Xinjiang is a land where the past meets the present, and the best evidence of this is the preserved ancient cities. Let's start our journey with Kashgar Old City, one of the most fascinating places in the region. This ancient city, with a history dating back more than 2,000 years, is the heart of Uyghur culture. Walking through the narrow, winding streets, you can feel the atmosphere of ancient times. A maze of backstreets leads to traditional clay houses, craft workshops and bustling bazaars. Especially worth a visit is the Id Kah Mosque, the largest mosque in China, which can accommodate up to 20,000 worshippers.

Another remarkable site is the Ancient City of Jiaohe, the ruins of a city located on a plateau surrounded by two rivers. This is one of the best preserved cities from the Silk Road era, which was abandoned in the 14th century. Walking through the ruins, one can see the remains of houses, Buddhist temples and fortifications. The city's unique layout, using the natural terrain as a defense, is an impressive testament to ancient engineering.

Also not to be missed is Gaochang, another ancient city along the Silk Road. Founded in the 1st century BC, it was an important trade and cultural center for more than 1,500 years. Today, the ruins stretch over 2 square kilometers, displaying the remains of palaces, temples and dwellings. Particularly impressive is the palace complex in the center of the city and the remains of the fortified walls.

Comparing the three sites, each offers a unique experience. Kashgar Old City allows you to immerse yourself in vibrant Uyghur culture, with opportunities to interact with locals and shop in traditional bazaars. The Ancient City of Jiaohe and Gaochang, on the other hand, are ruins that allow you to imagine what life was like in ancient Silk Road cities. Jiaohe stands out for its location on a natural plateau, while Gaochang impresses with its vastness and the remains of a palace complex.

Admission prices vary from place to place. Kashgar Old City is partially free, although some attractions, such as Id Kah Mosque, require a fee (about CNY 45). Admission to the Ancient City of Jiaohe costs about CNY 40, and Gaochang costs about CNY 50 (as of 2023). It's worth remembering that prices are subject to change, so it's always a good idea to check current information before visiting.

Tourist accessibility and infrastructure also vary between these places. Kashgar Old City, as a living city, offers the most facilities for tourists, including restaurants, stores and hotels. The Ancient City of Jiaohe and Gaochang are mainly archaeological sites, with limited tourist infrastructure, but with well-marked tour routes and information points.

Xinjiang not only has fascinating history, but also breathtaking scenery. One of the most impressive sites is 天山大峡谷, also known as the Grand Canyon of Tianshan. It is a spectacular geological formation that impresses with its rugged beauty. Sculpted over millennia by wind and water, the canyon offers unforgettable views of red rocks contrasting with blue skies. The hiking route takes you across a suspension bridge and glass viewing platforms for added excitement. Admission to the canyon costs about CNY 90 (as of 2023), and the best time to visit is between May and October.

Another natural wonder of Xinjiang is the Kalajun Prairies. These are vast green grasslands located at the foot of the Tianshan Mountains that offer incredible views and tranquility. The area is especially beautiful in summer, when the meadows are covered with colorful flowers. Kalajun Prairies is an ideal place for photography lovers and those looking to get in touch with nature. Here you can go horseback riding, picnicking or just enjoy the peace and quiet and clean mountain air. Admission to the prairies costs about 65 CNY (as of 2023).

For those looking for a more extreme experience, the Duku Highway Monument is a must-see. This scenic road, considered one of the most beautiful in China, passes through the Tianshan Mountains, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, glaciers and deep valleys. The route is only open from June to September due to harsh winter conditions. Although the drive can be a challenge, the views compensate for any difficulties. It is worth remembering that this road requires good preparation and a suitable vehicle.

Comparing these three natural attractions, each offers a unique experience. Tianshan Grand Canyon is ideal for those seeking dramatic landscapes and the adrenaline rush associated with altitude. Kalajun Prairies, on the other hand, is an oasis of tranquility, ideal for families and those seeking relaxation surrounded by nature. Duku Highway Monument is for the more advanced traveler, offering unforgettable views but requiring good preparation.

The accessibility of these sites differs significantly. Tianshan Grand Canyon is relatively easy to access and has a well-developed tourist infrastructure. The Kalajun Prairies, while less developed for tourism, also offer basic facilities for visitors. Duku Highway Monument is the most challenging of the three attractions, both in terms of accessibility and travel preparation.

As for the best time to visit, summer (June to August) is ideal for all three sites. That's when the weather is best and the views are most spectacular. However, it's worth remembering that this is also the peak tourist season, so you can expect bigger crowds and higher prices. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are good alternatives, offering pleasant weather and less crowding.

Whichever destination you choose, each offers an unforgettable experience and the opportunity to enjoy Xinjiang's remarkable nature. These are ideal destinations for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the cities and immerse themselves in the beauty of the wilderness.

Xinjiang is not only about natural beauty and ancient ruins, but also about a vibrant culture that can best be experienced in local communities and traditional streets. One such place is Xinjiang Minjie Street in Urumqi, the region's capital. This street is a true treasure trove of Xinjiang culture, where you can find traditional handicrafts, local delicacies and see the daily life of the locals. The architecture of the buildings combines Islamic and Chinese elements, creating a unique style characteristic of the region. It's an ideal place to buy souvenirs, sample local specialties such as naan and kebab, and listen to traditional Uyghur music.

Another fascinating place is 夏塔旅游区 (Xiata Tourist Area), located in a picturesque valley in the Tianshan Mountains. This place is especially valuable for history and nature lovers. Here you can see the remains of ancient settlements, walk along mountain trails and experience traditional pastoral life. The area is also famous for its hot springs, which have attracted travelers for centuries. It's an ideal place to combine active recreation with learning about local culture and history.

Also not to be missed is Kashgar Oid City, which is the heart of Uyghur culture in Xinjiang. This place differs from the previously mentioned Kashgar Old City in that it focuses more on the modern life of the Uyghur community, while maintaining its traditional character. Here you can see artisans at work, visit traditional teahouses and feel the atmosphere of a real Uyghur town. Especially worth a visit are the local bazaars, where you can find everything from fresh fruit to hand-woven carpets.

Comparing the three places, each offers a different perspective on Xinjiang culture. Xinjiang Minjie Street is a modern interpretation of tradition, ideal for those who want to experience the culture in a comfortable, urban setting. Xiata Tourist Area offers a more authentic and rustic experience, ideal for adventurers and nature lovers. Kashgar Oid City, on the other hand, allows you to immerse yourself in the daily life of the Uyghur community, offering the most authentic cultural experience.

The accessibility of these places varies significantly. Xinjiang Minjie Street, located in the regional capital, is easily accessible and offers a wide range of facilities for tourists. The Xiata Tourist Area requires more planning and is more remote, but offers a unique experience in exchange for the effort expended. Kashgar Oid City, though far from the capital, is well positioned to welcome tourists and offers a wide range of accommodations and services.

As for prices, Xinjiang Minjie Street is generally free to enter, though of course costs depend on purchases and activities. Admission to the Xiata Tourist Area can cost around 50-80 CNY, depending on the season and selected attractions (as of 2023). Kashgar Oid City is mostly accessible free of charge, although some attractions, such as museums and craft workshops, may require a fee.

The best time to visit these places is in late spring (May-June) or early autumn (September-October), when the weather is pleasant and tourist crowds are smaller than during the peak summer season. In winter, some attractions, especially in the Xiata Tourist Area, may be closed or difficult to access due to weather conditions.

Regardless of the destination chosen, each offers a unique glimpse of Xinjiang's rich culture. These are ideal destinations for those who want to gain a deeper understanding of the traditions, customs and daily life of the people of this fascinating region of China.