Ejina Banner Golden Autumn Populus Forest Cultural Experience

Ejina Banner, Alxa League, Inner Mongolia — the homeland of the world's populus forests. A 3-day itinerary blending natural wonders, Western Xia culture, and desert oasis exploration.

114,606 km²
Total Area
One of World's Three Major Populus Forests
Ejina Populus Forest
Western Xia Ancient City
Black City Ruins
Desert Pearl
Juyan Lake
Ejina Banner Populus Forest landscape
Golden Autumn Populus Forest in Ejina Banner
One of the world's three major populus forests, brilliant golden hues in autumn like an oil painting

Ejina Banner Three-Day Two-Night Populus Forest Cultural Journey

Populus forest photography + Western Xia culture + oasis ecology, experience the unique charm of golden Ejina

Duration
3 Days / 2 Nights
Main Destinations
Populus Forest, Black City Ruins, Juyan Lake
Suitable For
Photography enthusiasts, culture explorers, nature and ecology lovers
Budget per Person
¥1200 - ¥2000
01
Golden Fairy Tale
Populus Forest
Highlights

World-class populus forest photography

Attractions
Ejina Populus Forest National Nature Reserve
One of the world's three major populus forests. 380,000 mu of populus trees display golden and orange-red colors in autumn. The eight bridges desert and populus forest complement each other, known as 'living fossil trees'.
Practical Information
Photography Tips
  • Best shooting times at sunrise and sunset
  • Bring telephoto and wide-angle lenses
  • Must capture the reflection forest at Second Bridge
Accommodation Recommendations
  • Hotels in Dalaikubu Town
  • Homestays within the populus forest scenic area
  • Desert camping experience
02
Western Xia Secret Realm
Black City Ruins
Highlights

Imprints of civilization in the desert

Attractions
Black City Ruins
Ruins of a Western Xia ancient city, once an important post station on the Silk Road. Remaining city walls, pagodas and other relics have yielded a large number of Western Xia documents, known as the 'Pompeii of the Desert'.
Dead Populus Forest (Guai Shulin)
A dead populus forest area. Withered trees in various twisted shapes form a surreal landscape in the desert, a popular spot for silhouette and starry sky photography.
Practical Information
Cultural Tips
  • Climbing on ruins is prohibited
  • It is recommended to learn about Western Xia history in advance
  • Protect cultural relics and historic sites
03
Desert Oasis
Juyan Lake
Highlights

Birdwatcher's paradise and sunrise spectacle

Attractions
Juyan Lake
A freshwater lake in the desert, legendary site where Laozi transformed into an immortal. Tens of thousands of migratory birds inhabit here in autumn. At sunrise, reed marshes and flying birds create a stunning picture.
Practical Information
Visiting Suggestions
  • Arrive before 5:00 AM to watch the sunrise
  • Bring binoculars for birdwatching
  • Taste wild fish from Juyan Lake

Must-Try Foods in Ejina Banner

Juyan Lake Wild Fish Feast

Using locally sourced carp, crucian carp and other fish from Juyan Lake, prepared steamed or braised. Tender and fresh without any fishy taste, rich in the unique flavor of the desert oasis.

Camel Meat Pie

A traditional Mongolian delicacy filled with camel meat. The crust is crispy and the filling is savory and juicy, a unique local snack of Ejina Banner.

Ejina Banner Travel Tips
Best Season
  • September 25 - October 15: Best viewing period for populus forest
  • April-May: Juyan Lake migratory bird season
  • Avoid the severe cold period from November to March
Special Reminders
  • Book accommodation well in advance during populus forest peak season
  • Protect against wind and sun in desert areas
  • Preserve the ecological environment of the populus forest
Transportation Guide
  • Recommended to take a shuttle bus from Jiuquan
  • Chartering between scenic spots is more convenient
  • Dalaikubu Town serves as the central hub for tours

Explore Each Banner of Alxa League

Alxa Left Banner
Alxa Right Banner
Ejina Banner