Grape Valley7.5
Best Things to Do
As a valley under the Flaming Mountain, Huoyan Grape Valley Resort is located at the northeast of Turpan…
Gaochang, Turpan, Xinjiang, China
Free
Turpan Travel Guide 2026: Top Attractions, Local Food & Travel Tips | Trip.com
Turpan
Trending in Turpan
Kumtag Desert sports festival kicks off with diverse experiences@Kumtag Desert
Experience a heart-pounding ride in a monster truck at Kumtag Desert@Kumtag Desert
Ski free with your flight ticket in Altay!@Keketuohai Scenic District
Silk Road shows light up the Kumtag Desert@Kumtag Desert
Desert Edge Off-Road Camp opens
About Turpan
9℃
9°Clear
15° / 3°
- 11/9Tomorrow
Cloudy15° / 3° - 11/10TueCloudy12° / 3°
- 11/11WedCloudy12° / 2°
- 11/12ThuCloudy15° / 2°
- 11/13FriCloudy15° / 1°
- 11/14SatCloudy13° / 1°
Recommended length of visit
2-3 days
Local currency
CNY
Must-visit attractions in Turpan
Looking for things to do in Turpan? We provide up-to-date info on everything from must-see scenic spots to local hangouts.
Best Things to Do
Family-friendly
Recommended stays in Turpan
Discover the most popular places to stay in Turpan, complete with recommendations from fellow travelers and special hotel offers
Guest User: The staff are really friendly! They have a dog and a cat. The neighborhood they’re in is lovely. Recommend!
200 meters north, opposite Putao Town Government
From KRW 8,575
Guest User: I was quite surprised to find a Wyndham Grand Laguna in Turpan. The hotel building is beautiful, with a very exotic feel. In Turpan, a small city in northern Xinjiang, it felt strangely more like southern Xinjiang. The mattress in the room was very comfortable, and the decor was beautiful. As a premium member, I was pleasantly upgraded to a higher room type and given welcome fruit. The hotel's public area is a highlight, with a beautiful, high-ceilinged lobby. It's perfect for taking photos and has a unique character! The outdoor pool is also very beautiful, but I didn't have time to swim. The hotel staff were very welcoming and helpful, explaining the hotel's activities and giving me a very warm farewell upon departure. Xiao Mu at the front desk was very attentive! Overall, it was a very good stay.
No. 1555 Gaochang North Road
From KRW 52,266
Guest User: Room is good. Breakfast very nice,many choices to choose.Laundry room is the best.
No. 44 Gaochang Middle Road
From KRW 63,699
Guest User: Everything was super nice. Rooms were clean and we had a great time. There are plenty of of shops outside to get dinner and other necessities
No. 697 Xincheng Road
From KRW 21,029
Guest User: We absolutely love our brief stay at this hotel. The check in service was speedy and pleasant. The receptionists were friendly and went up and above to serve us. This is by far the best hotel for our trip to Xinjiang. There are 2 sets of complimentary washers and dryers for guests for which is really helpful. The only downside is there is only 1 set of lift (for our wing) and the wait can be long during peak breakfast hours.
South Side of Shuiyun Plaza (beside the artificial lake) , East Ring Road
From KRW 44,508
Guest User: Located beside the turpan train station and is convenient for those arriving late or need to catch an early train the following day. Room is big. Day time can be stuffy with the strong sunlight casting on the full glass window. Staff are lovely and helpful.
No. 6, Gangcheng Park, No. 518 Zhanqian Road
From KRW 34,504
Guest User: This was my first stay at this new hotel, and it exceeded my expectations! The room was spacious and didn't feel cramped, and the cleanliness was impeccable; the sheets and floor were spotless. The front desk staff member was very friendly. Overall, I'm very satisfied and highly recommend it.
1st Floor, No. 1557 Huoyanshan Road
From KRW 30,216
Guest User: Extremely spacious. Super helpful reception, organized a day tour and pick up for me, with all the care and attention.
Building 1, Meijing Tiancheng, No. 978 Lvzhou West Road
From KRW 61,045
Guest User: The stay was alright, friendly staff, nice room, good location.
No. 645 Laocheng West Road
From KRW 22,050
Guest User: Super love our stay. The room was bright and clean and breakfast was good and varied. The reception was very friendly and efficient.
Building 1, Zone B, Huijin Yihao, Wenhua West Road
From KRW 46,141
Must-try food in Turpan
Want to eat like a local? Don't miss out on these top Turpan dishes and foodie spots.
