Ili Kazak Autonomous Prefecture is situated in the northwestern region of northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Ili not only boasts beautiful natural landscapes, such as colorful oceans of flowers, vast grasslands, and lofty snow mountains, it is also known for its profound historical and cultural heritage.
It has often been said one cannot truly admire the beauty of Xinjiang until he or she visits Ili. It is a year-round feast for the eyes, with each season having its own unique beauty. From its spring blossoms to its winter snow, Ili never fails to impress. Whether one is a nature enthusiast or a traveler seeking immersive experiences, Ili promises an unforgettable adventure.
Romance of Spring
Ili has one of the most magical spring landscapes in China. When the spring breeze breathes new life into Ili, white saffron flowers emerge from the frozen ground. In northern Xinjiang, these small white flowers bloom at the beginning of March, when the ice and snow have not yet melted. Therefore, the locals believe the white saffron flowers symbolize strength and optimism.
The white saffron flowers kick off the spring flower-viewing season in Ili. Delicate apricot blossoms are next. Apricot Valley, also known as Tuergen Xinghuagou, is situated in Tuergen, a township in Ili. Known as China's largest wild-apricot forest from the 14th century, the valley covers more than 30,000 mu (about 2,000 hectares).
Each spring, millions of pink and white apricot blossoms turn the valley into a sea of soft petals. The air smells sweet, and the valley comes alive with spring's breath. The breathtaking blossoms, together with the green meadows, crystal clear streams and surrounding majestic, snow-capped mountains, create dreamy scenes straight out of fairy tales.
Every year, the apricot blossoms come out between late March and mid-April. Sunrise and sunset are the ideal times to enjoy the picturesque scenery, as the valley becomes "dyed" in gold. The breathtaking scenes draw travelers and shutterbugs, from all over the country, to witness the short-lived, but unforgettable, bloom.
Wild poppies bloom in full glory between early May and early June. In China, wild poppies only grow in Xinjiang, and most grow in Ili. The flowers, which only bloom in the morning, resemble luminous rubies on a bed of green velvet. Lavender blooms in June. Huocheng, a county in Ili, is home to the world's third-largest lavender planting base. The blooming lavender flowers fill the air with sweet fragrance, and they turn the land into a sea of purple. At the beginning of July, rapeseed flowers reach full bloom in Zhaosu, also a county in Ili. From March to July, various kinds of wild flowers, such as tulips, primroses and trollflowers, bloom, successively, transforming Ili into an ocean of colorful flowers.
Harmonious Coexistence
Ili has long served as a gateway for cultural exchanges. During ancient times, it was a crucial point on the northern route of the Silk Road, and Ili facilitated trade and cultural exchanges between East and West. Ili has always been a place that has integrated diverse cultures; as such, it has always embraced various folk customs, especially with rich connotations. Now, Ili stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of 47 ethnic groups.
Liuxing Street is home to a well-known historical and cultural block in Yining, capital of Ili. Built in the mid-1930s, its name was derived from its special hexagon shape. People of multiple ethnic groups, including Han, Kazak, Hui, Uygur, Russian and Tatar, live on the block.
Now, the old neighborhood is a popular tourist spot, renowned for ethnic cultures, colorful historical buildings, traditional ethnic crafts and music and the arts. As they stroll along the historic street, tourists are greeted by joyful dances, accompanied by traditional folk tunes, all performed by artists and local folk performers. Meanwhile, the mouthwatering Xinjiang specialties should not be missed by visitors. Smoked mutton, juicy fruits, various kinds of bread, milk tea and various dairy products are all a must-try for visitors.
The cultural and tourism area of Ili old town (formerly known as Kazanqi folk custom tourism area), located in the center of Yining, is also a must-see. Kazanqi means "pot maker" in the Uygur language. During ancient times, the area was a production and sales center for folk handicrafts. Now, it is known for the ubiquitous blue color that adorns its doors, windows, columns, porches and walls. More than 300 ancient buildings, built during different periods since the Qing Dynasty (1616-1911), and more than 20,000 residential courtyards, with local folk characteristics, are situated in the area. The buildings reflect various architectural styles, including ancient wooden dwellings, various brick- and stone-structure villas, Persian-style courtyards, Byzantine domes, and Rococo-style relief sculptures. As such, it has become a magnet that has drawn tourists and shutterbugs.
Riding on a traditional Hadike horse-drawn carriage is an ideal way to appreciate the traditional dwellings. Visitors can also sample flower tea and dried fruits, and try to make local fruit preserves and traditional Uygur snacks.
Photos from VCG
(Women of China English Monthly March 2026)
Editor: Wang Shasha
