Winter in Northern Xinjiang: The Scenic Beauty of Shuanghu—A 9-Day Snow and Ice Tour

[Shuanghu Scenic Area PIUS 9-Day Tour. 1+1 First Class]

S21 Desert Highway / Junggar Basin / Sunset at General Mountain / Cloud Peak Cable Car / Snow Mountain DJ Party / Dancing Under the Stars / Snowy Sanwan Tour / Horse-drawn Sled / Snowmobile (choose one) / Water Freezing on Contact / Stargazing at Night / 6 Authentic Travel Photos / Fairy-Tale Village of Hemu / Bonfire Party / 360° Tour of Lake Sayram / UTV Snow Off-Road Driving / Ice Drifting / Lakeside Party with Hot Pot / Blues Concert – 9-Day Curated Tour

••••••Selection Experience••••••

➣ 6 Photos from a Real-Life Photo Shoot in Hemu: A Mecca for Artistic Souls Seeking Emotional Shots—Create Cool, Sophisticated Masterpieces in Minutes
➣Includes a choice of horse-drawn sleigh or snowmobile: Hop on a roaring snow beast and become a streak of lightning racing through Hemu’s secret realm of powdery snow
➣Includes a lakeside hot pot party: Gather with close friends around a hot pot, watch the sunset over the frozen lake, and enjoy a warm meal together
➣ Includes UTV snow off-roading: Race UTVs across frozen lakes, speed through snowy wilderness, and plunge headfirst into the icy world of Sayram Lake
➣ Includes General Mountain Cable Car: Stroll among the clouds + sunset glow + a DJ at the summit—the “rabbit ears” view will melt the hearts of your snow-loving friends
➣ Devil’s City: Yadan landforms collide with snow to create a unique beauty—every snapshot is picture-perfect:
➣Two Major Ski Resorts: General Mountain and Jikepulin! The ultimate in Altay powder snow! Explore the birthplace of skiing!
➣360-Degree Lake Tour: Unlike other tours that only offer a 270-degree view, ours provides a 360-degree, unobstructed tour of the lake!
➣Pristine Kanas: Blanketed in snow, with serene mountains—it’s like a hidden paradise for immortals, where you can fully enjoy the raw, unspoiled beauty.
➣Fairytale Hemu: Snow mushrooms dot the log cabins in Hemu Village; with wisps of smoke rising from chimneys and morning mist swirling, it’s like a winter wonderland.
➣Frozen Adventure: Wander through snow-covered forests and immerse yourself in a winter wonderland.
➣Desert Highway: S21 Desert Highway. The wind sweeps across the snowy plains, saxual forests stand still—on S21, listen to the winter whispers from the heart of Northern Xinjiang.
➣Water Turned to Ice: A splash of scalding hot water thrown into the air transforms the biting winter chill into a romantic moment.
➣Campfire Party: Dancing in a circle around the campfire, turning a cold winter night into a lively gathering.
➣Hemu Sunrise: Golden light bathes the pink-snow log cabins in a warm golden hue; even the cooking smoke is enveloped in light, creating the most soothing morning scene of winter.
➣Hemu Starry Sky: With no city lights to disturb the view, the Big Dipper is so clear it seems within reach.
➣Culinary Highlights: Sample a variety of Western Region delicacies on your own and savor the flavors of Xinjiang.
➣Cultural Experiences: The Tuvan people. Kazakhs. Mongols… Experience the unique imprint of nomadic culture up close
➣Unique Experiences: The Pulse of the Earth: Snow-capped mountains. Grasslands. Rivers. Deserts. The Gobi. Lakes… The Xinjiang you’ve imagined is right here
➣In-House Airport/Station Transfer Service: We provide airport and station transfers with one-on-one dedicated service, eliminating the hassle of shared rides.
➣Thoughtful Gifts: Small packets of dried fruit / mini birthday cakes / travel agency liability insurance / travel accident insurance.
➣Included with the Tour: Star-pointing pen / hand warmers / “Xi” character props for honeymoon photos / oil lamp

••••Order Now and Get a Gift••••

➣ In-Car Goodies: Small bags of dried fruit / Mini birthday cakes / Honeymoon photo props / Travel agency liability insurance / Travel accident insurance.
➣ Drone Aerial Photography: Two video clips included with each booking. Filming locations: Hemu / Kanas / Sai Lake (weather permitting). Each clip is at least 10 seconds long.
➣ DSLR Camera Provided: At least 9 photos per person throughout the entire trip.
➣ Onboard Coffee Maker: Enjoy fresh coffee anytime, anywhere during the trip.

••••••Abbreviated Itinerary••••••

➣Day 1: Various Locations – Urumqi [4-Diamond Atour: Urumqi]
➣Day 2: Urumqi – Winter Crossing of the S21 Desert Highway (Junggar Frontier • Crossing the Gurbantunggut Desert) – Sunset at General Mountain (Cloud Peak Cable Car • Snow-Capped Mountain DJ Party • Starry Night Dance Party) – Altay – Night Skiing at General Mountain (Ski passes at your own expense; optional participation) [5-Diamond: Altay]
➣Day 3: Altay – Taiga Forest (Larch Trees in the Snow • Cold-Smoke Fir • Rime-Covered Spruce) – Kanas – Snow-Scaped Three Bays Tour (Wolong Bay • Moon Bay • Fairy Bay) – Choose One: Horse-Drawn Sled or Snowmobile [Kanas Snow-Scaped Log Cabin with Large Windows]
➣Day 4: Kanas – Fairy-Tale Snow Village of Hemu – ★Includes 6 professional-quality travel photos with makeup – Free time (Haden Viewpoint • Hemu Bridge • Panoramic view of Beautiful Peak • Bonfire party • Water-freezing demonstration • Night stargazing) – [Hemu Snow-Scape Log Cabin with Large Windows]
➣D5 Skiing at Jikepulin (includes 4-hour experience ticket) – Free time in Hemu – Hemu [Hemu Snow Scenery Log Cabin with Large Windows]
➣D6 Sunrise in Hemu – Free time – Viewing unique landforms – Scenic drive through the 100-Li Oil Field – Karamay [4-Diamond: Karamay]
➣D7 Karamay – 360-Degree Tour of Lake Sayram (Dianjiangtai • Kelongzhu • Xihai Grassland • S-Bend) – (★UTV Snow Off-Road Vehicle • Ice Drifting starting at 11:30) – ★Lakeside Party with Hot Pot – Lake Sayram [5-Diamond: Yilai Wilderness Luxury Camp]
➣D8 Lake Sayram—Second Visit to Lake Sayram to Watch the Sunrise—Exclusive Drone Video—View of the Tianshan Mountains—Hand-Ground Starbucks American Coffee—Urumqi [4-Diamond Atour: Urumqi]
➣D9 Urumqi—Back to the Warmth of Home

