The flowing sands glisten emerald green

The flowing sands glisten emerald green

The flowing sands glisten emerald green

The Dashe River was once the ancient course of the Duma River, later taken over by the Yellow River. Over the years, layers of yellow sand accumulated, and the riverbed silted up. “Sunny Sands of Duma” was ranked first among the ancient Eight Scenic Spots of the region, celebrated in poetry by many notable figures throughout history. In recent years, the government has cleared away the sand and dredged the river. The water now spans over 100 meters in width, with an average depth of about 3 meters, clear and azure. Pavilions line the waterfront, and painted pleasure boats glide across the river. To the west of Walicun Village in the Huairen section of the Dashe River lies an ancient apricot and locust forest covering nearly a thousand acres, with trees over 300 years old. Looking out over the forest area, sandbars are layered with lush greenery, gathering verdant hues in the mist, while a subtle fragrance wafts through the air — a place where “poetic scenery abounds everywhere, and nature’s beauty reveals itself at every moment.” The century-old apricot trees cast graceful, slanting shadows, their faint fragrance drifting subtly, leaving visitors in awe. Each ancient locust tree stands tall and elegant, its blossoms holding the essence of spring, jade-like branches dripping with green. Being there feels intoxicating, almost dreamlike. Under the trees, shepherds play flutes; among the branches, spiders weave their webs; on the treetops, egrets frolic with warblers; and along the water’s edge, visitors stroll leisurely. In this natural oxygen bar, one can sightsee, escape the summer heat, cultivate the mind and spirit, pick flowers and fruits to share with friends, or bring fine wine to invite the moon — truly one of life’s great joys.