2025 Xayar Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

I. Itinerary Day 1: Embrace Natural Beauty - Morning: Head to Tarim River Wetland Scenic Area🌊. The primitive and spectacular poplar forests offer breathtaking views of nature's craftsmanship, perfect for photography. - Afternoon: Visit Yanqi Pastoral Eco-Cultural Tourism Area🍃. Stroll through shady greenery by clear lakes, enjoy fruit picking at the eco-farm, and taste fresh produce. - Evening: Explore Hepan Night Market for a culinary adventure with local snacks and vibrant street life. Day 2: Discover History & Culture - Morning: Step into Taqian City Cultural Creative Park🏰. Wander ancient alleys, climb city walls for panoramic views, and experience cultural fusion at Xinjiang Seal Museum and East-West Bazaar. - Afternoon: Visit Poplar Chinese Studies Academy📖. Enjoy immersive reading on the 1st floor, chess/music on 2nd-3rd floors, and tea with scenic views on the 4th floor. - Evening: Experience performances and local culture at Impression·Shaya Cultural Tourism Block. Day 3: Leisure Time - Morning: Relax at Weigan River Eco-Cultural Tourism Area, strolling by Yanming Lake and Xiangyun Lake. - Afternoon: Unwind at Paman Lake Scenic Area amidst natural beauty. - Evening: Return home with wonderful memories. II. Food Guide - Shaya Bilo: Crispy Tang Dynasty snack with rich fillings—utterly delicious😋 - Yingmaili Big Plate Fish: Tender Tarim River fish in flavorful broth—a signature dish. - Shaya Tarim Grilled Fish: Skewered carp roasted on red willow branches—crispy outside, chewy inside. - Colorful Shaya Baked Buns: Golden crispy exterior with juicy fillings. - Red Willow Lamb Skewers: Willow-infused aroma, charred outside and tender inside. - Hailou Rice Pilaf: Fragrant rice with lamb and carrots, absorbing meat essence. - Poplar Chicken Soup: Nourishing with cistanche herbs—comfort in every sip. - Shaya Earth Naan: Aromatic wheat bread—crispy outside, soft inside. - Shaya Cold Skin Noodles: Silky noodles with spicy dressing, cucumber, and bean sprouts. - Ancient Peach Soup Buns: Juicy lamb filling with springy noodles—perfect with broth. III. Transportation - Flight: Fly to Kuqa Qiuci Airport or Aksu Wensu Airport, then 2-hour drive to Shaya. - Train: Arrive at Xinhe or Kuqa Station, then 2-hour bus ride. - Bus: Long-distance buses available from across Xinjiang (prepare for lengthy travel). IV. Accommodation - Shaya County Hotels: Various options with convenient access to amenities. - Yanqi Pastoral Homestays: Experience local culture in tranquil countryside. Shaya·Aksu Prefecture

