Trip Moments Recommendations
Qingquan Temple... Urumqi.
Qingquan Temple is a temple located in the scenic area of Shuimogou in Urumqi, and is one of the important landmarks symbolizing the nature and history of this region. The temple has a history of several hundred years and once flourished as a center of Buddhist culture in the area. The name of the temple is derived from the clear spring water that gushes out near the temple, which has been regarded as a spiritual symbol of the temple and sacred by the local residents.
Qingquan Temple is built in traditional Buddhist architectural style, with various historical buildings such as the main hall, bell tower, and Buddha statues in its spacious grounds. The temple is also surrounded by lush forests and mountains, boasting grandeur in scale. In the past, it was used as a center for Buddhist monks' practice, and now remains an important place to introduce visitors to the Buddhist history and cultural depth of Urumqi, making it a must-visit place.
Shuimogou Scenic Area... Urumqi.
Shuimogou Scenic Area is a AAAA-level tourist attraction located in the northeast of Urumqi, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, where nature and culture blend harmoniously. It is a popular spot that can be enjoyed without an entrance fee. Within the park, there are beautiful natural landscapes such as Shuta Mountain, Qingtian Mountain, and Hot Spring Mountain, as well as historical and cultural sites like Qingtian Temple and Gugu Theater. The hot springs, in particular, maintain a temperature of 28-30°C year-round and offer health benefits. Visitors can enjoy various activities such as walking, hiking, hot spring baths, boating on the lake, and cable car rides... However, I'm not sure if the hot springs are currently in operation.
Historically, the name originated from the Qing Dynasty army setting up waterwheels (shuimo) here, and it has now become a popular spot for relaxation and leisure.
Urumqi Museum...
Urumqi Museum is a photo spot that combines the delicacy of Chinese artworks with grand interiors. The high ceilings and splendid lighting make the space stand out even more, and the traditional ceramics and paintings create a vintage atmosphere. Especially, the unique Chinese furniture and intricate crafts placed in the middle of the large exhibition hall come to life even more vividly through the lens. Every time you press the camera shutter, this place captures stories in time, making it like a canvas that encapsulates the essence of Chinese culture and art for travelers who love photography... However, the grandeur that cannot be captured in beautiful photos can only be felt by visiting the place, so it is recommended to visit.
Urumqi Hongguang Mountain Tourist Area..
Urumqi Hongguang Mountain's Central Asia-themed Xinjiang Uygur Theme Park has recently become a popular photo spot on social media. This place is especially popular among women because it allows for "overseas travel photo"-like shots. Although it is not yet completed, the blue-toned background and three photo walls can be beautifully captured from the right angles. Additionally, there are recreations of major cultural landmarks along the Silk Road, giving visitors the feeling of traveling from Chang'an to the Western Regions. It is easily accessible near the Hilton Hotel on the way to Dafo Temple, making it convenient to visit even by public transportation.
Hongguangshan Theme Park... Urumqi.
Hongguangshan's Islamic theme park has a charm that makes you feel like you've stepped into another world. The traditional Xinjiang Uyghur architecture in earthy tones blends with the winter snow, creating a serene and exotic atmosphere. The snow on the round doors and arched patterns highlights the details of the buildings, and the contrast between the warm earthy tones and the cold white snow creates a stunning scene. From the spacious square to the intricate buildings, every spot is perfect for capturing Instagram-worthy photos that you won't want to miss.
This place is especially perfect for capturing the beauty of Uyghur architecture amidst the tranquility of winter. Record a unique winter experience at the snow-covered Hongguangshan Theme Park...
The Daeungjeon Hall of Hongguang Mountain Daebulsa Temple
The combination of the red glowing walls and the snow-covered winter scenery is truly artistic. The white snow covers the tiles, and icicles hang from the eaves, creating a beautiful harmony between nature and traditional architecture. The striking contrast between the red walls and the white snow is perfect for photography. With a slight adjustment of the angle, you can capture the delicate curves of the tiles and the sparkle of the icicles in detail. If you are traveling in winter, take a masterpiece photo here. The snow-covered Daebulsa Temple will be an emotional photo spot in itself.
Snow-covered Hongguang Mountain in Urumqi..
