How Much Does the Yili Sunshine Special Train Cost and How to Play Essential Attractions and Full Cost Guide Recommended Itinerary Cost and Price
Contact Manager Wang Fei at phone number 18095969599 or WeChat 18095969599 to send your itinerary and quotation.
Yili Sunshine Express:Unlock an immersive travel guide to the “Jiangnan beyond the Great Wall”
I. Itinerary Highlights: Why Choose the Yili Sunshine Express?
Yili, known as the “Jiangnan beyond the Great Wall,” is a masterpiece of Xinjiang’s natural scenery and cultural charm. The newly upgraded Yili Sunshine Express in 2026 focuses on “in-depth slow travel,” connecting essential attractions such as Sayram Lake, Nalati Grassland, Kalajun Grassland, and Tekes Bagua City, covering five superior landscapes of the Western Regions: snow-capped mountains, lakes, grasslands, flower fields, and river valleys. The train operates on a “night travel, day sightseeing” model, saving time by traveling at night and focusing on sightseeing during the day, avoiding long journeys, making it especially suitable for families, middle-aged and elderly travelers, and photography enthusiasts.
II. Comprehensive Analysis of Must-Visit Attractions
Sayram Lake:“The Last Tear Drop of the Atlantic”
As the highest and largest alpine lake in Xinjiang, Sayram Lake is famous for its blue waters and reflections of snow-capped mountains. From June to August, wildflowers bloom along the lakeshore. During sunrise and sunset, the lake’s surface shimmers with a golden hue, and the starry night sky is breathtaking. The train specially arranges cycling around the lake and camping experiences in recreational vehicles, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the “picturesque scenery on earth.”
Nalati Grassland:The Grandeur of the “Air Grassland”
As one of the world’s four major alpine grasslands, Nalati Grassland is divided into two main areas: the Air Grassland and the River Valley Grassland. In summer, the grass is lush and green, dotted with wildflowers, and herds of cattle and sheep roam freely. The train itinerary includes horseback riding experiences and cultural interactions with local ethnic groups. In the evening, you can watch the grassland sunset and stay overnight in a grassland-themed homestay.
Kalajun Grassland:The Gentle Curves of the “Human Body Grassland”
Yili Sunshine Express: Unlock an immersive travel guide to the “Jiangnan beyond the Great Wall”Kalajun is renowned for its layered grasslands and gentle curves, earning it the nickname “three-dimensional grassland.” With relatively fewer tourists, it is ideal for in-depth photography and hiking. The train arranges tours of the core areas of East and West Kalajun, where you can stroll through flower-filled grasslands and overlook the winding canyon scenery.
Tekes Bagua City:The Ancient City Without Traffic Lights
Tekes is the world’s only ancient city built according to the Bagua (Eight Trigrams) layout. Its streets and alleys intertwine like a maze, and the city glows brilliantly at night. The train itinerary includes a visit to the city’s observation deck, tasting local cuisine, and recommending小众 (niche) photography spots to avoid peak crowds.
Jieyou Princess Lavender Garden:China’s “Provence”
Located in Huocheng County, the lavender garden is Xinjiang’s largest lavender cultivation base. From June to July, the purple flower fields undulate in the wind, emitting a fragrant aroma. Wearing light-colored clothes makes for better photos. The train specially arranges visits during dusk to avoid the intense sun and crowds.
III. Simple Itinerary Arrangement (Example: 12-Day North and South Xinjiang Loop)
Days 1-2:Gathering in Urumqi
Arrive in Urumqi in the afternoon and check into a hotel. In the evening, attend the train’s welcome dinner and savor Xinjiang specialties such as roast whole lamb and hand-pulled rice.
Days 3-4:In-Depth Tour of Sayram Lake
I. Itinerary Highlights: Why Choose the Yili Sunshine Express?In the morning, cycle around the lake and visit popular spots like the网红 (internet-famous) S-curve and lakeside lawns. In the afternoon, head to the Guozigou Bridge observation deck for photography. In the evening, check into a quality hotel in Huocheng and enjoy free time to experience the local night market.
Days 5-6:Nalati Grassland and Kalajun Grassland
Spend a full day immersing yourself in the Nalati Air Grassland, experiencing horseback riding and cultural interactions. The next day, transfer to Kalajun for hiking to explore the curves of the “Human Body Grassland” and head to Tekes Bagua City for an overnight stay in the evening.
