Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang, often serves as a transfer hub for travelers exploring the region. Its abundance of flights and relatively affordable airfare make it a convenient stopover. However, Urumqi itself is home to numerous attractions worthy of exploration.
For a one-day itinerary, consider visiting the Xinjiang Museum, Hongshan Park, Xinjiang Folk Street, Xinjiang International Bazaar, and Yamalik Mountain. It’s not necessary to dedicate an entire day to Urumqi; making use of layover or transfer time is sufficient.
Within Urumqi, transportation options abound. The city boasts a metro system, primarily serving areas like Urumqi Airport and Xinjiang International Bazaar, while the Urumqi Railway Station relies primarily on buses or taxis.
To reach other regions of Xinjiang, travelers can take trains or planes from Urumqi. For instance, to reach the Altay Region, take the train K9735 or Y965 to Beitun Station, and then transfer to a bus or chartered car to reach Kanas or Hemu. Similarly, for the Ili Region, take the train C843 or K9747 to Yining Station, and then continue by bus or chartered car to Sailimu Lake or Ili Grassland.
For南疆地区, take a train or plane from Urumqi to destinations like Kuerle, Aksu, Kashgar, and Hotan. For 东疆地区, board a high-speed train from Urumqi to reach Turpan, Hami, and beyond.
Urumqi’s cuisine is a must-try, with delicacies like mutton kebabs, hand-pulled noodles, big-plate chickens, baked naan, spicy chicken, stir-fried rice noodles, Mijiti grilled baozi, and Forty-Nine Meatball Soup.
A word of caution: while the Xinjiang International Bazaar is a popular destination for tourists, prices can be inflated. An alternative is the nearby Lingguan Lane Food Street, which boasts popular local restaurants like Ailijiang Hetian Naang Pit Barbecue, Jinzhu Big-Plate Chicken, Bengbang Benshuo Hand-Rolled Noodles, and Yizhi Hailv Ice Cream.
For accommodation in Urumqi, consider the highly cost-effective areas near the Xinjiang Museum, which offer convenient access to transportation and dining. Alternatively, the popular International Bazaar area is ideal for those wanting to quickly explore top attractions, although prices can triple during peak seasons. For travelers seeking a central yet quiet base, the area around Urumqi Railway Station offers plenty of accommodation options, adjacent to the Wanda Plaza for all your dining and entertainment needs. Finally, hotels near Urumqi Airport typically offer shuttle services and are budget-friendly, but unless you have an early morning flight, other areas may be more convenient.
For travelers unfamiliar with Xinjiang and seeking to explore farther-flung attractions, consider booking a local tour. These tours offer a seamless experience, saving time and money while providing access to all the region’s must-see attractions.
Embark on this journey through Xinjiang, discovering the beauty and charm of Urumqi and beyond. Enjoy the rich cuisine, explore the captivating attractions, and immerse yourself in the unique culture of this remarkable region.
