, ingredients and volume. Verify separate rules for carrying liquids on flights and across borders. This product is not for medical use.Availability: check the seller's current information · Confirm the shop's closing day before departureBreakfast, lunch and dinner are listed according to the selected route.
BEFORE DEPARTURE
Prepare items in order: essential, recommended and optional.
Confirm items in order: essential, recommended and optional.
LANGUAGE COMPANION
HIGH-FREQUENCY PHRASES
我们同行。wǒ men tóng xíngSay that you are traveling together / We are traveling together.
请问集合点在哪里？qǐng wèn jí hé diǎn zài nǎ lǐAsk where to meet / Where is the meeting point?
请带我们去检票口。qǐng dài wǒ men qù jiǎn piào kǒuAsk for directions / Please take us to the ticket gate.
这个车次是去成都的吗？zhè ge chē cì shì qù chéng dū de maConfirm the destination / Does this service go to Chengdu?
我们需要多一点转车时间。wǒ men xū yào duō yì diǎn zhuǎn chē shí jiānExplain that you need more time to transfer / We need more transfer time.
我们有预订，请核对姓名。wǒ men yǒu yù dìng, qǐng hé duì xìng míngCheck in / We have a booking; please check the name.
请问现在可以入住吗？qǐng wèn xiàn zài kě yǐ rù zhù maAsk about early check-in / Can we check in now?
可以先寄存行李吗？kě yǐ xiān jì cún xíng li maAsk about luggage storage if you arrive early or leave late / May we store our luggage?
请帮我联系接站人员。qǐng bāng wǒ lián xì jiē zhàn rén yuánFind the trip's station pickup contact / Please contact our pickup driver.
请把地址写给司机。qǐng bǎ dì zhǐ xiě gěi sī jīMake sure the destination is clear / Please write the address for the driver.
我们想吃当地菜。wǒ men xiǎng chī dāng dì càiState your preference / We would like local cuisine.
请少放辣椒。qǐng shǎo fàng là jiāoAsk for less spice / Please use less chili.
其中一人不吃羊肉。qí zhōng yí wèi bù chī yáng ròuMention a meat restriction / One person does not eat lamb.
这里面有花生吗？zhè lǐ miàn yǒu huā shēng maCheck an allergen / Does this contain peanuts?
请给我们看明码标价的菜单。qǐng gěi wǒ men kàn míng mǎ biāo jià de cài dānAsk to see prices first / Please show the priced menu.
我们想走最轻松的路线。wǒ men xiǎng zǒu zuì qīng sōng de lù xiànChoose a shorter route / We prefer the easiest route.
最近的休息区在哪里？zuì jìn de xiū xi qū zài nǎ lǐFind a place to rest / Where is the nearest rest area?
这趟摆渡车到哪里？zhè tàng bǎi dù chē dào nǎ lǐCheck the shuttle route / Where does this shuttle go?
我们可以在这里拍照吗？wǒ men kě yǐ zài zhè lǐ pāi zhào maAsk permission to take photos / May we take photos here?
请问返回集合点怎么走？qǐng wèn fǎn huí jí hé diǎn zěn me zǒuAsk how to return / How do we get back to the meeting point?
我有点不舒服。wǒ yǒu diǎn bù shū fuSay early if you feel unwell / I do not feel well.
请帮我们联系领队。qǐng bāng wǒ men lián xì lǐng duìContact the trip leader / Please contact our tour leader.
请帮我叫医生。qǐng bāng wǒ jiào yī shēngAsk for medical help / Please call a doctor.
我的护照不见了。wǒ de hù zhào bú jiàn leReport a missing document / My passport is missing.
请慢一点，我们需要休息。qǐng màn yì diǎn, wǒ men xū yào xiū xiExplain what you need / Please slow down; we need a break.
HIGH-FREQUENCY PHRASES
Please check the name on this booking.Please check the name on this booking.
Is this the correct boarding gate?Is this the correct boarding gate or ticket gate?
What is the latest check-in time?What is the latest check-in time?
Has the departure time changed?Has the departure time changed?
We are traveling together.We are traveling together.
We have a booking under this name.We have a room booked under this name.
Can we leave our bags here first?May we leave our luggage here?
Please contact our pickup driver.Please contact our pickup driver.
Is early check-in available today?Can we check in early today?
Please write down the hotel address.Please write down the hotel address.