Date	Itinerary	Stay
D1	Day 1: Departure Point – Urumqi (Airport Pickup) Suggested Hotels: Atour on Yinchuan Road / Atour at DeGang Wanda / Atour X Hotel (Hotel cannot be specified) Welcome to the magnificent Xinjiang! After your airport pickup, you’ll be taken to your hotel to rest. The rest of the day is free time; if time permits, you may visit the recommended attractions on your own (private transportation not included). Recommended Attractions: International Grand Bazaar / Hongshan Park / Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Museum (reservations must be made via the “Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Museum” WeChat official account one day in advance; closed on Mondays). You can also visit popular “internet-famous” restaurants to take photos. Food Recommendations: 【Grand Bazaar Night Market】Average cost per person: 30. Enjoy ethnic-style grilled meat and various barbecue dishes, as well as Han Chinese specialties like stir-fried three delicacies and hot pot dishes. 【Cute Xinjiang】Average cost per person: 110. Traditional Western Region-style whole roasted lamb, “Gifts from the Grasslands” beef jerky, Nalati Grassland-style tripe, Mediterranean turkey salad, and Kuche primitive wild pigeon soup. 【Xinjiang Stir-Fried Rice Noodles】Various local rice noodle chains: Yuefen, Wu’s Rice Noodles, La Feng Qin, Lingling Rice Noodles… Average cost per person: 25 【Loulan Secret Roast】Rich ethnic atmosphere. Recommended dishes: yogurt rice dumplings, roasted buns, “fake kidneys,” small grilled meat skewers, and pilaf. Per person: 110 【Haierbage】Xinjiang “Big Plate Chicken,” grilled lamb ribs, grilled lamb leg, mint tea, hand-tossed pilaf, and specialty yogurt. Per person: 110 【Pomegranates Are Ripe】Generous portions with high-quality ingredients; the crispy-skinned grilled lamb shank is a must-try, and the gold-award-winning pigeon noodles are also exceptional. Average price per person: 110 【Today’s Friendly Reminders】 1. Regardless of your mode of transportation, we provide a VIP airport pickup service. Please inform us of your exact arrival time in advance. 2. Check-in time at hotels in Xinjiang is generally after 2:00 PM. If you arrive early, you can store your luggage at the front desk and explore the surrounding area on your own. 3. The one-way drive from downtown Urumqi to the airport is approximately 30 kilometers, with a travel time of about 1 hour. 4. A security deposit (not the room rate) is required upon check-in. It will be refunded via the original payment method the next day after check-out, provided the room is found to be in good condition upon inspection.	Urumqi
D2	Day 2: Urumqi – S21 Desert Highway – Altay – General Mountain Cloud Peak Cable Car – Sunset Party – Mountain-Top Dance Party (approx. 500 km, approx. 6 hours driving time; does not include time for meals, restroom breaks, snow-related traffic delays, etc.) Suggested Hotels: Jinjiang International / Zunmao Gem / Yifei (hotel cannot be specified) The following itinerary times are for reference only; actual times may vary: ➤08:00–08:30 Breakfast ➤08:30 Driver picks up fellow travelers (please plan your breakfast time accordingly) ➤09:00–13:00 [Winter S21 Desert Highway: Wilderness Romance for the Young] We’ve seen so many summer desert photos, but the [S21 Desert Highway] in winter— is the real hidden gem, okay! As we cross the [Junggar Basin], you’ll be completely mesmerized. The [Gurbantonggut Desert], blanketed in snow and looking as soft as milk, combined with the blue sky, white desert, and the lines of the highway—every shot feels cinematic. At dusk, as the sunset casts its glow, the snow shimmers with golden light, and your phone’s storage will be running out in no time! ➤13:00–14:00 Lunch on your own ➤14:00–18:30 Travel to 【Altay City】. In winter, Altay City is a dreamlike city blanketed in snow. The streets and buildings are draped in a layer of pure white, and modern skyscrapers contrast charmingly with traditional yurts, creating a scene straight out of a fairy tale. ➤18:30–19:30 【General Mountain International Ski Resort】 [Discover New Ways to Enjoy the Cloud Peak Cable Car] As the cable car slowly ascends from the foot of General Mountain, the romance of winter unfolds before your eyes. Through the glass, watch the snow-covered slopes stretch out like a silver carpet into the distance; snow-laden pine branches sway gently in the wind; beneath your feet lie the twinkling lights of Altay City; and beside you are clouds so close you could almost touch them. 【Embrace the Winter Sunset at General Mountain】 As the winter wind sweeps across General Mountain carrying a flurry of snow, the setting sun descends, stepping on the wispy clouds. At this moment, General Mountain is free from the biting cold of winter; instead, the sweetness of time, brewed by the setting sun, gently settles into every inch of the snowy landscape. 【Starry Sky DJ Ignites the Party Atmosphere】 As night falls, the mountaintop instantly transforms into a carnival scene! Pulsating music blares as a professional DJ sets the beat. Dance amidst the pristine white snow—with soft, powdery snow beneath your feet and a dazzling starry sky above—and unlock an unprecedented snow party experience. Young people, come here to unleash your energy and create unforgettable winter memories! 【General Mountain Night Skiing (At Your Own Expense）】 Under the cover of night, General Mountain is illuminated by colorful lights, and the slopes stretch across the mountainside like the Milky Way. Strap on your skis and race down the dazzlingly lit slopes—whether you’re a seasoned skier or a beginner, you’ll find fun on the dedicated night ski runs. The beginner runs are guided by gentle lighting, while the advanced runs let you experience speed and excitement. This activity is at your own expense. Important Notes: 1. Equipment Check: Prioritize skiwear and skis with reflective strips; ensure helmets, ski boots, and protective gear (hip pads, wrist guards) are securely fastened; 2. Route Selection: Lighting in the night skiing area is limited; beginners are advised to start on the beginner runs; 3. Safe Skiing: Control your speed and maintain a safe distance of at least five meters from others; 4. Stay Warm: Nighttime temperatures can drop below -20°C. Wear a thermal liner under your snow gear to prevent frostbite or hypoglycemia. ➤20:30 Return to the hotel for free time. Today’s Friendly Reminders: 1. Your seatbelt is your lifeline—fasten it as soon as you get in the car! This is important enough to say three times! 2. Documents for the Trip: If you have any discount cards (student ID, senior citizen card, etc.), please carry them with you. 3. Dealing with Temperature Differences: The temperature difference between day and night in Altay can reach 20°C; make sure to dress warmly. 4. Sun Protection: High altitude combined with reflection off snow-capped mountains results in extremely strong UV rays; we recommend wearing sunglasses. 5. Dining Tips: Upon arrival, start with mild foods like milk tea and naan to help your body adjust. 6. Travel Planning: Cell service is weak in mountainous areas. Download offline maps in advance and inform your family of your daily itinerary. 7. If the General Mountain cable car is closed due to weather conditions, preventing you from ascending the mountain or participating in mountain activities, a refund of 50 yuan per person will be issued. We appreciate your understanding.	Altay
D3	Day 3: Altay – Tuguan Taijia Forest – Kanas – Snow-Scaped Three Bays Tour (Wolong Bay, Moon Bay, Fairy Bay) – Free Time (Watching Water Freeze on Contact • Stargazing at Night) (Approx. 320 km, approx. 5 hours driving time. Does not include time for meals, restroom breaks, or traffic delays due to snow.) Suggested Hotels: Lingxiao Wuge / Xiao Jiuyue / Yunshan Manor. Specific hotels cannot be requested. During peak seasons (Christmas, New Year’s Day, Chinese New Year), accommodations may not be available at the suggested hotels. The following itinerary times are for reference only; actual schedules may vary: ➤08:00–08:30: Breakfast at the hotel. 10:00–15:00 Travel to Jiadengyu; lunch is on your own en route [Encountering Taiga Forest: A Forest-Themed Surprise on the Snowy Roads of Northern Xinjiang] As you head toward Jiadengyu, the scenery outside the window will quietly shift into “fairy-tale mode”—when vast stretches of taiga forest come into view, it’s as if you’ve stepped into a real-life version of Frozen! As China’s only cold-temperate coniferous forest, the larch and spruce trees are cloaked in snow, their branches swaying gently in the wind—every snapshot you take will be a stunning forest-themed masterpiece. ➤15:00–16:30 【Snowy Three Bays Tour · Unlock Kanas’ Winter Fairy Tale】 Setting off from Jiadengyu into the depths of Kanas, the highlight—the “Snowy Three Bays”—will treat you to a series of visual surprises! 【First Stop: Wolong Bay】 The frozen lake surface resembles a translucent sapphire, while the small island in the middle takes the shape of a sleeping dragon. Be sure to use a wide-angle lens to frame the distant mountains and snow-covered forests in your shot. 【Second Stop ・ Moon Bay】 The winding river carves a crescent-shaped curve through the snow, offering a stunning vantage point to capture the “crescent embracing the snow-covered forest.” 【Third Stop ・ Fairy Bay】 This place feels as if it’s been enchanted. Mist swirls around the snow-covered cedars and hovers over the ice, while sunlight pierces the clouds to cast beams of light—it’s as if you’ve stepped into a fairyland. Capture all of Kanas’s most vibrant winter scenery in your travel memories~ ➤17:00 Check into the hotel and enjoy free time. 【Choose one: Horse-drawn Sled or Ice Motorcycle (fee included): Subject to operating hours and weather conditions】 The horse-drawn sleigh is a fairy-tale ride of northern winters. Glide through the sea of trees and snowfields, listening to the jingle of horse bells and the crack of the whip, while feeling the wind and snowflakes brush against your face. Once a means of winter transportation for herders, it has now become the “snow Ferrari” that tourists eagerly seek to experience. It’s as if you’ve traveled back in time to a winter wonderland of yesteryear. 【Splashing Water to Create Ice】 Free time. On the open snowy ground, the moment you raise your kettle (bring your own), the hot water turns to ice crystals in the cold air. Against the backdrop of the snowy forest or lights, every snapshot you take will have a “magical” vibe—easily stealing the spotlight on your social media feed! Be mindful of the water temperature when splashing! 【Milky Way and Starry Sky】 Free time. Under a night sky far from urban light pollution, the Milky Way unfolds like a silk scroll—you can see the dazzling Milky Way and a sky full of stars with the naked eye. On a sub-zero night, experience a romantic stargazing moment you’ll never forget ~ Today’s Friendly Reminder: 1. Accommodations within the scenic area are mostly log cabins. Located in a cold-temperate mountainous region, transporting supplies is difficult, so room facilities are relatively basic. Basic bedding and heating equipment are provided, and hot water is available during set times. If you have higher standards for accommodation quality, you can contact your travel agency in advance to upgrade to one of the few boutique guesthouses within the scenic area. A surcharge applies, and availability is limited, so it’s recommended to confirm before your trip. 2. Nighttime temperatures can drop as low as -30°C. When going outside, be sure to wear a fleece-lined snow jacket, a “Lei Feng” hat, and thick gloves. 3. Dining options within the scenic area are limited and prices tend to be high. We recommend bringing a small amount of snacks with you. 4. It is prohibited to leave the accommodation area alone at night or to venture into undeveloped areas (such as frozen lakes).	Snow Covered Log Cabin in Kanas
D4	Kanas – Hemu, the Fairytale Snow Village – Authentic Travel Photos (6 shots) – Free Time (Haden Viewpoint • Hemu Bridge • Panoramic View of Beautiful Peak • Horse-drawn Sled Ride at Own Expense • Bonfire Party) (Approx. 120 km, approx. 3 hours driving time. Does not include time for meals, restroom breaks, or traffic delays due to snow.) Suggested Hotels: Lanxi / Weilan / Bike / Yunzu Mountain Retreat. Specific hotels cannot be requested. During peak seasons (Christmas, New Year’s Day, Chinese New Year), accommodations may not be from the list of suggested hotels. The following itinerary times are for reference only; actual schedules may vary: ➤08:00–08:30 Breakfast on your own ➤09:00–12:00 Travel to Hemu; lunch on your own en route. Free time afterward: [Includes 6 professional travel photos with makeup ・ Capture the moment in a snowy fairy tale] Let a professional photographer capture every vibrant moment of you in winter: whether it’s your smiling eyes as you look up to catch a snowflake, a peace sign next to a snow mushroom, or the delicate silver glint in your hair against the backlight. You’ll receive 6 “atmospheric photos” to flood your social media feed and ensure your winter memories are preserved forever! Six travel photo styles are available: Game of Thrones/ Black Swan / Snowy Motorcycle Girl / Ancient-Style Girl / Japanese-Style Fresh & Charming / High-End Ski Style, and more. 【Stroll Along the Hemu River ・ Encounter the Soothing Romance of Northern Xinjiang】 Free Time: When you visit Hemu, be sure to set aside some time for a winter stroll along the Hemu River! At this time of year, the river is half-frozen and half-melted, with the ice shimmering with a pale blue glow. Walk slowly and observe quietly, capturing all the winter poetry of the Hemu River in your travel memories. 【Hemu Sunset ・ Capture the Orange Romance】 Free Time: Sit side by side with friends and watch as the setting sun dyes the smoke rising from the chimneys of the Tuvan log cabins a deep orange-red. No need to pose—just snap a photo on the fly, and every shot will have a cinematic quality; capture the romance exclusive to Hemu’s winter. 【Horse-Drawn Sled (At Your Own Expense) ・ Speed and Romance in a Snowy Wonderland】 Free Time: No crowded crowds, no roaring engines—just the “creak” of horses’ hooves on snow, the gentle rustle of wind brushing past your ears, and the rime-covered forests and log cabins slowly receding behind you. It feels as if you’ve stepped right into a romantic scene from a Nordic film—this is how wild and joyful life should be! 【Attend a Bonfire Party (Rokai)】 Free Time: As the chilly night falls over Hemu, it’s time for an incredibly atmospheric bonfire party! On the open field in the Tuvan village, the moment the blazing flames rise, the entire snowy night glows with warmth. Whether you can dance or not, you can sway along with the crowd and stamp out joyful dance steps in the snow. The bonfire party is organized by Hemu Village; please note that no refunds will be issued if the event is temporarily canceled or closed due to weather conditions. We appreciate your understanding. Today’s Friendly Reminder: 1. It is strictly prohibited to ride in private cars or on motorcycles without proper operating licenses; 2. When participating in activities such as snowmobiling or horseback riding, you must sign the scenic area’s official agreement, wear the designated protective gear, and follow the instructions of professional staff. 3. You must wear windproof and warm clothing at all times to avoid prolonged skin exposure and prevent frostbite; carry common medications (cold medicine, stomach medicine) with you; and if you’re new to the area, avoid strenuous exercise to prevent altitude sickness and colds. 4. Do not enter closed-off areas (such as unfrozen riverbeds, deep mountain forests, or dense woodlands) without authorization. 5. The bonfire party is organized by Hemu Village; no refunds will be issued if the event is canceled at short notice or due to weather conditions. 6. Accommodations within the scenic area are primarily log cabins. Located in a cold-temperate mountainous region, logistics are challenging, and room facilities are relatively basic. Basic bedding and heating equipment are provided, and hot water is available during designated hours. If you have higher expectations for accommodation quality, you may contact your travel agency in advance to upgrade to one of the few boutique guesthouses within the scenic area. A surcharge applies, and availability is limited; we recommend confirming this before your trip.	Snow Covered Log Cabins in Hemu
D5	Day 5: Free Time in Hemu – First-Time Skiing Experience – Hemu Full day of free time in Hemu – ★ First-time skiing experience (includes a complimentary 4-hour beginner ski pass) Suggested hotels: Lanxi / Weilan / Bike / Yunzu Mountain Retreat. Specific hotels cannot be requested. During peak seasons (Christmas, New Year’s Day, Chinese New Year), accommodations may not be from the list of suggested hotels. The following itinerary times are for reference only; actual times may vary: Full day of free time; breakfast is on your own. To ensure adequate rest for the driver and guide and to maintain driving safety, the sunrise viewing is a self-guided activity; the driver and guide will not accompany you. 【Sunrise and Morning Mist】 Free Time: Winter romance begins with chasing the Hemu sunrise! Don’t let “not being able to get up” make you miss this breathtaking scenery. On a sub-zero morning, wrap yourself in a warm scarf and head to the observation deck with its sweeping views. Capture the most vibrant morning light of Hemu in your travel memories ~ 【4 Hours of Skiing at Jikepulin Ski Resort (includes beginner lift ticket; instructor not included)】 Stop envying others’ epic ski videos! Come to the Jikepuling beginner’s run and enjoy the thrill of the wind rushing past your ears on soft, powdery snow—this is what winter should be like for young people! We’ve tailored an ultra-friendly experience just for beginners: the beginner’s run has a gentle slope, and the snow is as fluffy as “natural marshmallows.” You can hire a professional instructor for one-on-one lessons (instructor fees not included), covering everything from putting on your skis and holding your poles to basic gliding posture—you’ll master the basics in just 30 minutes. The rest of the time, just let loose and have fun—you can glide leisurely down the slope, watching the snow-covered forest scenery recede on both sides; or team up with friends for a “showdown” to see whose style is cooler, with every turn and burst of speed bringing a sense of accomplishment. Just four hours of skiing on the Jikepulin beginner run will max out your winter fun—you’ll have way too many photos to fit in a single 3×3 grid on your social media feed! Today’s Friendly Reminders: 1. Prioritize skiwear and skis with reflective strips, and ensure your helmet, ski boots, and protective gear (hip pads, wrist guards) are securely fastened; 2. Beginners are advised to start on the beginner runs; 3. Control your speed and maintain a safe distance of at least five meters from others; 4. Wear a thermal liner under your ski jacket to prevent frostbite or hypoglycemia.	Wuerhe
D6	Day 6: Hemu – Free Time – Tour of the Baili Oil Field – Karamay [4-Star: Karamay] (Approx. 470 km, approx. 7 hours driving. Does not include time for meals, restroom breaks, snow, traffic jams, etc.) Suggested Hotels: Boda / Jinghui / Heyi Zhige (Hotel selection cannot be specified) The following itinerary times are for reference only; actual times may vary: ➤06:30–09:00 Free time; breakfast at your own expense. To ensure adequate rest for the driver and guide and to maintain driving safety, the sunrise viewing is a free activity; the driver and guide will not accompany you. [Sunrise and Morning Mist] Free time: Winter romance begins with chasing the sunrise in Hemu! Don’t let “not being able to get up” make you miss this breathtaking scenery. On a sub-zero morning, wrap yourself in a warm scarf and head to the observation deck with its sweeping views. Capture the most vibrant morning light of Hemu in your travel memories ~ ➤14:00–21:00 Head to [Karamay]—not just a monotonous highway, but a hundred-li stretch of oil fields that will make you exclaim, “Wow!” Imagine this: just when you think you’ve had your fill of the snowy scenery outside the window, suddenly a sea of “steel giants” (oil pumps) appears, slowly rotating across the snow-covered Gobi Desert. This clash between the “softness of snow” and the “hardcore industrial” vibe means every snapshot you take will be a one-of-a-kind, high-contrast masterpiece for your social media feed. Today’s Tips: 1. Prioritize snow gear and snowboards with reflective strips, and ensure your helmet, snow boots, and protective gear (hip pads, wrist guards) are securely fastened; 2. Beginners are advised to start on the beginner runs; 3. Control your speed and maintain a safe distance of at least five meters from others; 4. Wear a thermal liner under your snow suit to prevent frostbite or hypoglycemia. 5. Today’s schedule is tight, so try to start skiing as early as possible; otherwise, you’ll arrive in Karamay too late.	Saihu Town
D7	Day 7: Karamay – 360° Tour of Lake Sayram – Kiss of Blue Ice – UTV Snow Off-Road Driving • Ice Drifting (starts at 11:30) – Lakeside Party with Hot Pot – Blues Concert – Sayram Lake Town (approx. 560 km, approx. 7 hours; the above times do not include stops for meals, restroom breaks, snow, traffic jams, etc.) Recommended Hotels: Lake Sayram Yilai Elaine • Hechuan Yunjin Wilderness Luxury Camp (room type cannot be specified) The following itinerary times are for reference only; actual times may vary: ➤08:00–08:30 Enjoy breakfast ➤09:00–15:00 Travel to Lake Sayram; lunch en route is at your own expense ➤16:00–20:00 [360° Lake Tour — Capture the Beauty of Lake Sayram in Its Entirety] From the vast lake surface where “sky and water merge as one,” to off-the-beaten-path spots featuring “crackled ice patterns,” to breathtaking views of “snow-capped mountains reflected in the lake”—experience the winter charm of Lake Sayram from every angle with a 360-degree, unobstructed view. Tread on the soft snow, take photos with the blue ice, watch the sunlight scatter across the lake’s surface, and play in the snow with your travel companions by the shore—maximizing the joy of your journey. [Chasing Blue Ice · Unlock Winter’s Exclusive Blue Romance] In winter, Lake Sayram’s surface freezes into crystalline blue ice that glistens in the sunlight—every snapshot captures an “Iceland-like” scene. (Subject to seasonal changes) [Encountering Swans · Meet the Winter Spirits That Shift with the Weather] If you’re lucky, you’ll get an up-close view of flocks of swans at play. There’s no need to disturb them—they may glide across the partially frozen lake, preen their feathers along the shore, or occasionally spread their wings to circle low overhead, adding a touch of vitality to the serene frozen lake. 【UTV Snow Racing — Be a Wind-Chasing Adventurer in the Snowy Wilderness】 Crush through the soft snow, race across the open snowfields surrounding Lake Sayram, and pass by hidden corners marked by ice cracks. At every breathtaking scenic spot, the instructor will stop so you can take photos. Sitting on the UTV with snow-capped mountains and blue ice as your backdrop, strike a “Yay!” pose—your cool factor will skyrocket, and every snapshot will look like a scene straight out of a blockbuster road movie. (Due to deep snow conditions, arrangements will begin for the group arriving at Lake Sayram at 11:30) 【Lakeside Party: Hot Pot & Blues Concert】 By the snow-capped mountains and icy lake, savor a bite of warm happiness. Outside the floor-to-ceiling windows lies the snowy night scenery of Lake Sayram. As you watch the lake shimmer in the twilight, gather with your travel companions around a hot pot, as fresh lamb slices, crisp and tender greens, and chewy meatballs simmer in the pot. Dip them in your own secret sauce—one bite warms you to the core, and even your breath carries a sense of contentment. The blues concert begins right on time! No noisy crowds—just a professional singer strumming a guitar and softly crooning gentle blues songs. The melodies, accompanied by the sound of wind and snow outside the window, are exceptionally soothing. ➤20:00 Check-in at the East Gate Hotel District of Lake Sayram Today’s Friendly Reminders: 1. We recommend bringing sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen to protect your skin from strong UV rays. 2. Do not approach deep waters near the lake to ensure your personal safety. 3. Optional activities at Sai Lake are available based on personal preference. Before participating in thrilling activities, please carefully review the restrictions regarding age, health, and physical fitness, and assess your personal suitability.	Kuitun
D8	Day 8: Sayram Lake—Second Visit to Sayram Lake to Watch the Sunrise—Exclusive Drone Video—View of the Tianshan Mountains—Hand-Ground Starbucks Americano—Urumqi (Approx. 560 km, approx. 6.5 hours; the above time does not include the shuttle bus ride to the sunrise viewing area within the scenic area, nor does it account for meal breaks, restroom stops, traffic delays, etc.) Recommended Hotels: Yadoo on Yinchuan Road / Yadoo at DeGang Wanda / Yadoo X Hotel (hotel cannot be specified) The following itinerary times are for reference only; actual times may vary: ➤08:30 Wake up ➤08:30–09:00 Second visit to Sayram Lake. As the sunlight slowly creeps over the mountain peaks, you’ll witness an incredibly soothing scene: the originally snow-white, frozen lake surface is edged in gold, with delicate light glinting through the cracks in the ice, and even the distant snow-capped mountains shift from a cool white to a warm orange. Enjoy a freshly brewed Starbucks coffee and soak in the warmth of winter 10:00–19:00 Drive back to Urumqi, taking in views of the Tianshan Mountains along the way, before arriving in Urumqi. Today’s Tips: 1. Note on sunrise times at Lake Sayram in winter: Due to latitude and seasonal variations, sunrise times may vary slightly each day; please check local conditions for the most accurate information. 2. Confirm your return flight for the next day in advance.	Urumqi
D9	Day 9: Urumqi – Home Sweet Home (Airport Transfer) ➤08:00–09:00: We recommend having breakfast according to your hotel’s breakfast schedule. You are free to make your own arrangements based on your flight schedule. As this wonderful vacation draws to a close, say goodbye to your lovely fellow travelers one by one, pack your bags, and prepare to return to the warm comfort of home after a long absence. If you are returning by plane or train, the driver will take you to the airport or train station according to your flight or train departure time! Please make your own arrangements for lunch and dinner! Today’s Friendly Reminders: 1. Please ensure you have packed all your belongings thoroughly to avoid any inconvenience caused by leaving items behind. 2. Please check out of the hotel by 14:00 Beijing Time. Any additional fees resulting from late check-out will be your responsibility. (Be sure to double-check your belongings before leaving the hotel—don’t leave anything behind!)	A Warm Home

