Far-West Festivities

Aksu Prefecture in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region is a place famous for its picturesque scenery, abundant natural resources and tourism drawcards, dazzling delicacies and hospitable people. In October, a number of regionally distinctive cultural festivals kicked off in the prefecture and were enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

( Reporting from Aksu Prefecture in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region) nd 1. A vast forest of desert poplar trees provides picturesque views in Shaya County on October 21. Known for their resilience, the desert poplar trees adorn the landscape with their bright, colorful dynamism. More importantly, the trees have helped the county, which borders the Taklimakan Desert, to hold back the sands and preserve wetlands

2. Attendees of a desert cultural event enjoy traditional mutton rice, soup and flatbread on October 21

3. A musical drama, based on a touching love story that integrates local culture and customs, takes to the stage at a plaza in Awati County on October 19. Performances are often held for free throughout the year to help people enjoy their leisure time

4. A salesperson displays an apple during a fruit-themed tourism festival in Wensu County on October 23. October and November are the main harvest season for apples in Aksu Prefecture. Thanks to a dry, temperate continental climate and long hours of sunshine, apples grown in Aksu are juicy and sweet, with a “crystal sugar heart,” a transparent core resulting from high sugar content. Aksu is said to produce the best apples in Xinjiang, if not the country