Quick bites
Hotpot
Bakery
Turpan itinerary ideas
Traveler photos and experiences
🇨🇳 XINJIANG, CHINA | Xinjiang: A Natural Wonderland
🏔️ This northwestern region of China is a stunning expanse of snow-capped peaks, azure lakes, vast grasslands, and ancient villages that look like they've been plucked straight from a painting. Xinjiang is a destination that truly captures the heart of nature lovers, offering diverse and breathtaking landscapes that feel like stepping into a whole new world. 🌿 📍 Must-Visit Attractions 1. Kanas Lake – A turquoise lake nestled in a valley, surrounded by dense pine forests and soaring mountains. 2. Hemu Village – A charming wooden village set deep in the mountains, offering a peaceful and romantic atmosphere. 3. Sayram Lake – A crystal-clear turquoise lake that acts like a mirror, reflecting the majestic snow-capped mountains in the background. 4. Nalati Grassland – Endless rolling green hills dotted with herds of horses and framed by stunning mountain ranges. 5. Heavenly Lake of Tianshan – A high-altitude alpine lake surrounded by coniferous forests and snow-dusted peaks. 6. Kashgar Old Town – A historic city rich with unique Uyghur architecture and vibrant local culture. 7. Jiaohe Ancient City – A historic Silk Road city filled with ancient ruins and stories of the past. 8. Karakul Lake – Located on the Pamir Plateau, this lake offers grand views of the towering Muztagh Ata mountain. 🍜 Must-Try Local Cuisine · Lamb Kebabs – Spiced lamb grilled to perfection. · Xinjiang Polo – A flavorful rice dish cooked with lamb and carrots. · Laghman – Hand-pulled fresh noodles prepared in the authentic Uyghur style. · Nang Bread – Freshly baked, traditional local flatbread. 🍇 Recommended Souvenirs Turpan raisins, hand-woven carpets, and authentic local handicrafts. 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to October. September through early October is especially ideal for witnessing the spectacular autumn colors and clear mountain vistas. 💚 Xinjiang offers more than just grand natural scenery; it is a region steeped in culture and history waiting to be explored. From deep blue lakes and endless grasslands to ancient Silk Road cities, it’s a place you truly need to experience for yourself at least once in a lifetime!
Mazar Village, an ancient village witnessing a millennium of change
Departing from Hami, the altitude drops and the temperature rises along the way. After a 4-hour drive, you arrive at Mazar Village. It is located in the southern valley of the Tuyugou Grand Canyon and is now the oldest Uyghur village in the Turpan region. Looking down from the highway, the village is nestled in the canyon. A narrow river flows through the village from north to south. Along both sides of the river, scattered Uyghur dwellings are built, giving the impression that the village grew right out of the valley floor. However, Mazar Village is more than just an ancient village. It is a witness to a millennium of change. It was a place where the Jushi Qian Kingdom and the Gaochang Kingdom existed, and where the monk Xuanzang stopped to lecture on scriptures during his pilgrimage. Most notably, over the past 1,700-plus years, it transformed from a major Buddhist site into a center of Islamic culture. So much history is packed into these few dozen ancient rammed-earth dwellings. This area has seen human activity since ancient times. During the Neolithic Age, indigenous people already lived here. The subsequently discovered Yanghai Tombs and Subeixi Ruins indicate that early agricultural civilization in Turpan developed right here. The village still preserves more than 20 cultural relics and historic sites. During the Western Han Dynasty, this area belonged to the Jushi Qian Kingdom. In the Wei and Jin periods, people began carving caves into the cliffs for meditation and creating Buddhist niches. This is how Tuyugou got its ancient name, "Dinggu." By the Western Jin Dynasty, it had already begun to become a sacred Buddhist site. During the rule of the Qu family in Gaochang, large-scale construction of Buddhist temples and caves took place in Tuyugou, making it a major Buddhist center for the Gaochang Kingdom. Xuanzang, on his journey west, passed through Gaochang and also lectured here. According to the "Xizhou Tu Jing" (Records of Xizhou), the Tuyugou Grottoes were known as "Dinggu Temple" during the Tang Dynasty's Xizhou period. Various manuscript fragments have been unearthed from the Tuyugou Grottoes. Notably, the Heart Sutra translated by Xuanzang, which had been sealed away for a millennium, was discovered here, and a manuscript fragment of the "Great Tang Records on the Western Regions" was unearthed in 1981. These significant discoveries brought Tuyugou Village back into the public eye. After the late Tang Dynasty, Tuyugou successively came under the rule of regimes such as the Tibetan Empire and the Gaochang Uyghur Kingdom. Grotto art and various scripts and religious cultures coexisted for a long time. Buddhism, Manichaeism, Zoroastrianism, and Taoism were once popular here, making it a true cultural crossroads. In the late Yuan Dynasty, Islam was introduced to the Turpan Basin. In the early Ming Dynasty, the region gradually completed its religious transition. Buddhist temples declined, and Islamic culture took root. The village name "Mazar" means tomb or graveyard, or more accurately, the tomb of an Islamic saint or dignitary. It is a transliteration from Arabic, with the original meaning close to "holy place" or "place of pilgrimage." Therefore, Mazar Village can be understood as "the village built in front of the Mazar." During the Yongzheng reign of the Qing Dynasty, some residents moved to Guazhou with Emin Khoja; they returned to Tuyugou during the Qianlong reign. Afterward, it was long governed by local princes until the policy of replacing hereditary tribal leaders with appointed officials at the end of the Qing Dynasty. During the Republic of China era, administrative divisions were adjusted multiple times, and Mazar Village was eventually incorporated into Tuyugou Township. In 1958, the People's Commune was established, and this area belonged to the Hongxing Commune. In 1978, the place name was restored, and it was renamed Tuyugou Commune. In 1984, the township and village system was restored, and Mazar Village has continued as an administrative village to this day. The Tuyugou we see today is not just an ancient Uyghur village. It is more like history layered upon itself: prehistoric settlements, Buddhist grottoes, Silk Road post stations, yellow clay dwellings, and Mazar culture are all packed into this canyon.
Flew 3,000 km just for these 10 blockbuster photos of Turpan—so worth it!
