Recently, the topic about Xinjiang as a winter travel destination has surged in popularity on video platforms, with many netizens posting videos praising the beautiful scenery and exceptional value for money that Xinjiang offers, making it an ideal choice for winter vacations.

What are the ways to explore Xinjiang in winter? Don't worry. Let's take a look.

In winter, Xinjiang no longer witnesses the blossoms of spring and summer or the vividly hued fallen leaves of autumn. Instead, it presents an added touch of purity and the alluring charm of ice and snow.

Urumqi in winter is bestowed with the understated beauty by nature. After the snowfall in winter, Urumqi, bathed in sunlight and set against a myriad of hues, reveals its unique charm.

On a cozy afternoon, visitors can stroll through the Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar, immersing themselves in the warmth of Xinjiang's hospitality through song, dance, and delicious cuisine.

Not far from Urumqi, the Tianchi Lake in Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture boasts stunning winter scenery.

Basking in the enchanting and full-flavored scenery, a visit to Tianchi Lake offers a dreamlike experience of Xinjiang's snowy landscapes, where the interplay of light and shadow in nature's vibrant attire feels like stepping into a fairy tale come to life.

Sayram Lake in Bortala Mongolian Autonomous Prefecture, dubbed the "last tear of the Atlantic," is an enchanting dreamland with misty waters in winter, resembling an animated scene come to life, a captivating tapestry of white and blue, and a heavenly realm of indescribable beauty.

Thick layers of azure ice and ice bubbles, like sprites only encountered in winter, are both stunning and awe-inspiring.

In winter, Sayram Lake doesn't need much color to embellish it, yet it holds a pure and stunning scenery.

In winter, Kanas in Altay Prefecture presents a captivating charm without the need for excessive embellishments. The tree branches are laden with rime, while the mountains are swathed in a pristine layer of snow. The birch forests cascade from the summits down to the bases, creating a seamless panorama that offers a spellbinding vista at a single glance.

Snow blankets the mountains, and every tree appears as if made of ice and jade. Stepping into this place is like entering a dreamy world of ice and snow.

After winter sets in, Bosten Lake in Bohu County, Bayingolin Mongolian Autonomous Prefecture, welcomes a flock of migratory birds that fly, chase, and forage on the lake surface, fully enjoying the warmth brought by the sun and the lake water.

As temperatures plummet, the surface of the Bosten Lake forms a thin layer of ice, resembling the scales of a fish from afar, creating a breathtakingly beautiful sight。

At Bosten Lake, you can admire ice and snow sculptures, experience local customs, and even participate in the traditional winter fishing activities.

Xinjiang's grandeur extends beyond just winter. With its crystal-clear waters, undulating mountains, dense forests, and stunning landscapes, it offers beauty in every season.

In winter in Xinjiang, you can ride horses in tranquil villages, take a sleigh ride pulled by horses, play with splashing water that freezes in the air, experience jumping in the snow and snowball fights, and then hit the ski slopes for some skiing.

Let's take a look at what activities are available to enjoy in Xinjiang during the winter.

Jump into the snow

In winter, Kanas is adorned with thick snow. You can leave all your worries behind and plunge into the snow, which is over a meter deep, saying goodbye to all your troubles.

Horse-drawn sleigh rides

Riding a horse-drawn sleigh over snow a meter deep, you can appreciate the beautiful scenery while experiencing a unique kind of fun, as if gliding through a white wonderland, discovering the distinct beauty of Xinjiang.

Pouring water into ice

One can find an open spot, splash hot water into the air, and watch as it instantly forms billowing ice mist and ice spears. Capturing a photo or video of this and sharing it on social media is sure to garner countless likes.

Fur skiing

Do you know about the ancient fur skiing? Come and experience it in Altay, known as the “origin of human skiing.”

Photo shows ancient fur skis in Altay Prefecture, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. (Photo provided by Kanas scenic spot)

Treading on traditional fur skis and gripping a single wooden ski pole, you can experience the ancient fur skiing at the foot of the Altai Mountains, which is not only fun but also retro.

Knock snow on the roof

On the sloping roofs of log cabins in Hemu Village, thick snow accumulates each winter, sometimes exceeding a meter in depth. To reduce the safety hazards posed by the heavy snow, it's necessary to knock the snow down, and witnessing it cascading like a waterfall is an instant stress reliever.

Skiing in Xinjiang during winter is a good choice for many snow enthusiasts. This year, Xinjiang's major ski resorts have gradually opened. Whether you're there for a ski vacation or to take photos, they won't disappoint your expectations.

The Silk Road Mountain Resort's ice and fire experience is a perfect winter adventure. Soaking in the hot springs with friends, you can chat leisurely and wash away the day's thrills and fatigue, offering you the ultimate winter experience.

At Jiangjunshan International Ski Resort in Altay Prefecture, you can experience the thrill of BK ski park, indulge in a food and shopping festival, watch the sunset on the ski slopes while sipping coffee, and visit the country's first theme post office that delivers air, all in one place.

In the Keketuohai International Ski Resort in Altay Prefecture, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the snow, including horseback skiing and helicopter skiing. Surprisingly, there's even a restaurant with direct ski-in/ski-out access. Sitting in front of the windows, you can effortlessly immerse in the winter atmosphere gifted by nature without any deliberate arrangement.

At the Jikepulin International Ski Resort in Altay Prefecture, you can ski while enjoying the scenery and even directly glide into a hot spring to relax amidst the steamy warmth.

Come to Xinjiang this winter and embark on a magical icy adventure.

(Sourced from WeChat official accounts including "Xinjiang is a Nice Place," "Xinjiang Cultural and Tourism Discovery," "Xinjiang 949 Traffic Radio," "Kanas Tourism Official," "Bortala Lingjuli," and "Travel Xinjiang")