Xiata
A pristine grassland gem on the legendary Ili summer route
Xiata at a Glance
Everything you need to know before you go.
Xiata is one of the four iconic grasslands featured in the 7-day Ili journey, located near Zhaosu along the seasonal Yizhao Highway. This summer fairy-tale itinerary showcases Xiata alongside breathtaking views of Naraty, Kalajun, and Bayanbulak. Travelers can immerse in Kazakh culture here with horseback photography and traditional Black Zouma dance. The experience is part of a no-shopping, pure travel route through Northwest China.
Where to Stay
Choose the neighborhood that fits your style.
Zhaosu Town
A practical base for accessing Xiata grassland and the Yizhao Highway, serving as a hub for the region.
Best for convenient accessXiata Grassland Vicinity
Stay close to the grassland for early morning exploration and immersive natural scenery.
Best for scenic immersionXiata Highlights
The city's essential experiences, grouped by what you love most.
One of the four iconic grasslands covered in this 7-day journey through Ili, Xinjiang.
The route covers the legendary Duku Highway and seasonal Yizhao Highway with breathtaking views.
Best season for this route is May to September.
Immerse yourself in Kazakh culture with horseback photography.
Enjoy a flower-sea afternoon tea as part of the experience.
Experience the traditional Black Zouma dance.
Seasonal highway offering breathtaking views.
Legendary highway covered in this route.
No-shopping and no-extra-cost pure travel experience.
Best Time to Visit
Each season offers a different side of the city.
Spring · Mar–May
Mild weather and blooming landscapes — comfortable for exploring.
Summer · Jun–Aug
Warm days; highland areas stay cool while lowland cities get hot and humid.
Autumn · Sep–Nov
The best season in most of China — crisp air, clear skies, and golden light.
Winter · Dec–Feb
Cold in the north, mild in the south. Fewer crowds and lower prices outside holidays.
Suggested Itineraries
Three carefully-paced plans for your trip.
1-Day Express
Xiata Grassland, one of the four iconic grasslands in Ili, Xinjiang, offers a quick escape into alpine meadows and summer wildflowers. Based on the Ili 7-day itinerary, a day trip from Zhaosu can include grassland views and Kazakh horseback experiences, with optional flower-sea afternoon tea.
2-Day Classic
The 2-day classic tour of Xiata Grassland allows deeper exploration of the Ili grassland scenery and local Kazakh traditions, including horseback photography and Black Zouma dance performance. Overnight near the grassland to enjoy sunrise and starry skies, complementing the greater Ili route covering Naraty, Kalajun, and Bayanbulak.
Local Tips
Insider knowledge for a smoother trip.
Plan your trip between May and September when the Yizhao Highway is open and the Xiata grassland is at its most scenic.
Capture snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and Kazakh horseback scenes; morning and evening light offer the best views.
Access Xiata from Zhaosu County via the seasonal Yizhao Highway; joining the 7-day Ili loop is recommended to avoid long drives.
Bring layers for cool mountain weather, sunscreen, a hat, and rain gear as conditions can change quickly.
Respect Kazakh customs; ask before photographing locals and consider joining cultural activities like horseback riding and dance.
FAQs About Xiata
Quick answers to common questions.
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