The February 2025 scene in Yili, don't forget to visit because of a song

"The rain in Yili can't weave my longing for you..." 🎶 A song "The Shepherd of Keketuohai" has made countless people full of imagination about Yili. In February this year, I set foot on this magical land and was deeply impressed by its winter charm! Let me share my travel guide with you below 👇 Transportation Guide ✈️ By Air: You can first arrive at Yining Airport in Yining City. Some cities have direct flights. It is convenient to take a taxi or airport bus from the airport to the city. If you want to go to more remote scenic spots, you can also transfer from Yining to Nalati Airport. 🚗 By Car: Yining City has several passenger stations, with many buses to various scenic spots and surrounding cities. However, the road conditions in winter are complicated, and the itinerary may be affected, so be sure to inquire in advance before departure. Detailed Travel Route 🗺Day 1: Yining City - Kazanqi Folk Village Morning: After arriving in Yining City, head to Kazanqi Folk Village. It is full of strong ethnic customs, with blue houses and characteristic carriages, as if you are in a fairy tale town. Noon: Taste local delicacies in the folk village, and recommend hand pilaf, with tender lamb and distinct rice grains, fragrant and delicious. Afternoon: Stroll around the small shops in the folk village and feel the charm of traditional Uyghur handicrafts. 🗺Day 2: Sayram Lake Morning: Depart from Yining City to Sayram Lake. In February, Sayram Lake is like a huge blue gem, with part of the lake frozen, forming a spectacular ice crack landscape. Noon: Dine at a restaurant near Sayram Lake and try the local dried beef, which is chewy. Afternoon: Stroll along the lakeside, enjoy the lake and mountains, and you may see swans if you are lucky. 🗺Day 3: Nalati National Forest Park - Return Morning: Head to Nalati National Forest Park. The forest in winter is covered in silver, and riding a horse-drawn sleigh through it is like entering a snow-covered forest. Noon: Taste Kazakh milk tea and baursak near the scenic spot, with a rich milk fragrance and crispy taste. Afternoon: End the tour and prepare to return. 9 Must-Visit Attractions 1. Kazanqi Folk Village: Strong ethnic customs, blue buildings are eye-catching. 2. Sayram Lake: The last tear of the Atlantic Ocean, the winter scenery is stunning. 3. Nalati National Forest Park: Winter forest and snowfield, quiet and beautiful. 4. Guozigou Bridge: The spectacular bridge blends with the winter snow scene, making it perfect for photos. 5. Liuxing Street: A characteristic street with handicraft shops and food, full of life. 6. Huocheng Lavender Field (better to visit in summer): Although there is no lavender in February, in summer, it is a purple ocean, famous far and wide. 7. Qiaxi Forest Park: Forests, snow-capped mountains, and streams, with rich natural landscapes. 8. Kurdening: Dense spruce forest, a paradise for photography enthusiasts. 9. Qiongkushitai: Pristine Kazakh village, quiet and simple. Local Food Recommendations 1. Hand Pilaf: A perfect combination of lamb, carrots, and rice, fragrant but not greasy. 2. Lamb Skewers: Fresh lamb grilled on the spot, sprinkled with cumin and chili, with a fragrant aroma. 3. Nang Pit Meat: Lamb roasted in a nang pit, with a crispy outer skin and tender inside. 4. Baked Buns: Crispy skin and tender meat, with juice overflowing with every bite. 5. Latiaozi: Chewy noodles, topped with various vegetables and meat stir-fried toppings. 6. Yogurt Zongzi: A unique combination, sweet and sour, refreshing and greasy. Accommodation Recommendations 🏨 Yining City: It is recommended to stay near Kazanqi Folk Village or Liuxing Street, which is convenient for travel and can experience local life. For example, Yining Tianyuan International Hotel, with a good location and complete facilities. 🏨 Around Scenic Spots: There are some homestays and hotels around Sayram Lake and Nalati National Forest Park, such as Sayram Lake Yunyin Homestay, where you can see the lake view when you open the window. However, some homestays may not be open in winter, so book in advance. Travel Tips 1. The temperature in Yili in February is low, so be sure to bring a thick down jacket, warm hat, scarf, gloves 🧣, and non-slip shoes. 2. There are relatively few tourists in the scenic spots in winter, but some scenic roads may be covered with snow and ice, so be careful when driving, and it is best to prepare snow chains. 3. Respect local religious beliefs and customs, and pay attention to dress when entering mosques. 4. When tasting food, many restaurants have large portions, so you can share them with your companions. 5. Pay attention to the opening hours and ticket policies of the scenic spots in advance to avoid delaying the itinerary.