Tarim Forest Park generally refers to Tarim Poplar National Forest Park. Here is a travel guide for you: 💻 Basic Information Tarim Poplar National Forest Park is located 70 kilometers south of Luntai County in Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, along the desert highway. Covering a total area of 100 square kilometers, it is the largest, densest, and best-preserved natural poplar forest in the world and is a national AAAA-level scenic area. ⛺️ Best Time to Visit The autumn color season of the poplar trees is short, usually about half a month. The best season for the poplar forest in Luntai mostly falls between mid-October and mid-November each year, when the leaves turn golden and the scenery is magnificent. ✈️🚘 Transportation Guide By Plane✈️: You can fly to Korla Airport and then transfer to other transportation to reach the park. By Train🚄: Take a train to Korla Station, then transfer to a shuttle bus to Luntai County. By Car: You can charter a car directly from Urumqi or start from Luntai County and drive about 70 kilometers along the desert highway to reach the park. The scenery along the way is beautiful, and you can stop anytime to enjoy and take photos. By Public Transport🚌: Take a shuttle bus from Bazhou Bus Terminal to Luntai County, with buses every 30 minutes, ticket price 38 yuan, and a travel time of about 2.5 hours. Then transfer at Luntai Bus Station to a shuttle bus to Taheqiao Town, which runs every 2 hours, ticket price 18 yuan. Get off at the park entrance. For the return trip, you can catch a bus from Taheqiao Town to Luntai County on the roadside. The last bus from Luntai County to Korla departs at 20:00. ✅ Park Layout and Attractions The park is divided into the Visitor Service Area, Sightseeing Area, and Leisure and Entertainment Area. Visitor Service Area: Integrates dining, accommodation, entertainment, and shopping to provide convenience for visitors. Sightseeing Area: Features a scenic road about 17 kilometers long with 126 bends, running through the ancient poplar forest. Here, you can admire poplars in different seasons and forms, experiencing their majestic spirit. In autumn, the golden poplar forest contrasts beautifully with the Tarim River, creating breathtaking views. You can also see precious animals such as the Tarim red deer, white cranes, wild boars, and wild camels. Additionally, the park includes attractions like the Luntou Ancient City Ruins, Lunnan Oilfield Meritorious Well No. 2, Desert Highway, Monument, and the first station of the West-East Gas Pipeline. Leisure and Entertainment Area: Connected by a 13-kilometer circular sightseeing railway linking 4 to 5 large forest lakes. The poplars by the lakes are lush, turning golden in autumn, with beautiful reflections in the water. You can ride the sightseeing train and enjoy the fun of "leaping over green grasslands, dashing through red willow bushes, passing reed marshes, crossing the Qiyang River, and circling the forest lakes," fully embracing the charming scenery of the desert's southern beauty. ✅ Recommended Itinerary Day 1: Visitor Service Center - Sightseeing Area - Poplar Sculpture Park - Poplar Forest Park - Desert Highway - Cangtou Ancient City Ruins - Leisure and Entertainment Area. Day 2: Leisure and Entertainment Area - Sightseeing Train - Tarim River - Qiyang River - Forest Lakes - Visitor Service Center. ✅ Dining and Accommodation You can stay at inns near the Tarim River Bridge at night, which are relatively inexpensive. For food, there are mixed noodles, naan bread, lamb skewers, hand-pulled rice, naan-wrapped meat, thin-skinned buns, Tarim Lake grilled fish, lamb trotters, pulled noodles, yogurt, milk tea, red willow grilled meat, specialty cold noodles, specialty baked naan, poplar lamb, poplar mushrooms, grilled buns, and fruits such as grapes, Hami melon, and watermelon. ⚠️ Notes‼️ Bring appropriate clothing according to the season. The UV rays are strong, so pay attention to sun protection. The temperature is low in autumn, so prepare warm clothes. There are many mosquitoes, so take mosquito precautions. The climate is dry, so stay hydrated. It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and prepare enough food and water. - The poplar forest in the park is dense; pay attention to safety, do not climb or damage the trees, and do not destroy the vegetation. - Follow park regulations, no smoking, no littering, and other uncivilized behaviors. Protect the environment well.

If you are tired of the same old travel destinations, Southern Xinjiang will definitely overturn your imagination! Here, snow-capped mountains, deserts, ancient cities, and lakes converge, each scene like a frame from a movie, with the romance of golden sunrise over snow-capped peaks and the brilliance of the starry Milky Way. Best Time to Travel March-April: Apricot blossoms bloom on the Pamir Plateau, a stunning combination of pink flowers and snow-capped mountains! May: The grasslands are turning green, and airfare and hotels are relatively cheap, making it suitable for off-season travel. June-August: The Duku Highway opens, offering a magnificent journey through the Tianshan canyons; Wensu Grand Canyon, Baisha Lake, and other scenic spots are perfect for escaping the summer heat (some areas are quite hot, so pay attention to sun protection and hydration). September-October: The fragrance of melons and fruits fills the air, and the golden poplars along the Tarim River create a picturesque scene. Transportation Guide Airplane: You can fly to Urumqi (more flight options) or directly to Kashgar Airport. Train: You can take a direct train from Urumqi to Kashgar in Southern Xinjiang. Tips Whether you arrive in Urumqi or Kashgar, you can start your tour directly upon arrival. Trips from Urumqi to Southern Xinjiang take 8 days or more. Trips from Kashgar range from 5 to 10 days, and there are also short trips of 1 to 3 days. Classic Southern Xinjiang Landscapes 【Stunning Lakes】Baisha Lake, Karakul Lake, Bandi Lake, Bosten Lake 【Autumn Poplars】Rob People Village, Tarim Poplar Forest, Huludao Poplar Forest 【Father of Glaciers】Muztagata Peak 【Highland Roads】Panlong Ancient Road, Taklamakan Desert Highway, China-Pakistan Friendship Highway 【Ancient Cities】Kashgar Old City, Shache Old City, Yotkan Ancient City 【Border Tours】Khunjerab Pass, China's Westernmost Point Recommended 6-Day Itinerary Starting and Ending in Kashgar: D1 Departure City - Kashgar D2 Kashgar - Baisha Lake - Karakul Lake - Jincaotan Stone City - Tashkurgan D3 Tashkurgan - Khunjerab Pass - Panlong Ancient Road - Bandi Lake - Wakhan Corridor/Apricot Blossom Village Happiness Bridge No. 5 - Tashkurgan D4 Tashkurgan - Taxkorgan Wetland - Toglunsha Village - Tree Tunnel Highway - Glacier Park - Kashgar Old City D5 Kashgar - Colorful Yadan Landform - Tianshan-Kunlun Mountains Intersection - Shell Mountain - Simuhana Village - Irkeshtam Port - China's Westernmost Point - Kashgar D6 Kashgar - Departure City Travel Tips ①There's no need to worry about language barriers in Xinjiang, as Mandarin is widely spoken. ②Although Tashkurgan is a high-altitude area, altitude sickness is generally not a problem. ③Southern Xinjiang's attractions are hundreds of miles apart, and self-driving can be tiring. It is recommended to find a carpool or charter a car, which is time-saving and worry-free, a new trend for lazy travelers.