The snow-covered Hongguang Mountain in Urumqi and the splendid entrance of Dafu Temple within it offer an unmissable scene for winter travelers. The white snow quietly settles on the red and blue walls, signs, and golden decorations of the architecture, making it feel like a scene from an Oriental painting. The intricate gates and carvings of Dafu Temple shine even more vividly in the snow, revealing an exotic beauty in the cold, clear air. The harmony of the snowy landscape and the temple goes beyond photography, evoking a sense of mysterious tranquility in winter. Take a step-by-step walk and capture unforgettable scenes of Hongguang Mountain in winter with your camera.
Islamic Theme Park in Hongguang Mountain, Urumqi
The Islamic-themed park located in the middle of Hongguang Mountain in Urumqi is a captivating place with its splendid architecture and mysterious atmosphere. Especially in winter, the pure white snow accumulates on the buildings and minarets, making the exotic scenery even more striking. The intricately decorated buildings look like palaces from a fairy tale amidst the snow, making it an unmissable spot for photography enthusiasts. After touring the theme park, head towards the main entrance of Hongguang Mountain, where you can experience the harmony of Islamic architecture and nature in the endless snowy landscape. It's a perfect course to quietly walk and enjoy the tranquility of winter.
Hongguang Mountain... Urumqi.
Hongguang Mountain (红光山) is a particularly beautiful tourist destination in winter when it is covered in snow. The white snow envelops the Great Buddha Temple, the ecological forest, and the Blue Light Lake, creating a serene and mysterious atmosphere. The grape tunnel and walking paths sparkle like silver tunnels, and the Islamic-style park's mythological sculptures create a fairy-tale scene in the snow.
In winter, Hongguang Mountain is relatively less crowded, making it perfect for quietly enjoying moments in harmony with nature. It is also ideal for taking photos in the snow, and you can enjoy it more comfortably by preparing warm clothes and winter gear.
This is not Mars... Tuyugou Grand Canyon...
Tuyugou Grand Canyon is a place that makes you feel like you've stepped onto a mysterious Mars with every step you take. The red-tinted mountains change hues with the sunlight, and when the wind blows through the deep valleys, the majesty of nature takes your breath away. The sight of the canyon bathed in the morning sunlight is so overwhelming that it feels like a shame to capture it in a photo. The ancient Buddhist relics and traces of Islam scattered throughout the area create a mystical atmosphere where the past and present intersect. The grandeur of the canyon, encountered in the silence of the desert, is enough to captivate the heart of any adventurer. This place will be a true adventure spot where camera lenses will be busy capturing every moment.
Urumqi Grand Bazaar Pedestrian Street..大巴扎步行街.
The Grand Bazaar Pedestrian Street (大巴扎步行街) is a representative ethnic commercial street located in Urumqi, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. It has developed into a unique tourist attraction from a historically significant trading center. Here, you can purchase traditional ethnic clothing, handicrafts, and Central Asian goods, and enjoy a variety of eateries offering Xinjiang's distinctive foods such as lamb skewers and pilaf.
Additionally, there are theaters offering ethnic performances and traditional cultural experiences, as well as popular photo spots, providing tourists with a diverse range of experiences. The Grand Bazaar is an ideal travel destination where you can enjoy shopping, gourmet food, and cultural experiences all in one place. It is recommended to allocate at least half a day for your visit.
Turpan Grand Canyon... Tuyugou Grand Canyon.
Tuyugou Grand Canyon is a tourist attraction located in Shanshan County, Turpan City, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China. It is a place where natural scenery, religious culture, and ancient villages blend together. The canyon, with a total length of about 9km, is famous for its Mars-like terrain and unique red mountains. This place is a special space where Buddhist and Islamic cultures coexist. The main attractions include the Thousand Buddha Caves, which contain early Buddhist relics, and the Islamic holy site of Mazha Village. You can also see the loess village that retains the ancient Uygur tradition.
When visiting, you should respect the local culture and customs and pay attention to environmental protection. The various landscapes and historical relics along the canyon provide a unique travel experience.
You should choose whether to go through a tour or rent a vehicle to enjoy your visit.
