Huludao in Xinjiang, a golden poplar water world hidden in the desert

🍂 Late autumn is approaching, and a rendezvous with the golden poplars is quietly unfolding at the edge of the Taklamakan Desert. This is not an ordinary poplar forest, but a magical world where desert, lake, and poplars intertwine—Yuli Huludao.

🏜️ Highlights
🌟 Huludao is far from an ordinary poplar viewing spot. It is located downstream of the Tarim River, and from the air, the water area resembles a gourd, hence the name. Here you will find a rare combination of desert, lake, and poplars. In late autumn, an overnight cold dew turns all the poplars by the lake and in the desert golden, creating a brilliant and radiant scene under the clear blue sky.

🚗 Practical Information
🍁 Best season: Mid to late October through mid-November. This is when the poplar leaves turn golden and the scenery is most spectacular.
🎫 Ticket info: Admission is 80 RMB per person; self-driving cars with fewer than 7 seats pay 50 RMB.
📍 Address for navigation: 33rd Regiment, Yuli County, Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang. You can search “Yuli County Huludao - Pier” for navigation.

🎯 Experience
🚤 Upon arrival, you can choose to take a sand dune motorcycle or a boat (about 80 RMB per person) to the central area, or walk about two kilometers to slowly enjoy the changing scenery. Standing atop the sand dunes and looking far, you will see sand dunes surrounding shimmering waves, with yellow and green poplars either lining the lake shore or standing in the water, weaving an autumn dream.
🌞 There is a poplar forest right at the entrance of the scenic area where you can get up close. The golden poplars are especially beautiful under the sunlight.

💡 Travel Tips
🛣️ Road conditions: The last stretch to the scenic area is an unpaved road. Sedans can pass, but the road is narrow, so be especially careful when meeting oncoming vehicles.
⏰ Itinerary planning: It is recommended to allow 2-3 hours for the visit. The drive from Korla takes about 1.5 hours; from Yuli County, about 1.5 hours as well.
🏨 Accommodation advice: Although there are simple food and lodging options inside the scenic area, conditions are limited. It is better to return to Korla or nearby towns for more comfortable accommodations.

Post by Christopher Baker | Oct 24, 2025