2025 Linze Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in March)

Winter in Dunhuang is full of surprises! 1. I didn't expect Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Moon Spring to be free; 2. I didn't expect Mogao Caves to be so easy to book, and you can see 10 caves for half price; 3. I didn't expect to be able to take travel photos and ride camels; 4. I didn't expect there to be no lines, and to be treated like a VIP everywhere; 5. I didn't expect hotels to be only a few hundred yuan; 👉Summary: Traveling to Dunhuang in winter is a real bargain~ 🚗🚗🚗About small group tours | self-driving | car rental: 1. For the eastern line, which includes Mogao Caves and Mingsha Mountain, you can just take a taxi; if you want to go to Yumen Pass and Yadan National Geological Park, you can rent a car for a day trip; 2. If you have a long holiday, you can take the Qinghai-Gansu Grand Loop, either in a small group or by renting a car; self-driving is not recommended in winter; 3. Many hotels and restaurants are open in winter, so you don't have to worry about food and accommodation, and the heating is good at night. 🎪🎪🎪Temperature and clothing, be sure to pay attention: 1. Winter coats, such as down jackets or windbreakers; 2. Hats, scarves, and gloves are essential, as there are many outdoor activities; 3. The overall temperature is relatively dry, so be sure to moisturize; 4. There is not much snow, and it is mostly sunny, so it won't affect your trip; 🌸🌸🌸If you have a long holiday, you can take a grand loop or the Hexi Corridor single line: if you have a short holiday, you can just explore Dunhuang in depth 👉👉👉Route arrangement: 🌈Dunhuang 2-3 day short trip: D1 Mogao Caves - Mingsha Mountain D2 Yang Pass - Yumen Pass - Dunhuang Yadan - Shazhou Night Market 🆘Hexi Corridor 5-day tour (Lanzhou in, Dunhuang out) D1 Lanzhou - Wuwei - Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park D2 Mati Temple - Pingshanhu Grand Canyon D3 Zhangye - Jiayuguan Great Wall - Son of the Earth - Dunhuang D4 Mogao Caves - Dunhuang Museum - Mingsha Mountain D5 Yang Pass - Yumen Pass - Dunhuang Yadan National Geological Park - Shazhou Night Market

Tracing the Hexi Corridor I was unexpectedly shocked by Zhangye Colorful Danxia It was rated as one of the "Seven Most Beautiful Danxia Landforms in China" by "China National Geography"⛰️, and the Colorful Danxia in autumn is also very beautiful🍂 The Colorful Danxia in the morning after the rain, the weather is very good🕊️ I didn't have much expectation before coming (too many online reviews) After coming, my friends and I were amazed at how beautiful the scenery is❗️ It turns out that magnificent scenery can really heal the heart🩵💛 📍Location: Zhangye Colorful Danxia Scenic Area 🎫Scenic Area Ticket: CNY 93/person (including ticket, sightseeing bus, insurance) 🎫Optional Project Fee: Hot air balloon, powered parachute, camel sightseeing, helicopter, VR, etc. Fees are based on the site ⌚️Opening Hours: 06:30–18:00 (March 1 to October 31) 07:30–17:00 (November 1 to February 28) ✅Travel Route: Colorful Danxia has three entrances, namely the North Gate, West Gate, and East Gate. The North Gate and West Gate have complete facilities (with parking lots and visitor centers). After checking the ticket, you can take the bus to the four viewing platforms in turn (enter from which gate and exit from which gate) 👉North Gate: Colorful Xianyuan Platform → Colorful Yunhai Platform → Colorful Jinxiu Platform → Colorful Hongxia Platform 👉West Gate: Colorful Yunhai Platform - Colorful Jinxiu Platform - Colorful Hongxia Platform - Colorful Xianyuan Platform (slightly adjusted order, equally wonderful) 👉East Gate: Colorful Xianyuan Platform → Colorful Yunhai Platform → Colorful Jinxiu Platform → Colorful Hongxia Platform (same route cycle beauty) 📸Photo Spots: - Viewing Platform 2: Suitable for panoramic shots, capturing the continuous Danxia landform. - Viewing Platform 4: Stunning scenery, rich colors, most tourists, with attractions such as "Turtle Asking the Sky," "Dragon Playing with Fire," and "Little Potala Palace," is an excellent location for shooting sunsets. 🌄Tips: 1. Best Travel Time: June to October each year, when the temperature is moderate and the Danxia landform is most colorful. 2. Transportation: There are direct buses from Zhangye City to the Danxia Scenic Area, or you can choose to rent a car and drive there. 3. Clothing: It is recommended to wear comfortable sports shoes and outdoor clothing for hiking and exploring.

