Editor's Note: CGTN is embarking on a 20-day journey to Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in southwest China's Sichuan Province for the production of Music Voyage, a cultural documentary that traces the roots of music on the Tibetan Plateau while exploring beautiful landscapes and diverse ethnic culture. This series previews six destinations that are not to be missed along the journey.

Sitting in the southern part of Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Sichuan Province, Daocheng Yading is a national nature reserve that has made its way onto the bucket list of many adventurers and trekkers from home and abroad.

It's one of the best preserved natural scenic sites in the country and is dubbed "the last pure land on earth." Its primitive ecological environment and untouched plateau landscape often take visitors' breath away.

An article published in National Geographic in 1931, written by American explorer Joseph Rock, put a spotlight on the then lesser-known spot. Rock paid a visit in 1928 and later wrote, "Where in all the world is to be found scenery comparable to that which awaits the explorer and photographer!"

The three snow-capped mountain peaks are one of the must-see sights, with the highest reaching an elevation of 6,032 meters – the fifth highest in the province. 

The soaring mountains, clear lakes, vast grasslands and lush forests compose a paradise for shutterbugs though the staggering height imposes enormous challenges on the hiking journey.

Also check out the previous episodes of the series: Kangding, Litang and Batang

(Cover image by Feng Yuan)