Just returned from Colorful Danxia, here's how to best experience it

Beat the crowds and enjoy Colorful Danxia 🌈 This counter-intuitive approach is brilliant! Finally checked in at Zhangye Colorful Danxia, this heavenly scenic spot from geography textbooks! I personally tested that entering through the West Gate + visiting during off-peak hours truly avoids 90% of tourists, and having the entire Rainbow Mountain to myself felt amazing~ 🌟Must-see Highlights 1️⃣ West Gate Entry Guide: Make sure to navigate to "Colorful Danxia West Gate Parking Lot". You'll reach the shuttle bus station in 3 minutes after getting off, saving at least 15 minutes of unnecessary walking compared to the North Gate. 2️⃣ Golden Timetable: Enter the park at 4 PM and head straight to Viewing Platform No. 4 (arrive before 5:30 PM). This way you can avoid the large tour groups and also catch the softest light just before sunset. 3️⃣Fun Route: → Take the shuttle bus directly to Platform No. 4 for panoramic photos (recommended stay: 1 hour) → Platform No. 3 for a close-up view of the colorful hills → Platform No. 2 to see the Colorful Screen → Platform No. 1 to check in at the filming location of "A Simple Noodle Story" 📸Photo Guide ✔️The railing on the right side of Platform No. 4 is the best photo spot. ✔️Use a telephoto lens to capture the mountain textures for a more stunning effect. ✔️Wearing solid-colored clothes makes for better photos (red/white look best on camera). ⚠️Important Notes 1. Drones are prohibited within the scenic area (patrols are conducted). 2. On sunny days, make sure to wear sunglasses + sunscreen. 3. Bring enough drinking water (there are only 2 supply points on the mountain). 🍜Local Cuisine · The "Sauteed Noodles" (Saozi Mian) at "Danxia Renjia" right outside the scenic area are absolutely delicious. · "Ganzhou Alley" Food Street in Zhangye city center (40-minute drive) · Must-try: Chao Bola and Juanzi Ji (Rolled Chicken) 🏡Accommodation TIP I recommend staying at the Danxia Photography International Hotel right outside the scenic area. You can re-enter the park the next day with your room card to watch the sunrise! During the off-season, it's only 200+ RMB per person.