Important Notes on Carpooling in Xinjiang: Please be sure to read carefully:
I. Vehicle Qualifications: Our agency strictly selects business-class vehicles with valid operating licenses. All vehicles have passed annual inspections and regular safety checks. We do not accept requests for specific vehicle models.
II. Regarding Travel Companions: This itinerary is a nationwide group tour for 2–6 people (minimum 2 participants; maximum 6). Due to the random nature of group formation, we cannot pre-screen travel companions based on age, gender, region, or other information. Special Note: Travelers with specific social preferences are advised to choose a customized private charter service.
III. Single Room Supplement Policy and Accommodation Arrangements:
Voluntary Room-Sharing Policy
Single male or female travelers who accept shared room arrangements will be exempt from the single room supplement. We guarantee only that roommates will be of the same gender; we do not guarantee specific details such as age, occupation, or region. For example, a single male traveler may be paired with male travelers of different age groups or the driver.
Explanation of Single Occupancy Fees
If you insist on single occupancy, you must pay the full single room supplement (the specific amount is subject to the itinerary quotation).
Accommodation Rules for Groups
For groups traveling together (e.g., families or groups) with an odd number of members, the travel agency will match room partners by gender based on the room-sharing resources available on the day of travel. For example: If a family of three is traveling and the only available room-sharing partner on that day is a single male traveler, the male family member will be required to share a room with him; those who object must pay the single room supplement.
Rules for Children Not Sharing Rooms
This tour does not allow travelers with children to share rooms. If you are traveling alone with a child, you must pay the single room supplement before departure.
IV. Regarding Accommodations: As Xinjiang is still a less developed region, hotels differ significantly from those in mainland China, especially in scenic areas. We can only guarantee that they are clean and sanitary. Even so, rooms are hard to come by during peak season. Most hotels do not have triple rooms.
V. Seat Rotation: This is a shared ride, not a private charter. To ensure fairness throughout the itinerary, seats must be rotated daily!
VI. Driver and Guide Services: This tour does not include a tour guide; only a driver is provided. Due to the driver’s educational background and the complex road conditions in Xinjiang’s mountainous regions, long-distance driving requires a high level of concentration. The driver will remain vigilant throughout the trip and cannot be distracted by excessive conversation or interaction with passengers. Your safety is our top priority. Please prepare your own itinerary in advance. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation!
VII. Regarding Pricing: Tour package prices are subject to dynamic factors such as booking timing, channel policies, the scale of resource procurement, and hotel availability. Reasonable price differences between different batches of orders are a normal market phenomenon, and price discrepancies will not be addressed. Thank you for your understanding.

