Shule travel guide and discussion

【Introduction】 Highlight 1【Three Sacred Plateau Lakes】Karakul Lake / Baisha Lake / Bandier Blue Lake Highlight 2【Road Trip】Panlong Ancient Road / China-Pakistan Friendship Highway / Wakhan Corridor / Tree Hole Road Highlight 3【Love of Two Rivers】Gaizi River / Tashkurgan River Highlight 4【Devil’s Eye】Muji Volcano Highlight 5【Cloud Gate】Hongqilafu Border Gate 🛬【Itinerary】: D1: Warm Home - Kashgar D2: Kashgar - Process Border Pass - Drive past Oytak Red Mountain Valley - 【Baisha Lake】(South and North Banks) - Distant view of the Kunlun Three Heroes - 【Muji Volcano】 - Distant view of Eighteen Arhats Peak - 【Tahaman Wetland】 D3: Taxkorgan - 【Hongqilafu Border Gate】 - 【Panlong Ancient Road】 - 【Bandier Blue Lake】 【Wakhan Corridor】 - Taxkorgan D4: Taxkorgan - Tajik Family Visit - Tree Hole Road - 【Muztag Glacier Park】 - 【Karakul Lake】 - Kashgar D5: Kashgar - Shache - Check in at Tuan City - Hotan Night Market D6: Hotan 【Jade Lake】 - Desert Highway (Crossing the Taklamakan Desert) - Aral D7: Aral - 【Wensu Grand Canyon】 - Aksu D8: Aksu - Kashgar Old City - Kashgar D9: Kashgar - Transfer to Airport 🧡【Tips】: For details, please click the one-click consultation guide Hou Binbin at the bottom left

Departing from Kashgar, head west and drive onto the G314 Karakoram Highway. Before this, I had only heard of the Kunlun Mountains in books and myths. I always thought it was a distant, ethereal, and even fantastical legend. Until it suddenly stretched across the end of the road. No delicacy, no gentleness. The massive, rugged, and vast mountain range unfolded before me. Yellow-brown peaks layered one upon another, huge landslides section after section, and distant snow-capped peaks pierced the clouds, standing silently between heaven and earth. The ancients said, "Rising abruptly, the vast Kunlun." Only when standing before it did I realize this was no exaggeration. It is both a mythical mountain and a silent, towering wall in reality. Moving forward, the road winds along the foot of the Kunlun Mountains. Snow-capped mountains and wilderness stretch endlessly, and the grayish-white Gez River flows beneath. In the face of such grand mountains, humanity is insignificantly small. Along this journey, I have seen many lakes, many grasslands, and many high mountains—the Tianshan, Qilian, and Altun Mountains... But the shock the Kunlun Mountains give you is unique. It never tries to please tourists, never adorns itself; it simply stands in its most primitive, majestic, and vast posture, clearly telling you: what the backbone of the earth truly is. ⭐ Travel Tips ✅ Best viewing route: The G314 Karakoram Highway. Departing from Kashgar, after reaching Oytag Red Mountain and continuing all the way to Karakul Lake, the entire road runs along the northern foothills of the Kunlun Mountains. You can see the rolling Kunlun Mountains the whole way. No admission ticket is required; you can enjoy the view from the road. Find an open, safe parking spot to take stunning photos. ✅ Transportation: 1. Chartered car/carpooling: The choice for most people. The journey on the Pamir Plateau is long with strict section speed limits, so chartering a car is worry-free and convenient. ​ 2. Self-driving: Be sure to fill up your tank before leaving Kashgar, as gas stations along the way are scarce. There are many curves and strict speed limits, so do not speed. When parking to enjoy the view, be sure to choose a wide, safe parking area and avoid slopes with falling rocks. ✅ Border permits: You must obtain a border pass to travel the entire Pamir route. You can apply at the Kashgar Government Service Center or police stations, or apply online via the National Immigration Administration mini-program. Select Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County as your destination. Remember to take a screenshot of your electronic border pass to save it, as some sections of the plateau have no mobile signal. Carry your ID card with you at all times, as there are multiple security checkpoints along the way. ✅ Safety tips: The altitude gradually rises along the way. Baisha Lake is about 3,350 meters, Karakul Lake is about 3,650 meters, and most other sections are above 3,000 meters. Move slowly upon arriving in high-altitude areas; do not run or jump, drink less alcohol, and consider carrying an oxygen canister. The weather on the plateau changes rapidly, with four seasons in one day. A lightweight down jacket and a windbreaker are essential; it will be chilly even in summer. The UV rays are extremely strong, so be sure to bring sunglasses, a sun hat, and high-SPF sunscreen. ✅ Recommended 1-day/2-day loop: Kashgar → Oytag Red Mountain → Kunlun scenic route (Gez Valley) → Baisha Lake → Karakul Lake (Muztagh Ata) → Taxkorgan (can stay overnight) → Return to Kashgar. ✅ Tips: The most beautiful moment for the Kunlun Mountains is usually in the evening, when the setting sun dyes the yellow-brown mountains in a layer of warm gold, and the snow-capped peaks look particularly spectacular against the backlight. The weather changes quickly, so whether you can see the complete snow-capped peaks depends on luck. We were lucky that day; we saw the three giants of Kunlun—Muztagh Ata, Kongur Tagh, and Kongur Tiube—in their entirety.

