Chengdu's Sansheng Township and a Xinjiang Secret Realm Adventure

🎉Introduction: A Perfect Blend of Chengdu and Xinjiang If you yearn for the idyllic charm of Chengdu's countryside and the breathtaking landscapes of Xinjiang, this guide is tailor-made for you! From the vibrant rapeseed flower fields of Hongbai Road in Sansheng Township, Chengdu, to the grasslands, ancient trails, and snow-capped mountains of Xinjiang, this itinerary offers a taste of two distinct worlds. Join me as I share my personal experiences and detailed guide to navigating these hidden gems! 🌼First Stop: Hongbai Road Rapeseed Flower Fields, Sansheng Township, Chengdu 📍Location: Hongbai Road, Sansheng Township, Jinjiang District, Chengdu 🌸Best Viewing Time: Mid-March to early April Sansheng Township is Chengdu's backyard garden, and the rapeseed flower fields of Hongbai Road are synonymous with spring! The boundless sea of golden rapeseed blossoms shimmers under the sunlight, resembling a picturesque painting. Stroll along the paths, breathe in the delicate floral fragrance, and capture stunning photos with every click. 📸Photography Tips: Wear light-colored clothing to create a striking contrast with the rapeseed flowers. The softest light for photography is during the morning or evening. Bring props like straw hats and flower baskets to add a touch of whimsy to your photos. 🚗Transportation: Approximately 30 minutes by car from downtown Chengdu, or take Subway Line 7 to Sichuan Normal University Station and then a taxi. 🏞️Second Stop: Qiaxi and Kurdening 📍Location: Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang 🌿Best Time to Visit: June to September Qiaxi and Kurdening are two jewels of Ili, boasting pristine forests, crystal-clear streams, and vast grasslands. Qiaxi's snow-capped mountains complement the grasslands, while Kurdening captivates visitors with its tranquility and mystique. 🌟My Experience: In Qiaxi, I rode a local horse along a stream, feeling like I had stepped into a fairy tale. The nights in Kurdening were exceptionally peaceful, with a breathtaking view of the starry sky. 🚗Transportation: Approximately 2 hours by car from Yining city. Chartering a car or joining a tour is recommended. 🌾Third Stop: Kalajun Grassland 📍Location: Tekes County, Xinjiang 🌄Best Time to Visit: May to August Known as the "sky grassland," Kalajun features undulating terrain, flocks of sheep, and fields of wildflowers. From a high vantage point, the grassland merges with the snow-capped mountains, creating a magnificent panorama. 🌟My Experience: I attended a local Kazakh wedding, immersing myself in the rich ethnic culture. Spending the night in a yurt on the grassland, lulled to sleep by the wind, was a unique experience. 🚗Transportation: Approximately 1 hour by car from Tekes County. 🏔️Fourth Stop: Shata 📍Location: Zhaosu County, Xinjiang ❄️Best Time to Visit: June to September Famous for its snow-capped mountains and canyons, Shata is a paradise for hikers. Trekking along the ancient Shata Trail reveals majestic snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and pristine forests. 🌟My Experience: I opted for a light hike, and although it was a bit tiring, the sight of the snow-capped mountains made all the fatigue disappear. 🚗Transportation: Approximately 1.5 hours by car from Zhaosu County. 🛖Fifth Stop: Qiongkushtai Village 📍Location: Tekes County, Xinjiang 🌲Best Time to Visit: June to September Qiongkushtai is a small village nestled deep in the mountains, where wooden houses, grasslands, and forests create a picturesque scene. The tranquility and simplicity of the village are captivating. 🌟My Experience: I spent a night here, awakened by birdsong in the morning. Opening the window revealed a view of the grassland shrouded in mist, like a scene from a dream. 🚗Transportation: Approximately 2 hours by car from Tekes County. 🌿Sixth Stop: Tangbula Grassland 📍Location: Nileke County, Xinjiang 🌻Best Time to Visit: June to August Dubbed the "Hundred-Mile Gallery," Tangbula Grassland boasts continuous snow-capped mountains, clear rivers, and fields of wildflowers. Every frame is a scenic masterpiece as you drive through the grassland. 🌟My Experience: I enjoyed a picnic on the grassland, watching the cattle and sheep graze peacefully in the distance, as if time had slowed down. 🚗Transportation: Approximately 1 hour by car from Nileke County. 🌅Seventh Stop: Bayanbulak 📍Location: Hejing County, Xinjiang 🌊Best Time to Visit: June to September Bayanbulak is renowned for its Nine Bends and Eighteen Turns and Swan Lake. At sunset, the meandering river resembles a golden ribbon, a breathtaking sight. 🌟My Experience: I waited for the sunset here, watching the sun slowly descend as the river reflected the golden light, feeling like I was in a painting. 🚗Transportation: Approximately 3 hours by car from Nalati Town. 🥾Eighth Stop: Monkette Ancient Trail 📍Location: Nileke County, Xinjiang 🏞️Best Time to Visit: June to September The Monkette Ancient Trail is a historic hiking route featuring magnificent canyons, snow-capped mountains, and grasslands. Hiking here feels like traveling through time. 🌟My Experience: I chose a simple hiking route, and although it wasn't long, the scenery was awe-inspiring. 🚗Transportation: Approximately 1.5 hours by car from Nileke County. 🌸Ninth Stop: Nalati Grassland 📍Location: Xinyuan County, Xinjiang 🌼Best Time to Visit: May to August Nalati Grassland is one of Xinjiang's most famous grasslands, with vast meadows, lush forests, and clear rivers. Whether horseback riding or hiking, you can experience the charm of nature. 🌟My Experience: I rode a horse across the grassland, feeling the exhilarating rush of wind in my hair. 🚗Transportation: Approximately 1 hour by car from Xinyuan County. 📝Suggested Itinerary Chengdu: 3 days (Sansheng Township rapeseed flower fields + city cuisine) Xinjiang: 10 days (Ili loop, covering all attractions) 🚗Transportation: It is recommended to fly from Chengdu to Yining and then charter a car or drive to the various attractions in Xinjiang. 💡Tips Xinjiang experiences significant temperature differences between day and night, so remember to bring warm clothing. Comfortable shoes are recommended as some attractions require hiking. Sun protection is essential due to Xinjiang's strong sunlight. Respect local customs and interact with herders in a friendly manner. 🌍A Journey for the Eyes and Soul From the rapeseed flower fields of Chengdu to the grasslands and snow-capped mountains of Xinjiang, this itinerary showcased the diverse beauty of nature. I hope this guide helps you embark on your own dream journey!🌟