With a vast territory, China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region is a good choice for tourists to plan a road trip. CGTN reporters visited Habahe County in northern Xinjiang in early October.

Based on our experience, we've selected several must-see attractions there if you are planning a trip to the far north of Xinjiang. Located in Altay Prefecture, Habahe County features massive areas of deserts, mountains, lakes and birch forests.

Bring water and some energy-boosting foods as you may drive a very long time. Wear a pair of comfortable shoes and bring enough clothes as temperatures vary greatly at different places.

Habahe Birches Park has the largest natural birch forest belt in northwestern China. The forest grows along the banks of the Haba River and is more than 20 kilometers long. During the autumn and winter seasons, the pure color of the tall trees (usually 20-40 meters in height) serves as one of nature's best decorations.

The park is located six kilometers west of the county proper. There are also some amusement facilities catered to children. Join us for a bird's-eye view of the birch tree forest in Habahe County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.

Baihaba Village is another place you can't miss. It is a small village inhabited by the Kazakhs and Tuvans. Far away from the city, the village has preserved its folk customs for centuries.

The dense golden pine forests of the Altai Mountains extend to the village. The wooden houses and the fences of the captive animals are scattered among the pine forest and the birch forest. It's a beautiful, peaceful place that makes time stand still. 

While travelling in Habahe, don't forget to try local juices made from sea buckthorn, one of the county's signature plants. Its leaves, flowers, seeds, and fruits are used to make medicine. Sea buckthorn berries are used to make jellies, juices, purees, and sauces. In manufacturing, sea buckthorn is used in cosmetics and anti-aging products.

The sunflower is another common plant in the area that thrives thanks to the ample sunshine. You can see large areas of sunflowers planted along the road in autumn.

(Cover photo redesigned by Zhu Shangfan)

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Kanas travel guide: How to plan a trip to the northern tip of Xinjiang