Starting from Kashgar and heading west, along the G314 China-Pakistan Friendship Highway, continue into the depths of the Pamir Plateau. Having seen the vast and rugged Kunlun Mountains and the sweeping quicksand of the Gez River, the most heart-stirring sight is this Baisha Lake deep within the mountains. Driving through the desolate, rolling Kunlun valleys, with nothing but brown, barren mountains and cold, snowy peaks in sight, suddenly a pool of clear blue strikes your eyes. Paired with the endless white sand mountains in the distance, it instantly heals the fatigue of the journey. Lakes in the south are all green waters surrounded by green hills. Only Baisha Lake, deep in the Pamirs, is so unique: white sand embracing a blue sea, snow-capped mountains reflecting in clear waves. The fine, white sand mountains rise and fall in layers, looking like they are covered in snow that never melts, clean without a trace of impurity. The clear, blue lake water is quiet and bright, changing into different shades of blue with the light. When the weather is clear, the lake surface is as calm as a mirror, without a ripple. The 7,000-meter-plus Kongur Tiube Peak is clearly reflected in the water. Nine snow-capped peaks stretch across the horizon, with white sand, blue water, and snow-capped mountains in the same frame. This is the unique, desolate yet gentle, ultimate scenery of the Pamir Plateau. No crowded throngs, no excessive commercialization. Standing by the lake, feeling the plateau breeze, breathing the rare oxygen, and watching the silent mountains and rivers and the vast sky, I finally truly understand: why the G314 is called China's most beautiful highway, why the Kunlun Mountains are revered as the ancestor of all mountains, why the Pamirs are hailed as the source of all waters. ⭐ Travel tips ✅ Location and road conditions Baisha Lake is located along the G314 main road from Kashgar to Taxkorgan. It is a must-visit attraction, about a 2-hour drive from downtown Kashgar, with continuous scenery along the way, allowing you to stop whenever you like. ✅ Sightseeing areas Baisha Lake is divided into north and south shores: The north shore offers free viewing with a wide field of view, perfect for panoramic photos; the south shore requires a ticket, where you can walk on the wooden boardwalk near the lake, take photos with white yaks, touch the plateau lake water up close, and have a more immersive experience. ✅ Best time to visit You can visit all day; the reflections are clearest in the morning, and the light is softest in the afternoon. The plateau weather is changeable. Once the wind picks up, the lake surface will ripple, and the mirror-like reflections will disappear. If you want to take stunning reflection photos, it is recommended to go early. ✅ Border permit You must obtain a border permit to travel the entire Pamir route. You can apply at the Kashgar Government Service Hall or police stations, or apply online via the National Immigration Administration mini-program. Select Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County as your destination. Remember to take a screenshot of your electronic border permit to save it, as some sections of the plateau have no mobile signal. Carry your ID card with you at all times. ✅ Important notes The scenic area is at an altitude of about 3,300 meters. Slow down after arrival; do not run, jump, or engage in strenuous exercise. The plateau experiences four seasons in one day, with a huge temperature difference. A windbreaker and a light down jacket are essential. The UV rays are extremely strong, so sunglasses, a hat, and high-SPF sunscreen are must-haves. ✅ Self-driving route Kashgar → Gez Valley (Quicksand River) → Baisha Lake → Karakul Lake → Muztagh Ata → Taxkorgan → Kashgar ✅ Travel reflections The Kunlun Mountains offer a sense of awe and grandeur, while the Gez River offers the vastness of an ancient path. Baisha Lake is the cleanest and gentlest surprise on the entire westward journey through the Pamirs. The desolate Gobi hides mountains and seas, and the vast white sand reflects the deep blue. This is perhaps the romance unique to Southern Xinjiang.

The ultimate 8-day itinerary for Kashgar and surrounding areas is here! Experience the vibrant life of the ancient Western Regions city, enjoy a complimentary whole roasted lamb, and stay in comfortable, authentic accommodations. Just follow this itinerary! · ------------------- 🚗 Itinerary: This itinerary is packed, allowing you to visit many attractions in a limited time~ D1: Guangzhou -> Kashgar, arrive and start your Southern Xinjiang tour D2: Explore Kashgar Ancient City and experience the vibrant life of the old Western Regions city D3: Yongan Lake Scenic Area -> Tangwang City, enjoy natural and cultural scenery D4: Dawakun Desert Scenic Area -> Mosque (Y202), experience the desert and religious culture D5–6: China's Westernmost Point Monument -> Saibei Flower Cotton Culture Museum (Kashgar) -> Karakul Lake Scenic Area, visit the ultimate westernmost point and enjoy the lake and mountain views D7: Panlong Ancient Road -> Kashgar Stone City -> Bandier Blue Lake, travel the popular road, explore ancient city ruins, and admire the blue lake D8: Kashgar -> Guangzhou, return home with wonderful memories. Includes a complimentary whole roasted lamb experience! · ------------------- Notes: 1. Don't miss the earthy yellow streets of the Gaotai Ancient Homes for photos 📸; every shot looks like a blockbuster; 2. The baked buns and lamb soup from the old town street stalls are amazing. Remember to try the special meal that includes the complimentary whole roasted lamb 🍖; 3. Raisins at the bazaar cost a few dozen yuan per jin on average; buy as needed to avoid tourist traps 💰; 4. Remove your hat when entering religious sites and respect local customs regarding pork consumption 🙏. · ------------------- Join a group tour to Kashgar and surrounding areas for a worry-free trip that covers all the best sights. Booking a reliable group tour is the right choice!

Try not to have too many fixed expectations when traveling. Many of the beautiful scenes you see online are either due to filters or rare, perfect conditions. Often, the scenery is actually quite average. For example—not visiting Baisha Lake when the weather is calm. [Angel] The Baisha Lake you see online is truly beautiful, with snow-white lake water and snow-white sand mountains in the distance. But the problem is, you can only see this scenery in calm, sunny weather. And most of the time, Baisha Lake is windy and drizzly. So, if you happen to be in the Kashgar region of the Southern Xinjiang plateau and are passing by Baisha Lake, feel free to stop by, but there is really no need to make a special trip just for it. [Akward] The Baisha Lake area has had human activity since the Han Dynasty and was successively governed by Western Regions states such as Wusun, Shache, and Shule. The lakeshore features vast grasslands, snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and rivers, forming a unique ecosystem. In addition, the scenic area boasts rich biological resources. 🚗 There is a paid parking area by the road near Baisha Lake. Parking on the road is prohibited. If you want to park and visit the lake, you must park your vehicle in the parking lot.

