Live Your Best Lives
Ejin Banner, a region rich in ethnic groups and steeped in history and rich in cultural heritage, boasts abundant tourism resources. Poplar forests, Gobi oases, vast deserts, important ancient towns, the Guanshi Port, the Juyan Han Dynasty bamboo slips, and Heicheng documents all contribute to the region's rich and magnificent historical landscape. Its unique history, culture, and geography have captivated visitors, making it a pilgrimage destination for those seeking to explore its wonders.
Ejin Banner has an inland dry climate. It is characterized by drought, little rainfall, high evaporation, abundant sunshine, wide temperature swings, and frequent sandstorms. The average annual temperature is 8.3°C. Windy weather is common, with winds occurring more frequently in spring and winter, but particularly in spring.
Autumn is the best time to visit Ejina. September and October offer clear skies and refreshing air, with little wind and sand, perfect for exploring the heart of the desert. From late September to mid-October, the poplar trees' leaves are at their most vibrant yellow. On a sunny day, follow a camel caravan into the desert to admire oases, magical fountains, and, if you're lucky, even mysterious mirages, fully appreciating the desert's magnificent beauty. The endless poplar forest undulates like waves, its golden-red leaves blazing like fire, creating a magnificent spectacle.
Populus euphratica Forest Nature Reserve
The Yanglin National Nature Reserve is located in the heart of Ejina Banner, within the Ejina Oasis. Its main feature is the nearly 1,000-mile "Green Corridor" along the banks of the Ejina River, encompassing over 440,000 mu (approximately 1,000 hectares) of poplar forest. Without visiting Ejina, one wouldn't appreciate the grandeur of this desert oasis. Without personally visiting the poplar forests, one wouldn't appreciate the millennia-old spirit of the poplar trees, which endure even after death and remain immortal even after falling.
Blackwater City
Also known as Black City, it is located in the desert on the north bank of the lower reaches of the dried-up Ejina River (Heishui River). It has the glorious Juyan civilization during the Qin and Han Dynasties and the splendid water city culture during the Western Xia Dynasty.
Strange Forest
The Strange Forest, located 28 kilometers southwest of Dalaihub Town in Ejin Banner, boasts 2,000 mu (approximately 1,000 hectares) of dead poplar trees scattered across the landscape, earning it the nickname "The Poplar Grave." Visitors can experience the millennia-old cemetery of these immortal poplars, their fangs and claws bared in the sunset, guarding the desert.
Recommended travel time: 4-5 days
Ejina Banner, located in the Alxa League of Inner Mongolia, has a long history tied to the Silk Road. It was once home to the Juyan frontier during the Han Dynasty and an important military and trading hub. The area is famous for its ancient city ruins, desert oases, and vast poplar forests, which symbolize resilience and life in harsh desert environments. Today, it is significant for ecological tourism, cultural heritage, and unique desert landscapes.
Yes, especially in peak autumn season (late September–October). Booking 1–2 weeks in advance online is recommended to secure entry and transport.
Yes, discounts are usually available for students, seniors, children, and sometimes military personnel with valid ID. Free days are rare but may occur during national tourism weeks.
Most attractions are open year-round, but some may close temporarily in winter due to harsh weather. Autumn festivals may cause higher visitor flow but not closures.
At least 2–3 days are recommended to explore the forests, ruins, and desert areas without rushing. A week allows a deeper experience.
Yes, guided tours in Mandarin are common. Some private agencies offer English-speaking guides. Audio guides in Mandarin may be available at major scenic spots.
Professional drones may require permits. Large bags may be checked at scenic entrances. Tripods are generally allowed. No strict dress code, but comfortable clothing is advised.
Day 1: Poplar Forest Park → Strange Forest at sunset. Day 2: Heicheng Ruins → Juyan Sea. Day 3: Desert safari or cultural experiences in local villages.
Most scenic spots allow re-entry on the same day with a valid ticket. Confirm at the entrance gate for policies.
Yes, special stargazing tours and evening cultural shows may be available during festival season. Otherwise, most scenic areas close at dusk.
It is extremely crowded during the National Day holiday (October 1–7). Early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays are less crowded. Visiting in spring or summer ensures fewer tourists.
Yes, major scenic areas provide toilets, small shops, rest pavilions, and local food stalls. Restaurants and hotels are located in Ejina Town.
Yes, main attractions have walkways and shuttle buses. However, desert areas require more physical effort and may not be fully accessible.
Yes, but use is limited to flat scenic areas. Desert and dune areas are not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs.
Some scenic parks offer lockers near the entrance, though availability may be limited.
Mobile signal is generally available near towns, but coverage in desert areas is weak. Public Wi-Fi is limited.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted. Carry some cash for small vendors or rural areas.
Yes, ATMs are available in Ejina Town, but may be scarce near scenic spots. Bring cash in advance.
Local Mongolian-style restaurants, barbecue eateries, and small cafes are available in Ejina Town and near major scenic entrances.
Halal food is available due to Hui Muslim communities. Vegetarian options exist but may be limited. Vegan travelers should plan ahead.
Flights from Ejina Airport, long-distance buses, or self-driving to nearby Gansu (Jiuquan, Dunhuang) or Inner Mongolia’s desert regions are common choices.
No strict dress codes, but modest clothing is appreciated. Avoid climbing or touching ancient ruins and trees.
Yes, the Populus Euphratica Forest Festival is the most famous event, featuring cultural shows, photography competitions, and folk performances in autumn.
Legends tell that the Populus euphratica trees symbolize eternal life, as they “live for a thousand years, stand for a thousand years after death, and do not fall for another thousand years.”
Chinese documentaries and travel photography books often highlight Ejina’s forests. The area is a popular filming location for nature and desert-themed productions.
Ejina reflects the resilience of desert civilizations and the importance of Silk Road trade routes. It also preserves Mongolian and Hui traditions in food, dress, and festivals.
Ejina is generally safe. Scams are rare, but prices may surge during peak season. Desert travel requires caution—carry supplies and go with guides.
Basic medical facilities are available in Ejina Town. Scenic areas have first aid posts, but for emergencies, the nearest larger hospitals are in Jiuquan (Gansu).
Town areas are safe at night, but avoid exploring deserts after dark without a guide. Off-season visits are safe but very cold in winter and with limited facilities.