You guys, seriously! I thought Xinjiang was just grasslands and snow-capped mountains, but I had no idea Turpan was so exotic! 🕌 Walking through the earthy-yellow alleys of Tuyugou, I really felt like I’d been transported to the Middle East or Morocco. Every shot looks like a scene from a movie! 🎬 Although the heatwaves of the Flaming Mountains live up to their reputation (it’s the kind of heat that even the Palm-Leaf Fan couldn't cool down 🥵), the coolness and sweetness of Grape Valley healed me instantly! Save this ultimate, step-by-step guide to Turpan—where "half is fire, half is water"—for your next trip! 👇 📍 Stop 1: Tuyugou Mazar Village (Photos 1–4) ✨ Keywords: Exotic, earthen architecture, light and shadow, off the beaten path Known as "China's No. 1 Earthen Village," this is also the oldest surviving Uyghur village in Xinjiang. 📷 Photo tips: · In front of the mosque (Photos 1–2): That building with the four minarets is so photogenic! I recommend wearing a black-and-white patterned shirt like mine or solid colors, and adding a cowboy hat 🤠—the back-view shot is absolutely stunning! · Rooftop cafe (Photos 3–4): When you're tired of walking, just find a cafe and head to the roof. There are gourd pendant lights overhead 💡 and walls covered in colorful carpets 🧶. The retro, vibrant color scheme really gives off "One Thousand and One Nights" vibes! Sitting there overlooking the whole village, you get hit with the desolate beauty of the loess plateau. 📍 Stop 2: Grape Valley (Photos 5–9) After leaving Tuyugou, I felt like I was going to dry up, so I hurried into Grape Valley! It’s basically a natural air-conditioned room! 📸 Experience rating: 10/10 · Under the grape trellis (Photos 7–8): Look up and you'll see clusters of seedless white grapes, with dappled light filtering through the leaves. You have to stand on a ladder and pretend to pick grapes (just be careful not to actually damage them, haha), or sit in a booth holding a big Hami melon 🍈. This is the right way to experience a Xinjiang summer! 📍 Stop 3: Flaming Mountains (Photo 10) Since you're already here, you definitely have to see the place where the Monkey King borrowed the Palm-Leaf Fan! ⚠️ Survival guide: · That giant Palm-Leaf Fan is definitely not just for show! The surface temperature is hot enough to fry an egg! · For photos, I suggest being quick. The reddish-brown mountain background is spectacular. Remember to bring sunglasses 🕶️—not only for sun protection, but also to look cool! 💡 Outfit tips: The main colors in Turpan are earthy yellow and brick red, so I recommend wearing white, black, or high-saturation colors (like royal blue or dark green) for a stronger contrast! Definitely wear a hat—it's great for sun protection and a must-have accessory for posing! 🚗 Transportation: I recommend driving from Urumqi or taking a high-speed train to Turpan North Station, then chartering a car for the most convenient way to get around. ☀️ Best time to visit: Although summer is the hottest time, it's also when the fruit is sweetest! If you're sensitive to heat, try going out in the early morning or evening, and hide in Grape Valley or a cafe during midday.
"The beauty of the Kashgar-Pamir Plateau Desert Highway is beyond words"
📍 Basic info Details Southern Xinjiang: Kashgar, Hotan, Aksu, Korla, Pamir Plateau Best time: September–November (autumn scenery + Populus euphratica forest) Recommended duration: 7–10 days Highlights: Ancient city + desert + plateau + ethnic culture 🌟 Southern Xinjiang highlights Scenery | Location | Features Pamir Plateau | Kashgar–Taxkorgan | Snow-capped mountains + meadows, Baisha Lake + Karakul Lake Kashgar Ancient City | Kashgar City | Labyrinthine old town, exotic atmosphere Taklamakan Desert | Desert Highway | Most beautiful desert highway, crossing the "Sea of Death" Populus Euphratica Forest | Tarim River Basin | Golden in October, "lives for 3,000 years without dying" Stone City | Taxkorgan | Silk Road ruins, stunning sunrise 📅 8-day itinerary (classic loop) Day 1: Various locations → Kashgar Fly to Kashgar Airport Stay near Kashgar Ancient City Explore the ancient city in the afternoon Day 2: Kashgar → Pamir Plateau Travel along the China-Pakistan Friendship Highway (Karakoram Highway) Pass by Baisha Lake (Baisha Mountain) Visit Karakul Lake See Muztagh Ata Stay in Taxkorgan County Day 3: Taxkorgan → Khunjerab Pass → Return Go to Khunjerab Pass (China-Pakistan border) Return to Taxkorgan Stay in Taxkorgan Day 4: Taxkorgan → Stone City → Kashgar Visit Stone City in the morning for sunrise Return to Kashgar (approx. 5 hours) Stay in Kashgar Day 5: Kashgar → Desert Highway → Tazhong Travel along the Desert Highway across the Taklamakan Stay in Tazhong or Qiemo Day 6: Tazhong → Tarim Populus Euphratica Forest → Korla Visit Tarim Populus Euphratica Forest (golden in October) Stay in Korla Day 7: Korla → Luoburen Village → Turpan Visit Luoburen Village Tarim River + desert + Populus euphratica Arrive in Turpan in the evening Day 8: Turpan → Return Visit Karez Well, Grape Valley Return in the afternoon 💰 Estimated costs Item | Cost Round-trip flight/train | Approx. CNY 1,000–2,000 Local car charter/self-drive (7 days) | Approx. CNY 2,000–3,500 Accommodation (7 nights) | Approx. CNY 700–1,400 Attraction tickets + shuttle bus | Approx. CNY 300–500 Meals | Approx. CNY 400–600 Total | Approx. CNY 4,500–8,000/person ⚠️ Tips Border permit: Required for Khunjerab Pass. Apply in Kashgar Altitude sickness: The Pamir Plateau is at an altitude of approx. 4,000m. Be aware of altitude sickness Warmth: Large temperature difference on the plateau. Bring a down jacket Sun protection: Desert + plateau. Strong UV rays Vehicle: Car charter/self-drive recommended. Desert Highway is in good condition but long
