The 2026 An Yi Panda Special Train traversed the western and southern Xinjiang regions in 16 days

Urumqi, Tianshan Tianchi, Hemu, Kanas, Sayram Lake, Narat Grassland, Tianshan Grand Canyon, Kashgar, Turpan

I. Itinerary Highlights

This is an immersive journey through Xinjiang, combining the national trend of the Western Regions with panoramic views. Board a panda-themed train, hold a travel permit, and become an envoy of the Western Regions. Take in the scenery of northern Xinjiang, the culture of southern Xinjiang, and the essence of the Duku Highway in one stop, and experience the core essence of Xinjiang without any regrets.

• Enjoy a leisurely and comfortable journey by special train: The entire trip is transported by the Panda Special Train, saving you the hassle of long-distance travel. You don’t need to carry large luggage, making it easier to travel and explore at your own pace.
• Covering the entire northern and southern Xinjiang region, it captures all the highlights: Kanas, Hemu, Sayram Lake, Nalati, Duku Highway, Kashgar Old City, Pamir Plateau, and Turpan are all included.
• Full of unique experiences: praying at Yaochi, interactive Meshrep activities, Tajik family visits, and the Flying Goddess show, deeply immersing you in the Western Regions culture.
• A Taste of Xinjiang: Xinjiang Welcome Banquet, Cold Water Fish Banquet, Yak Meat Hot Pot, Whole Roasted Lamb Banquet, Turpan Fruit Banquet – a variety of specialty dishes to enjoy.
• Enjoy exclusive services: Panda Butler accompanies you throughout the journey, professional medical staff accompany you, welcome privileges, and travel gift package, making your trip worry-free and full of ritual.

II. Introduction to the Panda Special Train – An Yi Express Car Body

The Panda Special Train – An Yi is a boutique tourist train with a panda theme, converted from a 25G type passenger car. It integrates the cultures of Sichuan, Chongqing and Guizhou to create a comfortable new experience of “railway + tourism”.

Three functional spaces

• Panda Paradise: Multifunctional carriages that can be used for chess and card games, afternoon tea, themed song parties, and leisure and entertainment, equipped with a stage, viewing windows, sound system, and song request station.
• An Yi Ge Bar Truck: Enjoy a relaxing drink, scenic views, and chat on your journey.
• Panda Restaurant: 38 seats, offering Sichuan cuisine, Xinjiang specialties, children’s meals, and halal meals to meet different dietary needs.

Four comfortable room types (the standard four-person room at Panda Pavilion is the standard room for this trip).

• Panda Residence: Standard four-person room, equipped with TV, reading light, USB charging, 40 people share 2 showers and 2 toilets.
• Panda Lodge: Superior four-person rooms, spacious and convenient for entertainment and leisure.
• Panda Residence: Deluxe four-person rooms with independent air control and upgraded comfort.
• Panda Yuefu: Deluxe double room, 9.7㎡ private space, private bathroom, star-rated experience.

III. Price List for the Panda Special Train – Easy Express in 2026

IV. Daily Itinerary of the Panda Special Train – An Yi Express

Trip Details:

Day 1 Chengdu / Lanzhou – Urumqi
VIPs can choose Chengdu or Lanzhou as their boarding point and board the An Yi Panda Special Train at the designated time.

At this moment, you will transform into a panda envoy on a mission to the Western Regions. After receiving the corresponding props from the staff, your wonderful Xinjiang journey will officially begin.

• Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner on the special train
• Accommodation: Panda Train

Day 2 Arrival in Urumqi

Today, the An Yi train will traverse the Hexi Corridor, offering views of the vast Gobi Desert and mountain scenery of Northwest China. Guests can also participate in special train activities organized by Panda Butler, ensuring a joyful journey until arrival in Urumqi, where they will check into their hotel for rest.

• Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner on the special train
• Accommodation: Urumqi (Shangde International Hotel, Meihua Lizhi Hotel Flagship Store, Jingge Hotel or similar)

Day 3: Urumqi – Tianchi Lake (Heavenly Lake) – Xinjiang Welcome Banquet – Beitun
After waking up naturally, head to the An Yi Panda Special Train for a “Xinjiang Welcome Banquet” to kick off your wonderful Xinjiang journey with distinctive Xinjiang songs and dances.

