Xinjiang's remoteness is part of its allure — but reaching it requires a real journey. Here are the ways to travel to the far west of China and what to expect from each.
Flights are the fastest way to Xinjiang — Urumqi is served from all of China's major cities, with direct flights from Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chengdu.
The Lanzhou-Xinjiang high-speed railway links Urumqi with the rest of China's network — trains from Beijing take about 30 hours, a scenic crossing of the Hexi Corridor.
For the full experience, the conventional sleeper trains across northern China are unforgettable — days of changing landscape from the coast to the desert.
Overland travel to Xinjiang is possible by road, but the distances are vast — most travelers fly or take the train, then use roads within the region.
A common strategy is to fly into Xinjiang and take the train out (or vice versa) — experiencing both the convenience of air travel and the romance of the railway.
Book transport early, especially in summer and for holidays. Carry your passport for all bookings. Whatever you choose, the journey west is part of the adventure.