The car is driving along the China-Pakistan Friendship Highway G314 towards Taxkorgan. When we reached Gezi Valley, a wide, muddy yellow river suddenly appeared before our eyes. The tour guide's remark that this is the "Liusha River" from "Journey to the West" made us both excited and surprised. The river water is a unique grayish-white, looking turbid and heavy. This isn't just because there is a lot of sand in the water, but because the glacial meltwater from the Kunlun Mountains upstream carries a large amount of fine powder ground from rocks, giving the entire river its unique gray tone. Both banks of the river are lined with continuous yellowish-brown barren mountains. Every so often, you can see very obvious signs of landslides. The distant Kunlun snow-capped mountains are often hidden in the sea of clouds, like giants in the vast wilderness, truly possessing a bit of the mysterious atmosphere of the "Eight Hundred Li of Flowing Sands." However, this "Liusha River" is just a name passed down by word of mouth. The river's official name is Gezi River, which means "gray water river" in the Kyrgyz language. Historically, there is no confirmed location for the corresponding Liusha River, which might be considered a romantic travel surprise on the Pamir Plateau. ⭐ Travel Tips ✅ Ticket information: Gezi Valley is open for free with no admission ticket, making it suitable for stopping to view the scenery and take photos along the way ✅ Transportation guide: Gezi Valley is located along the G314 National Highway from Kashgar to Taxkorgan, about a 2.5-hour drive from downtown Kashgar 1. Chartering/carpooling: The Pamir Plateau is far away. Although the road conditions are good, there are many section speed cameras. Chartering a car is worry-free and effortless, which is the choice of most tourists. 2. Self-driving: Fill up your gas tank in Kashgar before departure, as gas stations along the way are very scarce. There are many curves on the road and strict speed monitoring, so do not speed. Choose a wide and safe area to park and view the scenery, and do not stop under mountains with falling rocks. ✅ Document reminder: The entire Pamir Plateau route requires a border defense permit. You can apply for it at the Kashgar Government Service Hall or police stations, or apply online via the Immigration Bureau mini-program. Select Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County as the destination. Remember to take a screenshot of your electronic border permit, as many road sections on the plateau have no mobile signal. Carry your ID card with you throughout the trip. ✅ Important notes: 1. The altitude along the way continues to rise, and the subsequent Baisha Lake and Karakul Lake are at an altitude of about 3,300–3,650 meters. Upon arriving at high-altitude areas, slow down your movements, do not run or jump, and try not to drink alcohol. You can prepare an oxygen bottle, which can also be purchased at the scenic area. 2. The weather on the plateau changes very quickly, and experiencing four seasons in one day is the norm. Be sure to bring a windbreaker and a thin down jacket. The ultraviolet rays on the plateau are extremely strong, so sunglasses, sun hats, and high-SPF sunscreen are essential. ✅ Recommended itinerary: Kashgar → Oytag Red Mountain → Gezi Valley (Liusha River) → Baisha Lake → Karakul Lake → Muztagh Ata → Taxkorgan. This is a classic one-day or two-day loop on the Pamir Plateau.

As the saying goes, "You haven't truly visited Xinjiang until you've been to Kashgar." This implies that Kashgar is very distinctive, holding a significant and widely representative position in Xinjiang. On August 4 and 5, 2026, we took our child to explore Kashgar Old City. Kashgar, officially known as Kashi Gar, means "jade" in Turkic, while "Gar" means "stone" or "mountain" in Persian. Combined, it means "jade" or "jade mountain." Li Si's memorial to King Ying Zheng of Qin, "Admonitions Against Expelling Guest Officials," describes "jade from Kunlun Mountain." Even earlier, "The Book of Songs · Minor Odes · Crane Cry" contains the line, "The stones from other mountains can be used to polish jade." Kashgar is located at the foot of the Kunlun Mountains, proving the ancients were indeed truthful! Kashgar Old City has a history of 2,000 years and is currently a national 5A-rated scenic area. During the Han Dynasty, Kashgar was known as Shule and served as the convergence point for the northern, central, and southern routes of the ancient Silk Road in the Western Regions. Today, the old city features the World Intangible Cultural Heritage "Twelve Muqams" and Dolan "Meshrep," as well as attractions like Xiangfei Garden, Mor Pagoda, Maimaiti's House (Bayi Lord's residence in "The Story of Afanti"), and Id Kah Mosque. Wandering through the two major old city districts, East City and West City, you'll find many tourists from various places, as well as a few Europeans. Everywhere you look, there are Islamic-style buildings, a dazzling array of unique goods, and adults, children, and seniors from ethnic minorities like the Uyghurs. Therefore, Kashgar Old City is a vibrant, living ancient city.

