If you want to see China's most golden and magical autumn colors, you shouldn't miss the poplar forests of Ejina.
For just a brief window each year, usually in early to mid-October, the vast desert poplars turn from green to shimmering gold.
With sunshine filtering through the leaves and a backdrop of blue sky and desert, the scene becomes almost surreal.
Ejina Desert Polar Forest
Located in northwestern Inner Mongolia, near the edge of the desert, Ejina offers more than just golden trees. You'll also experience the stark beauty of the Gobi landscape, rolling sand dunes, and ancient ruins, all in dramatic contrast to the vibrant forest.
The best time to visit is from October 7 to 14, when the colors are at their peak. The poplar forest area is quite large, so plan for two days to fully enjoy it. You can also combine your trip with visits to the Heicheng Ruins and the eerie "Dead Poplar Forest" (Guai Shu Lin) nearby.
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Ejina Desert Polar Forest
If you want to see China's most golden and magical autumn colors, you shouldn't miss the poplar forests of Ejina.