The Only River Flowing Westward in Xinjiang, Rich in Mineral Resources, Dubbed ‘Golden Mountains and Silver Rivers’

When we talk about Xinjiang, our first impression is of Ürümqi, Kashgar, and the very high temperatures in Xinjiang, as well as the sweetness of grapes and cantaloupes. However, when it comes to the rivers of Xinjiang, it might be something to think about. Here, we introduce one of Xinjiang's most special rivers – the Ertisi River.

The Ertisi River is the only river in China that flows into the Arctic Ocean, and it is also the only river in China that flows westward. The volume of the Ertisi River is second only to the Ili River, making it the second largest river in Xinjiang. So many 'credentials' give this river a sense of mystery. As a river, it's stipulated that fishing is prohibited throughout the year, because the local scarce resources are extremely valuable, to prevent their loss. However, the scenery here is particularly beautiful.

Many people don't know that the Ertisi River is the beginning of the famous Atael scenery in Xinjiang. Atael scenery is a collective term for attractions in the Atael region, and as the mother river of the Atael region, the Ertisi River has nurtured the Atael people and has fostered many beautiful landscapes. For example, the second polar extreme, Kotyorsk Sea.