In the afternoon, we will travel to the world-famous alpine lake, the “Jade Pool of the Human World,” a AAAAA-level scenic area, [Tianchi Scenic Area of ​​Tianshan] (approximately 1.5 hours by car, approximately 3 hours of sightseeing). We will take a shuttle bus into the scenic area to view the famous landscapes such as the Stone Gate Line, the Pine Trees of Xishan, the Azure Moon Over the Dragon Pool, and the Sea-Stabilizing Needle, and enjoy a distant view of the majestic Bogda Snow Peak.

After the tour, return to the city and depart for the train station at the designated time to board the An Yi Panda Special Train to Altay.

• Meals: Hotel breakfast, Lunch: Xinjiang welcome banquet, Dinner: Main meal
• Accommodation: Panda Train

Day 4: Beitun – Burqin – Hemu – Jiadengyu
After arriving in Beitun in the morning and having breakfast, we will travel to the fairytale-like Hemu Scenic Area (approximately 5 hours by car, with rest stops and meals arranged along the way depending on the situation; approximately 3 hours for sightseeing). Upon arrival in Hemu, we will pass by the Ertis River, the only river in China that flows westward to the Arctic Ocean. We will then proceed to China’s largest birch forest, the Hemu River Valley shrouded in white mist, and admire the alpine meadows of Jiadengyu, the wooden bridge over the Hemu River, and the Tuva village and its traditional wooden houses.

After the tour, check into the hotel for rest.

• Meals: Breakfast: Breakfast upon arrival, Lunch: Lunch, Dinner: Lunch
• Accommodation: Jiadengyu (Xinjiang Aid Center, Senhai Resort Hotel or similar)

Day 5: Kanas – Jiadengyu – Burqin

After breakfast, travel by car to the Kanas Scenic Area (approximately 2 hours by car, and about 5 hours for the entire tour).

Kanas Scenic Area boasts the only Swiss-style scenery in Asia and is hailed as the last pristine paradise on earth. Its name in Mongolian means “beautiful, rich, and mysterious.” Here, lakes and mountains blend seamlessly, possessing both the grandeur of northern landscapes and the delicate beauty of southern China. Stroll along the lakeside boardwalk and experience the tranquility and serenity of Kanas. On the way down, you can admire the beautiful scenery at the serene Moon Bay, the enchanting Fairy Bay, and the Crouching Dragon Bay.

After the tour, you will be taken to your hotel to rest.

• Meals: Breakfast: Hotel breakfast, Lunch: Main meal, Dinner: Main meal
• Accommodation: Burqin Sutong Holiday Hotel, Shenhu Hotel or similar

Day 6: Burqin – Wucaitan – Beitun – Yining
Head to enjoy a traditional cold-water fish feast in Burqin. Afterwards, visit the [Colorful Beach] (approximately 2 hours by car, 1 hour visit), to see its unique Yardang landforms: undulating gullies and colorful, comb-like slopes, a truly magnificent sight.

• Meals: Breakfast: Hotel breakfast; Lunch: Main meal; Dinner: Special cold-water fish
• Accommodation: Panda Train

Day 7: Sayram Lake – Yining
Upon arrival, proceed to the national AAAAA-level scenic spot, 【Sayram Lake】 (approximately 1.5 hours drive, 2 hours of sightseeing). Sayram Lake, formerly known as the Western Pure Sea, is the highest and largest alpine cold-water lake in Xinjiang. Because it is the last place touched by the warm, moist air currents of the Atlantic Ocean, it is called the “Last Tear of the Atlantic.” Nearby, the azure water and blue sky shimmer, while in the distance, snow-capped mountains blend seamlessly with the sky, creating a scene reminiscent of a watercolor painting. Afterwards, cross the largest span cable-stayed bridge across a mountain in Asia, enjoying the beautiful scenery of 【Guozigou, the First Pass of Yili】 (no stops possible due to traffic).