Xinjiang Uygur Desert Tour... Kumtag Desert Scenic Area.
At first glance, the desert may seem unremarkable, but once you reach the top of the sand dunes, you'll be greeted by an endless sea of sand waves. Each step you take sinks softly into the sand, making the climb to the top a breathless effort. However, as you ascend, your view broadens, and the golden sand sparkles under the sun, unfolding before your eyes. The moment you press the camera shutter, the perfect curves and shadows created by nature are captured within the frame. The view from the top is a pure desert art that cannot be seen anywhere else in the world.
You can also see the snow-capped peaks of the Tianshan Mountains in the distance.
A single photo taken on the sunlit sand dunes conveys the vastness and beauty of this place.
Shashan Park Camels and Activities
At Shashan Park, you can do more than just gaze at the desert; you can experience it with your whole body through various activities. You can ride a camel and leisurely go up and down the sand dunes, enjoying a relaxed pace. If you seek thrill, choosing sand sledding or a jeep ride would be an excellent choice. The speed of the jeep running across the endless sand dunes offers an exhilarating experience that you can't feel in everyday life. This place, where both children and adults can enjoy, is perfect for creating unforgettable memories while experiencing the wonders of the desert with all your senses. The sight of camels walking under the sunlight creates a breathtaking view that you can't see in daily life.
Yashan Glass Walkway Observation Deck... Winter Hiking in Urumqi..
The Yashan Glass Walkway in Urumqi is a unique attraction where visitors can enjoy both natural and urban landscapes of the area, set against the backdrop of the region's history and culture. This place has been known as an important natural space and a symbolic location for Urumqi residents since ancient times. The glass walkway was created to maximize the charm of this mountain. It offers the best viewing points to see multiple peaks and the city of Urumqi at a glance. The circular glass observation deck at the end of the walkway has become a representative structure of the area. Thanks to its transparent glass and floating structure, it is a place where you can experience the scenery of Urumqi, where the past and present intersect, in a new way.
Kumutage Desert Shashan Park...
Kumutage Desert may conjure images of endless sandstorms and desolation, but this place completely overturns that expectation. After passing through the ticket gate, you'll find a vast desert landscape meticulously crafted with lakes and gardens, creating an exotic scenery. The blue water and vibrant plants contrast with the sand dunes, giving the illusion of being in another world. It's a place where you can feel the vastness of the desert while appreciating the delicate beauty of nature, offering a story that goes beyond mere desolation. This paradise-like scenery in the desert provides a perfect backdrop for photography enthusiasts, giving an exotic feel. Although, it's a bit disappointing that there's an artificial touch in the natural desert.
Urumqi City Trekking Spots..
Yoma Mountain Forest Park Observatory is located in Shayibake District, Urumqi City, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city. You can also experience the thrill of the newly opened glass walkway bridge. The park is open year-round for free, and the recommended visiting hours are from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM. You can access it by car or bus, and it is suitable for family visitors with various flower gardens, forest trails, and children's play facilities. However, since buses are not frequent, it is recommended to take a taxi to save time. Since it is in the city, the taxi fare is not expensive. Be sure to pay attention to safety when visiting and prepare clothes suitable for the weather.
Winter Trekking in Zhaoya Grassland, Urumqi...
The Zhaoya Grassland in the Tianshan Grand Canyon is located next to Zhaoya Lake, offering a serene natural setting to enjoy leisurely. Although there are museums and small restaurants near the grassland, they are closed during the off-season in winter, which might be disappointing. However, this also means that you can fully appreciate the true charm of this place in a tranquil atmosphere with almost no tourists around. The endless snow-covered grasslands and the majestic scenery created by the coniferous forest mountains make it feel like a picturesque space just for you. It's a perfect place to walk leisurely and take photos without any interruptions, facing nature. For those dreaming of a quiet winter trip, there's no better place than this.
