With its rich cultural heritage and colourful natural scenery, China is a popular choice for family trips. If your family wants an exciting travel experience, Inner Mongolia and Xinjiang are great destinations for your China family tours.
Inner Mongolia
Located in the north of China, Inner Mongolia is home to rich natural landscapes and deep cultural heritage. Inner Mongolia tours will take your family to explore the diverse scenery and ethnic activities.
Whistling Dune Bay
Whistling Dune Bay is one of the popular family travel attractions in Inner Mongolia. It is named for its geographical phenomenon of “singing sand”. Deserts, grasslands, lakes, forests and other landforms create the diverse natural landscapes of Whistling Dune Bay.
Here you can experience exciting sandboarding programs with your family. As you slide down from the top of the dune on the skateboard, you’ll hear the sound of whistling wind and the strange rattle of the sand. You can also trek among the dunes on camels with your family to immerse yourselves in the peaceful scenery of the desert. Or take a desert off-road vehicle ride and check out the epic staggered sand dunes.
Hulunbuir Grassland
As one of the world’s four great grasslands, the Hulunbuir Grassland is known as the world’s finest natural pasture. Standing on the grassland, you’ll have a great view of the plains, surrounded by the green swathes of grass and endless blue sky. The Mo’ergele River and the Argun River pass through this area, bringing life to the land.
Whilst you’re here in the Hulunbuir Grassland, you can also experience the local way life. Many people here live in yurts, which are characteristic of life here in the grasslands. You can stay in them with your family overnight and get a taste of nomadic living. During your stay, you may get to watch traditional sports and learn about the culture of ethnic minorities from your hosts.
Arxan National Forest Park
Arxan National Forest Park is rich in wild plant resources, with a forest coverage of an impressive 80%. The pristine forests, lakes, rivers and canyons here form a spectacular picture, and it’s the perfect place to get lost in the wild. Here, you’ll explore the diverse natural landscape with your family and feel the charm of nature.
As one of the most famous lakes in the forest park, the crystal Arxan Tianchi is nestled in the Arxan Mountains. Wander around the lake to admire the blue waters and lush forests and fill your lungs with fresh air. Shitang Forest has a wonderful limestone lava landscape, and you can head to the observation deck to overlook the black volcanic rocks which are intertwined with green vegetation.
Wulanhada Volcano Geopark
Wulanhada Volcano Geopark is famous for its abundance of volcanic wonders, boasting more than 20 majestic volcanoes. Here you can experience a volcano exploration adventure with your family. Volcano No. 3 is known as the “Northern Alchemy Furnace”. Inside the crater, there’s a dome-shaped crater cone, which is about 30 meters in diameter – don’t forget your camera!
Meanwhile, Volcano No. 5 consists of volcanic debris and basalt with a height reaching up to 85 meters. One of the highlights of your trip will be climbing to the top with your family to capture the breathtaking sunset view of the volcano. The crater lake is also one of the core attractions of Wulanhada Volcano Geopark. Walking around the lake, you’ll see that the colour of the water varies depending on the light. It’s a magical scene.
Erguna Wetland
The Erguna Wetland is known as the “First Wetland in Asia”, attracting countless tourists with its wetland landscape and rich wildlife. It’ is’s divided into three main sections: the marsh area, the meadow area and the forest transition zone. Erguna Wetland present different views as the seasons change, so no matter when you visit, you’ll enjoy the scenery.
Ascending the wooden trestle to the observation deck, you can overlook the rich and colourful landscape. Here see the meandering Genhe River running through the entire wetland. You will also be amazed by the magnificent images of the vast marshland and the rolling Daxinganling Mountains in the distance. In addition, you and your family can observe numerous birds at the wetlands, such as egrets, cranes and swans.
Xinjiang
Xinjiang is a popular destination for family travel due to its majestic natural scenery and colourful ethnic cultures. On your Xinjiang tours, you will have a once-in-a-lifetime travel experience.
Kanas Scenic Area
Located in the middle part of Altay Mountains in the north of Xinjiang, Kanas is a fascinating and mysterious spot. Kanas Lake is the region’s main draw. Stroll along the lakeside walkway and observe the different colours of the lake in different light, or climb up to the Guanyutai for a breathtaking panoramic view of Kanas.
Located in the Kanas Scenic Area, Hemu Village is also a popular spot. Your family can visit the villages of the Tuwa people to learn about their folk customs and architectural styles, whilst experiencing the local nomadic culture. For example, you can herd cows and sheep through the Hemu River Valley with the herders – not something you’ll ever forget.
Tianshan Tianchi
Tianshan Tianchi is a famous alpine lake surrounded by mountains and forests. Here, the clear lake reflects the blue sky and the majestic snow mountains. It’s a great place for a boat ride on the lake if you want to enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding area. Or walk along the lakeshore to explore the lush forests and colourful wildflowers.
The towering mountains of Tianshan Tianchi are a hit with photographers. Moving along the roads in the scenic area, you will pass through a variety of different landscapes – don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for its rare wild animals too. Wandering through the forest, you will have a chance to encounter these lively animals.
Nalati Grassland
Nalati Grassland is located in the hinterland of Tianshan Mountain, known as one of the world’s four major alpine valley grasslands. The Nalati Grassland combines snow peaks, forests, grasslands, rivers and other natural landscapes. Hike along the trestle to appreciate the vast grasslands and the towering snow mountains around you. Stand on the viewpoint of the valley and see the rushing stream running through the meadow.
You and your family can ride horses on the grassland and immerse yourself in the charming grassland scenery. Or choose to experience grass skiing to get a thrilling feeling by flying down the hillside. In addition, Nalati Grassland is a great place to experience the culture of the Kazakh people.
Flaming Mountains
Located in Turpan, Flaming Mountain is famous for its unique red sandstone landscape. The red rock wall is one of the most representative features of the Flaming Mountains, with the rock walls of the canyon glowing flaming red under the sunlight.
You can also explore the ruins and artifacts of the ancient Silk Road, far from the tourist crowds. There are several ancient sites of commerce preserved here, such as ancient beacon towers and post stations.
Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar
Located in Urumqi, the Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar is the largest in the world. This is a great place to experience the colourful minority cultures on a family tour. Here, you’ll appreciate the exquisite ethnic handicrafts such as blankets and ethnic costumes. You can buy a variety of goods with Xinjiang characteristics, such as Hetian jade and wool products. Before leaving, taste some of the delicious Xinjiang cuisine, such as baked buns, lamb kebabs, and all kinds of dried fruits.
Final Thoughts
No matter what your interests are, Inner Mongolia and Xinjiang are great destinations for an immersive family tour. There are lots of wild landscapes around the world to explore, but none will have quite such a long-lasting impact as the ones here in Inner Mongolia. You’ll get to experience beautiful natural scenery, experience different ethnic cultures, and participate in thrilling new activities.
