Nestled quietly along the Tianshan Mountains from west to east, Jimusaer (Jimsar) County, Qitai County and Mulei Kazak Autonomous County in Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture lie like three pieces of jade, each with unique charm.

Golden sun rising over snow-capped peaks, pine forests blanketed by snow, seas of wildflowers stretching across the drylands, and camel bells echoing across the desert… In Changji, an unforgettable journey doesn't require a long expedition. Just a few days are sufficient to immerse yourself in landscapes that are rich, diverse and deeply relaxing.

The first stop: Cheshi Ancient Trail

The Cheshi Ancient Trail in Jimusaer is a historic route dating back more than 2,000 years. Once a crucial shortcut linking the northern and southern slopes of the Tianshan Mountains, it was frequently used by Silk Road travellers. The trail extends for around 200 km, winding past waterfalls, forests and other dramatic mountain vistas, but visitors don't need to hike the entire length. Entering from the Toudaoqiao section, you can enjoy a short but immersive experience of both an ancient ambiance and the rugged natural beauty.

The second stop: Xiaofenzi Painters' Village

This village in Jimusaer is a rural art community known for its creative atmosphere. The village's architecture and surroundings are infused with elements inspired by painting, while leisure facilities add to its relaxed charm. With its peaceful setting framed by mountains and open fields, it is an ideal place to pause and enjoy an artistic retreat.

The third stop: Jiangbulake Scenic Area

Jiangbulake in Qitai is one of the eastern Tianshan Mountains' iconic destinations for watching the sunrise illuminate the snow-capped peaks. As the morning light gradually shines over the mountains, the slopes bask in various shades of gold, creating a striking spectacle that is well worth an early start.

The fourth stop: Banshan Highway

The highway runs through Mulei, Qitai and Jimusaer, with some sections extending westward to Fukang City in Changji prefecture. The Mulei section is the most developed, and part of the mountainside road in the Maquanwan Scenic Area was designed as Xinjiang's first musical road and the fourth in China. When vehicles travel at around 40 km per hour, the friction between the tires and the specially designed road surface generates the tune of folk song Xinjiang Is a Good Place, making it a distinctive attraction.

Afterward, visitors can stop at the nearby Mulei Academy in Caizigou Village, a rural cultural space established by writer Liu Liangcheng.

The fifth stop: Mingsha Mountain

The defining feature of Mingsha Mountain in Mulei is its "singing sands" phenomenon. In 2010, the site was measured by Shanghai China Records Headquarters, showing the sound of the shifting sand reaching up to 88 decibels—a record earning it the title of the "Loudest singing sands." In addition to experiencing the dunes' unique natural acoustics, visitors can enjoy the distinctive desert sunset, making Mingsha Mountain an ideal destination for a late afternoon visit.