Xinjiang is vast, beautiful, and full of contrasts—from alpine lakes to desert wonders. But for first-time travelers, navigating this diverse region can be challenging:
- Some scenic spots have strict entry times—what if you miss them?
- Are ticket prices expensive? When are there free entry periods?
- Which attractions require reservations or real-name registration?
- How do you avoid wasting time in long queues during peak season?
Don’t worry—this guide covers ticket prices, opening hours, smart travel strategies, and common traps to help you explore Xinjiang with ease.
Northern Xinjiang Highlights
1. Kanas Scenic Area (including Jiadengyu, Fairy Bay, Wolong Bay, Hemu Village)
- Ticket Prices (Peak Season):
Entrance: CNY195/person
Shuttle bus: CNY90/person (mandatory)
Hemu requires a separate ticket: CNY60 + CNY90 shuttle
- Opening Time: Mid-April to mid-October, 08:30–18:00 (subject to weather)
- Recommended Tips:
Plan 2–3 days and stay overnight in Hemu to capture misty mornings and starry nights
Book tickets online in advance during peak season
Go to Fairy Bay early in the morning for crowd-free photography
- Pitfall Alert:
No private vehicles allowed inside; shuttle queues can be long—arrive early
Kanas
2. Sayram Lake
- Ticket Prices:
Entrance: CNY75
Sightseeing bus (hop-on hop-off): CNY90
- Opening Time: Early May to October, 08:00–20:00 (arrive before 17:30 recommended)
- Recommended Tips:
Do a full loop around the lake—the west side has the best views
Cycling or renting a car are good options
June–August is the best time for flower fields and lake scenery
- Pitfall Alert:
Strong UV and wind—bring sunscreen; mild altitude symptoms possible
Sayram Lake
3. Bayinbuluke Grassland (Nine Bends of the Kaidu River)
- Ticket Prices:
Entrance: CNY105
Shuttle bus: CNY75 (mandatory)
- Opening Time: June to October, 08:30–18:00
- Recommended Tips:
Best time to shoot the Nine Bends sunset: 18:30–20:00
Walk the boardwalk to the viewing platform
- Pitfall Alert:
Crowds increase after sunset; bring snacks or stay inside the park overnight
Bayinbuluke Grassland
Southern & Central Xinjiang Highlights
1. Kashgar Old Town
- Ticket Price: Free
Opening Time: Open all day (08:00–20:00 recommended) - Recommended Tips:
Dress in ethnic costumes, visit the Xiangfei Tomb, and explore the Grand Bazaar
Experience Uyghur handicrafts and teahouse culture
- Pitfall Alert:
Respect local customs—don’t take photos of residents without permission
Kashgar Old City
Recommended tourist routes
8-Day Xinjiang Pamir Plateau Tour: Urumqi, Pamir Plateau, Kashgar, Tashkurgan & More $ 773
2. Turpan’s “Three in One” Route: Flaming Mountain + Karez + Grape Valley
- Ticket Prices:
Flaming Mountain: CNY45
Karez: CNY40
Grape Valley: CNY40
- Opening Time: 09:00–19:00, year-round
- Recommended Tips:
Perfect for a one-day family trip in summer
Self-drive or hire a car to visit all three
For Flaming Mountain photos, go around noon when the sun is strongest for maximum “heat effect”
- Pitfall Alert:
In summer, surface temps can exceed 50°C—bring water and sun protection
3. Heavenly Lake of Tianshan
- Ticket Prices:
Entrance: CNY125
Shuttle bus: CNY60
- Opening Time: Year-round, 09:00–19:30 (summer hours)
- Recommended Tips:
Full-day route: Heavenly Lake + Needle Peak + Viewing Platform
Take the shuttle up and then walk around the lake
- Pitfall Alert:
The lake freezes in winter—still open, but bring non-slip gear; big temperature difference
Heavenly Lake of Tianshan
Recommended tourist routes
16-Day Xinjiang Panorama Tour: Urumqi, Heavenly Lake, Altay, Nalati, Tashkurgan, Kashgar & More $ 1660
Quick Info Table
| Scenic Spot | Peak Season Ticket (CNY) | Opening Time | Reservation Needed | Shuttle Bus | Notes |
| Kanas | 195 + 90 | Apr–Oct, 08:30–18:00 | ✅ | ✅ | Hemu needs separate ticket |
| Sayram Lake | 75 + 90 | May–Oct, 08:00–20:00 | ✅ | ✅ | Cycling route available |
| Bayinbuluke | 105 + 75 | Jun–Oct, 08:30–18:00 | ✅ | ✅ | Sunset highly recommended |
| Kashgar Old Town | Free | All day | ❌ | ❌ | Great for cultural exploration |
| Flaming Mountain | 45 | All year, 09:00–19:00 | ❌ | ❌ | Hot weather alert |
| Karez System | 40 | All year, 09:00–19:00 | ❌ | ❌ | Cool, great for summer escape |
| Heavenly Lake | 125 + 60 | All year, 09:00–19:30 | ✅ | ✅ | High-altitude lake, strong wind |
Save This Ticket & Time Guide — And Explore the Beauty of Xinjiang!
Xinjiang is vast, with many scenic spots scattered across the region. Some have high ticket prices, seasonal closures, mandatory shuttle services, or real-name reservations. Doing your homework is essential!
Pro Tips:
- Check official websites or the “Visit Xinjiang” mini app for real-time info
- During peak season (June–October), book early and start early
- Mix popular and lesser-known spots to avoid crowds
Planning a DIY trip? Use this info to build your own 3–10 day loop itinerary!
Need help with route planning, private car hire, or a visual PDF version of this guide? Just ask—I’m happy to assist!