After arriving in Yining and having dinner, we were taken to our hotel to rest.

• Meals: Breakfast: Train breakfast, Lunch: Main meal, Dinner: Main meal
• Accommodation: Yining Jiahui Hotel, Hengrun International Hotel or similar

Day 8: Yining – Narat Grassland – Bayin Town
In the morning, travel by car to the AAAAA-level national scenic area, known as one of the four major grasslands in Asia and Europe, the [Nalati Grassland – River Valley Grassland Route] (approximately 3 hours of sightseeing). The Ili River Valley, hailed as the “Jiangnan of the North,” boasts stunning natural scenery. Along the river valley grassland, you can admire numerous mountain springs, crisscrossing streams, pine trees supporting the gullies, scattered yurts, and herds of cattle and sheep, allowing you to relax and unwind on the vast grassland. Afterwards, transfer to a smaller vehicle and travel over the Tianshan Mountains, traversing the most beautiful section of the [Duku Highway] (Nalati – Bayinbuluke section), enjoying the scenery of the Tianshan Mountains along the way, before arriving at Bayin Town.

After dinner, you will be taken to your hotel to rest.

• Friendly reminder: All passport holders, whether Chinese or foreign nationals, will not be able to visit the central and southern sections of the Duku Highway. They will return to Yining on the 8th day and travel by train to Kuqa to meet up with the group the following day.
• Meals: Breakfast: Hotel breakfast, Lunch: Main meal, Dinner: Main meal
• Accommodation: Bayin Town Ougede Hotel or similar

Day 9: Southern section of Duku Highway – Bayinbuluke Grassland (drive-by) – Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon – Kuqa – Kashgar
After breakfast, we will traverse the southern section of the Duku Highway, enjoying views of the Bayinbuluke Grassland before heading to Kuqa. The Duku Highway is hailed as one of “China’s most beautiful highways,” boasting diverse natural landscapes. Majestic snow-capped mountains, dense forests, vast grasslands, and spectacular canyons create a breathtaking panorama, offering visitors a rich visual experience. Afterwards, we will arrive at the Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon (approximately 1 hour visit), considered one of China’s ten most beautiful canyons, located on the southern slopes of the Tianshan Mountains. Its name in Uyghur means “red cliffs.”

After dinner, you will be taken to the station to board the An Yi Panda Special Train to Kashgar.

• Meals: Breakfast: Hotel breakfast, Lunch: Main meal, Dinner: Main meal
• Accommodation: Panda Train

Day 10: Kashgar – Karakol Lake – Tajik Family Visit – Taxkorgan County
Arrive in Kashgar early in the morning and travel along the Karakoram Highway to the Pamir Plateau, the roof of the world. Along the way, enjoy famous scenic spots such as the Gez Canyon, Gez Post Station, the Flowing Sand River, and Red Mountain. Arrive at Karakol Lake (approximately 4 hours drive, 40 minutes visit), a rare high-altitude lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks, offering close-up views of the world-famous Kunlun Mountains. Afterwards, proceed to the legendary border town of Tashkurgan, perched on the Pamir Plateau, standing majestically in the westernmost part of China with its unique position bordering three countries. This is not only the filming location for the classic film “Visitors on the Ice Mountain,” but also the hometown of Lazini Bayika, a 2021 “Touching China” Person of the Year, whose life-altering legacy resonated throughout China, ensuring the spirit of the “Pamir Eagle” soars forever. Later, participate in a Tajik family visit, sample snacks prepared by the Tajik people, and learn about their culture.

Enjoy authentic Taxkorgan yak hotpot for dinner, then check into a Taxkorgan hotel for rest.

• Meals: Breakfast: Breakfast upon arrival; Lunch: Lunch; Dinner: Yak hot pot
• Accommodation: Qianhai Hotel, Yunjing Hotel or similar in Taxkorgan County

Day 11: Taxkorgan County – Golden Grassland – Stone City – White Sand Lake – Kashgar
After breakfast, travel to Tashkurgan Stone City (approximately 30 minutes), the capital of the ancient Puli Kingdom, one of the thirty-six kingdoms of the Western Regions, and an important hub on the ancient Silk Road. Afterwards, visit the Golden Grassland (approximately 30 minutes) for photos and a short rest.