We would like to try local food.We would like to try local food.
One person does not eat lamb.One person does not eat lamb.
Does this dish contain peanuts?Does this dish contain peanuts?
Could you make it less spicy?Could you use less chili?
May we see a menu with prices?May we see a menu with prices?
We prefer a short, easy route.We would prefer a short, easy route.
Where is the nearest rest area?Where is the nearest rest area?
Where does this shuttle bus go?Where does this shuttle go?
Are photos allowed here?Are photos allowed here?
Please allow us more time to walk.Please allow us more time to walk.
I do not feel well.I do not feel well.
Please call a doctor.Please call a doctor.
Please contact our tour leader.Please contact the group leader.
My passport is missing.My passport is missing.
Where can we get help?Where can I get help?
LOCAL TRAVEL NOTES
For Tianchi, Hemu and Kanas, wear a base layer, a mid-layer and a windproof outer layer. Choose shoes with good grip. Check local forecasts before departure to decide how warm your clothing needs to be.
Bring windproof warm clothing even for short stops at Baisha Lake and Karakul Lake. Tell the group leader immediately if you feel unwell at altitude and follow medical advice.
Grasslands, canyons and mountains may have rain, lower temperatures or temporary access restrictions. Check safety with the group leader and local staff. Shorten or adjust the visit if needed.
Wear comfortable shoes that you have already broken in for city days in Chengdu, Urumqi and Kashgar. If you change shoes for photos, make sure they will not make a long walk difficult.
Ask vendors and residents before photographing them in Kashgar Old City, Hemu Village or a market. Do not enter private courtyards, and respect a refusal.
You may want to try local cuisines, but no traveler has to eat lamb, spicy food or dairy. Ask about ingredients and preparation when ordering so everyone has suitable options.
Walk slowly along open streets in Kashgar Old City. Check whether a shop or residential space is open to visitors before entering, and ask residents and craftspeople before taking photos.
Use the notice for your departure to check the meeting station, ticket gate and arrival arrangements. After arriving in Chengdu, go to the hotel according to the host's notice. The written notice for this departure will confirm dates and times.
Use the daily estimates in the source itinerary for intercity drives in Xinjiang. Stops, park transfers and weather restrictions may affect actual travel time. Follow the group leader's instructions.
Do not estimate transport within Tianchi, Hemu, Kanas or canyon areas like an ordinary city drive. The park operator will confirm whether a transfer is needed and how long the wait will be.
If you have a headache, nausea or other possible symptoms of altitude sickness, do not continue to a higher elevation or push through the visit. Tell the group leader promptly and seek medical help. Adjust the rest of the itinerary according to professional advice.
At Kanas, Sayram Lake, grasslands, canyons and along the plateau route, stay in areas open to visitors. Do not cross barriers or enter restricted areas for a photo. Follow local signs around closed sections.
Each traveler should carry their regular medication and share allergy information and emergency contacts with a companion. Use prescription medication as directed by your doctor. This handbook is not medical advice.
Keep track of your travel companions and belongings when boarding or taking park shuttles. Rest as directed on highland and long-drive days, and do not leave the group without notice.
Start with two or three dishes to share, then order more if you like. Rice noodles, polo rice or laghman can make a full meal, so you do not need to add every snack as well.
Ask about the meat in buns and polo rice in Xinjiang. You can request a spice level for Sichuan dishes in Chengdu. Clearly tell restaurant staff about any food allergies.
Fish, grilled meat and loose dried fruit may be priced by serving, skewer or weight. Confirm the unit price, quantity and total before ordering, and keep the receipt.
Freshly cooked snacks taste best while warm. Take a quick photo, then eat; do not keep your companions waiting or block the serving counter.
Before departure, check your usual payment methods, bank cards and phone roaming or data access for both places. Save offline copies of important bookings and host contacts. Available payment methods depend on your account and the local network.
Keep an offline copy of important tickets, payment details and the group leader's contact information. Make sure you can find your companions and accommodation details if your phone runs out of battery or loses service.
Before ordering, check the restaurant menu, set-menu hours and service charges. The merchant's prices on the day determine the actual cost; prices in this handbook do not replace them.
Check the written meeting time and place with the group leader each time, and confirm that it uses Beijing Time. If your phone changes time zones automatically, check your alarm again.
Attraction photos can help identify a destination. The group leader must still point out the meeting area on site. A general location image is not an exact pickup point.