The 11th Stop on My Xinjiang Road Trip with Parents | This is What the Six-Star Street from the Song Looks Like

| This is what the Six-Star Street from the song looks like. Exploring the colorful charm of Xinjiang Six-Star Street, located in the northwest of Yining City, Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang, is a unique historical and cultural district where you can experience rich ethnic customs, admire distinctive architectural styles, and savor a variety of delicious local specialties. Driving to Six-Star Street is both free and convenient, and along the way, you can enjoy the vast and magnificent scenery of Xinjiang, making it a highly worthwhile travel experience. Now, here’s your guide to a self-drive trip to Six-Star Street. Preparing for the Drive 1. Vehicle Check: Before setting off, thoroughly inspect your vehicle, including tires, brakes, engine oil, and coolant, to ensure it’s in good condition for long-distance driving. 2. Route Planning: Use navigation apps like Gaode Maps or Baidu Maps to plan your route to Six-Star Street. If starting from downtown Yining, simply navigate to "Six-Star Street." If coming from another city, plan your itinerary in advance, arranging rest stops and refueling points. For example, driving from Ürümqi to Yining is about 690 km—consider splitting the trip over two days with a stop in Kuytun. 3. Documents: Bring necessary IDs, driver’s license, and vehicle registration. If visiting other attractions, prepare relevant tickets or permits. 4. Supplies: Pack plenty of water, food (like bread, fruit, and snacks), and essentials for the journey. Also, bring sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, hats), warm clothing (Xinjiang has large day-night temperature swings), and rain gear. Driving Routes 1. From Downtown Yining: The city roads are relatively flat—obey traffic rules and follow navigation prompts. Near Six-Star Street, watch for road signs. Some areas may be crowded; stay patient and follow traffic police directions. 2. For Out-of-Town Visitors: If arriving from afar, reach Yining Airport or train station first, then rent a car. The airport is close to Six-Star Street (10–20 min drive), while the train station is about 12 km away (20–30 min drive). Arriving at Six-Star Street 1. Parking: Parking lots around Six-Star Street charge 5–10 CNY per stay. During peak seasons, spaces are limited—arrive early. If lots are full, look for legal parking nearby without blocking traffic. 2. Admission & Hours: Six-Star Street is open all day with no entrance fee. Visit around 5–6 PM to enjoy the colorful buildings by day, the lively night atmosphere, and beautiful sunset photos. Travel Tips 1. Accordion Museum: Home to over 800 accordions from 27 countries, each with unique shapes and histories. Here, you can admire rare collections and listen to live performances. Admission: 30 CNY. Closed Mondays. Suggested visit: 1–2 hours. 2. Music Courtyard: Local artists often play ethnic instruments here, with lively tunes blending into the courtyard’s unique architecture. Fridays feature Russian song-and-dance performances, where visitors can join in. Free entry. Suggested visit: 0.5–1 hour. 3. Folk Culture Exhibition Hall: Dive into the multi-ethnic history and culture of Six-Star Street through artifacts, photos, and texts. Free entry. Suggested visit: 1 hour. 4. Central Square: Often hosting events, you might catch ethnic performances. Capture joyful moments with the vibrant square as your backdrop. 5. Photo Spots: The colorful buildings are perfect for photos. Highlights: the giant Uyghur floral hat wall, Six-Star Street Mosque (exotic architecture on Sayram Street Lane 1), and Russian-style garden (across from Worker’s Street Square). Wear solid black/white or ethnic outfits for great shots. 6. Local Eats: - Gulandanmu Handmade Ice Cream: A Xinjiang intangible cultural heritage item, made with local brown cow milk and free-range eggs, no additives. Served with 20+ toppings like nuts and jams. - Blue Wall Lamb Lungs: A unique must-try dish. - Russian Black Bread: Freshly baked bread paired with jam for carb-loaded joy. Notes 1. Some streets in Six-Star Street are narrow—consider walking to better soak in the atmosphere and avoid parking hassles. 2. Respect local customs, especially religious practices. Dress modestly in religious sites and keep noise levels low. 3. During peak seasons, watch your belongings and take care of elderly or young companions.