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7 Days + 2600km: The Ultimate Xinjiang Roadtrip Travel Guide
Xinjiang Road Trip: 7-Day Adventure Through China's Underrated Province
From Xinjiang's bustling city of Urumqi to the Northern tip of China, join us as we embark on a once in a lifetime roadtrip around China's most underrated province.
When my Chinese husband first asked me if I wanted to go off the beaten path, my first question was "Is Xinjiang safe?" but instead of...
From Xinjiang's bustling city of Urumqi to the Northern tip of China, join us as we embark on a once in a lifetime roadtrip around China's most underrated province.
When my Chinese husband first asked me if I wanted to go off the beaten path, my first question was "Is Xinjiang safe?" but instead of relying on others' opinions, I set out to see for myself and was ultimately shocked and amazed by what I found.
We venture through the remote desert into the grasslands, siberian forests, and Altay mountains to uncover the breathtaking natural beauty and nomadic communities of Xinjiang. We then explored the stunning blue lake of Salimuhu in the Tianshan mountains just kilometers away from the border of Kazakhstan. Our route in autumn covered over 2600km and 7 days to complete, and we hope you can find our itinerary useful and informative, and if not, I hope you find it entertaining at least.
从新疆繁华的乌鲁木齐到中国最北端，加入我们，开始这一生一次的北疆环线自驾游。当我老公第一次问我是否想走不寻常的路时，我第一个问题是“新疆安全吗？”但我没有依赖他人意见，而是亲自去探索，结果被所见震撼。我们穿越沙漠、草原、西伯利亚森林和阿尔泰山脉，发现新疆令人叹为观止的自然美景和游牧地区。我们还探索了天山山脉中靠近哈萨克斯坦边境的美丽的赛里木湖。这次行程超过2600公里，历时7天，希望我们的行程对你有用，如果不是，至少希望你会觉得有趣。
Expat Natt and her husband embarked on a remarkable 7-day, 2600km road trip through Xinjiang, China's most underrated province. Initially questioning Xinjiang's safety, Natt's firsthand experience revealed breathtaking landscapes and nomadic cultures. Their journey took them through diverse terrains: remote deserts, grasslands, Siberian forests, and the Altay Mountains. Highlights included the stunning Salimuhu Lake near Kazakhstan and the exploration of unique nomadic communities. This adventurous trip offers a captivating look at Xinjiang's natural beauty and cultural richness, leaving viewers in awe of its hidden gems.
From Xinjiang's bustling city of Urumqi to the Northern tip of China, join us as we embark on a once in a lifetime roadtrip around China's most underrated province.
When my Chinese husband first asked me if I wanted to go off the beaten path, my first question was "Is Xinjiang safe?" but instead of relying on others' opinions, I set out to see for myself and was ultimately shocked and amazed by what I found.
We venture through the remote desert into the grasslands, siberian forests, and Altay mountains to uncover the breathtaking natural beauty and nomadic communities of Xinjiang. We then explored the stunning blue lake of Salimuhu in the Tianshan mountains just kilometers away from the border of Kazakhstan. Our route in autumn covered over 2600km and 7 days to complete, and we hope you can find our itinerary useful and informative, and if not, I hope you find it entertaining at least.
从新疆繁华的乌鲁木齐到中国最北端，加入我们，开始这一生一次的北疆环线自驾游。当我老公第一次问我是否想走不寻常的路时，我第一个问题是“新疆安全吗？”但我没有依赖他人意见，而是亲自去探索，结果被所见震撼。我们穿越沙漠、草原、西伯利亚森林和阿尔泰山脉，发现新疆令人叹为观止的自然美景和游牧地区。我们还探索了天山山脉中靠近哈萨克斯坦边境的美丽的赛里木湖。这次行程超过2600公里，历时7天，希望我们的行程对你有用，如果不是，至少希望你会觉得有趣。
This Xinjiang road trip vlog documents Expat Natt and her husband's incredible 7-day adventure across 2600km of northwest China. The journey begins in Shanghai before heading to Urumqi, Xinjiang's vibrant capital. Viewers are treated to a delicious culinary tour, starting with lamb skewers and Dangi, a local specialty of potatoes, peppers, chicken, and noodles, showcasing Xinjiang's unique blend of spices and Muslim-influenced cuisine. The Grand Bazaar in Urumqi, China's largest, is explored, highlighting its cultural performances and historical significance as a Silk Road trading hub.
Their road trip takes them through the vast, remote deserts north of Urumqi, a region accessible by only one recently opened road. The journey is punctuated by stunning natural beauty, including unexpected freshwater lakes in the desert and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The couple shares their experience of limited cell service and data, highlighting the use of a Nord Security eSIM for reliable connectivity. They savor the sweetness of Xinjiang's famous melons and enjoy a traditional hand-pulled noodle dish.
Further north, they venture into the Altay Mountains to visit the nomadic Tua people, whose traditional lifestyle and unique culture are beautifully captured. Expat Natt describes their stay in a rustic, traditional home, built half into the ground for warmth, and shares the challenges and rewards of reaching this remote village. The journey continues to the crystal-clear Hu River, crossed by a 100-year-old wooden bridge, and the stunning Kanas Lake, near the borders of Kazakhstan, Russia, and Mongolia. Kanas Lake's vibrant blue waters and snow-capped mountains provide a breathtaking backdrop for exploration, whether by bus, horse, or on foot. Local legends and folklore add to the mystique of the area.
