Route overview
The expressway that cuts straight across northern China — deserts, grasslands and wind farms in one long westward drive.
Highlights
- Cross the Badain Jaran & Tengger desert edges
- Wind power farms stretching to the horizon
- Ulanqab grasslands and Jining old city
- Finish in Ürümqi with a night at the Grand Bazaar
Suggested itinerary
- Day 1Beijing → Zhangjiakou → Ulanqab
- Day 2Ulanqab → Jining → Hohhot (grasslands)
- Day 3Hohhot → Bayannur (Yinshan south foot)
- Day 4Bayannur → Ejina (desert expressway section)
- Day 5Ejina → Hami (enter Xinjiang)
- Day 6Hami → Turpan → Ürümqi
Costs to expect
Expressway tolls are the main cost here — about 1,200–1,500 CNY in total for the whole drive; daily living costs for two people run 500–800 CNY.
Driving tips
- Rest areas are frequent but carry water and snacks for the Ejina–Hami stretch
- Strong crosswinds on desert sections — reduce speed when windy
- E-TC lanes work with the temporary entry plate; keep your customs papers handy at toll gates
- Autumn (Sep–Oct) gives the best light and mildest weather