Included in the Price:
1. Transportation: A spacious 7-seat commercial vehicle with a 1+1 seating configuration and valid operating license for the duration of the itinerary, including but not limited to models such as Yutong, Zhongtong, Yaxing, Ford T8, Higer, JAC Xingrui, and Ford Fushun. The seating layout consists of 1+1 individual seats. Specific vehicle models cannot be specified. Due to limited interior space, we recommend that each person bring no more than one suitcase under 28 inches.
2. Airport Transfers: Typically, a standard five-seater vehicle for groups of three or fewer, and a standard business van for groups of four or more;
3. Accommodations: 8 nights’ accommodation at the hotels listed in the itinerary, including 3 nights at four-diamond hotels, 2 nights at five-diamond hotels, and 3 nights in log cabins. Standard double rooms for two people are the default;
4. Admission Tickets: General Mountain Cable Car, Hemu + Kanas entrance tickets, Sayram Lake entrance ticket, and self-drive permit.
5. Experiences: Sayram Lake hot pot—70 per person; General Mountain Cable Car—50 per person; choice of horse-drawn sleigh or snowmobile—50 per person (included in the package; refunds will be issued at this rate if activities cannot be conducted due to weather conditions); UTV snow off-road vehicle—60 per person (no refunds available for cancellations made after November 30).
Drone: Two flights per order. If filming is not possible due to weather or other reasons, the refund standard is 50 per person.
DSLR Photography: 9 photos per person. If photos cannot be taken due to weather or other reasons, a refund of 50 per person will be issued.
The activities listed in the itinerary—including the bonfire party, the General Mountain Cable Car sunset party, the Jikepulin Beginner Trail ski pass, and the UTV snow off-road vehicle ride—are recreational activities within the scenic area. They are organized by the scenic area based on factors such as the day’s weather and number of participants; specific arrangements are subject to the scenic area’s actual plans. Visitors may choose whether to participate based on their preferences. If an activity is not available, refunds will be processed according to the refund standards specified in the itinerary.
★ The travel photo service is a value-added service provided by the driver to assist with capturing memorable moments, provided that safe driving is ensured at all times. The equipment used consists of basic, entry-level models intended primarily for fun, casual travel documentation—not professional photography services. As the actual operating costs for this service are low (equipment depreciation and basic consumables amount to approximately 50 yuan per person), the results cannot be compared to those of professional photography. If the service cannot be provided due to equipment malfunction, weather, road conditions, or other reasons, we will issue a refund based on this standard. We recommend that you also use your own devices, such as a smartphone, to capture memorable moments. The driver’s photography consists primarily of candid shots and does not include posing guidance, detailed photo editing, or dedicated on-site photography services at specific attractions.
Travel Photography: 200 per person—Unlike individual bookings, we leverage the scale of our year-round group tours to negotiate long-term bulk rates with photography teams, effectively reducing the cost per person. This saves you the time and effort of finding a photography team on your own and negotiating prices, while allowing you to receive standardized travel photography services at a rate lower than the market price for individual travelers. Please note that if you have more advanced photography requirements (such as multiple outfit changes, full-day coverage, or additional retouching), you may contact us in advance. We will assist you in coordinating with the photography team to upgrade your services; upgrade fees will be charged according to the photography team’s standard rates.
6. Driver: This tour does not include a tour guide; only a driver is provided. The travel agency covers the driver’s meals and accommodations. Due to educational limitations, the driver cannot provide professional commentary. Additionally, for safety reasons, the driver may be unable to interact with the group while focusing on driving. We ask for your understanding and encourage you to prepare your own travel itinerary in advance.
7. Meals: No main meals are included throughout the entire trip; only breakfast is provided. Breakfast is not included at the log cabins in Hemu and Kanas; please make your own arrangements.
8. Insurance: The travel agency will purchase the “Baoyou Wang Baoyou Changxin You” Domestic Travel Protection Plan (Travel Agency Exclusive Version) Plan 1, Option 4 for travelers. The travel accident insurance provides a maximum coverage of 500,000 yuan. The specific scope of claims and related liability shall be subject to the terms of the insurance policy. We recommend that guests purchase additional insurance with higher coverage limits on their own!

