Central Asia can be a dry place, so an area like Yining in the Ili Valley is a blessing in this harsh land. This area, with its comparatively abundant rainfall is famous for its fruits, especially apples.

Fruit Valley is one of the area's nicest spots and is conveniently located along the highway coming into the city. The natural fruits and herbs growing in the district reflect the vitality of the region.

Sayram Lake, surrounded by idyllic pastureland, is a great place for horseriding or hiking. The local Mongolian and Kazakh herders give the area their own ethnic flavour.

One great way to enjoy the scenery of Yining's surrounding Ili Valley (Yili Gu) is to take a horse carriage tour. If the carriage drivers haven't found you, then you can find them, one block east of the Yili Hotel. Typical fares are RMB200-300 for an hour and a half tour of the beautiful valley scenery about 6km south of Yining.