8-Day Memories Xinjiang Tour---Urumqi - Turpan - Kashgar Tour
Expected Delivery on - .
- Urumqi / Adults (≥12 years old) - $2,709.00
- Urumqi / Children (2-11 years old) - $1,896.00
- Urumqi / Infants (<2 years old) - $325.00
8-Day Memories Xinjiang Tour---Urumqi - Turpan - Kashgar Tour
REVIEWS
PRODUCT DETAILS
When discussing the most stunning natural scenery in China, Xinjiang must be mentioned. Xinjiang is China's largest province, divided into Northern Xinjiang and Southern Xinjiang by the Tianshan Mountains.
On this trip, we're going to explore Xinjiang together, visit the crystal-clear Tianchi Lake, stroll around the historical ancient city of Jiaohe, and even experience the Uyghur culture at a resident's home.
| Code: CT0012 |
| Tour Type: Small Group of Max 18, No Shopping Stops |
| Guide: Professional English-speaking tour guide in each city |
| Transportation: Spacious air-conditioned coach with experienced driver |
| Accommodation: 7 nights at 4-star hotels |
| Good to Know: This tour does not include international flights. However, we would be more than happy to assist you in booking flights if you contact us. |
Trip Highlights：
DAY 1 ···✈ Arrival in Urumqi and Transfer to Your Hotel
Urumqi Yilite Hotel 
None
DAY 2 ···✈ The Heavenly Lake ➝ Boat for Cruise on the Heavenly Lake ➝ Erdaoqiao Market
Urumqi Yilite Hotel Breakfast, lunch
Take a car to Heavenly Lake. It's a natural plateau lake with a half-moon-shaped surface, nestled on the mountainside of the northern slope of Bogda Peak, the highest peak in the eastern section of the Tianshan Mountains.
On sunny days, you can enjoy the breathtaking view where the lake and sky blend into one, with sunlight shimmering on the blue lake surface. Afterward, you can take a cruise boat to admire the beautiful scenery of Heavenly Lake from different angles.
Next, head to the International Bazaar. You'll find a wide variety of Xinjiang's distinctive goods and souvenirs. You can also sample local delicacies such as Xinjiang stir-fried rice noodles, nang (a type of bread), and grilled lamb kebabs.
DAY 3 ···✈ Tuyugou Canyon and Tuyoq Village ➝ Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves ➝ Pass through the Flaming Mountain ➝ Astana Tombs
Turpan Huozhou Hotel Breakfast, lunch
After having breakfast in the morning, you will take a car to Turpan. It travels 200 kilometers and takes 3 hours.
After arrival, check into the hotel and take a short rest. Then, head to the Tuyoq Valley Scenic Area. In this scenic spot, you'll experience the natural beauty of the Grand Canyon and immerse yourself in the local culture in Mazha Village.
The canyon cuts through the Flaming Mountains from north to south, with distinct colors in the rock formations. Mazha Village is one of the oldest existing Uyghur villages in Xinjiang, filled with yellow clay houses that exude an exotic charm, earning it the nickname the Morocco of the East.
After lunch, drive about 20 kilometers from the canyon to the Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves, which boast the largest number of existing caves in Turpan. The earthen walls inside the caves are adorned with Buddha statues, creating a breathtaking scene. These murals were primarily used to promote Buddhist teachings.
The next stop is the Astana Ancient Tomb Group. On the way, you can catch a glimpse of the Flaming Mountains in the distance. If time permits, you can also stop to take photos.
Located southeast of Turpan, the ancient tombs were once a communal cemetery. Due to the dry local climate, the funerary objects, food, remains, and documents in the tombs have been well-preserved, earning it the title of Underground Museum.
During your free time in the evening, you can visit the Turpan Carpet Factory. The carpets there are all handmade from wool, and each one features a unique pattern.
