CCTV9英语新闻：Record number of tourists heading out west（在线收听）

Northwest China's beautiful Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region seems to attract most of its visitors during these autumn months, just before the harsh winter sets in. Chinese people just love to head out west this time of the year, so what is the big draw?

North-west China's beautiful Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region seems to attract most of its visitors during these autumn months, just before the harsh winter sets in.

It is late autumn in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. And the natural scenery here is truly breath-taking. The populus euphratica forest is indeed a must-see.

But besides its photogenic landscape, Xinjiang also boasts a long history and a diversity of ethnic cultures. As an important stop of the ancient silk road, there are lots of cultural heritages here.

North-west China's beautiful Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region seems to attract most of its visitors during these autumn months, just before the harsh winter sets in.

"I really love it here. Look I even put the traditional clothes on. The natural landscape is gorgeous and the food here is absolutely great," said a visitor.

"My friend came here earlier and I saw the pictures posted on their social website. I'm really amazed and decided to come here myself. I really enjoy my stay here," said another visitor.

To improve the experience for the discerning traveler, some tourist agencies apply the so-called "internet plus" to their service. Tourists can plan their trip and book services online with great convenience.

This year alone, Xinjiang has received more than 50 million tourists from around the country, raking in revenue of some 2 billion yuan; both figures are record highs. And with Chinese President Xi Jinping's Belt & Road initiative still in its infancy, it can spell only good times ahead for this remarkable region.