|Take a City Walk. Sisters! Come to Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture and other places, and don't miss these wonderful experiences: taste authentic Xinjiang cuisine, explore the Pamir Plateau, stroll through the ancient charm of Kashgar Old City, climb Muztagata, enjoy Karakul Lake, and explore the unique style of the Lop Nur Village! / 🚗Route suggestion: A fantastic journey through Xinjiang🌄 D1: 🌊Bosten Lake The first stop of the journey is to visit Bosten Lake, feel the sparkling beauty of the lake, and enjoy the tranquility and harmony of nature. D2: 🏞️Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon Go deep into the hinterland of the Tianshan Mountains and explore the magnificence and steepness of the mysterious Grand Canyon. Every step is a novel adventure. D3: 🍂Shaya County Populus euphratica Forest Management Station Come to Shaya County and indulge in the golden ocean of Populus euphratica forests, feeling the endless charm of nature and the tenacity of life. D4: 🏰Kashgar Old City Stroll through the old city of Kashgar, listen to the echoes of history, and savor authentic Xinjiang cuisine, letting your taste buds dance with the ancient city. D5: 🏔️Baisha Mountain-Baisha Lake Scenic Area->Karakul Lake Scenic Area->Kashgar Ancient Stone City Three scenic spots in one day, first climb Baisha Mountain and overlook Baisha Lake; then go to Karakul Lake and get close to the plateau pearl; finally visit Kashgar Ancient Stone City and touch the weight of history. D6: 🛣️Panlong Ancient Road Challenge the Panlong Ancient Road, feel the joy of driving in the winding road, and the scenery along the way is even more beautiful. D7: 🎉Revisit Kashgar Old City Return to Kashgar Old City, enjoy free activities, experience the charm of the ancient city in depth, and draw a perfect end to the journey. / Travel essentials: 👕 **Clothing** Bring a few short sleeves, as the temperature difference between day and night is large, remember to bring a warm coat. Choose windproof pants, overalls and hiking pants are all good choices. Shoes should be comfortable and non-slip, long boots or short boots depending on your needs. 🎒 **Accessories and sundries** Hats should be those that can cover the head, and sunglasses are necessary for sun protection and coolness. Power banks and chargers ensure you never run out of battery for taking photos with your phone. Also, disposable slippers are more comfortable for changing shoes when resting. 📇 **Documents and others** Be sure to bring your ID card, student ID, and officer's certificate for special offers. Prepare some common medicines, as well as sunscreen, as the Xinjiang sun is no joke. Oh yes, and tissues and wet wipes for cleaning and convenience. / Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture group tour, easily explore the beauty of Xinjiang! Don't forget to like and collect to start your dream journey! ✨

Hey everyone! Here's your comprehensive guide to an 8-day tour from Urumqi to Southern Xinjiang! This guide has everything you need to explore Southern Xinjiang, so save it now! / 🚩Itinerary: DAY 1: Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region Museum - Red Mountain Park - Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar Explore the culture and history of Urumqi on your first day, from the museum to the park, and then to the bustling bazaar, experiencing the diverse Xinjiang. DAY 2: Bosten Lake On the second day, head to the beautiful Bosten Lake and enjoy the tranquil scenery of the lake and mountains. DAY 3: Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon - Kuqa Music and Dance On the third day, delve into the Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon, marvel at the wonders of nature, and enjoy Kuqa music and dance, experiencing the unique culture of Xinjiang. DAY 4: Shaya County Populus Euphratica Forest Management Station On the fourth day, visit the Populus Euphratica forest in Shaya County and admire the spirit of the Populus Euphratica trees, which live for a thousand years, never fall when they die, and never decay after falling. DAY 5: Kashgar Old City On the fifth day, stroll through Kashgar Old City and experience the ancient charm and unique customs of this city. DAY 6: White Sand Mountain-White Sand Lake Scenic Area - Karakul Lake Scenic Area - Kashgar Old Stone City - Alar National Wetland Park in Pamir Plateau, Xinjiang On the sixth day, journey through the intersection of nature and history, from White Sand Mountain to the ancient city ruins, and then to the plateau wetlands. Every step offers a unique view. DAY 7: Panlong Ancient Road On the seventh day, challenge the Panlong Ancient Road and experience the thrill and beauty of the winding mountain road. DAY 8: Return Trip On the last day, filled with memories, embark on your journey home, cherishing the unforgettable travel memories and looking forward to the next reunion. / Some tips: 🌦️ In March, the weather in Xinjiang is still a bit cool, so remember to bring a thick coat. 🍇 Xinjiang is rich in local specialties at affordable prices. Don't miss the delicious dried fruits and snacks! 📸 Recommended photo spots: Pamir Plateau, Kashgar Old City, where you can capture stunning views! ✈️ Urumqi Airport offers convenient transportation and numerous flights, making it easy to reach various attractions in Southern Xinjiang. / The charm of Xinjiang awaits you. Don't forget to share your travel stories! 🌄