Afterwards, return to Kashgar, with a stopover at [White Sand Lake] (approximately 40 minutes). This is a unique landscape where one side of the lake is lined with rolling white sand dunes, while the other side features azure waters and snow-capped mountains. The stark contrast between the desert and the lake creates a dreamlike scene, making it a must-see in Kashgar.

After arriving in Kashgar and enjoying a whole roasted lamb feast, check into the hotel to rest.

• Meals: Breakfast: Hotel breakfast; Lunch: Main meal; Dinner: Whole roasted lamb feast
• Accommodation: Kashgar Laining Hotel, Kashgar Hotel or similar

Day 12: Kashgar – Kashgar Old City – Gaotai Residential Area – Mosque – Turpan
After breakfast, depart for the AAAAA-level scenic spot [Kashgar Old City] (tour time approximately 1.5 hours). Having withstood more than 2,000 years of wind and rain, Kashgar Old City has become a specimen and slice of different historical periods, and is known as a living fossil for the study of ancient Western Region cities. Here, the family life, ethnic customs, traditional handicrafts and local delicacies of Uyghur residents are vividly displayed.

Visit the Kashgar Folk Jade Exhibition Hall (approximately 90 minutes). This is an important venue showcasing the jade culture of the Silk Road, attracting numerous tourists and jade enthusiasts with its rich collection.

Explore the filming location of the Oscar-winning film “The Kite Runner”—the [Gao Tai Folk Houses] (approximately 40 minutes). This place is one of the most original prototypes of Kashgar’s Old City and is known as a “living fossil of Kashgar.”

Visit the nationally renowned Id Kah Mosque (approximately 40 minutes). This mosque is an outstanding display of Islamic religious culture and a perfect fusion of unique Islamic architectural style and traditional Chinese architectural techniques.

After dinner, board the An Yi Panda Special Train to Turpan, a key town on the ancient Silk Road.

• Meals: Breakfast: Hotel breakfast, Lunch: Main meal, Dinner: Main meal
• Accommodation: Panda Train

Day 13: Turpan – Grape Valley
Upon arrival in Turpan, we will visit the Grape Valley, a national AAAAA-level scenic area (approximately 1 hour). Step into the colorful traditional houses and experience their rustic charm and vitality. The exotic decorations here make you feel as if you’ve stepped into a fairytale world. Afterwards, check into your hotel for a short rest, followed by dinner.

• Meals: Breakfast: Train breakfast, Lunch: Train meal, Dinner: Main meal
• Accommodation: Turpan Volcano Red Hotel, Haichang Hotel, Meilun Hotel, Zhefei Hotel, or similar.

Day 14: Flaming Mountains – Fruit Feast – Karez Well – Return Trip
After breakfast, visit the Flaming Mountains (approximately 1 hour), see China’s largest thermometer, and experience the ground temperature of the Flaming Mountains. Lunch will be a traditional Turpan fruit feast.

Afterwards, visit the Karez irrigation system (approximately 30 minutes). The Karez system is a unique irrigation system in Xinjiang, China, and is considered one of the three great ancient engineering projects in China, along with the Great Wall and the Grand Canal.

Meet at the designated time and be transferred to Turpan Railway Station to board the An Yi Panda Special Train for your return journey.

• Meals: Breakfast: Hotel breakfast; Lunch: Fruit feast; Dinner: Main meal
• Accommodation: Panda Train

Arrive in Lanzhou/Chengdu on days 15-16
Arrival at our destination, concluding our enjoyable Xinjiang trip. The An Yi Panda Special Train looks forward to seeing you again!

