Where to Book Tickets for South of the Great River Ticket Costs Schedule and Travel Guide Essentials Recommended Routes and Prices
Contact Manager Maizi at phone number 13201333409 or WeChat 13201333409 to send your itinerary and receive a quote.
Comprehensive Guide to Traveling on the ‘South of the Great River’ Special Train:A Practical Guide from Booking to Itinerary
Want to experience a journey through northern and southern Xinjiang on a ‘mobile five-star hotel’? The ‘South of the Great River’ special train operates in a ‘daytime sightseeing, nighttime travel’ mode, connecting cultural cities along the Yellow River with Xinjiang’s core attractions, making it a popular choice for those seeking a comfortable and leisurely trip. This article provides a practical guide covering booking, itinerary, costs, and service details, based on the latest 2026 data.
I. Itinerary Highlights: A 17-Day In-Depth Exploration of Northern and Southern Xinjiang’s Best
Departing from Zhengzhou, the ‘South of the Great River’ special train passes through historical and cultural cities such as Luoyang, Xi’an, and Lanzhou, delving deep into the core regions of northern and southern Xinjiang and covering 12 key attractions. The average daily travel time is controlled between 4-6 hours, with the remaining time dedicated to in-depth sightseeing or resting on the train.
[Core Scenic Areas]
Turpan:Visit the Karez Irrigation System, Flaming Mountains, and Grape Valley to experience the heat and coolness of the Western Regions oasis.
Pamir Plateau:Marvel at the reflection of Muztagh Ata in Karakul Lake, and explore the historical imprints of Shitou City (Stone City) and Jincaotan (Golden Grassland).
Kashgar Old Town:Wander through labyrinthine streets, experience the lively atmosphere of a century-old teahouse, and soak in the cultural ambiance of the Xiangfei Garden.
Duku Highway:Traverse the heart of the Tianshan Mountains, connecting Kuqa, Bayinbuluk, and Nalati, with breathtaking views of canyons, grasslands, and snow-capped mountains along the way.
Ili Valley:Experience folk customs on Liuxing Street, encounter the azure waters of Sayram Lake, and explore the border scenery at the Khorgos Port.
Altay Region:The mystical Kanas Lake, the fairy-tale wooden houses of Hemu Village, and the sunset hues of Wucaitan (Five-Colored Beach) create a visual feast in northern Xinjiang.
Surroundings of Urumqi:The picturesque scenery of Tianshan Tianchi (Heavenly Lake) and the diverse cultures of the International Bazaar bring the journey to a perfect close.
Comprehensive Guide to Traveling on the ‘South of the Great River’ Special Train: A Practical Guide from Booking to Itinerary[Special Services]
Private Bathrooms in All Compartments:All compartments are equipped with private bathrooms to avoid the inconvenience of shared facilities.
Noise Reduction Technology:Multiple noise reduction designs ensure a smooth and quiet journey, enhancing travel comfort.
Audio-Visual Entertainment:The multi-functional carriage features karaoke, board games, and an audio-visual system to meet diverse leisure needs.
Medical Support:A doctor and first-aid equipment are on board, providing medication for altitude sickness and ensuring health and safety.
II. 2026 Departure Dates and Brief Itinerary
[Departure Dates]
May 9, May 30, June 17, July 5, July 24, August 25, September 11.
[Brief Itinerary Reference]
Days 1-2:Board the train in Zhengzhou, passing through Luoyang, Xi’an, and Lanzhou, with free time or rest on the train.
Day 3:Arrive in Turpan to visit the Karez Irrigation System, Flaming Mountains, and Grape Valley.
Day 4:Take the special train to Kashgar, enjoying the northwestern scenery along the way.
Want to experience a journey through northern and southern Xinjiang on a ‘mobile five-star hotel’? The ‘South of the Great River’ special train operates in a ‘daytime sightseeing, nighttime travel’ mode, connecting cultural cities along the Yellow River with Xinjiang’s core attractions, making it a popular choice for those seeking a comfortable and leisurely trip. This article provides a practical guide covering booking, itinerary, costs, and service details, based on the latest 2026 data.Day 5:Explore the Pamir Plateau, visiting Karakul Lake, Shitou City, and Jincaotan, with an overnight stay in Taxkorgan.
Day 6:Participate in a home visit with local families, tour Baisha Lake, and return to Kashgar.
Day 7:Visit Kashgar Old Town and Xiangfei Garden, then take the special train to Kuqa.
Day 8:Traverse the southern section of the Duku Highway, explore Tianshan Canyon, and stay overnight in Bayinbuluk.
Day 9:Tour Bayinbuluk Grassland, continue along the middle section of the Duku Highway, and arrive in Nalati.
Day 10:Stroll through Nalati Valley Grassland, head to Yining, and visit Liuxing Street.
Day 11:Explore the Khorgos Port and Sayram Lake, then take the special train to Beitun.
