Hami Yiwu Populus euphratica forest: a magical autumn journey at your doorstep.

I have lived in Hami for 30 years, but have never experienced the magnificence of the Yiwu Populus euphratica forest. This time, I finally took my family on this long-awaited journey during the National Day holiday. You don’t know how big China is unless you visit Xinjiang. The Yiwu Populus euphratica forest, with its unique charm, allows us to deeply appreciate the magic and greatness of nature.

II. Itinerary

1. Day 1:

- Morning: Drive over Tianshan Mountain and head to Barkol for sightseeing. Barkol has vast grasslands and magnificent snow-capped mountains, making people feel like they are in a fairy tale world.
- Noon: Taste local delicacies in Barkol, such as Barkol mutton, Barkol steamed buns, etc.
- Afternoon: Check in to Puleihai Hotel. After a short rest, you can take a walk around the hotel and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Barkol.
- Evening: Taste various snacks at the night market near the hotel and experience the nightlife of Balikun.

2. Day 2:

- Morning: After breakfast, set off to Yiwu Populus euphratica forest. On the way, you can pass by the Colorful Lake and take a short stroll to admire the changing colors of the lake under different light.
- Noon: Have lunch in Yiwu County and taste Yiwu’s specialties, such as Yiwu mutton soup, Yiwu pilaf, etc.
- Afternoon: Arrive at Yiwu Populus euphratica forest. Although it was already 16:30 in the afternoon when we arrived, this time was just right. After entering the scenic area, you can take a sightseeing bus for a tour to understand the general distribution of the Populus euphratica forest.
- Evening: Catch the sunset at Mana Beach, this is the most beautiful time in the Populus euphratica forest. The afterglow of the setting sun shines on the golden poplar trees, like a beautiful painting.

3. Tips for self-driving tours

1. Route selection:

- G335 National Highway (Yizhou District, Hami City) - Yiwu County. The route is very scenic and offers stunning views of the Tian Shan Mountains.
- National Highway 331 (Dandong-Altay) - Yiwu Populus euphratica forest (the first stop when entering Xinjiang). If you are driving into Xinjiang from other places, this route is a good choice.
- G30 (Lianhuo Expressway) - G575 (two counties in northern Shanxi - Hami) - Yiwu Populus euphratica Scenic Area. This route is quicker and suitable for tourists who are short on time.
- G7 Beijing-Xinjiang Expressway (Beijing-Urumqi), Yiwu Populus euphratica forest is the first scenic spot when entering Xinjiang. If you are driving into Xinjiang from Beijing, you might as well stop here and experience the charm of the Populus euphratica forest.

2. Notes:

- The climate in the Populus euphratica forest area is dry and the ultraviolet rays are strong. It is recommended to take sun protection and moisturizing measures. Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, moisturizing spray, etc.
- Wear comfortable sneakers or hiking shoes for walking in scenic areas. The Populus euphratica forest scenic area is large and requires a lot of walking, so it is very important to choose a pair of comfortable shoes.
- Respect local customs and cultural traditions, and do not destroy the Populus euphratica forest and the scenic environment at will. Populus euphratica forest is a precious gift from nature and we should work together to protect it.
- Please book your accommodation and transportation in advance to avoid delays. The National Day holiday is the peak tourist season, and accommodation and transportation are in short supply, so advance reservations are very necessary.

IV. Conclusion

Yiwu Populus euphratica forest is a charming place. It has been guarding for three thousand years, telling the tenacity and beauty of life. This trip during the National Day holiday allowed us to appreciate the magic and magnificence of nature right at our doorstep. If you are also in Hami or nearby areas, you may as well take a walk in the Yiwu Populus euphratica forest and feel the shock brought to you by this magical land.