The Populus euphratica forests in Hotan are mostly hidden away in remote areas, making them difficult to reach. Mazar Tagh, also known as the Red and White Mountain, is located on the western edge of the Taklamakan Desert. In addition to its own scenic beauty, it is also the best viewing platform for the Populus euphratica forest across the Hotan River. Daliyabuyi Village, located deep in the desert north of Yutian, is another little-known viewing platform for Populus euphratica. The desert Populus euphratica trees along both sides of the Keriya River are full of vitality. The best time to visit the Populus euphratica forests in Hotan is from late October to mid-November. Both of the above-mentioned viewing spots require venturing deep into the desert, especially Daliyabuyi Village, which is 250 km south of Yutian County. There are no existing roads, and most of the journey follows the Keriya Riverbed. It is recommended to find a reliable local guide, equip yourself with a four-wheel-drive off-road vehicle, and travel with at least two vehicles for mutual assistance in case of emergencies. Kashgar Populus Euphratica Forest The most famous Populus euphratica viewing spot in Kashgar is in Bachu County. In addition to grilled fish, the Red Sea Bay Scenic Area, developed around the Honghaizi Reservoir, is the most well-known water park. The reflection of the Populus euphratica forest by the water in autumn is particularly outstanding. If you arrive as part of a group, there are also ethnic-style welcome performances in the scenic area. The Bachu Populus euphratica National Forest Park consists of three forest farms, among which the Xiahe Forest Farm has rare thousand-year-old wind-fallen trees and primitive forest groups. The best time to visit the Populus euphratica forests in Zepu is around the National Day holiday. The Jinhu Yang Forest Park is located on the upper edge of the Yarkant River alluvial fan, covering an area of nearly 2,000 hectares. In addition to the Populus euphratica forest, visitors can enjoy the integrated landscape of Populus euphratica, oasis, Gobi, and Yarkant River, as well as several small cultural exhibition centers with diverse styles. On clear days, you can even see the Kunlun Snow Mountain in the distance. If you are short on time, you can take a small horse-drawn carriage for a tour, or spend a leisurely half-day exploring on foot. Aksu Populus Euphratica Forest Many people have visited the end of the Duku Highway in Kuqa and been captivated by the Kucha cultural sites, but few have had the chance to see the stunning Populus euphratica forest in Shaya County, south of Kuqa. The Populus euphratica landscape in Shaya is not mainstream in Xinjiang, but it is one of the least tourist-visited places along the Tarim River. The road to get here is not difficult, but the scenic area is almost undeveloped, with few traces of human presence, making it a 100% exclusive experience. You only need to focus on the wild Populus euphratica forest and the Tarim River dotted with swans.

📍📍Location: Awati County, Aksu Prefecture, Xinjiang, about 58 kilometers away from Aksu City, is an excellent place to explore Daolang culture. ✨✨ It is recommended to drive by yourself🚗🚗🚗🚗🚗 ‼ ️‼ ️Try this and see if you have seen it. I am not sure if it has to be red. Aksu is located in the southern foothills of the Tianshan Mountains in Xinjiang and the northern edge of the Tarim Basin. It is located in the central part of southern Xinjiang, bordering Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan to the west, and adjacent to Hotan and Kashgar areas to the south. This is also one of the areas with the richest water resources in Xinjiang. ‼ ️‼ ️Limu River, Aksu River, Duolang River, etc. The apples here are very sweet✨✨✨ ✅The mysterious Grand Canyon of Tianshan Mountains——Red Cliffs ✅Taklimakan Desert——China's largest desert ✅ Populus euphratica National Forest Park - the Populus euphratica forest in autumn is definitely not to be missed 4 Aksu National Wetland Park - there are more than 70 protected animals‼ ️💯 ✅Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves——Buddhist grottoes, 300 years earlier than Dunhuang. ‼ ️💯 ✅Daolang Tribe——4A-level scenic spot, showcasing the culture of Daolang tribe. ‼ ️💯 ✅Aksu Old Street——has a variety of delicious food and unique architectural style. ‼ ️💯 ✅Tarim River——the mother river of southern Xinjiang, the longest inland river in China‼ ️💯