Pantuo City: A Hidden Eastern Han Dynasty Code Next to Kashgar Old City – Read This Character and You're Free A 10-minute taxi ride from Kashgar Old City, a section of earthen city wall suddenly appears beside the Tuman River – the grass on the crenellations is blown askew by the wind, and the character "橐" (tuó) in the three large characters "盘橐城" (Pantuo City) on the city gate resembles a string of knotted ropes. The gatekeeper, an old man in a blue cloth shirt, smiles and points to the stone tablet: "Nine out of ten tourists can't pronounce it correctly. If you can, you can come in for free." This is the ruins of the palace of the Shule Kingdom in the Western Regions, and also the "Western Regions Command Headquarters" of Ban Chao of the Eastern Han Dynasty. In 73 AD, he established himself here with 36 brave warriors, and spent 31 years pacifying 55 kingdoms. Today, pushing open the earthen gate, 36 stone statues line the sacred path, and a 36-meter-long relief wall is filled with the clash of swords; even the wind whispers tales of the Han Dynasty. After a tiring stroll through Kashgar Old City, come here to feel the breeze and truly grasp the roots of the Western Regions. 🏯 Recognizing the character "橐" (tuó) is like stepping into the Han Dynasty. The secret of the character "橐" is carved on the lintel. The gatekeeper taps his pipe on the stone tablet: "This character is pronounced tuó, meaning pocket. Ban Chao used this character when he carried a bag of provisions on his expedition." A girl in Hanfu stands before the tablet, tracing the strokes with her finger, "The horizontal stroke and hook resemble a cloth bag, and the 'stone' below means the grain was packed as tightly as stones." A young man wearing glasses pulls out his phone to look up the pronunciation, clapping his hands when he finds it, "So this is the 'Pan Tuo City' mentioned in the *Book of the Later Han*! The character from the textbook has come to life!" The cracks in the earthen city wall hold the winds of the Western Regions. On the restored Han Dynasty city wall, the rammed earth patterns resemble the wrinkles of an old man. Fingerprints remain on one of the adobe bricks. "This was rammed using the old method," an old man explained. "Three people worked in a group, chanting as they pounded it, making the earth firm." Looking down from the crenellations, the Tuman River flows slowly, and on the opposite bank, modern houses display colorful floral carpets, red and green, echoing the Han Dynasty banners on the relief wall. ⚔ 36 Stone Statues, Standing in a Thousand-Year-Old Formation The stone boots on the spirit path are covered in the dust of time. Thirty-six warrior statues are arranged in two rows, each holding a different sword, shield, or crossbow. One statue's boot has a chipped corner; an old man explained, "It was from last year's earthquake; it wasn't repaired. Consider it a scar left on history." A young man in camouflage pants stands beside a statue, comparing his height. "This one must be 1.9 meters tall. Back then, Ban Chao's men were all strong men." As the sunlight slanted in, the shadows of the stone statues were cast on the ground, like a layer of armor covering the sacred path. The gaze of the Ban Chao statue has been fixed for two thousand years. The nine-meter-high statue of Ban Chao in the center of the square holds a staff (a token of authority for Han Dynasty envoys) pointing westward, a withered leaf still tucked into the folds of his cloak. "Look at his eyes," an old man squinted, "half fierce, half hopeful—fierce towards the Xiongnu, hopeful for Chang'an." A history student held up the *Book of the Later Han* for comparison, "The book says he 'abandoned his pen for the sword,' and look at the statue's hands, the knuckles still bear the calluses from holding a pen." 🖼 A 36-meter-long relief wall, carved with legends of the Western Regions The most breathtaking feature is the semi-circular relief wall, 36 meters long and 9 meters high, resembling an open stone book. From Ban Chao's mission with 36 men to the alliance of Western Regions states against the Xiongnu, and the reopening of the Silk Road, the chisel marks still reveal the fierce spirit of the past—in one battle map, the Xiongnu cavalry's armor is depicted as rougher than the Han army's, "This was intentional by the craftsmen, to highlight the superiority of our Han army." A map of the Western Regions in the corner holds secrets of the past and present. At the end of the relief wall is a map of the 36 kingdoms of the Western Regions from the Han Dynasty, with the location of Shule Kingdom (present-day Kashgar) marked in vermilion, and its distance from Chang'an marked next to it: "5,300 li." A girl in sneakers measures it with her hand, "From here to Xi'an, it takes two days to drive now, but back then, it took Ban Chao three months to deliver a message." 🌙 From the ancient city to Pantuo City, half a day to explore the soul of Kashgar Pantuo City is most charming at dusk. The setting sun dyes the city walls golden-red, the shadows of the stone statues are stretched long, merging with the minarets of the distant ancient city. An old man sat smoking by the beacon tower, smoke rings drifting towards the relief wall. "There aren't many tourists here," he said, "mostly locals taking a stroll after dinner. Look at those kids, playing hide-and-seek around the stone statues." After exploring, we went straight back to the Old City for roasted pigeon. As the car crossed the Tuman River, we could see the lights of Pantuo City and the night market lights of the Old City blending together. Taking a bite of the crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside pigeon, I suddenly understood the preciousness of this free attraction—it wasn't crowded with tour groups, like a quiet old man, guarding its most enduring essence amidst the hustle and bustle of Kashgar: two thousand years ago, someone here, with the courage of 36 men, brought the moonlight of the Central Plains into the sands of the Western Regions. Practical Guide · Transportation: A 10-minute taxi ride (about 15 yuan) from Kashgar Old City; navigate to "Pantuo City"; or take bus number 28 to "Tuman River Station," then walk for 5 minutes. · Cost: Free! Just pronounce the character "橐 (tuó)" correctly (there are pinyin prompts at the entrance, so don't worry about mispronouncing it). · How to do it: 1. First, take a photo of the "Pan Tuo City" stone tablet (with pinyin to avoid mispronouncing it on social media); 2. Take photos of the relief wall when the midday sun is strong (the hard light highlights the stone texture); 3. In the evening, take a backlit silhouette photo in front of the Ban Chao statue (the silhouette of the cape is incredibly striking). · Recommended activity: Explore Pan Tuo City in the morning, spend the afternoon in the ancient city (take photos of the century-old teahouse and the opening ceremony), and have stewed meat in the evening (recommended: "Ailizhati Stewed Meat", 25 yuan/serving, tender meat and delicious broth). · Reminder: The scenic area closes at 7:30 PM, so don't stay out too late; there are free guide signs next to the statues, and you can scan the QR code to hear the stories; respect history, do not climb on the statues or touch the reliefs. Are you brave enough to try pronouncing the character "橐" correctly? Or, what other historical surprises do you know about Kashgar? See you in the comments! Pantuo City: A Hidden Eastern Han Dynasty Code Next to Kashgar Old City – Read This Character Correctly and You're Free! A 10-minute taxi ride from Kashgar Old City, a section of earthen city wall suddenly appears beside the Tuman River – the grass on the crenellations is blown askew by the wind, and the character "橐 (tuó)" in the three large characters "盘橐城" (Pantuo City) on the city gate resembles a string of knotted ropes. The gatekeeper, an old man in a blue cloth shirt, smiles and points to the stone tablet: "Nine out of ten tourists can't pronounce it correctly. If you do, you can come in for free." This is the ruins of the palace of the Shule Kingdom in the Western Regions, and also the "Western Regions Command Headquarters" of Ban Chao of the Eastern Han Dynasty. In 73 AD, he established himself here with 36 brave warriors, and spent 31 years pacifying 55 kingdoms. Today, pushing open the earthen gate, 36 stone statues line the sacred path, and a 36-meter-long relief wall is filled with the clash of swords; even the wind whispers tales of the Han Dynasty. After a tiring stroll through Kashgar Old City, come here to feel the breeze and truly grasp the roots of the Western Regions. 🏯 Recognizing the character "橐" (tuó) is like stepping into the Han Dynasty. The secret of the character "橐" is carved on the lintel. The gatekeeper taps his pipe on the stone tablet: "This character is pronounced tuó, meaning pocket. Ban Chao used this character when he carried a bag of provisions on his expedition." A girl in Hanfu stands before the tablet, tracing the strokes with her finger, "The horizontal stroke and hook resemble a cloth bag, and the 'stone' below means the grain was packed as tightly as stones." A young man wearing glasses pulls out his phone to look up the pronunciation, clapping his hands when he finds it, "So this is the 'Pan Tuo City' mentioned in the *Book of the Later Han*! The character from the textbook has come to life!" The cracks in the earthen city wall hold the winds of the Western Regions. On the restored Han Dynasty city wall, the rammed earth patterns resemble the wrinkles of an old man. Fingerprints remain on one of the adobe bricks. "This was rammed using the old method," an old man explained. "Three people worked in a group, chanting as they pounded it, making the earth firm." Looking down from the crenellations, the Tuman River flows slowly, and on the opposite bank, modern houses display colorful floral carpets, red and green, echoing the Han Dynasty banners on the relief wall. ⚔ 36 Stone Statues, Standing in a Thousand-Year-Old Formation The stone boots on the spirit path are covered in the dust of time. Thirty-six warrior statues are arranged in two rows, each holding a different sword, shield, or crossbow. One statue's boot has a chipped corner; an old man explained, "It was from last year's earthquake; it wasn't repaired. Consider it a scar left on history." A young man in camouflage pants stands beside a statue, comparing his height. "This one must be 1.9 meters tall. Back then, Ban Chao's men were all strong men." As the sunlight slanted in, the shadows of the stone statues were cast on the ground, like a layer of armor covering the sacred path. The gaze of the Ban Chao statue has been fixed for two thousand years. The nine-meter-high statue of Ban Chao in the center of the square holds a staff (a token of authority for Han Dynasty envoys) pointing westward, a withered leaf still tucked into the folds of his cloak. "Look at his eyes," an old man squinted, "half fierce, half hopeful—fierce towards the Xiongnu, hopeful for Chang'an." A history student held up the *Book of the Later Han* for comparison, "The book says he 'abandoned his pen for the sword,' and look at the statue's hands, the knuckles still bear the calluses from holding a pen." 🖼 A 36-meter-long relief wall, carved with legends of the Western Regions The most breathtaking feature is the semi-circular relief wall, 36 meters long and 9 meters high, resembling an open stone book. From Ban Chao's mission with 36 men to the alliance of Western Regions states against the Xiongnu, and the reopening of the Silk Road, the chisel marks still reveal the fierce spirit of the past—in one battle map, the Xiongnu cavalry's armor is depicted as rougher than the Han army's, "This was intentional by the craftsmen, to highlight the superiority of our Han army." A map of the Western Regions in the corner holds secrets of the past and present. At the end of the relief wall is a map of the 36 kingdoms of the Western Regions from the Han Dynasty, with the location of Shule Kingdom (present-day Kashgar) marked in vermilion, and its distance from Chang'an marked next to it: "5,300 li." A girl in sneakers measures it with her hand, "From here to Xi'an, it takes two days to drive now, but back then, it took Ban Chao three months to deliver a message." 🌙 From the ancient city to Pantuo City, half a day to explore the soul of Kashgar Pantuo City is most charming at dusk. The setting sun dyes the city walls golden-red, the shadows of the stone statues are stretched long, merging with the minarets of the distant ancient city. An old man sat smoking by the beacon tower, smoke rings drifting towards the relief wall. "There aren't many tourists here," he said, "mostly locals taking a stroll after dinner. Look at those kids, playing hide-and-seek around the stone statues." After exploring, we went straight back to the Old City for roasted pigeon. As the car crossed the Tuman River, we could see the lights of Pantuo City and the night market lights of the Old City blending together. Taking a bite of the crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside pigeon, I suddenly understood the preciousness of this free attraction—it wasn't crowded with tour groups, like a quiet old man, guarding its most enduring essence amidst the hustle and bustle of Kashgar: two thousand years ago, someone here, with the courage of 36 men, brought the moonlight of the Central Plains into the sands of the Western Regions. Practical Guide · Transportation: A 10-minute taxi ride (about 15 yuan) from Kashgar Old City; navigate to "Pantuo City"; or take bus number 28 to "Tuman River Station," then walk for 5 minutes. · Cost: Free! Just pronounce the character "橐 (tuó)" correctly (there are pinyin prompts at the entrance, so don't worry about mispronouncing it). · How to do it: 1. First, take a picture of the "Pan Tuo City" stone tablet (with pinyin to avoid mispronouncing it on social media); 2. Take pictures of the relief wall when the midday sun is strong (the hard light highlights the stone texture); 3. In the evening, take a backlit silhouette photo in front of the Ban Chao statue (the silhouette of the cape is incredibly striking). · Recommended activity: Explore Pan Tuo City in the morning, spend the afternoon in the ancient city (take pictures of the century-old teahouse and the opening ceremony), and have stewed meat in the evening (recommended: "Ailizhati Stewed Meat", 25 yuan/serving, tender meat and delicious broth). · Reminder: The scenic area closes at 7:30 PM, so don't stay out too late; there are free guide signs next to the statues, and you can scan the QR code to hear the stories; respect history, do not climb on the statues or touch the reliefs. Are you brave enough to try pronouncing the character "橐" correctly? Or, what other historical surprises do you know about Kashgar? Let us know in the comments!