10 Attractions in Xinjiang Not Worth a Special Trip
Xinjiang is vast and filled with beautiful scenery, but many viral attractions are over-beautified by filters. With the added costs of admission tickets, shuttle buses, and secondary expenses, traveling thousands of miles can easily lead to disappointment. This list tells the truth: it's not that you can't visit them at all, but we don't recommend going out of your way to check them off your list. We've included practical alternatives to help you save time and travel costs, allowing you to dedicate your itinerary to truly breathtaking landscapes. Note: Cultural enthusiasts and study tour groups may choose to keep these on their list; general sightseers and travelers on tight loop itineraries should prioritize the alternatives. 1. Tianshan Tianchi Lake | Not worth a special trip ❌ Why avoid: It's famous, but the cost of admission tickets and shuttle buses is high, with extra fees for boat rides and cable cars. It is extremely weather-dependent; on cloudy days, the lake looks dull. After completing a Northern Xinjiang loop and seeing Sayram Lake or Kanas Lake, Tianchi will feel much less impressive. It's only suitable for a short day trip from Urumqi. ✅ Alternative: Ulungur Lake. It's on the way in Northern Xinjiang, with deep blue water and sandy shores. It's quiet, less crowded, and has many free sections for driving around the lake. 2. Five-Colored Beach ❌ Why avoid: It's very small and only worth visiting for the short 10-minute sunset window; without good light, it's underwhelming. It gets crowded in the evening, and there are swarms of mosquitoes in summer. You can finish touring it in 20 minutes, so going out of your way for it isn't worth it. ✅ Alternative: Anjihai Grand Canyon (free outer viewing areas). It features grand, colorful geological layers with richer textures and doesn't require waiting for a specific sunset window. 3. Dushanzi Grand Canyon ❌ Why avoid: The natural canyon scenery is average. The scenic area focuses on viral attractions like the cliff swing and glass skywalk, all of which require extra fees. Without a drone, it's hard to capture the "epic" shots seen in advertisements. ✅ Alternative: Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon (Kuqa, Southern Xinjiang). It features massive red-brown fissure canyons with epic light and shadow effects, offering more stunning geological scenery. 4. Flaming Mountains Scenic Area ❌ Why avoid: The main attraction is the giant Golden Cudgel thermometer, and it's mostly artificial sculptures. In summer, the surface temperature is extremely high, and there's no shade from the sun. You can see the red mountains from the national highway, so there's no need to buy a ticket to enter. ✅ Alternative: Jiaohe Ruins. The earthen ruins under the sunset are desolate and stunning, full of the atmosphere of ancient Western Regions civilization, and you can experience Turpan's culture on the way. 5. Bayanbulak Scenic Area (Nine Bends and Eighteen Turns) ❌ Why avoid: Seeing the viral "nine suns" sunset depends on luck; there are very few days a year when you can see it perfectly. The shuttle bus takes a long time, and the viewing platforms are overcrowded during peak season. There are plenty of similar grassland landscapes in Yili. ✅ Alternative: Tangbula Hundred-Mile Gallery. It combines snow-capped mountains, streams, forests, and grasslands. There are free viewing spots along the way, it's less crowded, and you don't have to squeeze onto fixed viewing platforms. 6. World Devil City (Urho) ❌ Why avoid: The Yardang formations are fairly ordinary. The scenic area's small train makes fixed stops, making the tour feel like an assembly line. It's scorching hot during the day, and the zoomorphic rocks require a very strong imagination. A short stop if you're passing by is fine, but don't plan a special trip. ✅ Alternative: Urho Wild Yardang (outer area) / Ailik Lake. These are free Yardang wilderness areas with a stronger atmosphere at dusk. 7. Commercialized Lavender Manors in Huocheng ❌ Why avoid: These are large artificial manors with a very short flowering period (only about 10 days). If you go too early, they haven't bloomed; if you go too late, they've been harvested. Many manors are identical, crowded during peak season, and photos rely entirely on fenced-in sets. ✅ Alternative: Wild lavender fields along G218 and S219. These are small, free roadside flower fields paired with distant snow-capped mountains—completely natural. 8. Baihaba Village ❌ Why avoid: Known as the "First Village in the Northwest," its landscape is highly similar to Hemu, with wooden houses, forests, and meadows. You need an extra border permit, pay for admission tickets and shuttle buses, and it's further away. Just choose either Hemu or Baihaba; there's no need to visit both. ✅ Alternative: Hemu. The village is larger, and the sunrise mist at Hadeng Platform and the stargazing experience are more well-developed. 9. Karez Folklore Garden ❌ Why avoid: The exhibition hall is small and can be toured in ten minutes, but the ticket isn't cheap. It's mostly commercialized displays with limited tunnels. It's only suitable for in-depth cultural study tours; general tourists will find it underwhelming. ✅ Alternative: Karez Park (larger scale, more complete displays), or go directly to the villages on the outskirts of Grape Valley to see the original water conservancy relics. 10. Urumqi International Grand Bazaar (for deep shopping) ❌ Why avoid: The architecture is great for photos, but the local specialties inside are overpriced, and the shops are all the same. Setting aside half a day to browse shops and compare prices is a waste of time. ✅ Alternative: The streets around the Grand Bazaar. You can take photos of the architecture, domes, and arches from the outside. For dried fruits and local specialties, go to large local supermarkets for more reasonable prices. 