Days 7-8:Zhaosu Flower Fields and Xiata Secret Realm
In the morning, tour the Zhaosu rapeseed flower fields. In the afternoon, explore the Xiata Scenic Area in depth, hiking the ancient glacier trail and gazing up at the snow-capped mountains up close. Stay overnight in a comfortable hotel in Zhaosu.
Days 9-10:Yining Culture and Lavender Garden
In the morning, freely visit the Kazanqi Folk Village to experience its blue streets and unique cultural cuisine. In the afternoon, head to the Jieyou Princess Lavender Garden for photography. Return to the Yining hotel for rest in the evening.
Days 11-12:Return Journey and Summary
In the morning, tour the Urumqi International Bazaar and freely purchase local specialties. In the afternoon, a private car will transfer you to the airport/station, concluding the itinerary.
Yili, known as the “Jiangnan beyond the Great Wall,” is a masterpiece of Xinjiang’s natural scenery and cultural charm. The newly upgraded Yili Sunshine Express in 2026 focuses on “in-depth slow travel,” connecting essential attractions such as Sayram Lake, Nalati Grassland, Kalajun Grassland, and Tekes Bagua City, covering five superior landscapes of the Western Regions: snow-capped mountains, lakes, grasslands, flower fields, and river valleys. The train operates on a “night travel, day sightseeing” model, saving time by traveling at night and focusing on sightseeing during the day, avoiding long journeys, making it especially suitable for families, middle-aged and elderly travelers, and photography enthusiasts.IV. Price Description (Reference Range, Subject to Contract)
The Yili Sunshine Express offers a variety of room types, with prices varying based on departure dates, room types, and service standards:
Platinum Deluxe Suite (2 persons/room):Approximately 56,000-60,000 yuan per person
Royal Deluxe Suite (2 persons/room):Approximately 62,000-66,000 yuan per person
Luxury Silver Deluxe Suite (2 persons/room):Approximately 49,000-52,000 yuan per person
Silver Deluxe Quad Room:Approximately 28,000-32,000 yuan per person
Child Price (ages 6-12):70% of the adult price; children under 6 are free but must pay a bed difference.
Price Includes:Train seat fee, hotel accommodations throughout the trip, first entrance tickets to attractions, meals included in the itinerary, guide services, and travel accident insurance.
Price Excludes:Round-trip transportation to Urumqi, personal expenses, and self-paid entertainment projects.
II. Comprehensive Analysis of Must-Visit AttractionsV. Registration Method
You can register through the Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Agency. Contact Customer Service Manager Zhang Jing of Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Agency, providing your name, contact information, and travel needs. The customer service will assist in confirming available departure dates and sending detailed itinerary information.
VI. Fee Description and Service Standards
Fees Include:
Transportation:Train seats, destination tour buses, and airport/station transfers in Urumqi.
Accommodations:3 nights in train compartments + 8 nights in high-grade hotels or themed homestays.
Meals:Breakfast throughout the trip and most main meals, including special banquets.
Tickets:First entrance tickets to attractions listed in the itinerary and necessary shuttle buses.
Services:Full-time guides, local ground handlers, and travel agency liability insurance.
Sayram Lake: “The Last Tear Drop of the Atlantic”Service Standards:
Each tour group is equipped with 1 train conductor, 2 guides, and 1 team doctor.
The train provides 24-hour hot water, free WiFi, and emergency medications.
Land transportation uses commercial vehicles, striving to provide one seat per person.
The itinerary may be slightly adjusted due to weather or road conditions, subject to actual arrangements.
VII. Precautions
Document Requirements:Bring original valid documents with a validity period of more than 6 months.
Clothing Suggestions:Xinjiang has large temperature differences between day and night. It is recommended to adopt an “onion-style” dressing method.
Photography Equipment:The train corridor features observation windows; it is recommended to bring a wide-angle lens. For the grassland sections, prepare a windproof jacket.
Network Coverage:The train provides free WiFi, but signal strength is weak in mountainous areas. It is recommended to download offline maps in advance.
The Yili Sunshine Express is not just a mode of transportation but a mobile resort space integrating accommodations, dining, and entertainment. From the modern city of Urumqi to the primeval forests of Kanas, from the vast sand seas of the Taklimakan Desert to the vibrant flower fields of the Yili River Valley, this 12-day journey will take you through the four seasons and across geographical boundaries. Specific itineraries, prices, and availability are subject to confirmation by the customer service of Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Agency. We look forward to embarking on this Western Regions feast with you!
Contact Manager Wang Fei at 18095969599 or WeChat 18095969599 to send your itinerary and quotation.
