Complete Guide to Winter Activities in Xinjiang
What to do in Xinjiang from December to February: Altay and Urumqi ski resorts, the blue ice of Sayram Lake, winter fishing at Ulungur Lake, Hemu snow village and rime, equipment and warmth checklist.
Skiing
Altai General Mountain (accessible from the city, friendly for night skiing), Koktokay (large slope drop), Urumqi Silk Road Ski Resort (cheapest flights). The ski season is from late November to early March.
Blue Ice and Frost
The blue ice and bubble ice window at Sayram Lake is from late December to mid-February; the frost at Swan Spring in Yining is at its peak after a cold wave, best to arrive before sunrise.
Winter Fishing and Snow Villages
The Ulungu Lake Winter Fishing Festival opens in January (dates vary each year); at Hemu Snow Village, stay in a wooden house to watch cooking smoke, and experience the village fully by horse-drawn sleigh.
Warmth Checklist
Minus twenty to thirty degrees Celsius is normal: three layers of down jacket, snow boots, crampons, hand warmers, keep camera batteries close to your body. Vehicles have heating throughout, and outdoor activities are limited to two-hour sessions.