📌 Core Logic for Itinerary Planning Most of the best scenery in Xinjiang is on the road. You can encounter the same types of landscapes, grasslands, and lakes found in many paid scenic areas right along the national highways. Loop route planning principle: Choose one out of similar landscapes. Don't visit multiple grasslands at once; the same applies to Yardangs and lakes to avoid aesthetic fatigue and repetitive travel. Separate your choices for cultural and natural scenery: geology and history enthusiasts can keep the No. 3 Mine and Karez on their list; if you're just looking for scenery, prioritize the alternatives above. ⚠️ Honest Travel Advice & Tips to Avoid Pitfalls ✅ Seasonality: Grasslands are best in June–July, Northern Xinjiang autumn colors from Sept 20–Oct 5, and lavender in mid-to-late June. Travel off-peak to avoid high prices and crowds during the peak season. ✅ Documents: For Baihaba and some border areas, get your border permit in advance and fill in the corresponding county/city as the destination. ✅ Transportation: Distances in Xinjiang are vast, often requiring 4–6 hours of driving. Don't add hundreds of kilometers of backtracking for a niche viral spot. ✅ Drones: Many scenic areas and border lines are no-fly zones. Check regulations for aerial photography in canyons and Yardangs in advance. 💡 Summary in a nutshell Xinjiang's beauty isn't a game of checking off a viral bucket list; there's no need to force yourself to visit over-filtered attractions. Learn to choose between similar landscapes and replace them with less crowded, free, and more stunning alternatives. Saving a significant amount of travel time is the only way to truly experience the vastness of the Western Regions' mountains and rivers.
Beijing New Exhibition | Replicas of Lost Century-Old Guangsheng Temple Murals Return Home
❤️Just before the Mid-Autumn Festival, the China National Arts and Crafts Museum officially opened its latest blockbuster exhibition: "Tracing Ancient Murals, Reaching Far with Painting—Exhibition of Replicas of the 'Medicine Buddha Assembly' from Guangsheng Temple and Ancient Chinese Murals." For the first time, research-based replicas of the massive Yuan Dynasty Guangsheng Temple murals, which have been lost overseas for nearly a century, are on public display with a similarity of up to 95%. In our lifetime, without needing to travel to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in the US, we can now admire the complete original appearance of this legendary national treasure right here in Beijing. It is absolutely a must-see cultural exhibition for the end of 2026. ❤️Almost everyone has heard of the Dunhuang murals, but not everyone knows the top-tier status of the Guangsheng Temple murals. Located in Hongtong, Shanxi, and founded in the Eastern Han Dynasty, the murals here are the pinnacle of Yuan Dynasty temple murals, featuring rich, elegant colors and vivid character expressions. However, since being divided into 274 fragments and circulated overseas in 1928, they have been housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in the US and have never returned to China in their complete form for a century. The significance of this exhibition goes without saying. Here is a summary of the four major highlights: 1️⃣Core Exhibit: Replica of the Yuan Dynasty "Medicine Buddha Assembly" 💡The full-scale replica mural is not only a stunning 7 meters wide, but it also restores all the details missing from the overseas fragments. This may be the closest an ordinary person will ever get to the original national treasure. 2️⃣Northern Qi Relics: Replicas of Murals from the Tomb of Xu Xianxiu in Taiyuan 💡As representative works of Northern Dynasty murals in Shanxi, the figures are simple and lively, with warm and elegant colors, witnessing the mature techniques of early Chinese murals and full of historical texture. 3️⃣Silk Road Mural Cluster 💡A concentrated display of replica works from the Mogao Caves in Dunhuang, Yulin Caves, ancient Kucha, and Gaochang, showcasing magnificent colors, exquisite patterns, and clearly demonstrating the stylistic evolution and cultural integration of Silk Road murals. 4️⃣Exclusive Research Materials 💡The exhibition features experimental panels of mural sections, manuscripts of the copying process, academic research papers, and historical materials on the evolution of ancient temples, offering an immersive way to unlock the intangible cultural heritage techniques of mural painting. 📍Venue: China National Arts and Crafts Museum (China Intangible Cultural Heritage Museum), 1st Floor, Exhibition Halls 1 & 2 📅Dates: Sep 24, 2026 – Nov 15, 2026 🎫Tickets: Free reservation (real-name reservation via official WeChat account) ⏰Hours: Tue–Sun 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, last entry at 4:00 PM, closed on Mondays Travel Guide Editorial Department Community Creation Center
Xinjiang Travel Guide: A 7-Day Essential Itinerary to Avoid Pitfalls and Traps
