Golden Tower Populus Euphratica Forest Nanny-Level Guide: Don’t Miss the 25 Days of Golden Secret Realm!

Northwest autumn hides in Jinta! 80,000 acres of poplars dyed golden like waves, fewer people than Ejina but even more photogenic. Here’s the full guide for eating, staying, and playing—bookmark it now 👇
📅 Prime Viewing Period (Key Point!)
Only 25 days a year for this stunning window! Late September shows early yellow gradients like an oil painting, October 6-15 is the peak with trees fully gilded, and late October leaves fall to form a golden carpet—perfect for martial arts style shots. Choose sunny days! Rain speeds up leaf fall.
🚗 Transportation & Ticket Info
📍 Location: 6 km northwest of Jinta County Town, Jiuquan
• Transport: 1.5-hour self-drive from Jiuquan city; or take a bus from Jiuquan Bus Station to Jinta County, then a 10-minute taxi to the scenic area.
• Tickets: Adult ticket 85 RMB (includes round-trip sightseeing bus), children under 1.2 meters and active military personnel free. The scenic area is huge; sightseeing bus is a must and can be used unlimited times.
• Hours: Open 08:00-20:00, recommended to arrive before 9 AM for fewer people and softer light.
🌟 Must-Visit Featured Spots
1. Jinbo Lake: The core essence area! Poplars reflected on the water double the golden effect, low-angle shots of reflections look like oil paintings, the lake center tree + rule of thirds composition guarantees 100% photogenic results.
2. Sand Dune Observation Deck: Climb the wooden walkway for aerial shots, golden forest sea meets desert—half passionate, half desolate.
3. Reed Marsh Walkway: When sunlight slants, the reeds and golden leaves intertwine, portrait mode blurs the background with great layering.
📸 Photography Tips
Outfit: Red long dress or white Hanfu to maximize contrast with golden poplars.
Timing: Before 10 AM and 4-6 PM; under sunset, poplars turn orange-red.
Tips: Sand is soft, wear anti-slip sneakers; drones allowed.
🍜 Local Food You Can’t Miss
Start your day with Jiuquan Hu Guo (porridge pot), pepper aroma warms the stomach.
Must-try local Shao Kuaizi! Firewood-baked flatbread stuffed with desert jujube or red date filling, authentic old flavor with no additives.
At the scenic area entrance, Gobi roasted whole lamb with garlic slices is so fragrant you’ll stomp your feet.
October in Jinta holds the richest autumn vibe; leaves fall with the wind, every step treads on a golden dream. Before the crowds explode, quickly grab your besties and rush over~