It was my first time in southern Xinjiang, and my first time seeing a Populus euphratica forest in the water. Fall is here, and the trees are turning yellow. After traveling across half of China, I finally got to see the Populus euphratica forest in Shaya County. This is the Tarim River Basin. There are fewer people here than in Luntai, so it's a hidden gem with beautiful scenery. If you don't like crowded places, you should definitely come here! 📌 Map: Shaya County Primitive Populus Euphratica Forest Ecological and Cultural Scenic Area 💵 Ticket: CNY 20, shuttle bus CNY 30 (you should be able to drive in, but check with the scenic area) 📷 Best time to take photos: 1–2 hours before sunset, when the light is softer and the shadows are better. I took these photos yesterday (October 12), and the trees should be completely yellow next week.

We went to Shaya 139 Secret Land. The scenic area is free, and the road is narrow. It is very quiet inside, with no commercial activity. It should be a former country road that is now protected as a scenic area. I went there from Shaya County on October 17. After entering the scenic area, I drove along the road, with Populus euphratica trees on both sides. But the leaves had either fallen or were not completely yellow. After driving for more than 40 km, I turned around and left. I really didn't want to drive any further. At an inconspicuous T-junction in the scenic area, there was a sign pointing to Hadun Town. On the way from Qiemo County to Shaya on the 16th, I passed Hadun Town. The road through this town is called Hayou Road, which is very beautiful, with yellow Populus euphratica trees. So we planned to take this small road to Hadun Town, so we could drive along Hayou Road again. This small road is unpaved, and there was no one there. There were Populus euphratica trees, desert, and Gobi on both sides of the road. The Populus euphratica trees were not tall, but they were all yellow and very beautiful. There was no cell phone signal. After driving for 30 km, we were blocked by quicksand. The road was completely buried by the desert. As we were driving a two-wheel drive car, we didn't dare to go any further. We had to drive 30 km back to 139 Secret Land Road and go to Hayou Road from the entrance of 139 Secret Land. We drove there once on the evening of the 16th. On the 17th, the sun was shining, and the Populus euphratica forest was even more beautiful. There are many small roads on both sides of Hayou Road. You can drive inside. The Populus euphratica forest is really beautiful, with no tourists. You can take photos and fly drones. I think it is much more beautiful than 139 Secret Land. Maybe I didn't see the most beautiful time of 139 Secret Land, but I saw the most beautiful Populus euphratica forest in Shaya. Friends in Shaya, you can go there now.

Populus euphratica🍂🍂🍂 It is an ancient tree species known as the "Tertiary Living Fossil" Has a history of growing on earth for 65 million years It is the only tree that can survive and thrive in a sandy and arid environment. 90% of the world's Populus euphratica forests grow in the Tarim River Basin in Xinjiang, China Luntai County at the southern foot of the Tianshan Mountains and the northern edge of the Tarim Basin It has the oldest, largest, most complete and original Populus euphratica forest reserve in the world. The scenery here is strange and has the unique mysterious color of the desert forest.

We drove to Shaya County to visit the thousand-year-old Populus euphratica king standing in our hearts in southern Xinjiang. When I saw this ancient tree, I was only shocked! The passage of time. It is full of the marks of time on its tree body, and it has experienced wind, frost, rain and snow, and still stands on the stage of the world! In a blink of an eye, the dry years have passed, and people can't help but sigh: "Fate is difficult, life is short." Just like the dry Populus euphratica in front of me, after experiencing many years of hardship, I can still live vigorously today, which is really not easy and rare. As Shaya County, which has the largest area of ​​primitive Populus euphratica forest in the world, this dry Populus euphratica king has important historical research value. It not only becomes a witness of history, but also represents the spirit of the people of all ethnic groups in Shaya County with dry Populus euphratica. , The indomitable challenge to nature, change the ecological environment, and show a spiritual world for a better life in the future! Dear friends, come on! The rest of my life is not long, come and experience the living fossil across the century!