Ladies! You really need to do your homework before visiting Xinjiang! 😭 Xinjiang is absolutely massive, and the distances between attractions are enough to make you question your life choices 😱 If you're short on time, you really need to learn how to prioritize! Save this guide to avoid common pitfalls and make the most of your time in the most beautiful spots~ 💫 🌟**Must-visit spots you won't regret:** 💙**Sayram Lake**: Azure waters paired with snow-capped mountains and fields of flowers—driving around the lake is an absolute blast! Every photo you take will look like a professional shot 📸 🌿**Nalati Grassland**: Vast alpine grasslands with herds of cattle and sheep—it perfectly captures the classic imagery of "wind blowing through the grass to reveal the livestock"! The atmosphere here is incredible! 🏔️**Kanas Lake**: The lake's color changes with the light, and the layered mountains and forests are stunning. It's perfect for photos! 🏛️**Jiaohe Ruins**: A thousand-year-old site in the Western Regions. Walking through it, you can feel the weight of history—it's incredibly atmospheric. 🛣️**Duku Highway**: A free scenic highway! You'll travel through grasslands and canyons, and the scenery is absolutely breathtaking. 🏡**Hemu Village**: Wooden cabins nestled among birch forests. It's especially healing in the autumn—it feels just like a fairy tale world! ⏰**Not recommended if you're short on time:** ❌**Heavenly Lake of Tianshan**: There are many similar alpine lakes, so you can skip this if you're short on time. ❌**Flaming Mountains**: It's just way too hot in the summer 🥵, and it's not particularly impressive to visit. ❌**Bayanbulak**: It's extremely crowded during peak season, and the travel time to and from the location is quite long. 📝**Travel Tips:** ✔️Attractions in Xinjiang are far apart, so be sure to plan your driving route in advance! ✔️The Duku Highway is seasonal, so remember to check if it's open before you set off. ✔️There's a large temperature difference between day and night, so pack both thick jackets and light tops. ✔️Remember to book tickets for popular attractions in advance. Finally, I want to say: You don't need to try and visit every single attraction! Pick a few core spots to explore at a leisurely pace, avoid the fatigue of constant travel, and your experience will level up! ✨
Just back: Express guide to independent travel in North and South Xinjiang (route included)
Captured 18 "photos of a lifetime" in Xinjiang (express route guide) · Travel like the textbooks, first stop: Xinjiang Just got back from Xinjiang, only took 6 days and 5 nights!! Didn't expect a short trip could cover both North and South Xinjiang ✌🏻 This time I discovered the treasure C909 Frontier Express, It cut my North-South Xinjiang itinerary in half, Leaving all the time wasted on the road for the scenery 🏻 Overlooking the stunning Tianshan Mountains from the plane, Get a new perspective for photos 📷 Join me to see Xinjiang from a different angle ⛰️ · 🟠 How to get there? ✅ Long-haul transport: Shanghai direct flight to Turpan ✅ Intra-Xinjiang connecting flights: Turpan → Kashgar → Yining (C909 for the whole journey) ⏰: Flight time 1–2 hours ☑️ Save time and effort: Say goodbye to all-day bumpy rides, double your sightseeing time ☑️ Great value for money 👍🏻 ☑️ Comfortable ride, smooth and clean cabin, stress-free short-haul flight · ⚫️ How to play? 1️⃣ Day 1: Shanghai – Turpan Sightseeing route: [Turpan Grandpa's Antique Shop – Kurban Folk Museum – Flaming Mountains – Tuyugou] ‼️ Turpan is very hot, remember to stay cool and prevent heatstroke · 2️⃣ Day 2: ✈️ Turpan – Kashgar Kashgar Old Town day trip: East Gate – Na Shi Man Homestay – Genggong Temple – Sky Garden – Old Town Corner – Guli Stage – Zhuzi Alley – Rainbow Alley – Budai Alley ‼️ For those with more time, you can spend 2 days wandering around the East and West cities · 3️⃣ Day 3: Pamir Plateau (China-Pakistan Friendship Highway G314) Suitable for self-driving or chartered car [Oytag Red Mountain – Baisha Lake (Qiakelake Lake) – Karakul Lake (facing Muztagh Ata)] · 4️⃣ Day 4: ✈️ Kashgar – Yining Yining Liuxing Street city walk [Gongren Street Entrance – Liguang Street – Sailimu Street – Central Square – Gongren Street] · 5️⃣ Day 5: Sayram Lake day trip Sightseeing bus route: [East Gate Visitor Center → Santai Ancient Post → Songshutou → Jinhua Zihui → Kele Yongzhu → Xihai Grassland → Dianjiangtai → Film and Television City → North Gate → Fengfan Creek → Boerhan Mountain → Santai Grassland → Moon Bay → East Gate Visitor Center.] 📷: The main photo spot is still at Songshutou!!! 6️⃣ Day 6: Tangbula Hundred-Mile Gallery day trip · Used to travel in Xinjiang, rushing the whole time, physically and mentally exhausted 😫 Now, travel Xinjiang with the C909 Frontier Express, Soaring through North and South Xinjiang, saving time and money while being more comfortable, Even on a short trip, you can check off the scenery of 3 places at once, This is the right way to travel in Xinjiang!
I'm obsessed! Staying in a Western Regions earthen castle manor in Turpan
Who says a trip to Turpan is just about rushing between sightseeing spots? ✨ I was absolutely blown away by this earthy-yellow manor hidden in the oasis! The castle architecture with its earthen texture replicates ancient Western Regions towers. With adobe arches and intricate cut-out carvings, it feels like stepping into a thousand-year-old Western Regions dream. 🌆 Walking through the long arched corridors, the warm lighting gently unfolds. The ambiance in the public areas is absolutely top-tier. From the handmade fabric decor to the vintage cut-out lamps, every detail is perfect. The rooms continue the rustic Western Regions style. Warm brown walls, ethnic-style carpets, and soft lighting wash away the fatigue of travel. After a busy day of rushing around, relaxing here in peace is so healing. 🌿 Outside the window is the lush oasis; inside is a vintage secret realm. No need to travel all the way to Morocco; you can experience the unique romance of the Western Regions right here in Turpan. If you're traveling to Turpan, be sure to add this manor to your bucket list! ✅ 📍: Rizamat Manor 💡 Stay tips: The lighting at dusk is incredible for photos, and the castle's atmosphere is next level!
