Top 5 Attractions in Xinjiang You Must Visit

Xinjiang is a vast area and the largest Province in China. It is known for its important part of the Silk Road, but also for its diverse landscapes, which include high, snow-covered mountains, vast deserts like the Taklamakan Desert, lush grasslands, peaceful lakes, and fertile river valleys. This makes Xinjiang a place of breathtaking natural beauty.

The region is also culturally rich and diverse. It's home to many different ethnic groups, with the Uyghurs, a Turkic ethnic group, being the most numerous. Other groups include Kazakhs, Huis, Kyrgyz, and Han Chinese. This mix of cultures is reflected in the area's traditions, languages, and religions, with Islam being the main religion among several of the groups.

This old trade route didn't just carry goods like silk and spices; it also allowed for the sharing of ideas, religions, and cultures. This historical exchange can still be seen today in the region's architecture, music, dance, and food. Here are the top 5 attractions in Xinjiang that you should visit on your journey.

You can visit these attractions with this Xinjiang tour.

Kanas Lake

Kanas Lake is located in the Altai Mountains in northern Xinjiang and is renowned for its stunning natural scenery. The lake lies in a valley surrounded by dense forests and towering mountains, offering spectacular views that draw visitors from around the world. Each season transforms the lake beautifully, with vibrant greenery in the spring and summer, rich golden colors in the autumn, and a peaceful snow-covered landscape in the winter.

Visitors to Kanas Lake have plenty of activities to enjoy. Hiking and trekking at Kanas Lake are very popular, with trails that range from easy walks along the lake’s edge to more challenging hikes up the nearby mountains. These trails provide fantastic views and a chance to enjoy the peaceful natural environment. Photography lovers will find great opportunities to capture beautiful scenes, especially during sunrise and sunset when the light is perfect. Watching wildlife is another exciting activity here, with the chance to see animals like deer, foxes, and various birds in their natural surroundings.

There is a myth about Kanas that is popular among travelers and also the locals. There are stories about the Kanas Lake Monster, similar to the famous Loch Ness Monster in Scotland. According to local legends and some reported sightings, a mysterious creature is believed to live in the lake’s deep waters. These stories make the lake even more interesting, attracting those who are curious or hoping to spot the legendary creature.

With its gorgeous natural beauty, fun outdoor activities, and intriguing myths, Kanas Lake is a fascinating place to visit in Xinjiang. It offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of mystery.

Kashgar Old Town

Kashgar Old Town is a fascinating historical area in the far west of Xinjiang. Known for its rich history as a key trading center on the ancient Silk Road, Kashgar was where traders and travelers from different parts of Asia and beyond would meet, bringing together a mix of cultures, traditions, and religions.

The architecture in Kashgar Old Town reflects this rich history, showcasing a mix of Islamic and traditional Uyghur styles. As you walk through the narrow, twisting streets, you can see houses and mosques with beautifully carved wooden doors and detailed plasterwork, showing the skill of local craftsmen. The mudbrick houses and traditional teahouses help maintain the old-world feel of the area.

However, recently the Chinese government decided that it was time to renovate the architecture of the Kashar Old Town, and now it looks pretty amazing. The history and uniqueness in preserved, and you can feel the authenticity of the old town. 

Kashgar is also famous for its lively markets, especially the Sunday Market. This large market draws both locals and visitors, offering a variety of items like spices, silk, handmade crafts, and jewelry. It's a great place to experience the local way of life and see the traditional economic activities that have supported Kashgar's people for generations.

Visiting Kashgar Old Town is like stepping into both the past and present of one of China's most historically significant areas. It offers a chance to learn about the Silk Road and enjoy the vibrant traditions of the Uyghur people, making it a truly unique cultural experience.

Hemu Village

Hemu Village is one of the most beautiful villages in the Altai region of Xinjiang, well-known for its stunning natural surroundings and picturesque wooden houses. Tucked away in a peaceful valley and surrounded by high mountains and clear rivers, Hemu stands out with its traditional wooden architecture. The houses here are made from logs and have steep roofs that help them withstand the heavy snow in winter.