ㅤ 🚗139 Poplar Secret Self-driving Highway ㅤ The 139 Poplar Secret Self-driving Highway is 139 kilometers long, winding along the Tahe River with beautiful scenery all the way. ㅤ 🚗Self-driving route: 1⃣️Depart from Kuche: Navigate to the Poplar Secret Self-driving Highway in Shaya County. Depart from Kuche along National Highway 217, pass through Shayanzhou, and cross east and west to reach Alar City. 2⃣️Depart from Hotan and Alar: Navigate to the Tahe Management Committee, enter the Poplar Gallery from near the Tahe Bridge, and drive 86 kilometers to Shayanzhou. ㅤ We chose 1⃣️ to depart from Kuche, navigate to "Shayanzhou", and arrive at the World Poplar Forest Park about an hour after passing through Shaya County. Due to the large number of tourists going to Shayanzhou, we decided to continue after a short stay, pass through the 139 Poplar Secret Highway, and arrive at Alar City. ㅤ 🍂The main landscape of the entire highway is the desert poplar forest. There are large and small poplar forests everywhere on both sides of the road. The relatively concentrated places are about 30 kilometers from the entrance and exit of the self-driving highway. There are some villages and farmland in the middle. ㅤ 💰Charges: We entered the self-driving highway from Shaya, and there is only one road all the way without other forks. There is no charge for entering the highway, but there is a toll station near the end of the self-driving highway (near the Devil Forest), and the charge is 35 per vehicle. ㅤ 📷Photo guide: After entering the self-driving highway, the poplar forest is really everywhere. Find a relatively concentrated place and stand on the road to take beautiful pictures. But be sure to pay attention to the passing vehicles, pay attention to safety and avoid in time. ㅤ Recommendation🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 The poplar forest has entered its heyday, and the partners on the way must not miss it. If you can't catch up, collect it and don't miss this niche but beautiful autumn self-driving ceiling next time.

🚘 The '139 Populus euphratica Secret Highway' stretches 139 kilometers from west to east, running alongside the Tarim River and through dense Populus euphratica forests. The entire journey takes about 3-5 hours to drive and enjoy the scenery. 🚘 The western entrance of the secret highway is 90 kilometers from Aral City, about a one and a half hour drive. The eastern entrance is 200 kilometers from Luntai County, about a 3-hour drive. 🚘 The western section of the secret highway, from the Tarim River Bridge to the Tarim River Wetland Scenic Area (abandoned, see picture), is about 86 kilometers. The road is winding and narrow, flanked by dense Populus euphratica trees, with many strange willows and blooming red flowers. Sheep wander through the forest, and flocks of birds fly over the clear waters of the Tarim River. This scene is a rare sight in the deserts and Gobi of southern Xinjiang! 🚘 The eastern section of the secret highway, from the Tarim River Wetland Scenic Area (at the signpost of Gaizikumu Village, see picture) eastward to the Hadedun Bridge, is about 53 kilometers. The road is relatively wide, and the Populus euphratica trees are relatively sparse. 🚘 The 139 Secret Highway is a rural road, especially the western section, which is narrow. When stopping to enjoy the scenery, choose spots that do not obstruct other vehicles. 🚘 I drove through in the summer. If it's autumn or winter, the Populus euphratica scenery will be even better! 🚘 If you want to see the Populus euphratica forest and don't know where to go, then take the '139 Populus euphratica Secret Highway'!

🛬⛰The mother river of southern Xinjiang - Tarim River ⛳️🏔The Tarim River, a miracle in the desert Gobi Desert, is about 2,200 kilometers long and is the longest inland river in China. Its Uyghur name is "unbridled horse". It is the mother river of southern Xinjiang. 🏡The farmland and forest land south of the Tianshan Mountains are basically irrigated by it. The large cotton fields, wheat fields and poplar forests in Xinjiang have also continued to shine with golden light in the autumn for thousands of years because of the nourishment of the Tarim River. The Tarim River originates from the Tianshan Mountains. The snow water from the Tianshan Mountains flows along the northern edge of the Taklimakan Desert and first flows into Lop Nur. Later, it changed its course due to the decrease in river water volume. As the climate deteriorated and land desertification further intensified, the river continued to retreat. Later, thanks to the joint efforts of several generations, the water volume recovered. Visiting Tarim River and Populus euphratica in winter, I didn't expect any beautiful scenery, but I unexpectedly experienced the unique beauty of desert, Populus euphratica, and frozen Tarim River. 🚔🚴🏻After the Tarim River freezes in winter, the spectacular sight of a glacier makes people feel relaxed and happy. After freezing, the Tarim River can be driven on. Cars, horse carriages, donkey carts, and bicycles are really the wonders of the Tarim River. ⛵️🌈The Tarim River comes from the Tianshan Mountains, the water source is pure, and there is quicksand below, so the water is quite pure.