Fees Do Not Include: This tour package does not include a tour guide!
1. Meals: No main meals are included throughout the trip (tourists are not required to share the cost of the driver’s meals and accommodations)
2. Attractions: Entertainment activities within scenic areas
3. Other: A. Additional expenses resulting from force majeure events such as traffic delays, strikes, weather conditions, flight issues, mechanical failures, flight cancellations, or schedule changes; B. Personal expenses at hotels, including laundry, haircuts, telephone calls, faxes, pay-per-view TV, beverages, tobacco, and alcohol. Expenses arising from the above two situations, as well as any costs not mentioned in the “Included” section, shall be borne by the traveler; our agency will not be held responsible.
4. Optional Activities: Various recreational activities within scenic areas, such as horseback riding, river rafting, paragliding, helicopter tours, etc. (including but not limited to the above activities). Tourists are advised to participate with caution and fully consider the risks involved. These activities are not included in the travel agency’s scope of services.
5. Excess Mileage Fees: According to regulations from the Transport Administration Bureau, drivers of commercial vehicles in Xinjiang are limited to 600 kilometers per day. If this limit is exceeded, drivers face substantial fines ranging from 20,000 to 100,000 yuan or revocation of their business license. Therefore, for daily travel outside the scheduled itinerary, we recommend that you arrange your own transportation, such as taxis or other suitable means. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation!
6. Contract Notes: Please be advised that the itineraries you have selected are primarily in mountainous areas where weather conditions are highly variable. Before your visit, please monitor weather updates for your destination and decide for yourself whether to proceed. If weather conditions change but you still choose to travel, any additional expenses incurred due to delays—including but not limited to accommodation, meals, and return transportation—will be your sole responsibility.
7. The itinerary schedule above is subject to change due to force majeure factors such as flight arrivals and departures, weather, and road conditions. The order of sightseeing may be adjusted provided that the overall itinerary and service standards remain unaffected. We appreciate your understanding!