🇨🇳 ZONE 7 — NORTHWEST CHINA: The Silk Road, Deserts, Snow-Capped Mountains, and Ancient Cities 🏜️🏔️
If you’ve explored China before and want to see a side that feels completely different from the traditional image, this is the region for you. ✨ Northwest China covers Shaanxi, Gansu, Qinghai, Ningxia, and Xinjiang. It’s defined by vast, sweeping landscapes, the rich heritage of the Silk Road, and natural beauty that changes with every stop. 📍 1. Xi’an — Shaanxi 🏯 A historic city that serves as the perfect gateway to the Silk Road. Highlights include the Terracotta Warriors, the Xi’an City Wall, the Muslim Quarter, and the vibrant Datang Everbright City. Spend your days exploring ancient relics and your evenings wandering through the city while indulging in local delicacies. In 2026, Xi’an was designated as a key city for inbound tourism development, with international arrivals hitting new record highs this year. ✈️ (Xi’an China) 📍 2. Dunhuang — Gansu 🏜️ A small desert city packed with world-class history. The Mogao Caves and Mingsha Mountain & Crescent Lake are absolute musts. 🎨🐪 The sight of golden sands meeting a lush oasis against a backdrop of towering dunes is an atmosphere that is truly hard to replicate anywhere else. By 2026, Dunhuang continues to advance its cultural tourism and digital visitor services, including improved navigation systems and smart amenities within its scenic areas. (Gansu Government Service Network) 📍 3. Zhangye — Gansu 🌈 Home to the famous Rainbow Mountains, or Zhangye Danxia, the star of any trip here. The layers of red, orange, yellow, and brown rock look like a natural painting. 📸 Beyond Danxia, you can also explore Binggou Danxia, Pingshan Lake Grand Canyon, and the Giant Buddha Temple. In 2026, Zhangye Danxia remains a centerpiece of the Hexi Corridor route. Summer tourism continues to surge, with visitor numbers at the Danxia area surpassing 1 million as early as the beginning of July. (Gansu Government Service Network) 📍 4. Qinghai Lake — Qinghai 💙🏔️ A massive plateau lake surrounded by mountains, grasslands, and an endless sky. This area is better suited for road trips and scenic drives rather than rushing between checkpoints. 🚗 As of 2026, Qinghai is focusing on eco-tourism and developing routes around the lake, including water-based tourism projects and various nature-integrated travel paths. (Qinghai Provincial Department of Transport) 📍 5. Xinjiang 🏔️🏜️ You can’t talk about Northwest China without mentioning Xinjiang. The region is so vast that one trip is rarely enough. From Kashgar and Turpan to Ili, Sayram Lake, Altay, and the Tianshan Mountains. The charm lies in traveling through diverse landscapes in a single journey—deserts, grasslands, lakes, snow-capped peaks, and rich local cultures. 🌿 The 2026 outlook is particularly exciting, as Xinjiang is aggressively promoting international tourism. This includes new routes, road trip circuits, border tourism, and upgraded services for foreign travelers. In 2025, Xinjiang welcomed 323 million tourists, setting a new record for the region. (Xinjiang Government) 🚆 How to Travel This Zone? Because the distances are immense, don’t try to see every city in a single trip! 😆 🏯 History Buffs: Xi’an → Dunhuang → Zhangye 🏜️ Desert & Silk Road Enthusiasts: Dunhuang → Zhangye → Jiayuguan 🏔️ Nature Lovers: Qinghai Lake → Gansu → Xinjiang 🌿 The Ultimate Xinjiang Experience: Urumqi → Sayram Lake → Ili → Kashgar 🚄 Major hubs like Xi’an, Zhangye, and Jiayuguan are well-connected by high-speed rail. For Xinjiang and Qinghai, a combination of flights, trains, and car rentals or local tours is recommended. 🌤️ When to Go? 🌸 Apr–May → Great weather and fewer crowds than peak season. ☀️ Jun–Sep → Ideal for Qinghai and Xinjiang, though some areas can be hot during the day. 🍁 Sep–Oct → ⭐ Peak beauty, especially in Xinjiang and mountainous areas. ❄️ Nov–Mar → Perfect for snow lovers and winter travel, though some routes may have weather-related restrictions. 💡 Good to Know: Distances in Northwest China are long and weather conditions vary significantly. For high-altitude areas like Qinghai, allow time for acclimatization. Some natural sites may require advance booking or have visitor caps during peak season. ✨ Choose Your Style: 🏯 History → Xi’an 🏜️ Deserts + Ancient Caves → Dunhuang 🌈 Rainbow Mountains → Zhangye 💙 Lakes + Mountains → Qinghai Lake 🏔️ Epic Nature + Cultural Diversity → Xinjiang Northwest China is for those who want to step off the beaten path. It’s not just about beautiful spots; it’s a massive journey through the history of the Silk Road, ancient cultures, and breathtaking natural wonders. 🇨🇳✨
What people are saying about Turpan
Grape Valley
The Grape Valley in Turpan was truly worth the trip! Vast, dense grapevines provided ample shade, with bunches of plump grapes hanging from the vines, a verdant sight that offered a welcome respite from the sweltering heat of Turpan. Visitors could tour the unique drying houses to learn about the raisin-drying process and sample sweet fresh grapes and various dried fruits. The area boasts rich Uyghur folk customs, with folk displays and song and dance performances; the locals are incredibly hospitable. The scenic roads were smooth and easy to walk on, making for a comfortable and worthwhile experience. Finally seeing the Grape Valley I'd only read about in textbooks was a real treat! Full of Western Region charm, it's definitely worth a visit. A trip to Turpan isn't complete without experiencing the unique charm of this fruit-growing region.
