Yining

Yining (伊宁; Yīníng), also known as Ghulja, is the capital of the Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture in northwestern Xinjiang, near the border with Kazakhstan. Situated in the lush Ili River Valley, Yining is a beautiful, green city that feels very different from the arid deserts of southern Xinjiang. The region is known for its fertile agricultural land, apple orchards, and the vast Nalati Grassland (one of China's most beautiful alpine meadows). Yining has a strong Kazakh and Uygur cultural presence, with a charming old town of painted wooden houses, bustling bazaars, and a relaxed atmosphere. The city was historically an important stop on the northern Silk Road. The climate is milder than the rest of Xinjiang — spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) are excellent, and summer is pleasantly warm.

By Plane

Yining Airport (YIN) has flights from Urumqi (1.5 hr), Beijing (4 hr), and Chengdu (3.5 hr). The airport is 5 km from the city centre. A taxi costs about ¥15–20.

By Train

Yining Railway Station is on the Northern Xinjiang Railway line, with daily trains to Urumqi (5–6 hr, ¥100–150) and other Xinjiang cities.

By Car / Road

Yining is 520 km west of Urumqi on the G30 Lianyungang–Horgos Expressway (6–7 hr drive). The Khorgos border crossing with Kazakhstan is 90 km west (1 hr). Buses from Urumqi run daily (¥120–160, 8 hr).

Yining city centre is walkable, especially the old town area. Taxis are affordable (¥8 flagfall). For the Nalati Grassland and other outlying attractions, hiring a car or joining a tour is recommended.

• Yining Old Town (喀赞其) — A colourful historic neighbourhood of painted wooden houses (many in shades of blue), mosques, and narrow lanes. The area has a strong Central Asian character. Free.

• Yili River — The largest river in Xinjiang, with pleasant riverside walking and cycling paths.

• Yining Grand Bazaar — A vibrant market selling Uygur and Kazakh crafts, clothing, and food.

• Linjiang Mosque — An historic mosque with beautiful Islamic architecture in the old town.

• Nalati Grassland (那拉提草原) — One of China's most celebrated alpine grasslands, about 250 km east of Yining (3 hr drive). A vast, rolling meadow surrounded by snow-capped mountains. June–August is the peak season when the grass is green and wildflowers bloom. Entry ¥95, shuttle bus ¥40.

• Kunes Grassland — Another beautiful steppe area closer to Yining, good for horse riding and camping.

• Explore the Old Town — Spend a few hours wandering the colourful streets of Kazanqi.

• Horse riding on the Nalati Grassland — Local Kazakh herders offer horse rides for visitors. ¥50–100 per hour.

• Yili River sunset walk — The riverbank is a popular evening promenade.

• Visit a Kazakh yurt — Experience traditional Kazakh hospitality in the grasslands, with dairy products and freshly baked bread.

• Cross-border trip — The Khorgos border crossing into Kazakhstan is 1 hour west; bring your passport.

• Kazakh naan and dairy — Fresh yogurt, kumis (fermented mare's milk), and clotted cream from the grasslands.
• Nalati lamb skewers — Lamb from the grassland-fed herds is especially tender. ¥5–10 per skewer.
• Polo (pilaaf) — Uygur-style rice pilaf with lamb and carrots. ¥20–35.
• Lagman (拉条子) — Hand-pulled noodles with lamb and vegetables. ¥18–30.

• Kumis (马奶子) — Fermented mare's milk, a traditional Kazakh drink. Slightly sour and mildly alcoholic. Available in the grasslands.
• Xinjiang milk tea — Salty, butter-rich milk tea served at every meal.
• Bottled water — tap water is not recommended.

• Budget: Guesthouses in Kazanqi old town (¥80–150).
• Mid-range: Business hotels in Yining centre (¥200–400).
• Upscale: Yili Hotel (¥400–700).

• Yili apples — The region is famous for its apples (Yili is known as the "Apple City").
• Kazakh handicrafts — Embroidered hats, felt rugs, and leather goods.
• Xinjiang raisins and dried fruits — Available in the bazaar.
• Uygur carpets — Smaller, locally made rugs at the bazaar.

• Khorgos (1 hr west) — Border crossing into Kazakhstan; the Khorgos International Cooperation Centre is a duty-free shopping zone.
• Nalati Grassland (3 hr east) — Premier alpine grassland experience with horse riding and yurt stays.
• Sayram Lake (2 hr northeast) — Stunning alpine lake in the Tianshan Mountains, crystal clear turquoise water.
• Kuytun (3 hr east) — Gateway to the Dushanzi Grand Canyon.
• Almaty, Kazakhstan (4 hr west by car) — Largest city in Kazakhstan, accessible via the Khorgos border.