Third trip with the kids after watching the documentary "Hexi Corridor" 🎬. This summer, starting from Longcheng (Taiyuan) and Xixia (Yinchuan), crossing the Hexi Corridor 🏜️ to the western region of Shule (Kashgar, Xinjiang) 🍇, embarking on a Hexi Corridor dream 🌌! This series of notes 📝 records the stays at Marriott Intercontinental hotels along the way… [Marriott Intercontinental. Heading west 🐫] [Stop 3: 📍Zhangye Holiday Inn Express] Zhangye: Zhangguo means “to extend the arm” and “to open the west” 🔸 After the high-speed train passes Lanzhou and Xining, you can clearly see mountains on both sides ⛰️. The Hexi Corridor is the flat land between these two mountain ranges. 🔸 At the last viewing platform of the colorful Danxia landform, the most popular prop is that English textbook. · ————————————— 📌 Zhangye Holiday Inn Express is honestly a bit disappointing, but considering the 2XX price, you can’t expect too much! 📌 Among the four cities visited on this Hexi Corridor trip, only Zhangye and Dunhuang have Marriott or Intercontinental hotels. 📌 For Marriott Intercontinental members, it’s like one of the few waystations along the Hexi Corridor! 🔸 From the outside, it’s a very noticeable building locally. The hotel was renovated in 2019, but the facilities are overall disappointing, similar to old Hanting or Home Inns… 🔸 At check-in, we ran into a tour group that seemed to have some unresolved issues… Opening the curtains, there’s a large park right across! 🔸 Breakfast 🍳 was with that tour group, quite an experience 😵‍💫😵‍💫 🔸 Zhangye West Station is a 15-minute drive The colorful Danxia is a 50-minute drive 🚕. It’s best to visit the Danxia in the afternoon to catch the sunset glow from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM. There are four viewing platforms, and excluding travel time, visiting takes 2–3 hours. The Great Buddha Temple is a 15-minute drive. Built by the Xixia dynasty, Buddhism flourished during that era! (The free tour guide spends half the time setting up product sales, so be prepared! 😵‍💫) Next door is “Zhao Weitao’s rich mutton soup,” which is very good! The portions are huge; one bowl of soup per person is enough. Ordering more is a waste! 🔸 At the entrance is Wulidun Liu Jianhua’s pig trotters. We came back at 9 PM very hungry and ordered various cooked foods. The pig trotters and pig tails were indeed delicious, but the pig large intestines were too tough to chew—avoid those! · ——————- If Zhangye Holiday Inn Express is a waystation on the Hexi Corridor, I believe ancient waystations varied in quality too, and meeting a responsible stationmaster was pure luck… Looking forward to the next “waystation”: Dunhuang Four Points by Sheraton… [Marriott Intercontinental. Heading west: Zhangye Holiday Inn Express]