The trip concludes with a visit to Mingsha Shan (Devil City), with its wind-eroded formations, and a camel ride, emphasizing the importance of ethical animal treatment. The vlog ends with a stay in a charming homestay in the tranquil Hangang Village, near Salimu Lake, where Expat Natt reflects on the journey's unexpected beauty and memorable experiences. Throughout the vlog, Expat Natt shares practical travel tips, including accommodation options, transportation advice, and insights into local customs. The vlog offers a unique perspective on Xinjiang, highlighting its safety, beauty, and cultural richness, dispelling any preconceived notions of danger and showcasing the region's hidden gems.
Expat Natt and her husband embarked on an unforgettable 7-day, 2600km road trip through Xinjiang, China. Their journey took them from bustling Urumqi to the remote northern reaches of the province, revealing stunning landscapes and unique cultures. From exploring the Grand Bazaar in Urumqi to traversing deserts, grasslands, and Siberian forests, their adventure was filled with surprising discoveries and heartwarming local encounters. Witness the breathtaking beauty of Salimu Lake, nestled near the Kazakhstan border, and experience the tranquility of the Altay Mountains and the nomadic Tua people. This is a travelogue not to be missed!
Expat Natt's Xinjiang road trip: 2600km of breathtaking scenery, unique cultures, and unforgettable moments. A journey through deserts, mountains, and nomadic villages.
Xinjiang Road Trip: Ultimate Travel Guide to Northern Xinjiang
5:02 Before heading out on a road trip, especially in remote areas, ensure you have a reliable data plan. Consider using an eSIM for seamless connectivity, avoiding the hassle of local SIM cards at the airport.
14:15 While visiting Heru Village, be mindful of local customs and avoid filming personal interactions without consent. Respect their privacy and cultural traditions.
23:09 If you're planning to use a drone in Kanas, remember to register it with the local police beforehand. This ensures compliance with regulations and avoids any potential issues.
29:26 When considering camel rides, prioritize the well-being of the animals. Make sure they are well cared for and that the activity does not cause them harm or distress.
19:20 Accommodation in Northern Xinjiang can be expensive, especially in remote areas. Book in advance, especially during peak seasons, and compare prices across different platforms.
34:07 The perimeter of Lake Salimu is 70 km. Consider driving or only exploring a portion of the lake, depending on your time and physical capabilities.
5:02 Before heading out on a road trip, especially in remote areas, ensure you have a reliable data plan. Consider using an eSIM for seamless connectivity, avoiding the hassle of local SIM cards at the airport.
14:15 While visiting Heru Village, be mindful of local customs and avoid filming personal interactions without consent. Respect their privacy and cultural traditions.
23:09 If you're planning to use a drone in Kanas, remember to register it with the local police beforehand. This ensures compliance with regulations and avoids any potential issues.
29:26 When considering camel rides, prioritize the well-being of the animals. Make sure they are well cared for and that the activity does not cause them harm or distress.
19:20 Accommodation in Northern Xinjiang can be expensive, especially in remote areas. Book in advance, especially during peak seasons, and compare prices across different platforms.
34:07 The perimeter of Lake Salimu is 70 km. Consider driving or only exploring a portion of the lake, depending on your time and physical capabilities.
0:24 Epic Xinjiang Road Trip
0:50 Arrival in Urumqi
2:08 Urumqi Grand Bazaar
6:12 Remote Desert Journey
9:09 Wulong Lake
12:40 Nomadic Tua People
14:48 Heru Village visit
22:27 Kanas Lake Exploration
27:52 Mingsha Shan visit
33:44 Salimu Lake
37:11 Mountain Canyon
38:03 Trip Conclusion
00:00 Day One- Urumqi
06:03 Two- China's Remote Desert
12:35 Day Three- Nomadic Communities in Xinjiang
21:34 Day Four- Heaven on Earth: Kanasi
27:47 Day Five- 800 km in one day
31:22 Day Six- Most Peaceful Place in the World: Sayram Lake
37:00 Day Seven- Hidden Gem: Canyon of Kuitun
中国旅行china travel vlog4k video中国旅行视频travel china新疆乌鲁木齐amwfamwf coupleasian male white femaleamwf travelchina roadtripxinjiang roadtripxinjiang travel guidechina travel guidechina itineraryxinjiang itinerary新疆乌鲁木齐中外夫妇中国美食xinjiang foodis xinjiang safeoff the beaten path不一样的中国真实中国best place in chinawhere to go in china上海中国travel vlogIs Xinjiang safe?
Yes, I set out to see for myself and was ultimately shocked and amazed by what I found. It was much safer than I expected.
What was the food like in Xinjiang?
The food was amazing! I especially loved the lamb skewers, Dangi, and the hand-pulled noodles. The melons were incredibly sweet, some of the best I've ever tasted.
What was the most surprising thing you found on your trip?
Probably the $1 haircut and the fact that I didn't need a ticket to enter the Zhu-long cave!
What was the accommodation like?
The hotels ranged from nice and modern to very rustic and traditional, depending on the location. One hotel was still under construction when we arrived!
What is the best way to get around Xinjiang?
A car is essential for exploring the remote areas. However, there are shuttle buses available for some destinations.
