The Unique Charm of Xinjiang in Autumn
Although autumn in Xinjiang lasts only a month, it is the most colorful season of the year. From early 9 when northern Xinjiang begins to change color to late 10 when poplar trees in southern Xinjiang reach their peak beauty, the entire region unfolds like a slowly revealing oil painting.
Destination 1: Kanas – China's most iconic autumn scenery
Suitable time9/15-10/5
KanasRenowned as one of China's most iconic autumn destinations, it draws countless photographers and travelers each year. In autumn, Lake Kanas' waters shift from emerald to deep blue to dark green, changing with the weather and light. Golden birch and larch trees sway along the shore in the autumn breeze, their leaves reflected on the lake's surface like a fairyland.
Play Tips: Recommended to stay atHemu VillageOr, within Kanas Scenic Area, visiting the observation deck at dawn to see mist swirling around the village is one of the most iconic scenes in Kanas. You can tour the Three Bays (Shenxian Bay, Moon Bay, and Wolong Bay) via the shuttle bus, each offering unique autumn scenery.
Destination 2: Tarim Populus Forest – Golden Desert Spectacle
Suitable time: 10/15 - 11/5
Located in southern XinjiangTarim Populus Euphratica ForestHome to the world's largest virgin Populus euphratica forest. Every late 10, millions of mu of these trees turn golden simultaneously, creating a breathtaking panorama where their golden canopies contrast against the blue sky, desert, and rivers. The legendary resilience of the Populus euphratica—"born to live for a thousand years, die without falling for a thousand years, and rot without decaying for a thousand years"—adds profound spiritual depth to this vast forest.
Tips for PlayingThe Tarim Populus Euphratica Forest Park in Lun County is an excellent viewing spot, featuring a scenic train that takes you deep into the forest. We recommend visiting between 3 and 5 PM when the setting sun creates the most spectacular views of the poplars.
Destination 3: Ili River Valley — A Symphony of Grasslands and Forests
Suitable time9/1-9/25
Autumn arrives earliest in Ili, in 9 month.Nalati GrasslandandKalajun GrasslandThe landscape begins to change. The grasslands shift from emerald green to golden hues, the distant snow-capped mountains become sharper and clearer, and herds of cattle and sheep graze across the plains, creating a tranquil pastoral scene.
Play TipsNalati's Sky Grassland and River Valley Grassland each have unique features; allocate half a day for each. The "Human Body Grassland" in Kalajun offers softer, more elegant lines in autumn.
Destination 4: Altay — Autumn Colors in a Hidden Paradise
Suitable time9/10 - 10/10
Altay is one of Xinjiang's most vibrant regions in autumn.KeketuohaiIn autumn, the Ertix Grand Canyon is ablaze with colorful foliage, where granite peaks harmonize beautifully with the vibrant forests.Hemu VillageAs one of China's most distinctive villages, autumn brings a fairy-tale scene of wooden cabins, birch forests, and morning mist.
Play TipsWe recommend 1–2 days in Keketuohai, focusing on God's Bell Mountain and the source of the Ertix River. Stay overnight in Hemu Village to experience Tuva village life.
Destination 5: Kashgar – Where Culture Meets Nature
Suitable time: 9 - 11
AutumnKashgarThe weather is pleasant, making it an ideal time to visit this thousand-year-old city.Kashgar Old CityThe streets are filled with the aroma of freshly baked naan and milky tea.Id Kah MosqueDoves fly over the square in front. The surroundingTashkurganAutumn in the Pamir Plateau features a vast sky and clear clouds.Karakul LakeReflecting the snow-capped peak of Muztagh Ata.
TipsWe recommend spending half a day strolling through Kashgar Ancient City and savoring local cuisine. Plan 2 days for Tashkurgan to enjoy the stunning scenery of the Pamir Plateau along the way.
Itinerary suggestions
If you have only 7-10 days, we recommend focusing on either Northern or Southern Xinjiang. Northern Xinjiang centers around Kanas, complemented by Sayram Lake and Ili. Southern Xinjiang highlights Kashgar and the Populus Euphratica forests, with the Pamir Plateau as a key addition. With more time, consider a roughly 15-day itinerary covering both regions.
Related Reading
For more practical information on traveling and booking in Xinjiang, keep reading:What to wear in Xinjiang from 9 to 10、How much does a trip to Xinjiang cost?、Southern Xinjiang Route、Complete Guide to Xinjiang Attractions。