Green vines are the lifeblood of the Kashgar River 💚 This "mother river" nourishing southern Xinjiang is like a jade ribbon Winding between the Pamir Plateau and the Tarim Basin Red stripes are the breath of fiery Turpan ❤️🔥 Even at 42℃, you can still admire the majestic Flaming Mountains The shade of Grape Valley is the most beautiful touch in this "hottest place in China" Blue lines are the teardrops of Sayram Lake 💧 The name "the last tear of the Atlantic" is well deserved The lake is as blue as a gem, reflecting snow-capped mountains and clouds Golden petals are the stars of the Taklamakan Desert 🌟 Every grain of sand in China’s largest desert shines with golden light Riding a camel to watch the sunset is a must-have life experience ???? ?? ?? - ???????? ?? ???, ???? ?? (The original Uyghur poem’s artistic beauty is preserved here)

Accommodation throughout the trip | Kashgar Old City Wanfei International Hotel 🏨 Recommended because: Excellent location, right next to Kashgar Old City, a 10-minute taxi ride to the East Gate of the Old City, saving you time and effort when exploring the Old City, enjoying local cuisine, or keeping up with your itinerary. The hotel has complete facilities and offers a sumptuous Xinjiang-style buffet breakfast, perfect for early mornings at high altitudes. The rooms feature smart home technology, separate wet and dry bathrooms, and comfortable bedding, allowing you to rest well after a long day. Newly opened hotel with a simple yet luxurious decor, and a clean and tidy overall feel. Essential items to bring: ID card, Tashkurgan border pass (free self-service processing), sunscreen and moisturizing kit, light jacket (large temperature difference between day and night) 🧥 Day 1 Arrival in Kashgar | First Experience of the Old City's Vibrant Atmosphere 🔥 After landing, check into the hotel and rest. In the afternoon, explore Kashgar Old City. Witness the free opening ceremony at the East Gate at 6 PM and watch a vibrant Uyghur song and dance performance 💃. Stroll through the Flowerpot Bazaar and the popular Thousand-Window Alley, capturing stunning photos of the Western Regions. In the evening, stroll through the Khan Bazaar food street, trying roasted buns, red willow roasted meat, yogurt rice dumplings, and freshly squeezed pomegranate juice 🍜. At night, wander through Rainbow Alley and a century-old teahouse, order a pot of rose milk tea, and experience the slow-paced nightlife of southern Xinjiang. Day 2: Cultural Tour | Ancient Architecture and Local Customs 🏛️ After breakfast at the hotel, depart to visit Xiangfei Garden, taking photos of the blue and white Islamic-style architecture and flower fields, and watching folk song and dance performances 📸. In the afternoon, head to the largest mosque in Xinjiang, the Id Kah Mosque, to immerse yourself in the solemn religious culture of the Western Regions (neat attire is required, shoulders and knees should not be exposed). Afterwards, explore the ancient Gaotai dwellings, visiting original loess villages and handmade pottery workshops. In the evening, stroll through the Kashgar Grand Bazaar, purchasing dried fruits, scarves, and other souvenirs, and learn about local live sheep trading information in advance. Day 3: Pamir Plateau | Healing Journey Through Snow-capped Mountains and Lakes 🏔️ A full-day chartered car to and from the Pamir Plateau, no need for accommodation at high altitudes, return to the city hotel for rest. Stop at popular tourist spots along the way: White Sand Lake with its milky white sand dunes and azure waters, and Karakol Lake facing Muztagh Ata Peak. Snow-capped mountains, meadows, and highways create a stunning atmosphere, offering breathtaking natural scenery throughout. 🌿 It's recommended to bring your own light meals. Return to Kashgar in the evening to rest and recover from the fatigue of the high-altitude journey. Day 4: Leisurely Wandering and Closing Down | Shopping and Return Trip + Sheep Shopping Guide (Core 🐑) Wake up naturally and enjoy breakfast. Explore the old city's cultural and creative streets and the wooden bazaar, taking photos of unique cultural and creative products. The focus is on purchasing sheep. Enjoy a final meal of southern Xinjiang cuisine in the afternoon before checking out and heading home. ✅ Kashgar Sheep Purchasing Guide & Avoiding Scams 1. Legitimate Channels: First choice is the Saturday live animal bazaar in the suburbs, where merchants are compliant and can be verified on-site; second choice is sheep raised by herders in the suburbs of Shufu County and Shule County. Avoid unlicensed vendors selling sheep in the old city. 2. Lamb Selection Tips: Choose lambs weaned at 2-3 months old. Select healthy lambs with bright eyes, smooth coats, steady movements, and normal eating habits. Avoid sick lambs that are lethargic or have abnormal physical characteristics. Recommended breeds are Dolan and Maigaiti sheep, which are docile and have excellent meat quality. 3. Market Price Reference: Ordinary lambs cost 600-1000 yuan, premium breed lambs cost 1000-1800 yuan. Prices are negotiable, and buying in bulk is more cost-effective. 4. Important Compliance & Avoiding Pitfalls: You must request animal quarantine certificates and vaccination records! Live sheep are strictly prohibited from being transported by plane or high-speed rail. Cross-city transport is only permitted by compliant freight trucks. Most urban residential areas prohibit raising sheep; be sure to confirm the location of the sheep farm before purchasing. 💡 Tips for Avoiding Pitfalls on Lesser-Known Sites: 1. The ancient city is free to enter; there's no need to blindly buy package tickets. 2. Strenuous exercise is prohibited at high altitudes; ensure adequate hydration and sun protection. 3. Obtain prior consent before photographing local residents. 4. Hotel parking is free; chartering a car offers excellent value. Kashgar Old City Wanfei International Hotel