DAY 4 ···✈ Suleiman Minaret(Mosque of Imin Ta) ➝ The Karez Wells ➝ The Ruins of the Ancient City of Jiaohe ➝ Our Guide and Driver will escort you from Turpan to Urumqi
Urumqi Yilite Hotel Breakfast, Lunch
On the second day in Turpan, you'll visit the Suleiman Minaret to experience cultural blending, see the Karez Well system and marvel at the creation of the source of life, and tour the Jiaohe Ancient City to savor the vicissitudes of time.
When you arrive at the Mosque of Imin Ta, you'll find that it resembles a chimney. Also known as Su Gong Ta, it's a unique Islamic-style building. The tower tapers from bottom to top, somewhat like the Canton Tower, standing proudly in the Gobi Desert.
Next, you'll visit the Karez Well. It's a remarkable ancient irrigation project in China. Due to the extremely high temperatures in Turpan, where water evaporates quickly, people dug the Karez Wells. You'll learn about how the Karez Wells operate and how they were constructed, appreciating this ancient wisdom.
Then, you'll head to the Jiaohe Ancient City after lunch, a site of an ancient city dating back about 2,300 years. It's the largest, oldest, and best-preserved city built of raw earth in the world, and is hailed as the most perfect ruin in the world. When you're in this city, it feels like you've instantly traveled back to its prosperous days.
Afterward, the tour guide and driver will take you back to Urumqi. For dinner, you're on your own.
DAY 5 ···✈ Hotel to airport Transfer (Urumqi) ➝ Airport to Hotel Transfer (Kashgar) ➝ Id Kah Mosque ➝ Kashgar Old Town ➝ Zhiren Street ➝ Visit to Local Families
Kashgar Home2 Suites by Hilton Breakfast, lunch
After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, we'll fly to Kashgar, the westernmost city in China. Upon arrival, the tour guide will take you to the hotel to check in.
Today, you'll head to the Kashgar Old Town. As you wander through its narrow alleys, the mottled walls and carved doors and windows tell tales of history. Step into a handicraft shop, where you can watch artisans craft copperware and carpets. You can even try your hand at simple making. Though it takes time and effort, the sense of accomplishment upon completion is gratifying.
In the old town, there's a mosque called Id Kah, an important Islamic holy site in Central Asia. With its yellow-brick walls and white seams, tall minaret, and tree-shaded courtyard, exploring this mosque full of historical charm allows you to feel the strong ethnic cultural atmosphere of Xinjiang.
Adjacent to the mosque is a traditional handicraft district known as Zhiren Street. It's home to many workshops and stalls. The district follows a "shop on the left, factory on the right" model, both producing and selling goods, serving as a showcase for Central Asian handicrafts. Many shops here have been passed down through generations. You'll be amazed by the handicrafts here, as their craftsmanship is truly impeccable.
The most interesting part today is visiting a local family. The warm hosts will welcome you in a local, unique way. You can sit in the courtyard and listen to them share family stories and daily life, experiencing the warmth of a Uyghur family.
DAY 6 ···✈ Our Guide and Driver will escort you from Kashgar to Tashkurghan ➝ Lake Karakul ➝ Baisha Lake (White Sand Lake)
Tashkurghan Panoramic Star Hotel (Gucheng Road Branch) Breakfast, Lunch
After having breakfast at the hotel, you will take a car ride to Tashkurghan Autonomous County in Kashgar Region. The journey will take about 5 hours.
On the way, you'll visit Baisha Lake, known as the Blue Tear of the Pamir Plateau. This lake is formed by the convergence of melted water from high-mountain glaciers and groundwater. On the north bank, you can enjoy the beautiful view of the lake reflecting the snowy mountains.
On the south bank, you can walk along the plank road to the lakeside and take photos with the elaborately decorated white yaks.
After having lunch, you'll head to the next scenic spot, Karakul Lake. Located at the intersection of fault zones on the Pamir Plateau, it's a triangular-shaped inland lake. When you stand by the shore, you can see Muztagh Ata Mountain reflected in the lake, with the white of the snowy mountain and the blue of the lake interweaving into a picturesque scene.