On the way to Tarim Populus euphratica Forest Park, our car drove along Shaya County 139 Populus euphratica Secret Realm 📸💯 self-driving highway. The endless golden Populus euphratica forest 📸👍 brought great shock to the eyes 👀 and the soul. The original poplar forest in Shaya County is known as the best in the world👍, because it has the largest area👍🌷 and is the most intact👍. Looking at the golden color on both sides of the car window, we couldn't help but get off the car. We just wanted to take a stroll in this beautiful place with blue sky, swaying tree shadows and continuous autumn colors. Looking closely, each poplar tree is so distinct📸: this one has stood tall and proud for thousands of years📸, that dry trunk is like a phoenix flapping its wings to fly, and like a dragon trying to break free from its restraints📸🪻... #Southern Xinjiang #Mainland China Attractions

'China National Geographic' recommended Bayingolin Mongolian Autonomous Prefecture, many people think it's in Inner Mongolia, but it's actually in Southern Xinjiang, known as 'China's number one prefecture'. Its vast geographical distribution has brought a rich variety of landforms. Within this one prefecture, it combines mountains, basins, rivers, lakes, Gobi, deserts, and plain oases, and it holds many geographical 'extremes'. 🌲Gongnaisi Forest Park Located within Hejing County of Bayingolin Prefecture, upstream of the Gongnaisi River, the altitude ranges from 1600 to 2400 meters. Snow-capped mountains are reflected in the lakes, and the hills are covered with pine trees and wildflowers. 🏜️Taklamakan Desert Located in the center of the Tarim Basin, it is the world's second-largest desert. In the heart of the desert, complex sand dunes and ridges resemble resting dragons on the earth, ever-changing and unpredictable. ⛰️Canyon Landforms of Bayingolin Prefecture In addition to natural landscapes such as high mountains, basins, rivers, lakes, Gobi, deserts, plains, and oases, Bayingolin Prefecture also has numerous historical sites and cultural landscapes, with canyon landforms being one of its main natural features. 🌿Bayanbulak Grassland Swan Lake Wetland It is the second-largest grassland in China after the Ordos Grassland. Surrounded by snow peaks, with lush water and grass, it is home to China's only swan nature reserve. 💧Bosten Lake China's largest inland freshwater lake, it is one of Xinjiang's fishing bases and one of the four major reed production areas in the country. ⛰️Altun Mountain Nature Reserve The highest peak, Muztagh Ata, reaches an altitude of 6973 meters. Here you can find modern glaciers, plateau lakes, and high-altitude deserts, as well as a variety of wildlife such as Tibetan wild donkeys, Tibetan antelopes, wild yaks, and wild camels. 🍂China's Largest Wild Poplar Forest Xinjiang's largest primeval poplar forest park, and also the most concentrated area of primeval poplar forests in the entire Tarim River basin. This year, I will go to Bayingolin to enjoy the elegant pear blossoms and brilliant apricot flowers of spring, the grassland as soft as a carpet and the mountains blooming with flowers in summer, the majestic poplar forests that stretch for thousands of miles in autumn, and the vast snow-covered wilderness in winter. The great beauty of Southern Xinjiang is captivating and dreamlike.

Starting from the south bank of the Hadundun Tower River of the Tarim River, and ending at the south bank of the G217 Tarim River Shaya Bridge, the 139 Populus Euphratica Secret Highway, with a total length of 139 kilometers, all you can see are leaves presenting brilliant colors. Deep red, golden, and emerald green are intertwined, presenting a dreamlike scroll in autumn.

|This autumn, I won't allow you to have not been to Southern Xinjiang. Not only can you see the culture, mountains, rivers, deserts, canyons, and Populus euphratica in Southern Xinjiang, all the beauty of Southern Xinjiang can make you unforgettable in this life. -Go deep into Southern Xinjiang, be shocked by the different scenery in the place where few people have been, the beauty here is a limited edition that cannot be copied. Featured attractions:. Deeply cross the Taklamakan Desert-Desert Highway·The pearl on the Silk Road-Kashgar Old City·The pearl of the Pamir Plateau-Karakul Lake·The oldest Populus euphratica forest in the world-Luntai Populus euphratica forest·Along the Tarim River The ancient ethnic group-Rob village.