Traveling the Silk Road in the Western Regions, you definitely need to visit Xinjiang and see it for yourself. As an important city on the ancient Silk Road in China, Kashgar in Xinjiang is a city well worth visiting. It offers rich ethnic customs, profound historical culture, and uniquely distinctive urban architecture. To experience Western Region culture, you can start by visiting Kashgar Museum. [Cute] Kashgar Regional Museum, located at No. 19 Tawuguzi Road, Kashgar City, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, is a social science history museum. It’s a great place to get an initial understanding of Kashgar and Xinjiang’s history and culture. Permanent exhibitions: “Exquisite historical artifacts of the Silk Road” — This exhibition showcases outstanding artifacts from important sites along the Xinjiang section of the ancient Silk Road, from Hami and Turpan to Kashgar and Hotan. The display is divided into three sections: “Early Silk Road culture,” “Silk Road culture of the Han and Tang dynasties,” and “Silk Road culture of the Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties.” [TeaDrinker] The first section mainly exhibits artifacts from the Paleolithic era dating back 10,000 years, various microliths from 6,000 years ago, bronze items from 3,000 years ago, and early iron age relics, all reflecting the early culture of the Xinjiang section of the ancient Silk Road. The second section mainly displays Buddhist relics, Kharosthi script fragments, Brahmi script fragments, various pottery, textiles, and other ancient daily items unearthed from regions where Buddhism flourished during the Han and Tang dynasties, such as Khotan (now Hotan), Shule (now Kashgar), Kucha (now Kuqa), and Huozhou (now Turpan). The third section mainly features precious artifacts closely related to Islamic culture from medieval Xinjiang, after the spread of Islam in Kashgar. The collection includes 267 items, such as a three-eared pottery jar from the Wei and Jin periods, a bronze cauldron dating back 2,800 years, and a silk embroidered men’s long robe from 1,000 years ago. [Yeah] Kashgar Museum is currently a national level 2 museum. Overall, it’s not very large and can be toured in about one to two hours.

Prime Location King Kashgar Licheng Ruixuan Hotel (Old Town Wanda Branch) Only a 10-minute taxi ride to Kashgar Old Town! Right next to Ban Chao City and Wanda Plaza, all your dining, shopping, and entertainment needs covered~ 🏨 Hotel Facilities Breakfast from 8:00 to 10:30, 15th-floor scenic restaurant, Xinjiang specialty breakfast, children eat free 🆓 Free parking, RV parking available, laundry room + gym (24h unlimited use) 🍜 Nearby Food Explosion · Xiyu Xiangyue (Main Store): Whole roasted lamb + pigeon soup · Ailizati Pilaf: Local old brand, so delicious you'll lick your plate · Hanbazha Night Market: Eat from start to finish, no repeats! 🏛️ Must-Visit Attractions (Taxi fares all within 10–15 RMB) ✅ Kashgar Old Town: Open 24h, 2100 years of history, maze-like adobe architecture complex ✅ Xiangfei Garden: 9:30-19:30, legendary site of Qianlong’s Fragrant Concubine ✅ Kashgar Museum: 10:00-19:00, over 5300 artifacts, must-see treasures 🏔️ Pamir Long Trips (Go if you have enough time!) · Baisha Lake: 2.5h self-drive, stunning blue and white sand dunes · Mustag Ata Glacier: 3.5h self-drive, over 4000m altitude glacier awe-inspiring 🛏️ Room Highlights 22–60㎡, from elegant king beds to family suites, with 270° panoramic windows! Smart toilets, branded amenities, air purifiers (in some rooms), comfortable stay guaranteed~ 📜 Final Note Kashgar was historically known as “Shule,” a crossroads of the northern and southern Silk Road routes. Stay here, just 10 minutes by car from a thousand years of history 🌙 Kashgar Licheng Ruixuan Hotel (Old Town Wanda Branch)

This city is the predecessor of today's Kashgar — the Han Dynasty Shule Kingdom Palace City ruins. Ban Chao was stationed here for 17 years, reopening the Silk Road that had been closed for 65 years. "If you do not enter the tiger's den, how can you catch the tiger cub?" — this famous saying came from him. Today, this piece of history unfolds right outside the window of the Kashgar Licheng Ruixuan Hotel. The hotel is just over one kilometer from the Pantuo City ruins, adjacent to the ancient city and Wanda Plaza. The lobby and restaurant display sand paintings personally created by a master artist — depicting the ancient city, poplar forests, and lively folk alleys vividly in sand. On the 15th floor, enjoy Xinjiang-style breakfast, Zen-inspired wooden rooms, and facilities including a gym, laundry room, and parking lot, all designed to enhance your travel comfort. 🗺️ A route to explore outside the ancient city: 🚗 Morning · Pantuo City — a secret spot many tourists don’t know about. Inside the Ban Chao Memorial Park stand 36 statues of warriors, with very few visitors. 🚗 Afternoon · Auyitak Red Valley — head south along the G314 China-Pakistan Friendship Highway. "Auyitak" means "depression among the mountains." The mountains are rich in iron oxide, showing various shades of red with bubble-like holes on the surface. Standing here feels like stepping on the surface of Mars. The whole trip is about 160 kilometers. 🌙 Return to the hotel at dusk, where the 270° panoramic window reveals the lights of Kashgar turning on. The Shule city from two thousand years ago is right outside your window tonight.

Kashgar Old Town is located in the center of Kashgar City, Xinjiang, historically known as Shule, with a history of over 2,100 years. It is a key junction where the northern and southern routes of the ancient Silk Road intersect, a place where diverse Eastern and Western civilizations blend. There is a saying: "You haven't truly been to Xinjiang if you haven't been to Kashgar, and you haven't truly been to Kashgar if you haven't visited the Old Town." It is a national 5A-level free open scenic area, a historic and cultural city of Xinjiang, and the largest and best-preserved earthen rammed earth residential complex in the world. Known as the "living ancient city," tens of thousands of indigenous Uyghur people have lived here for generations, coexisting with the historic sites. The Old Town is divided into east and west districts by Jiefang Road: the west district features quiet alleys, Rainbow Alley, Bag Alley, century-old teahouses, and the Id Kah Mosque, rich in Western Region charm; the east district is bustling with life, featuring the Han Bazaar food night market and numerous handicraft shops. Every day, there is a free city gate welcoming performance at the East Gate. The maze-like streets inside the city preserve carved wooden and earthen houses, traditional bazaars, and handicraft workshops, blending Uyghur customs, Silk Road commerce, and millennia of history. It is the core landmark to experience Western Region culture, taste local delicacies, and enjoy old town life.