Restrictions on Eligible Participants:
Our agency does not currently accept the following individuals for group tours:
1. Pregnant women
Due to the possibility of bumpy roads, altitude sickness, or limitations on emergency rescue capabilities during the trip, and to ensure the safety of both mother and child, pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy are not permitted to register for group tours.
2. Infants and toddlers under three years of age
We do not accept infants and toddlers who are unable to move independently.
3. Elderly travelers
• Ages 70–74: In addition to a health certificate, one immediate family member under the age of 60 must accompany the traveler for the entire trip;
• Ages 75 and above: Due to insurance coverage restrictions and high-risk emergency response requirements, we regret that we cannot accommodate travelers in this age group.
4. Minors Traveling Alone
• Individuals under the age of 18 must provide a letter of authorization from a legal guardian and be accompanied by at least one adult relative. Minors without a relative accompanying them will not be accepted.
5. Travelers with Disabilities:
• As the itinerary involves complex terrain such as high-altitude and mountainous areas, and includes activities such as extended periods of travel by vehicle and hiking, for safety reasons, we are currently unable to accommodate travelers with limited mobility or those requiring special assistance. We appreciate your understanding.
6. Travelers from Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, and Foreign Nationals:
• Some itineraries involve border regions; prior confirmation is required to determine whether foreign nationals are permitted to enter.
7. Group Bookings of Six or More People:
We will allocate participants to two separate vehicles based on actual capacity (each vehicle constitutes a separate small group). Each vehicle may follow a different itinerary pace or make different stops along the way. Insisting on parallel travel may disrupt the experience plans of other groups and even cause delays to the entire itinerary. Therefore, we cannot guarantee coordinated travel between vehicles; we appreciate your understanding. If this is a concern, please book a private tour.
Special Notes:
• In accordance with relevant provisions of the *Tourism Law*, travelers are obligated to truthfully disclose their health status. Travelers shall bear full responsibility for any consequences resulting from the concealment of their health status. The travel agency reserves the right to terminate the contract without liability for compensation;
• These terms are formulated in accordance with the *Standards for Travel Agencies’ Services to Senior Citizens*, the *Minors Protection Law*, and insurance underwriting rules.

