Tarim Populus euphratica forest

The Tarim Populus euphratica forest is located in Luntai County and Yuli County of Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, on the northeast edge of the Taklamakan Desert by the Tarim River. It is the largest, oldest, and best preserved original Populus euphratica forest reserve in the world, known as the "living fossil of the Tertiary" and the "Desert Hero Tree". This is a paradise for photography enthusiasts and an excellent place to experience the wonders of life.

Populus euphratica is an ancient tree species remaining from the Tertiary period, with a history of over 65 million years. It is known for its tenacious vitality and is hailed as "living but not dying for a thousand years, dying but not collapsing for a thousand years, collapsing but immortal for a thousand years".
The three major characteristics of Populus euphratica
Drought tolerance: The root system is well-developed and can penetrate more than 10 meters underground to absorb water.
Salt alkali resistance: can excrete excess salt from the body, forming "Populus euphratica tears".
Wind and sand resistance: The trunk is tough, the branches are flexible, and they can stand firm in the wind and sand.

Huyanglin Park
This is the core area where tourists enter the Populus euphratica forest, integrating sightseeing, photography, and leisure.
Small train tour: Taking a sightseeing small train through the Populus euphratica forest is the best way to appreciate the autumn scenery of Populus euphratica. The train slowly travels, with golden poplar trees and quiet lakes on both sides, like a fairy tale world.
Observation Deck: Climbing onto the observation deck, you can overlook the entire Populus euphratica forest area. In the distance is the Taklamakan Desert, and nearby is the winding Tarim River, with magnificent scenery.
Lakes in the forest: The water source of the Tarim River forms many small lakes in the forest, and the Populus euphratica reflects in the water, creating a beautiful scene.
Tarim River 
Mother River: The Tarim River is the longest inland river in China, and its existence nourishes this Populus euphratica forest.
Riverbank Scenery: The two banks along the river are the most densely populated areas of Populus euphratica forests, where river water, Populus euphratica, and desert intertwine to form a unique ecological picture.
Desert poplar 
Comparison of Life and Death: Going deep into the edge of the desert, you can see living and dead Populus euphratica coexisting, creating a visually striking contrast between life and death.
Dried Wood Form: Dead Populus euphratica has various forms, some resembling male lions, some resembling elderly people, and some resembling castles, telling the story of the vicissitudes of time in the wind and sand.