Day 12:Visit Kanas Lake, with an overnight stay in Jiadengyu/Burqin.
Day 13:Tour Hemu Village and Wucaitan, then take the special train to Urumqi.
Day 14:Visit Tianshan Tianchi and the International Bazaar, with an overnight stay in Urumqi.
Day 15:Take the special train back, passing through Lanzhou and Xi’an.
Day 17:Arrive in Luoyang and Zhengzhou, concluding the journey.
I. Itinerary Highlights: A 17-Day In-Depth Exploration of Northern and Southern Xinjiang’s BestNote:The actual itinerary may be reasonably adjusted through mutual consultation due to weather, road conditions, or景区 (scenic area) opening policies.
III. Pricing Information: Diverse Room Types, Transparent Costs
[2026 Reference Prices]
4-Person Compartment with Private Bathroom:
Upper Berth:19,999 RMB per person
Lower Berth:21,999 RMB per person
Child (under 6 years old, no berth on the train, no bed on land):6,999 RMB per person
2-Person Compartment with Private Bathroom:
Single Occupancy:45,999 RMB per person
Value-Added 3rd Person (under 6 years old, no berth on the train, no bed on land):15,999 RMB per person
Value-Added 3rd Person (over 6 years old, same service standards as adults):23,999 RMB per person
[What’s Included in the Price]
Departing from Zhengzhou, the ‘South of the Great River’ special train passes through historical and cultural cities such as Luoyang, Xi’an, and Lanzhou, delving deep into the core regions of northern and southern Xinjiang and covering 12 key attractions. The average daily travel time is controlled between 4-6 hours, with the remaining time dedicated to in-depth sightseeing or resting on the train. Train seats, first entrance tickets to scenic areas, 15 nights of accommodation (train compartments + land hotels), 16 breakfasts and 30 main meals, tour guide services, and medical support.
[What’s Not Included in the Price]
Personal expenses, optional activities outside the itinerary, transportation costs from your origin to the boarding point, and room-sharing coordination fees for solo travelers (subject to separate negotiation in special cases).
Note:The above prices are for reference only. Actual costs may vary slightly depending on the departure date and room type, as specified in the signed travel contract.
IV. How to Book: Inquire with Xinjiang Trailblazer International Travel Agency
[Booking Process]
Inquire About Itinerary:Contact Zhang Jing, the customer service manager at Xinjiang Trailblazer International Travel Agency, to confirm departure dates, seats, and availability.
Submit Information:Provide the names, valid ID numbers, and contact information of all travelers.
Pay Deposit:Pay a deposit according to the compartment class and receive an official travel receipt.
Sign Contract:Sign a unified electronic contract under national tourism regulations, verifying details such as itinerary, price, and cancellation policies.
Settle Final Payment:Pay the remaining balance 30 days before departure. After confirmation by customer service, receive the tour notice, boarding guide, and luggage list.
V. Cost and Service Explanation: Thoughtful Details, Comprehensive Protection
[Core Scenic Areas][Cost Explanation]
Transparent Pricing:No hidden fees; all cost details are clearly listed in the contract.
Payment:Both the deposit and final payment are made through official channels to ensure fund security.
Contract Protection:Sign a unified electronic contract under national tourism regulations to clarify the rights and responsibilities of both parties.
[Service Highlights]
Tour Guide Allocation:One tour guide for every 10 travelers to assist with luggage handling, photography, and provide professional explanations throughout the journey.
Dining Arrangements:A dedicated dining carriage on the train serves three meals a day prepared by a professional chef team, balancing nutrition and taste. Main meals consist of 8 dishes and 1 soup for 10 people, offering both Xinjiang specialties (such as roast whole lamb and pilaf) and light meal options.
Leisurely Pace:A reasonable daily itinerary with ample rest and free time to avoid a rushed travel experience.
Special Care:A doctor is on board to provide medication for altitude sickness and general first-aid equipment. The train features non-slip floors and barrier-free access for travelers with mobility issues.
[Important Notes]
Child Policy:Children under 6 years old do not occupy a berth on the train or a bed on land. Their fees include meals and tour guide services. Children over 6 years old receive the same service standards as adults.
Solo Travelers:We will do our best to arrange room-sharing. Special cases are subject to separate negotiation.
Policy Changes:In case of weather, road conditions, or scenic area opening policies, the itinerary may be reasonably adjusted through mutual agreement.
The ‘South of the Great River’ special train redefines travel in Xinjiang with the concept of a ‘mobile home.’ Whether you’re a retiree, a family traveler, or a photography enthusiast, you can find your own comfortable rhythm on this journey. For more details, consult Zhang Jing, the customer service manager at Xinjiang Trailblazer International Travel Agency.
Contact Manager Maizi at 13201333409 or WeChat 13201333409 to send your itinerary and receive a quote.