Joaya Grassland in Tianshan Grand Canyon, Urumqi
The Joaya Grassland in the Tianshan Grand Canyon of Urumqi is a vast land spread at an altitude of 2500m. In winter, it is covered with pure white snow, creating a landscape reminiscent of a winter wonderland. This place got its name from the history of being the land of an elder in the past. It is a special place where you can feel not only the beauty of nature but also the traces of nomadic culture. The primitive coniferous forest on the northern side of Tianshan continues around the grassland, known for preserving the purest and most marvelous natural scenery in the Grand Canyon. Additionally, the colorful mountain ranges surrounding the grassland offer an even more enchanting landscape with changing lights depending on the season and time. It is a beautiful place where you can fully feel the greatness and tranquility of nature.
Snow-covered Zoya Grassland... Urumqi.
Zoya Grassland, located in the Tianshan Grand Canyon of Urumqi, is a place that holds different charms throughout the four seasons. In summer, you can see a peaceful scene of horses and sheep freely roaming the green grassland, while in winter, you might encounter wild animals like foxes cautiously searching for food on the snow-covered ground. This vast grassland, stretching at an altitude of 2500m, gives you a feeling of being embraced by nature. The colorful mountain ranges surrounding the grassland change their hues with time and seasons, creating a new picture at every moment.
Zoya Grassland is the perfect place for hiking or capturing these moments with your camera, offering special memories that warm your heart beyond the natural scenery. Although the weather is cold...;;;
First Tour of Tianshan Grand Canyon..Zhaobi Mountain..Urumqi.
Passing through the Tianshan Grand Canyon, you will encounter Zhaobi Mountain. Although it is the off-season, winter is also very beautiful. The snow-capped mountains and coniferous forests blend together, exuding a unique charm as if two different natural landscapes have merged into one. The contrast between the white snow-covered mountain peaks and the green coniferous forests below creates a captivating scenery.
As you walk step by step in the cold air, admiring this magnificent landscape, you can't help but marvel at the beauty of nature. The tranquility of the snow-capped mountains and the freshness of the coniferous forests combine to bring peace to your mind. You can fully experience the distinctive beauty of winter that can only be felt here, so don't give up just because it's winter.
Walking along the boardwalk of Taizi Lake in winter... Urumqi.
The scenery you encounter while walking along the boardwalk and footbridge of Taizi Lake is truly special. Snow-covered trees, the frozen lake, and the snowy landscape along the walking path make you feel like you've stepped into a movie scene. As you walk along the boardwalk, the majestic view of Mount Zhaobi comes into sight. Despite the cold winter air, the beauty of the mountain is truly overwhelming.
It's a perfect place for taking photos, where you can capture stunning pictures with the ice and snowy landscape reflecting the sunlight in the cold air. As you cross the footbridge, you will feel as if you have become one with nature. Enjoy the tranquility and breathtaking scenery of winter as you take a leisurely stroll, and you will experience the true relaxation of travel.
Western China Travel Highlights: 7 Nights and 8 Days on the Qingdao Huanxian
In and out of Qinghai Xining, China
Qingganda Ring Line is the best highlight travel course where you can enjoy Qinghai's natural scenery and Gansu's Silk Road historical sites at once
Himalaya Blackyak is a travel agency specializing in Western China travel and is the leader of Qingganda Ring Line travel, with Tibet, Qinghai, Xinjiang, Inner Mongolia, Gansu, Yunnan, etc. in Western China as the main travel destinations
#China travel #China visa-free travel #Western China travel #Qingganda Ring Line #Qinghai travel #Tibet travel #Xinjiang travel #Himalaya Blackyak #China free travel #Silk Road
Shanghai, an Asian city with a beautiful night view
I've traveled a lot, but is there another city with a night view as beautiful as Shanghai? Unique buildings that I haven't seen in other cities, and a 360-degree view of the buildings from the overpass. Enjoy a cocktail at a rooftop bar and experience a different kind of Shanghai.
China is now more easily accessible than ever before with a visa-free system. I was surprised by the relatively low cost of living and the cleanliness of the city, and it's a place I'll visit again because it even has Disneyland.
If you're planning your first trip to China, I'd like to recommend Shanghai!
Alipay or WeChat Pay is a must~!
#Shanghai #OrientalMingzhu #ShanghaiTravel #Shanghai #ChinaVisaFree #ChinaTravel
🇨🇳Kunming UNESCO World Heritage Site Stone Forest, Feel the Wonders of Nature🪨🌳
#ChinaTravel #StoneForest
📍StoneForest,StoneForest,KunmingSilinYiAutonomousCounty
StoneForest is a world cultural heritage site located in the southeast of Kunming.