• Meals: Breakfast: Train breakfast, train lunch, train dinner (breakfast only on the 16th)
• Accommodation: Panda Train (15 days)

The fee includes:

1. Transportation: Panda-themed train (An Yi Express) with panda seats + regular air-conditioned tourist bus at the destination;
2. Entrance Fees: First entrance fees to the attractions listed in the itinerary.
3. Accommodation: 7 nights on a luxury train + 8 nights in a hotel
   You may choose to upgrade to a four-person cabin for two people for a fee. The upgrade fee is 6000 RMB per person for two lower berths. After the upgrade, two people will have the four-person cabin to themselves. The cabin facilities and train services will remain unchanged.
   You can choose to upgrade to a four-person room in Panda Residence & Panda Lodge for a fee. The upgrade fee is 9000 RMB per person for two people plus two lower berths. After the upgrade, two people will have exclusive access to the four-person room in Panda Residence & Panda Lodge. The facilities in the compartment and the train service will remain unchanged.
   Special Note: Train berth sales policy: In a four-person compartment, one person will be assigned an upper berth, and two people will share an upper and lower berth. When three people register, the individual traveling alone will be given priority for an upper berth, but we cannot guarantee that they will be assigned to the same compartment. Thank you for your understanding!
4. Meals: 15 breakfasts and 30 lunches/dinners throughout the trip.
5. Tour Guide: Full-time accompanying staff + local tour guide service (including service fee)

The fee does not include:

• International air tickets
• Other personal consumption

Important Notes for Panda Special Train Passenger Acceptance

1. If the special train departs earlier or later due to train scheduling reasons from China Railway Corporation, our company will notify you 3 days in advance; if the special train cannot depart, our company will notify you 5 days in advance. The specific departure time and stops of the special train are subject to the final approval of China Railway Corporation. (The impact of early or late train departures is considered force majeure, and our company shall not bear any liability for breach of contract for the above reasons.)
2. Upon arrival at Chengdu Airport/Railway Station or Lanzhou Airport/Railway Station, Guisu, Ya’an, and Yaju will each provide one free airport/train station pick-up service and one night’s transit hotel at the meeting point (Yaju & Ya’an are 5-star hotels according to Ctrip; Guisu are 4-star hotels according to Ctrip). Yuefu will provide two free airport/train station pick-up services and two nights’ accommodation at a 5-star hotel according to Ctrip. (The airport/train station pick-up and accommodation services provided are complimentary and will not be refunded if not used.)
3. Entrance fees, shuttle bus, and train meals: All itineraries include entrance fees, shuttle bus, and train meals. Please see the itinerary for details. Regular-priced seats at Yashe, Yaju, and Yuefu include direct shuttle bus services to some scenic spots (specific arrangements are subject to the policies of the scenic spots at the time).
   Special Note: Ground handling services are calculated based on a package group discount rate, therefore no ticket discounts are available and refunds are possible! By registering for this trip, you agree to this clause.
4. Children’s Accommodation Standards:
   • Service standard for children under 6 years old: Excludes train berth, hotel accommodation and hotel breakfast; includes bus fare, entrance ticket and cable car, train meals, ground meals, driver service fee, etc.
   • Service standard for children aged 6–12: Hotel accommodation and breakfast are not included; train berth, bus fare, entrance tickets and cable car, train meals, ground meals, driver service fee, etc. are included.
5. Train berth sales policy: Four people share a compartment, with upper and lower berths combined; two people share a compartment. When three people register, the individual traveling alone will be given priority for an upper berth, and we cannot guarantee that they will be in the same compartment. Thank you for your understanding!
6. Foreign Tourists: The itinerary is the same for tourists from Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan as for mainland tourists. All passport holders of Chinese descent or foreign nationality will not be able to visit the middle section of the Duku Highway after June. They will return to Yining/Nileke Station on the 8th day and take the train to Kuqa, where they will rejoin the group the following day; the cost will remain unchanged.
7. Deposit Standards: Panda Residence: 5000 RMB/seat; Panda Elegant Abode & Panda Residence: 10000 RMB/seat; Panda Yuefu: 20000 RMB/seat. The remaining balance must be paid 30 days in advance.
8. Senior tourists should pay special attention to whether their physical health is suitable for participating in this trip.