Important Notes: This is a nationwide group tour for 2–6 people. The tour departs with a minimum of 2 participants and a maximum of 6. We cannot guarantee the age, gender, or number of fellow travelers; we appreciate your understanding.
1. When booking, please be sure to provide accurate and complete identification information and contact details to avoid booking errors that could affect your trip. The travel agency assumes no responsibility for any inaccuracies in the information provided due to the guest’s personal reasons.
2. For complimentary activities included in the itinerary, no refunds will be issued if participation is not possible due to force majeure factors (such as traffic or weather) or if the guest is unable to participate for personal reasons.
3. If you choose to leave the group during the trip, the uncompleted portion will be considered voluntarily forfeited. Only the unused portion of your package cost will be refunded; transportation fees are non-refundable.
4. If an attraction is closed due to force majeure during the trip, preventing normal visits, both parties will negotiate to cancel or replace the attraction based on actual circumstances, and any price difference will be refunded or collected on-site.
5. Guests holding any type of identification eligible for attraction discounts must inform the tour operator in advance and present their ID when purchasing tickets; specific discounts will be subject to the attraction’s policies on the day of visit.
6. Rules for calculating the number of travel days: If you are participating in a tour that begins and ends within China, the total number of days listed for this product includes the time for round-trip transportation (the outbound flight counts as 1 day, and the return flight counts as 1 day). Please confirm upon signing the contract that you fully understand these rules for calculating the number of travel days. If a misunderstanding regarding the number of travel days arises due to personal reasons, the travel agency reserves the right to reject unreasonable claims. (Travelers whose trip begins and ends within Xinjiang may disregard this clause.)
7. Dining: Cuisine in the Xinjiang region tends to be heavily seasoned, with spiciness slightly stronger than in other parts of mainland China. When ordering dishes or sampling local delicacies, we recommend eating small portions frequently. Meal Times: Due to a time difference of approximately 2 hours between Xinjiang and the mainland (though Beijing Time is still observed), breakfast is generally served around 8:00 a.m., lunch between 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m., and dinner around 8:00 p.m. Please bring your own snacks in advance.
8. As Xinjiang’s economy lags behind that of the mainland, there are significant differences between hotels of the same grade in Xinjiang and those on the mainland, as well as between accommodations at scenic spots and those in cities. Please be mentally prepared for this.
9. Itinerary Notes: The above itinerary may be subject to appropriate adjustments based on actual weather and temperature conditions on the day of travel.
[The times listed in the itinerary are for reference only; the actual tour schedule shall prevail.]