Among the magnificent and bizarre rocks,
I could feel the wonders of nature once again.
Unlike Korea in December, Kunming, China has a cool weather,
which is perfect for sightseeing^^
The karst and limestone terrains are spectacular,
so it is a must-visit if you visit Kunming🍀🙏👏
Crystal Orange Qingdao, a sophisticated hotel that captures the charm of the city.
A wonderful day at Crystal Orange Qingdao Wusi Square Hotel, located near Qingdao Wusi Square! ✨
This place perfectly combines luxurious design and modern facilities, making it an ideal hotel for a comfortable and relaxing time in the city.
The night view of the sparkling buildings from the room is truly impressive. Especially at night, the city lights shine and give the feeling of stars pouring down. 🌆💫
The hotel's atmosphere is stylish and sophisticated yet comfortable, allowing you to forget the fatigue of travel and fully enjoy your leisure time :)
Additionally, it is in a great location for traveling as it is close to Qingdao's major attractions. It was a special time that captured the charm of Qingdao!
If you want to enjoy a leisurely and wonderful city trip, I highly recommend this Crystal Orange Hotel! 😊
Yongdeng Temple... A local Islamic temple in Urumqi.
Yongdeng Temple in Urumqi is a small Islamic temple located in an ordinary commercial building in the city, making it difficult to notice at first glance. Although it is neither grand nor magnificent, it is a unique space where you can feel the breath of Islamic culture within its modest exterior.
This temple, which blends into the daily life of the locals, exudes an atmosphere where religious sanctity and secular reality intersect in a peculiar way. Upon entering, a quiet and solemn aura flows, bringing a sense of calm as if cut off from the outside world.
Despite its small size, the sense of reverence and warmth felt within is large and intense. This place, where I happened to stop by during my travels, felt like a small window conveying the hidden stories of Urumqi. However, as it is a local temple, it is actually not easy to visit inside.
Hantengri Mosque (Not Open to the Public)... Urumqi Mosque.
Located on Jiefang South Road in Tianshan District, Urumqi, Xinjiang, this Islamic mosque has a deep historical heritage. The mosque was first built in 1864 and has undergone several expansions and renovations to reach its current size. The architecture is unique, skillfully combining traditional Islamic art with modern architectural art to present a distinctive style. The mosque includes a minaret building, prayer hall, courtyard, and other parts, with strict layout and exquisite decorations. It is one of the important religious sites in Urumqi and a great place for tourists to learn about local religious culture and history. However, due to some restrictions on entry, it was a bit disappointing that we could only look around the surroundings.
Nanjing Road.. Shanghai.
I encountered the city's long-standing dreams and illusions on Nanjing Road. Take a stroll down this historic street lined with European-style buildings that quietly tell of past prosperity, having withstood the test of time. Sunlight filters through the leaves, and the interplay of light and shadow on the retro stone paths gives the feeling of traveling through time and space. Around the corner, chic shops and fashionable cafes create a captivating atmosphere. The fast pace of modern life is cleverly harmonized with the slow passage of time. Hidden bookstores in deep alleys exude a subtle ink fragrance between the pages, making you feel as if you've found a sanctuary for the soul. Nanjing Road is not only a shopping paradise but also a travel destination where you can experience the unique charm and warmth of this city, oscillating between history and modernity.
Near the Shanghai Cultural Museum, there is a modern village called Yuhefang.
Yuhefang is not just a place with old buildings. The cafes and galleries scattered around showcase a harmonious blend of modern sensibilities and traditional beauty. Especially, enjoying a warm cup of tea while reading a book in a cafe filled with antique furniture and items will be an unforgettable memory.
Yuhefang is not just a space to remember the past, but also a space moving towards the future. In the craft shops made from renovated old buildings, you can find unique works by young artists. Additionally, the regular flea markets add to the shopping pleasure with a variety of vintage clothes and items.
Shanghai Dongyili Yuhefang is not just a tourist spot, but a living history and cultural space.