In the southern part of the Tianshan Mountains in Xinjiang, and to the north and west of the Kunlun Mountains and the Altun Mountains, there is a vast area, geographically known as the Tarim Basin, with an area of 530,000 square kilometers, which is the largest inland basin in China. In the northern part of this basin, there is a river more than 2000 kilometers long, called the Tarim River, which is the longest inland river in China. "Ah--Tarim River, the river of my hometown; Tarim River, the river of my mother..." The Tarim River is the largest inland river in China, the mother river of the people of all ethnic groups in southern Xinjiang, and a dissipative river that does not produce surface runoff and relies entirely on source flow replenishment. The main stream of the Tarim River runs from Alar in Aksu region to Taitema Lake in Bazhou, with a total length of 1321 kilometers. With Yingbazha and Chala as the boundary points, people divide the Tarim River into upper, middle and lower reaches. The Tarim Basin is a concept of modern geography, and its name is taken from the great river that traverses this basin--the Tarim River. From the records of ancient documents, the word "Tarim" was first a river name and a small place name near Kucha. In various Chinese classics before the 6th century AD, the word "river" was used to refer to the Tarim River. The ethnic groups living here during this period must have had their own names for this river, but there are no written records to check. The "Wei Shu" written in the middle of the 6th century AD officially named this river "Jishu Water", and the Tang "Ce Fu Yuan Gui" called it "Ji Shu Water". Western Region history expert Li Yinping believes that Jishu and Jishu should be different Chinese translations of the languages of other ethnic groups in this region at that time. In the "Turkic Dictionary" written in the 1070s of the 11th century, the word "Tarim" appeared, which is the earliest record we can see. Since the word "Tarim" appeared in Chinese classics, people have made different interpretations of the meaning of "Tarim". Some believe it is Uighur, meaning "horse without reins"; some believe it is "arable land" or "suitable for farming"; some believe it is the transliteration of Mongolian "Tenggeri" and ancient Hun "Chengli", the original meaning is "heaven" or "god", the extended meaning is "sage", "bright", "precious", "treasure". These confusing statements make people feel at a loss. Those who understand Uighur believe that in Uighur, "horse without reins" is not called "Tarim", and the Uighur word for "arable land" is "Te Ri Mu", which is clearly different from "Tarim". As for saying that "Tarim" is the transliteration of "Tenggeri" and "Chengli", it is also too far-fetched. The "Turkic Dictionary" Annotation for Tarim is: "Branches of river water entering lakes and deserts (tributaries)." At the same time, the following annotation was made for this entry: "A place next to Kucha on the border of Huihe, also known as 'Usme·Tarim'. The river flowing there is also called Tarim." "Tarim" is after all an ancient term with a history of nearly a thousand years, and it is a transliteration from the languages of other ethnic groups in ancient Xinjiang. It seems that to clarify its etymology and true meaning, further research by linguists is needed. The Tarim River Basin is one of the driest and most fragile ecological environments in China. It is the general term for the 9 major water systems and 144 rivers of the Hotan River, Yarkant River, Kashgar River, Aksu River, Kaidu River-Peacock River, etc. around the Tarim Basin. The average annual runoff of the basin is 39.83 billion cubic meters, the total area of the basin is 1.02 million square kilometers, and it provides nourishing water sources for 1.3626 million hectares of cultivated land and more than 8.7 million people of all ethnic groups in the five prefectures of southern Xinjiang. In history, the 9 major water systems in the Tarim River Basin all had water flowing into the main stream. However, since the 1940s, the Kashgar River, Kaidu River and Peacock River, and Weigan River have gradually separated from the flow. After 1976, the Peacock River could only supply 200 million cubic meters of agricultural production water to the downstream area of the Tarim River every year through the lift station from Bosten Lake. Since 1985, the Yarkant River has no water supply to the Tarim River.

Stayed in Runtai and Shayar for two days, because I couldn't get up in the morning, it was already over 9 o'clock when it was light, but I always wanted to see the golden dusk of the Populus euphratica forest, and see how the desert sunset disappeared in the instant of the Tarim River wetland.

Just like the name of this place, Shaya, the World Populus Euphratica Park not only summarizes the oasis of the Tarim River, it is the largest growing area of Populus Euphratica in the world, but also nurtures the elegant and poetic side of this millennium tree species, and stubbornness is just due to the power of life.

"Hu Yang is born and the millennium is not dead, and the death does not fall for thousands of years, but the millennium does not rot." The devil forest under the sunset is too shocking. [] /Shaya County, Xinjiang

## Hu Yanglin is the first poem, only once a year. Only in ten days, the beautiful and beautiful, the next time, it takes another year, it is too early, there is no colorful color, it is too late, and the autumn frost will destroy the leaves. Golden Autumn October, Populus euphratica is colorful, this is the most beautiful season in South Xinjiang. Although today, I have not encountered the most perfect blue sky and white clouds, but with the sound of the carriage, the golden piece of gold is like a fairy tale world. The golden leaves fluttered at the foot, and the desert Hu Yang Sala La told the thousand-year secret that the most beautiful autumn was given to Shaya Huyanglin~

"Life is not dying for three thousand years, death does not fall for three thousand years, but three thousand years of immortality", so the magical creatures of Sansheng III, nothing like Hu Yang is as beautiful as the life after death. Devil's Forest is located in Shaya Second Ranch, 6 km south of Tahe Shaya Bridge, east of 210 Provincial Road. In the dry place, the land of saline and alkali does not change the charming and graceful posture; if the wind blows, it is buried in the sand, and it stands firm in the heavens and the earth. Standing here, at this moment, really, never exaggerated, not artificial; this is, the true feeling from the heart