Spring Trip to Yili: Discover the Beauty of Nature

Things to Prepare Before Your Trip 1. Documents: ID card, various discount certificates (student ID, senior citizen certificate, etc.) 📄 2. Clothing: The temperature difference between day and night is significant in Yili during spring. Pack thick coats and thermal underwear. Light spring clothing can be worn during the day.👚 Also bring sun-protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses. 🕶 3. Skincare and Sun Protection: High SPF sunscreen, moisturizing skincare products, and lip balm are essential due to the strong sunlight and dry climate in Yili. 🌞 4. Medicine: Common medications such as cold medicine, stomach medicine, and motion sickness medicine. 💊 Must-See Attractions 1. Nalati Grassland: The "sky grassland" looks like a fairy tale, with tender green grass like a soft blanket and wildflowers blooming everywhere. 🌼 Snow-capped mountains in the distance complement the blue sky and white clouds. Enjoy horseback riding and embrace freedom. Opening hours: 08:30 - 20:00, tickets + shuttle bus approx. CNY 135. 2. Apricot Valley: Every April, apricot blossoms bloom all over the mountains, creating a dreamy pink and white wonderland. 🌸 Stroll through the valley and enjoy the falling petals. Opening hours: Open all day, tickets approx. CNY 30. 3. Huocheng Lavender Fields: Although the main blooming season is from June to July, tender green plants can be seen in spring. Imagine the vast expanse of purple romance, and experience the anticipation of budding flowers in advance. 💜 Opening hours: 09:00 - 19:00, tickets approx. CNY 35. 4. Guozigou Bridge: The magnificent bridge spans mountains and rivers, with green hills and trees on both sides in spring, and streams flowing under the bridge. 🌉 Take photos at the viewing platform and capture the stunning scenery. Opening hours: Open all day, free. Local Specialties 1. Hand pilaf: Mutton, carrots, onions, and rice blend perfectly, creating a fragrant and soft dish. Every bite is incredibly satisfying. 🍚 2. Baked buns: Crispy on the outside, filled with tender mutton, and bursting with flavorful juices. 🥟 3. Zongzi with yogurt: Soft and glutinous zongzi paired with rich yogurt and drizzled with honey. The sweet and sour combination is refreshing and unique. 😋 Itinerary Day 1: Yining City - Apricot Valley Morning: Arrive in Yining City, take a short break, and enjoy a local breakfast. Afternoon: Visit Apricot Valley, admire the apricot blossoms, and take photos. Evening: Return to Yining City, explore the night market, and savor local delicacies. Day 2: Yining City - Nalati Grassland Morning: Travel to Nalati Grassland, take a shuttle bus to enjoy the scenery, and optionally go horseback riding. Afternoon: Explore the grassland and enjoy recreational activities. Evening: Stay in a characteristic guesthouse in Nalati Town. Day 3: Nalati - Huocheng - Guozigou Bridge - Yining City Morning: Visit Huocheng Lavender Fields and experience the charm of purple. Afternoon: Pass by Guozigou Bridge, stop for sightseeing, and then return to Yining City to prepare for the return trip. Transportation Guide 1. External Transportation: Fly directly to Yining Airport, or first arrive in Urumqi, then transfer to Yili by plane, train, or bus. 2. Internal Transportation: Renting a car is the most convenient option, allowing for flexible stops to enjoy the scenery. 🚗 Alternatively, choose a chartered car service, as there are many reputable options available locally. Public transportation is less frequent and not as convenient.