The First Bend of the Yellow River

When it reaches Maqu county, the Yellow River turns abruptly, forming the first of its "eighteen bends" on its course. The river flows sluggishly in Maqu and has many tributaries in the area.The bend area is also noted for its beautiful wooded valleys, lakes, limestone caves, hotsprings, and rich fauna and flora resources. In addition, tests show that Maqu is an area free of pollution. Maqu in Tibetan means the Yellow River. Maqu County is the only place in the Yellow River Basin, which took its name from the river. Nurtured by the river and the extensive grasslands, the Tibetans here are honest,optimistic, and friendly. They still retain to some extent the mode of production, lifestyte, and customs prevalent among the nomadic tribes in ancient times in the area. The grassland in Maqu is a pleasant summer resort and an ideal place people who want to return to nature.