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The Jinta Desert Poplar Forest is located in Chaohu Forest Farm, west of Jinta County, Jiuquan City, Gansu Province. It is part of the National Three North Shelterbelt System.
There are tens of thousands of mu of artificial poplar forests there. Surrounding them are large areas of Elaeagnus angustifolia, white poplar, red willow and other tree species unique to the Northwest. The poplar forests here are densely distributed and growing well, and are the largest in Gansu Province.
The scenic area consists of five functional areas: the Populus euphratica forest-Jinbo Lake core tourist area, the Elaeagnus angustifolia forest sightseeing and leisure area, the Hanhai red willow forest conservation area, the desert health and physiotherapy area, and the reed wetland maze area. The most distinctive of these is the artificial Populus euphratica forest covering more than 10,000 acres, which has been rated as one of the most beautiful places in Gansu Province for autumn colors.
September to October every year is the most beautiful season for the Populus euphratica forest. After experiencing the first autumn frost, the Populus euphratica forest turns from green to yellow, showing its charm in a flamboyant posture.
Recommended play time: 1-3 hours
65 yuan/person
Scenic bus: 20 yuan/person
Peak season: July 1st - October 31st
Low season: November 1st to June 30th of the following year
The Jinta Populus euphratica Forest is one of the largest and most well-preserved Populus euphratica forests in China. These trees have thrived in the arid desert for centuries, contributing to the ecological balance in the region. The forest is a natural wonder, representing the resilience of life in harsh desert conditions.
The Jinta Populus euphratica Forest is located in Jinta County, Gansu Province, China. To reach the forest, you can take a bus or taxi from Jiuquan, the nearest city. It’s also accessible by private car, and once you arrive at the forest’s entrance, walking or guided tours are available to explore the area.
The Jinta Populus euphratica Forest is open year-round. However, the best time to visit is during autumn (September to November) when the Populus euphratica trees turn golden, offering the most spectacular views. Early morning or late afternoon is ideal for capturing the best photos and avoiding crowds.
The entrance fee for the Jinta Populus euphratica Forest is typically low, but prices may vary depending on the season. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or via local tour agencies online. It is advisable to check with local sources for updated prices.
It’s not mandatory to book tickets in advance, but it’s recommended during peak seasons (such as autumn) to avoid long lines. Booking at least one day in advance is advised during holidays or the high tourist season.
You can explore the Jinta Populus euphratica Forest in about 2-3 hours. However, if you enjoy photography or nature walks, spending more time is recommended to fully take in the beauty of the landscape.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Some tours might offer a basic English translation, but it's recommended to check in advance if you need an English-speaking guide.
A recommended itinerary includes starting with a walk through the main forest trail, followed by a visit to the Jinta River. End the tour with a stop at one of the observation points to take in the sweeping views of the forest and surrounding desert.
Night visits are not typically available as the site closes after sunset. There are no light shows or special nighttime activities, but the sunset views can be just as magical if timed right.
The Jinta Populus euphratica Forest can get crowded during national holidays and the autumn peak season. The least crowded times are weekdays outside of the high tourist season, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon.
Basic facilities such as toilets, rest areas, and food stalls are available near the entrance. There are no major shopping centers, but small shops selling local souvenirs can be found.
The main trails are accessible for elderly visitors and children, but some areas may be difficult for those with mobility challenges due to uneven terrain. It’s advisable to check with the local staff for any specific accessibility issues.
Cash is commonly accepted, but mobile payment platforms such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used. It's recommended to carry both options, as some smaller vendors may not accept cards.
There are basic restaurants and food stalls near the entrance offering local Chinese cuisine, but dining options are limited. For more variety, visitors can find additional restaurants in Jiuquan city, about an hour away.
Vegetarian options are generally available at local restaurants, but vegan and halal food may be limited. It’s a good idea to inquire at local eateries or bring your own food if you have specific dietary needs.
There are several basic accommodations in Jiuquan, such as hotels and guesthouses. For more luxurious options, travelers can opt for hotels in the city center, which is around an hour's drive from the forest.
Souvenir shops are available near the entrance to the forest, selling local crafts, small trinkets, and handmade goods, including items made from wood or bamboo.
From Jinta, visitors can take buses or taxis back to Jiuquan for further travel. The region is well-connected to other parts of Gansu via buses and trains. For further exploration, private car rentals are available in Jiuquan.