After arriving in Tashkurgan, the tour guide will assist you with the hotel check-in procedures. You can take a short rest and then enjoy some free time. Dinner is on your own.
DAY 7 ···✈ Stone City of the Tashkurgan ➝ Alar Golden Grasslands ➝ Our Guide and Driver will escort you from Tashkurgan to Kashgar
Home2 Suites by Hilton Kashi City Breakfast, lunch
After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, we headed to one of the oldest existing ancient city sites in Xinjiang - the Stone City. It got its name because it was built with locally sourced gray-brown rocks. The city is divided into an inner and an outer section.
The inner city is relatively well-preserved, though after collapsing, the ground is now covered with stones, including large boulders and earthen walls. As you stroll among the ruins of the Stone City, it's as if you can hear the war drums from a thousand years ago.
Our next stop is the Alar Golden Grassland, not far from the Stone City. The scenery here changes with the seasons. In spring and winter, it's blanketed in snow; in summer, the grass is lush and green; and autumn is the most beautiful time, when the grassland sparkles golden under the sunlight.
After the sightseeing tour, you'll have lunch. Then, we'll take a car back to Kashgar. Upon arrival, the tour guide will assist you with the hotel check-in. Dinner is on your own.
DAY 8 ···✈ Depart Kashgar
None Breakfast
All the trips come to an end today. Our tour guide will take you to the Kashgar Airport, and you'll take a flight to leave Kashgar.
What's Included:
- Hotels are included in the itinerary.
- Meals are detailed in the itinerary.
- China domestic flights/trains are specified in the itinerary.
- Entrance fees to tourist sites.
- Professional English-speaking guides.
- Drivers & air-conditioned vehicles.
- Service charges and taxes.
What's Excludes:
- International airfares
- Entry visa fees
- Personal expenses
- Tips or gratuities for guides and drivers
Single Supplement:
- The quoted price is based on double occupancy. Solo travelers wanting a private room pay $480.00, which is waived if we find you a same-gender roommate.
Child & Infant Policy:
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Infant (under 2 years old): Does not occupy a seat on flights/trains and shares bed with parents. No separate bed provided.
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Child (2-11 years old): Occupies a seat on flights and trains, but shares bed with parents. An extra bed can be arranged upon request at $30.00 per night.
Peak Season Surcharge:
- The above prices are based on regular season rates. During China's peak travel seasons — including Chinese New Year (Spring Festival), May Day Holiday (May 1-5), Summer Vacation (July-August), and National Day Holiday (Oct 1-7) — a surcharge of $300.00 to $500.00 per person applies, depending on specific travel dates and hotel availability. Final price will be confirmed at the time of booking.
Notes:
- The itinerary outlined above can be customized to align with your personal interests and preferences. Please feel free to share your thoughts with us, and we will gladly make the necessary adjustments.
- Pricing is subject to change based on the itinerary, activities, travel season, number of participants, and hotel selection. We provide accommodations across all levels for our tours, including renowned 5-star hotel chains, well-located 4-star hotels, and high-value 3-star hotels at various destinations.
METHODS OF PAYMENT
To make your payment more convenient and flexible, we offer the following payment methods. You may choose the one that suits you best:
1. Direct payment on the website
Pay directly through the corresponding tour product on chinotravel.com.
⚠️ Note: Direct payment may be restricted due to a high amount. In that case, please use one of the other methods below.
2. Mobile payment (scan QR code)
Eligibility: You have WeChat or Alipay linked to a Chinese bank account, or you hold a Visa/Mastercard international credit card.
How to pay: Scan the company QR code on the quotation sheet to complete the payment.
3. PayPal online payment
Option 1: In the quotation email you receive, click the “Pay Now” icon. You will be redirected to the secure PayPal payment page to complete the payment (you can register a new account for free – it’s simple).
Option 2: Log in to your PayPal account and transfer directly to the following PayPal account:
pays@chinotravel.com
4. Credit card payment via email
After receiving the quotation email, open the attached “Credit Card Authorization Form” and fill it out completely.