M30***15Flaming Mountain Scenic Area
The geological features of the Flaming Mountains are very rare. It was truly amazing to see such red rocks for the first time. It wasn't hot at the end of October, which felt quite nice.
ShirleyKumtag Desert
The last stop on my trip to Turpan was a desert sunset tour. I ended up taking shuttle buses number one and two, which were quite a long journey. Instead, I ended up just driving around the desert, seeing all sorts of cars stuck in the sand and experiencing traffic jams. It was a bit of a shame that there was a fireworks display on National Day, so I had to make it to my next stop.
Anonymous userKarez Folklore Garden
The karez system, with its rich cultural significance, is not only an irrigation system but also an integral part of Xinjiang's culture and history. It embodies the indomitable spirit of the local people in arid environments and is closely linked to their production and lifestyle. Today, the karez system is listed as a national intangible cultural heritage and is considered an important component of Xinjiang culture.
M59***81The Ancient City of Jiaohe
Jiaohe Ancient Village, a must-visit in Turpan, offers a glimpse into a thousand years of folk customs. The rustic earthen houses exude rich ethnic charm. Explore the Bayi residences and ancient sang dwellings for an immersive experience of unique Xinjiang traditional culture.
M33***52Tuyugou
Es un pueblo bonito para visitar, pero la parte que se visita no es donde vive la gente. Por lo contrario se puede entrar a algunas de las casas restauradas
OnesannaTurpan Karez Paradise
Like the tour of Jiaohe Ancient City, this one was also guided by Guli. She called in the morning to confirm the time and arrived four hours early to wait for us – incredibly reliable! Guli has over ten years of experience, her pacing is just right, and it's suitable for families with elderly members.
jyayoiJiaohe Post Scenic Area—Source of Karez
A long time ago when I visited Turpan, there was only one attraction related to the Karez irrigation system. Now, three have been developed: the Karez Well Park, the Karez Well Folk Culture Park, and the Karez Well Source. My chartered driver recommended this one; it's quite deep, but there's an elevator down. It's worth a look for basic information.
Anonymous userTuyugou Grottoes
How to put it? Only people who are very interested in history can understand it. Those who know nothing about this history will only see ruins. You need cultural background and historical knowledge to understand the cultural value behind it.
Anonymous userMazar Village of Tuyuk Valley
A very picturesque site to be visited during the trip to this region. Try to find all secret spots around the mosque for the best pictures ever :)
Pavel ShchTurpan FAQ
Destinations near Turpan
Recommended
Popular destinations
- Rio de Janeiro Travel Guide
- Niagara Falls Travel Guide
- Niagara-on-the-Lake Travel Guide
- Shanghai Travel Guide
- Mackinac Island Travel Guide
- Guam Travel Guide
- Zhangjiajie Travel Guide
- Gatwick Travel Guide
- Samal Island Travel Guide
- Subic Bay Travel Guide
- Leavenworth Travel Guide
- Luoyang Travel Guide
- La Spezia Travel Guide
- Koror Travel Guide
- Faro District Travel Guide
- Vaxholm Travel Guide
- Kuala Lumpur Travel Guide
- Stagira-Akanthos Travel Guide
- Jingyuan Travel Guide
- Qichun Travel Guide
Popular attractions
- Disneyland Park California Tickets
- Universal Studios Hollywood Tickets
- Qushui Lanting Tickets
- Walt Disney World Resort Tickets
- Billboard Live TOKYO Tickets
- Sagrada Familia Tickets
- Epcot Tickets
- LEGOLAND California Tickets
- Billboard Live OSAKA Tickets
- Mutianyu Great Wall Tickets
- SHIBUYA SKY Tickets
- Paluh Gelombang Field Tickets
- Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Tickets
- Qixing Mountain Via Ferrata Tickets
- Hong Kong Disneyland Tickets
- Rabat Medina Tickets
- Suifenhe Museum Tickets
- Geba Bridge Tickets
- Harry L. Johnson Museum Tickets
- Antoniou Family Olive Press Tickets
Popular events
- gamescom asia x Thailand Game Show 2026
- Haunted Ship Halloween Party
- 2026 MAMA AWARDS
- Paris | D AWARDS 2027 in PARIS
- Shop the Stables 2026
- Seoul | The 18th Melon Music Awards (MMA2026)
- Dan Mohler - Truth That Restores Christian Conference
- Taipei | JEONGHAN X JOSHUA JOURNEY INTO [DREAMING]
- Bishop Corby Bush, Sr. 50 Years in Ministry Celebration
- Fairmont Hotel San Francisco MEGA HALLOWEEN Party
- Fright Night in Fenway: Halloween Night All Access Bar Pass
- Nightmare in Wynwood - Halloween Bar Crawl - DAY TWO (Saturday, October 31)
- FIRST ANNUAL - CARNIVAL OF CHAOS - HALLOWEEN EVENT (FREE W/ COSTUMES+RSVP)
- 2026 Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival | Online Free Admission Offer
- 2027 UEFA Champions League final
- Drake Night at Skybar w/ Ben Bruud
- Once Upon a Carnival: A Bookish Night Under the Big Top
- Noise Complaints Presents: The Haunted Factory
- 19th Annual MNDT Dance/Cheer Showcase and Dance Clinic
- NOCHE LOCA | HALLOWEEN PARTY