Ili

Lying at the foot of the Tianshan Mountain and in the western part of Xinjiang, Ili Kazak Autonomous Prefecture is an important base for rice and oil. It is bounded on the northeast by Russia and Mongolia, on the west by Kazakhstan.

Summer and autumn are the best time in Ili. And Ili River is among the most photographed scenic spots in the prefecture. In recent years, large numbers of lavender plantations began to emerge in the vast terrain of Ili, which not only support the local importing industry but also have drawn numerous tourists.

Sayram Lake

Sayram in Kazak means "blessing". Sayram Lake, also called "Santai Haizi", with its crystal clear water reflecting the snow-capped mountains, is a gem studded among the unfolding Tianshan Mountains.

The largest and highest alpine lake in Xinjiang, Sayram Lake nurtures various species of fish, livestock and birds, amongst other wild animals. It is said to be a once in a lifetime experience to take a stroll along the lakeside by foot or on horseback.

Karamay: "City of Oil"

Karamay comes from the Uyghur language, and means "black oil". Located in the Junggar Basin surrounded by the Tianshan Mountain and Altai Mountain, Karamay is China's oil-producing and refining center. In 1995, one of the largest oil fields in China was discovered here and since then, Karamay has grown into a major economic power in Xinjiang.