Golden Poplar Forests in Xinjiang Attract Autumn Visitors
As autumn deepens, the desert poplar forests in Makit County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, are gradually turning golden and entering their peak viewing season, drawing visitors from near and far.
Makit County is home to more than 19,000 hectares of desert poplar forests. Trees rising proudly from the sand and poplars growing along the banks of the Yarkant River create a striking autumn landscape, with golden foliage set against the arid wilderness.
"This is my first time seeing desert poplars up close. It's hard to imagine that poplars can take root and grow in such an arid environment. The scenery is unique and magnificent, with the desert and the trees complementing each other. I've truly experienced Xinjiang's exceptional natural beauty. The trip was well worth it," said Zhao Nanyu, a visitor from Guangzhou, Guangdong Province.
"From a distance, the poplar forest looks like a sea of gold. I've never seen poplar trees before, so I took lots of photos and shared them on social media," said Qu Yanyu, a visitor from Yulin, Shaanxi Province.
Known as the "guardian of the desert," the desert poplar is a hardy tree species that can withstand low temperatures, drought and saline-alkali soils. It also serves as an effective natural barrier against wind erosion and helps stabilize shifting sands.
Since the beginning of this year, Makit County has continued its efforts to protect the Yarkant River basin, improve poplar forest management and restore wetlands. These initiatives are helping strengthen the ecological barrier along the desert's edge. Former riverbank wetlands are gradually being transformed into an ecological and cultural park featuring clear water, lush forests and scenic surroundings.
According to CCTV+, the golden poplar forests of Makit County have become a popular autumn destination while highlighting ongoing efforts to protect and restore the region's fragile desert ecosystems.
