Spectacular scenery draws visitors to the Kanas Nature Reserve in the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region's Altay in autumn. YUAN HUANHUAN/FOR CHINA DAILY

The No 3 lobe of the rare-metal mine in Koktokay, Fuyun county, Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, looks like an upturned straw hat. YANG YANG/CHINA DAILY

Herders drive sheep by the roadside as they migrate to winter pastures in Fuyun county. YANG YANG/CHINA DAILY