“Notice on Precautions for Winter Travel in Altay”
Dear Travelers:
While Altay’s winter snowscapes are beautiful, snowfall is frequent. In the event of temporary traffic restrictions caused by weather or other force majeure circumstances, we have prepared contingency plans to ensure your travel experience is fully protected: I. Explanation of Common Traffic Restriction Scenarios
★ Temporary Restrictions: If vehicle traffic is temporarily restricted due to weather conditions, please wait a short while; we will monitor road conditions as soon as possible;
★ Extreme Situations (Rare): In the event of an avalanche (averaging 3–5 per year), this may result in itinerary delays, temporary stranding on the mountain, or even disruptions to your return flights.
II. Contingency Plans and Fee Information
We have extensive experience in handling such situations and ample contingency plans (such as adjusting the itinerary sequence based on early weather forecasts). However, to avoid misunderstandings, we are clarifying in advance the additional costs that may arise due to force majeure:
★ If road restrictions or park closures occur upon arrival:
Option A: Completely change the itinerary: Cancel the Kanas and Hemu segments and visit alternative attractions in the Altay region, such as Koktokay or General Mountain, or adjust the itinerary toward the Ili region;
Option B: Wait: Wait in Burqin for the road to reopen; during this time, visit nearby attractions or make flexible adjustments based on real-time road conditions and notifications from traffic police; This option may affect the latter part of the itinerary, potentially requiring flight rebooking or postponement, or shortening the remaining itinerary. Any resulting costs will be handled in accordance with Article 67 of the Tourism Law.
★ If only five-seat 4WD vehicles are permitted to ascend the mountain: If, due to heavy snowfall, traffic police only allow five-seat 4WD vehicles (there are few commercial 4WD vehicles in the Altay region; most are non-commercial vehicles) to ascend the mountain, you will be required to sign an agreement stating that: You voluntarily agree to pay the additional price difference. The travel agency is not responsible for this situation, and it cannot be used as grounds for a complaint; furthermore, the vehicle owner is solely responsible for vehicle safety.
★ If stranded on the mountain: We will assist you in booking extended accommodations, but the cost of the extended stay is your responsibility. We can also assist in providing relevant documentation.
If you have any questions during your trip, please feel free to contact us at any time. We wish you a safe and enjoyable winter journey in Altay!

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