Send the completed form together with a copy of your credit card to your travel consultant via email (scanning and emailing is acceptable).
5. Wire transfer
- When making the wire transfer at your bank, write your tracking code on the transfer slip.
- After the transfer, make a copy of the transaction receipt or stub issued by the bank, and write your tracking code on the copy.
- Send that copy to your travel consultant.
Bank information:
Account Name: Shenzhen Overseas International Travel Agency Co., Ltd. Dongguan Branch
Account Number: 2010021329200868742
Bank Name: ICBC Dongguan Branch Business Department
Bank Code: 102602002134
Deposit and Final Payment Rules:
Full payment: You may choose to pay the full amount at once.
Partial payment:
Pay 10% of the total tour cost as a deposit.
The remaining balance (final payment) must be paid 30 days before departure.
Special case: If you book within 30 days of departure, full payment is required.
Exchange Rate Disclaimer (for credit card payments only):
China Travel Service will charge your credit card in Chinese Yuan (CNY) . Your card-issuing bank or credit card company will convert this amount into the currency of your credit card account.
The exchange rate used in our quotation is 7.02 CNY to 1 USD for reference, but the actual settlement will be based on the latest exchange rate, which may differ from the rate above.
Banks and credit card companies may charge transaction service fees, and the exchange rate they use may be higher or lower than our quoted rate. Therefore, the final amount on your bank statement may be higher (or even lower) than you expected.
Suggestion: Before making payment, please compare our exchange rate with your bank’s rate and your bank’s transaction fee policy.
Note:
If the exchange rate is adjusted and you have already paid in full, we will honor the original quoted price.
If you have not yet paid in full at the time of the exchange rate adjustment, you will need to pay the difference (in CNY) between the old and new prices. However, we will never charge more than the price you have already accepted.
CANCELLATION & REFUND POLICY
We deeply regret to learn of your decision to cancel your trip. We understand that unexpected circumstances can arise. To make the process as clear and fair as possible, we have outlined the cancellation terms below. Please read them carefully, and do not hesitate to contact us with any questions.
How to cancel: Send your written cancellation notice to us via email. The effective date is the day we receive your written notice.
A. Cancellation for Multi-City Tours (including Yangtze River Cruises)
The following refund percentages apply to the total amount you have paid to us, excluding any incurred expenses (e.g., full cost of Yangtze River cruise if already booked, penalties from hotels/airlines/railways, PayPal or bank fees).
- 21 or more days before departure – You will receive a 100% refund of the amount paid after deducting any non-recoverable costs.
- 15 to 20 days before departure – You will receive a 70% refund after deducting non-recoverable costs.
- 8 to 14 days before departure – You will receive a 50% refund after deducting non-recoverable costs.
- 0 to 7 days before departure – No refund will be issued.
- No-show – 100% of the tour price will be charged.
Important: Once the trip has commenced, we are unable to offer refunds for any unused services – regardless of the reason (including early departure, late arrival, missed tour days, or unwillingness/inability to participate).
B. Cancellation for Single-City Tours
- 14 or more days before departure – 100% refund of all payments.
- 7 to 13 days before departure – 90% refund of all payments.
- 3 to 6 days before departure – 50% refund of all payments.
- 2 days or less before departure – No refund.
- No-show – 100% of the tour price will be charged.
Note: As with multi-city tours, no refunds can be given for unused services after the trip has begun.
Special note for groups of 10+ travelers: Cancellation terms may vary case by case. Please consult your travel advisor for details.
C. Cancellation for China Train Bookings
Once train tickets are issued, we must retain a USD 6 per ticket service fee in all cases. The refund of the ticket price itself follows China Railway’s rules:
1. Trains inside Mainland China
- More than 8 days before departure – No railway cancellation fee. You receive a 100% refund of the ticket price.
- Between 49 hours and 8 days before departure – Railway fee is 5% of the ticket price. You receive a 95% refund.