🔥 Core Experiences ▪️ Northern Dynasties Three-Eared Embossed Pottery Jar | A treasure blending Central Asian, Persian, and Greek art | The jar is 57 cm tall, with three symmetrical handles evenly distributed on the shoulder. The handles are sculpted with "Hu figures" (foreigners) featuring deep-set eyes, high noses, and clear beards. The rim of the jar is decorated with banana leaf patterns, while the shoulder and belly are covered with scrolling grass and pearl patterns. Ten groups of human figures on the belly feature Zoroastrian elements, serving as a vivid testament to cultural integration. ▪️ Northern Song Dynasty Silk-Cotton Robe with Kesi (Tapestry Weave) Edges | "An inch of Kesi is worth an inch of gold" | Unearthed in Makit County, with blue silk as the outer fabric and yellow cotton as the lining. Kesi craftsmanship is extremely difficult to preserve, and very few pieces remain in China. This national first-class cultural relic testifies to Kashi's status as a hub between East and West. ▪️ Tang Dynasty Clay Buddha Head (Tathagata) | Only 14 cm tall, yet profoundly moving | Unearthed at the Tokuz Saray site in Bachu County, with a round face, lively eyes, vermilion lips, and a slight smile. The face uses mineral pigments unique to the Western Regions, the shading technique comes from the Central Plains, and the topknot retains characteristics of Gandharan art, demonstrating the depth of multi-civilizational integration. ▪️ Exhibition of Historical Relics of the Silk Road | A complete timeline from prehistory to the Ming and Qing Dynasties | Hundreds of artifacts from the Stone Age, Bronze Age, Han and Tang Dynasties, and the Karakhanid Dynasty, unearthed across Xinjiang, are displayed, recreating the glorious history of the Silk Road. Among them, the Spring and Autumn Period bronze cauldron and the Western Zhou stone phallic pestle quietly narrate the commercial prosperity of the ancient Silk Road. ▪️ Shule Music and Silk Road Instruments | The cultural echoes of the Konghou and Suona | The uniquely shaped Konghou is elegant and refined, while the Suona adds a lively atmosphere with its distinctive sound. Shule music was one of the Nine-Part Music of the Sui Dynasty and the Ten-Part Music of the Tang Dynasty, carrying profound historical heritage. ▪️ Digitally Empowered Immersive Experience | Bringing cultural relics to life | Through digital projection, touch interaction, and other methods, visitors can closely appreciate the digital display of cultural relics. They can also virtually immerse themselves in the Mor Temple ruins and the Stone City ruins, experiencing the long-standing history of Chinese civilization. 🌟 What You'll Gain from Your Visit ✅ Understand Kashi's pivotal role as the ancient Kingdom of Shule and a crossroads of the Silk Road, interpreting the historical imprints of Shule's interactions with the Han Dynasty and Xuanzang's journey. ✅ Witness the complete integration and mutual learning of Eastern and Western civilizations on the Silk Road, from the "Hu figures" on the three-eared pottery jar to the Eastern craftsmanship of the Kesi cotton robe. ✅ In the "Kunlun Rhyme · Ancient Relics" exhibition hall, systematically learn about Kashi's historical evolution from the Paleolithic Age to the present day. ✅ Experience the exquisite craftsmanship of millennia-old cultural relics up close through digital interactive technology.

Pamir Plateau · Apricot Village Complete Guide 🌸 Flower Viewing Spots 1️⃣ West Extreme Direction Wuhe Shalu Township: A small number of apricot blossoms, trees are young, expected to bloom in early April. 2️⃣ Pamir Plateau Core Area (Highly Recommended) Kukosiluke Township Must-visit: Apricot Island, Congling Ancient House Tar Township (Apricot Blossom Peak) Densest old apricot trees, accompanied by the Blue River, blossoms cascade like a waterfall ✔ Happiness No. 5 Bridge: Popular check-in spot, recommended to visit early to avoid crowds ✔ Apricot Avenue, Alemalek Village: Crooked old apricot trees, large apricot groves ✔ Boge Re: Century-old apricot trees, massive blossoms, highly photogenic Apricot Island: Apricot blossoms + canyon + river in one frame, full of atmosphere Bage Aigezi Village: Apricot sheep pen, century-old houses, apricot mud houses Kuzu Village ✔ Famous "Love Tunnel" ✔ 5 km east: Apricot blossoms like clouds across the suspension bridge, original Tajik farmhouses Kuzu Checkpoint: 1 km south offers distant views of large apricot groves, but trees are small, not suitable for close-up shots Kurukelanggan Village: No old houses, average viewing value Datong Township: Smaller apricot trees, less scenic, but fewer people and peaceful 5–10 km before entering Datong Township: Apricot blossoms + farmland + canyon in one frame, great for photos 📅 Blooming Order (from early to late) Kurukelanggan Village < Tar First Blossom < Kuzu Village ≈ Datong Township < Tar Township < Kukosiluke Township < Aikejike Village < Qiruketon Village < Maryang Township 📸 Best Shooting Times Before 10:00 AM & after 6:00 PM daily Soft light, and you might encounter villagers herding sheep, perfect for apricot blossoms + pastoral humanistic shots. ⚠️ Important Notes Poor signal along the way, be sure to carry cash Tasha Ancient Road is in poor condition, with landslides in the later section, currently need to go via Yingjisha direction ❌ Not recommended for bicycles or novice drivers ✅ Recommended: Off-road vehicles / high-clearance SUVs Shache, Yecheng, Yingjisha, and Baren Township in Shule County also have a few apricot blossoms Panlong Ancient Road opens from March to April, depending on snow and ice melt Every year on March 21 is the Tajik New Year, with strong folk customs atmosphere 🗓 Expected Blooming Period in 2026 (Warm Winter Reference) Datong Township: March 20 First Bloom Tar Township: March 25 Full Bloom Kukosiluke Township: Late March Full Bloom Maryang Township: Early April Full Bloom This year’s warm winter, March 25–30 is the most stable blooming period, with slight variations depending on weather.

Glazed Dome Blue Floral Tiles The eternally beautiful soul in the coffin Protecting this pure land of the Western Regions📜 · Witness a grand wedding Anticipate a charming encounter💃 · Romance lingers in this ancient city Like the dazzling dome at sunset🏛️