An aerial view of the barren land around a saltwater lake in Yiwu county, Hami prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region. [Photo provided to China Daily]

A forum on aerial photography was also held as part of the contest in early October, aiming to broaden photographers' vision and offer a platform to exchange ideas, according to Ma Zhong, vice-president of China Image Group.

Wang Jianjun, a local publicity official, said the contest is a major effort by the Hami government to promote tourism. "It's to let more people know about the charm of Hami and to offer diverse traveling experiences," Wang explained.

In addition to the contest, the Hami government also hosted a marathon during the National Day holiday in Yiwu county.