Meet people in Huatugou

Emerald Lake is a stunning collection of salt ponds that exhibit a vivid, deep green hue due to the high mineral content and unique algae. The contrast between the bright, crystalline salt crusts and the intense colors of the water creates a surreal landscape that stretches toward the horizon. Visitors can walk along the salt-crusted paths between the pools, which act as natural mirrors reflecting the vast blue sky and the distant, arid mountain ranges. It is an essential stop for photographers and those interested in the extraordinary geological diversity found within the Qaidam Basin.

Visit during the golden hour to see the colors of the water shift as the light changes.

The Yadan landforms near Huatugou are a vast expanse of wind-eroded rock formations that rise from the desert floor like the ruins of an ancient, alien city. These geological features are characterized by sharp ridges, deep gullies, and isolated mounds shaped by centuries of harsh desert winds. Exploring this area feels like stepping onto another planet, with the silence of the desert amplifying the scale of the landscape. It is a prime location for those who appreciate dramatic, rugged scenery and the power of natural erosion over geological time.

Wear sturdy hiking boots and bring plenty of water, as the terrain is uneven and the climate is extremely dry.

The ruins of the old Mangnai oil town offer a glimpse into the industrial history of this remote region. Once a bustling hub for workers in the mid-20th century, the site now stands as a collection of weathered structures and remnants of the past. These ruins tell the story of the pioneers who lived and worked in one of the most challenging environments in China. Walking through the site provides a somber but fascinating look at human persistence and the shifting economic focus of the Qaidam Basin over the last few decades.

Respect the site by staying on established paths and avoiding entering unstable structures.