There are wooden houses scattered around the village, smoke rising from the chimneys, and all the small bridges on the rivers create an amazing mountain village scenery. The smoke that comes out of the chimneys in the morning, creates a picture of a fairyland, and it's a must-see during the visit to the village.

Autumn is the best time to visit Hemu Village if you're interested in photography. During this season, the village is covered in golden leaves, and early snows dust the mountain tops, creating a gorgeous backdrop for photos. The soft light of autumn also adds to the beauty, making it a perfect time to capture the quaint and serene life in the village.

Hemu is home to the Tuvan people, an ethnic group that has preserved its rich culture and traditional way of life over the centuries. The Tuvans in Hemu mainly work in herding and farming, living closely with the land. Visitors to Hemu can learn about the Tuvan lifestyle through their music, language, and daily activities. Traditional ceremonies and musical performances, including throat singing, are central to their culture. The Tuvan people are also very welcoming, often sharing their customs and traditions with visitors, which adds a deep cultural dimension to the visit.

Urumqi

Urumqi is the capital of Xinjiang, and it is a unique city where modern life meets traditional cultures. Located far from any ocean, it holds the title of the world's most inland city, adding a special intrigue to its character. The mix of Uyghurs, Kazaks, and Huis makes this city of ancient customs and modern development makes Urumqi an interesting place to explore.

A must-visit in Urumqi is the Xinjiang Regional Museum. This museum is great for anyone interested in learning about the area's history and the various ethnic groups that live there. The museum has many interesting things to see, from ancient artifacts to traditional costumes, and even well-preserved mummies that highlight Xinjiang's connections to the historic Silk Road.

Urumqi also offers a vibrant scene for food lovers and shoppers. The local cuisine reflects the city's cultural diversity, with traditional Uyghur dishes like lamb kebabs and pilaf, Kazakh dishes like beshbarmak, and popular Chinese foods. For shopping, Urumqi's markets and malls are a mix of old and new. The Grand Bazaar is particularly lively, where you can buy traditional crafts such as Uyghur musical instruments and beautifully embroidered caps, alongside modern goods like electronics and fashionable clothing.

Ancient City of Jiaohe

The Ancient City of Jiaohe is an impressive archaeological site located near Turpan in Xinjiang, China. Known as one of the best-preserved earthen cities in the world, Jiaohe offers visitors a rare look into ancient urban life. The city is uniquely situated on a large island in the middle of a river, providing natural protection from invaders over the centuries. The ruins are made almost entirely of compacted earth, which has remarkably withstood the harsh desert climate for many years.

Jiaohe holds great historical importance as it was a key strategic outpost on the Silk Road. This famous trade route connected the East and West, allowing not just goods like silk and spices to be traded, but also facilitating the exchange of cultural, religious, and technological ideas across civilizations. The architecture of Jiaohe is unique, with its homes and government buildings carved right into the earth, creating a natural fortress that was both practical and secure.

If you plan to visit Jiaohe, here are some tips to make your trip memorable. One of the best times for a visit is during sunset. The evening light gives the ruins a golden glow, creating a magical and peaceful atmosphere. This time also offers cooler temperatures and excellent lighting for taking stunning photographs. The views from the site are panoramic, ideal for capturing the striking contrast between the earthy ruins and the rugged desert landscape around them.

When visiting, it’s a good idea to wear comfortable shoes because there's quite a bit of walking on uneven ground. Since there's very little shade, bringing water and sun protection is also essential. Consider taking a guided tour; guides can share fascinating details about the history and architecture of the site.

These are the top 5 attractions in Xinjiang that we choose for you. There is a lot more to see visit and experience in Xinjiang. The natural beauty is breathtaking in every season of the year, and the tradition that people have here is an open book for those who want to learn more about the ancient Silk Road and the tradition of the incredible mixture of people here.