3-Day Tour of Turpan and Shanshan in Xinjiang: A Complete Guide to Popular Attractions

Planning a trip to Turpan and Shanshan in Xinjiang for the long weekend? This guide has everything you need to know for a 3-day trip to both places. Travel with ease and avoid the pitfalls! -- Places to visit: Tianshan Tianchi Lake ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Address: No. 501, Junggar Road, Fukang City, Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region - Opening hours: All day - Duration: 1 day - The lake is like a mirror, reflecting the magnificent Bogda Peak and surrounded by spruce trees. It's like stepping into a fairyland. Flaming Mountains Scenic Area ⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Address: National Highway 312, Gaochang District, Turpan City - Opening hours: 8:30 am–8:00 pm - Duration: 3–4 hours - The red-brown sandstone landscape creates a spectacular scene. This is also the real-life location of the Flaming Mountains in Journey to the West! Jiangbulake Scenic Area ⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Address: Banjiegou Town, Qitai County, Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region - Opening hours: All day - Duration: 1 day - A ski resort in winter, the area boasts picturesque natural scenery all year round. Every step is like a beautiful painting. Kumtag Desert ⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Address: No. 999, Gongyuan Road, Shanshan County, Turpan City - Opening hours: All day - Duration: 2–3 hours - In this sand dune park, you can marvel at the spectacular shifting sand dunes and experience the wonders of the desert. -- **Notes**: 🍽️ Food: Turpan and Shanshan's grilled lamb skewers and pilaf are must-try specialties. Don't miss out! ❄️ December weather: The average daily temperature is around -1°C. Bring warm clothes to cope with the cold weather. 🎁 Local specialties: Turpan raisins and other local specialties are affordable and make great souvenirs. 📸 Photo spots: Tuyugou Grand Canyon and the Thousand Buddha Caves are not to be missed. Capture your travel memories! 💡 Tips: Please respect local religious culture when traveling and avoid entering the interior of temples and other religious sites. -- The adventure to Turpan and Shanshan is waiting for you. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture your unique memories!