- Between 24 hours and 48 hours before departure – Railway fee is 10% of the ticket price. You receive a 90% refund.
- Less than 24 hours before departure – Railway fee is 20% of the ticket price. You receive an 80% refund.
2. Trains between Hong Kong and Mainland China
- 8 days or more before departure – Railway fee is 5% of the ticket price. You receive a 95% refund.
- Between 49 hours and 7 days before departure – Railway fee is 30% of the ticket price. You receive a 70% refund.
- Less than 48 hours before departure – Railway fee is 50% of the ticket price. You receive a 50% refund.
D. Cancellation for Attraction / Show Tickets
Once a ticket is confirmed, it is non-transferable and non-refundable – even in cases of inclement weather. We regret that no refunds can be issued for such tickets.
A Final Note
We always strive to be as flexible as possible. If you need to cancel or modify your trip, please contact us immediately – we will do our best to minimize any penalties on your behalf. Your understanding is greatly appreciated.
Thank you for trusting us with your journey to China.
TRAVEL TIPS
Dear Traveler,
Thank you for choosing our travel services. To ensure a smooth, enjoyable, and unforgettable experience in China, please read the following general pre-departure information carefully. Whether you are visiting which city or joining which itinerary, we have taken care of every detail for you. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.
I. Pre-Departure Preparation & Documents
Passport & Visa: Please ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned return date, and that you have obtained a valid Chinese tourist visa (L visa) or meet visa-exemption requirements. Keep your passport with you at all times – do not pack it in checked luggage.
Flight Confirmation: Please double-check your international flight details. We have already arranged all domestic flights and high-speed train tickets (if included in your itinerary). Your guide will provide you with physical tickets or help you use your passport to pass through the gates.
Health & Insurance: We have already purchased Travel Liability Insurance for you as required by law. However, we strongly recommend that you also purchase your own personal travel insurance covering medical expenses, trip delay, lost baggage, etc. If you have any medical conditions, allergies, or dietary restrictions (e.g., vegetarian, halal, gluten-free), please inform us at least 7 days before departure.
Currency & Payment:
The official currency is Renminbi (RMB / CNY). We suggest exchanging about 2,000–3,000 RMB in cash for small expenses (snacks, souvenirs, tips, etc.).
Credit cards (Visa/Mastercard) are accepted in large cities and high‑end malls, but not everywhere. Alipay and WeChat Pay are extremely convenient. You may try to download and link your international credit card before departure, or ask your guide for assistance.
Packing Suggestions:
Clothing: Prepare according to the season and destinations. Summers are hot & humid, winters cold & dry, spring/autumn have large day‑night temperature differences. Layered clothing and a light jacket are recommended. When visiting temples or religious sites, dress modestly (no bare shoulders or knees). Comfortable walking/hiking shoes are essential (many tours include ancient cities, mountain paths, or cobblestone lanes).
Personal items: Toiletries (some hotels may not provide full disposable sets), slippers, personal medications, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, umbrella/raincoat.
Electronics: Power plug adapter (China standard: two flat pins, 220V – many hotels can lend you one or have universal sockets), power bank (max 27,000mAh, must be carried in hand luggage).
II. Itinerary & Transportation
Airport/Station Transfers: Upon arrival, our guide will wait for you at the exit holding a sign with your name or the tour code/product name. Please look for it.
Domestic Flights / High‑Speed Trains (if included):
High‑speed trains offer first or second class seats – spacious and comfortable. Hot water and light snacks are available on board (you may also bring your own).
For domestic flights, checked baggage is usually limited to 20 kg, and carry‑on to 7 kg. Do not carry lighters, liquids over 100ml, or other prohibited items.
Reminder: Airports and train stations are very crowded. Stay close to your guide and keep your belongings secure.
Ground Transportation: We provide a spacious air‑conditioned coach/minibus with an experienced driver (vehicle size depends on group size). No smoking inside. Keep the vehicle clean. Before leaving the vehicle each day, make sure you have all your personal items.
Tour Pace: Our itineraries balance depth and comfort, but some days may involve considerable walking or activity. Listen to your body and let your guide know if you need a break. During free time, please take care of your personal safety and belongings.
III. Accommodation & Meals
Accommodation: We use the hotels listed in your itinerary (usually 3–5 stars, confirmed at booking). Standard twin/double rooms are provided. If you need a king bed or baby cot, please request in advance (subject to availability). A security deposit (cash or credit card) may be required at check‑in and will be refunded at check‑out.
Meals:
Included meals: As clearly marked in your itinerary (usually hotel breakfasts, some lunches/dinners). Breakfast is typically a buffet; lunches/dinners are carefully selected local restaurants featuring specialty dishes or set meals.
Meals on your own: For meals marked “on your own” or “free arrangement”, your guide will happily recommend local restaurants and cuisine – various price points available.
Drinking water: Do not drink tap water. Hotels provide bottled water daily, and restaurants serve hot tea. We recommend bringing a refillable water bottle – restaurants can refill it for you.
Dietary Restrictions: Please inform us of any dietary limitations at least 7 days before departure. We will communicate with the restaurants in advance.
IV. Sightseeing & Cultural Tips
World Heritage & Cultural Relics: When visiting sites such as the Forbidden City, Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors, Mogao Caves (depending on your itinerary), do not touch the relics, climb on ancient structures, or take photos in restricted areas. Follow site rules and respect the environment.
Special Activities: If your itinerary includes a workshop, cycling, show, etc., follow the instructor’s guidance and put safety first. If you prefer not to join an activity, please let your guide know.
Temples & Religious Sites: Remove your hat when entering main halls and keep your voice low. Ask permission before photographing Buddha statues.
Public Etiquette: Avoid loud talking in public places. Queue politely. Do not take photos of military zones, border checkpoints, or vulnerable people without their consent.
Tipping Customs: China is not a tipping‑required country. However, if you wish to show appreciation for excellent service, you are welcome to tip voluntarily at your own discretion.
V. Health & Safety
Air Quality: Some northern cities (especially in winter) may experience smog or haze. If you have respiratory sensitivities, we suggest carrying an N95 mask.
Stomach Health: When trying street food, choose busy, clean‑looking stalls. Bring your usual stomach medication and motion sickness pills.
Emergency Contacts: Always carry your hotel business card and your guide’s phone number.
China emergency numbers: Police: 110, Ambulance: 120, Fire: 119.
Internet & Communication: Your home SIM may not work in China. We recommend purchasing an international roaming package or buying a local Chinese SIM card at the airport (passport required for real‑name registration). Most hotel lobbies offer free Wi‑Fi.
VI. Daily Carry‑On Checklist (Recommended)
✅ Passport original (and a photocopy of the visa page – keep separately)
✅ Hotel key card (always take it when going out – essential for taxi return)
✅ Guide’s phone number / emergency contact card
✅ Cash / credit card for the day
✅ Mobile phone & power bank
✅ Personal medications
✅ Umbrella / sun hat / sunscreen (depending on weather)
✅ One bottle of water
✅ Comfortable walking shoes (already on your feet)
VII. Our Commitment & Service
Heartfelt service: We have noted all your requests. On every vehicle we provide an emergency kit (band‑aids, essential balm, wet wipes) and free bottled water daily.
Flexible adjustments: The itinerary is a framework; the real experience matters. Without removing major sights, your guide may adjust the order based on weather, traffic, or crowd conditions. You may also talk to your guide about fine‑tuning free time arrangements.
Round‑the‑clock communication: Before departure we will create a dedicated WeChat / WhatsApp service group including you, your tour leader, local guides, and our back‑office team – we are here for you 24/7.
Finally, relax and embrace this journey to China with curiosity and an open mind. 5,000 years of history, diverse cultures, and the blend of ancient and modern will unfold before you.
Wishing you a wonderful and memorable trip!
—— Your China Inbound Travel Team