#outdooradventures The Rainbow Mountains in Gansu Province are a surreal, colorful wonder that looks like something out of a dream. Located within the Zhangye Danxia National Geopark, these vibrant, multicolored hills are the result of millions of years of geological activity and erosion. Layer upon layer of red, orange, yellow, and green create a breathtaking, striped landscape that stretches as far as the eye can see. This natural masterpiece is a must-see for anyone looking to experience the unique and awe-inspiring beauty of China’s diverse landscapes. Travel Tips: * Visit During Sunrise or Sunset: The colors of the Rainbow Mountains are most vivid during sunrise and sunset, when the low angle of the sun accentuates the natural hues. These times also offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. * Stay Overnight in Zhangye: For a more relaxed visit, stay overnight in Zhangye city. This allows you to visit the mountains early in the morning or late in the afternoon, avoiding the midday heat and tour groups.

In the northwest of China, there is a magical place known as the "natural palette" - Zhangye Danxia. This is not just an ordinary mountain range, but a masterpiece carved by nature over billions of years. The colorful mountains change unpredictably under the sun, like a flowing oil painting. 【Must-see】 When you come here, you will be shocked by the brilliant colors in front of you. Red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and purple, each color tells a story about time and nature. 【Address】 Zhangye Danxia Scenic Area is located in Sunan Yugu Autonomous County, Zhangye City, Gansu Province. 【Transportation】 - **Self-driving**: Depart from Zhangye City, drive west along G312 National Road for about 60 kilometers, then turn into S213 Provincial Road, and then follow the road signs to easily reach Zhangye Danxia. - **Public transportation**: If you choose to travel by bus, you can take a special bus to Zhangye Danxia in Zhangye City, and the journey takes about 1 hour. Please note that the schedule may be adjusted according to the season, please consult the latest timetable in advance. 【Food Recommendations】 - **Beef noodles**: Gansu's beef noodles are famous all over the country for their unique flavor. A bowl of hot beef noodles is a warm comfort on the journey. - **Lamb skewers**: The unique grilled lamb skewers in the northwest region, the meat is delicious, fragrant but not greasy, it is a must-try food. - **Hand-grabbed rice**: Experience the bold food culture of the northwest, try the authentic hand-grabbed rice, and let your taste buds enjoy different styles. 【Nearby Attractions】 - **Binggou Danxia**: Also located in Zhangye, it has a unique style different from Zhangye Danxia, and it is another geological wonder worth visiting. - **Matisi Grottoes**: This is a long-established Buddhist grotto group, where you can not only see exquisite murals and sculptures, but also feel the profound Buddhist culture. - **Zhangye National Wetland Park**: If you like to be close to nature, then this park is definitely a good place to relax. The air here is fresh and the scenery is pleasant.

The Great Northwest (Qinghai-Gansu Grand Loop) is a land full of mystery and magnificence, with vast deserts, mirror-like salt lakes, majestic mountains, and ancient cultural relics. August and September are the best times to visit the Qinghai-Gansu Grand Loop. You must save this full guide! 1. Travel Methods You can fly to and from Xining from various places. The Great Northwest is vast, and the distances between attractions are large, with average travel times of two to three hours. If you are energetic and love freedom, self-driving is a good option to fully enjoy the scenery along the way. If you are worried about the fatigue of the journey, joining a small tour group is also great, with a driver and guide providing attentive service, making your trip worry-free and effortless. 2. Six Days and Five Nights Itinerary: - Day 1: After flying from Changsha to Xining, the first stop is Riyue Mountain to feel the weight of history. Then head to Qinghai Lake, where the blue water is as clear as a gem, reflecting the blue sky and white clouds. The winding mountain roads of Rubber Mountain offer a unique driving experience. Next, visit Chaka Salt Lake, which is like a mirror of the sky, pure and dreamy. Finally, arrive at Delingha for accommodation to recharge for the next day's journey. - Day 2: Depart from Delingha and take the U-shaped road to experience the magical charm of the highway. The unique landscape of Water Yadan is awe-inspiring, showcasing the wonders of nature. Emerald Lake is as green and beautiful as scattered emeralds. Stay overnight in Dachaidan and enjoy the tranquility of the western night. - Day 3: Depart from Dachaidan to the Silk Road ruins city, as if traveling back to the ancient Silk Road. Then arrive in Dunhuang for accommodation, and stroll through the bustling night market in the evening to taste local delicacies. - Day 4: Visit the Mogao Caves in Dunhuang, an art treasure trove that carries thousands of years of history and culture, mesmerizing visitors. Then head to Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring to experience the wonders of nature in the desert. Continue to stay in Dunhuang. - Day 5: Depart from Dunhuang, passing through Guazhou to experience the exotic western style. The grandeur of Jiayuguan is awe-inspiring, showcasing the strength of ancient military defense systems. Finally, arrive at Zhangye Danxia for accommodation, and be amazed by the colorful landforms. - Day 6: Depart from Zhangye, passing through Biandukou to enjoy the natural scenery along the way. The vast Qilian Grassland, with its lush green grass, is a great place to relax. Finally, return to Xining, ending an unforgettable journey. 3. Food Recommendations Qinghai yogurt, rich and creamy with a perfect balance of sweetness and sourness; hand-grabbed mutton, tender and juicy with a fragrant aroma; roasted lamb ribs, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside with a mouth-watering scent; apricot peel tea, refreshing and sweet, perfect for quenching thirst. These delicacies are highly recommended. 4. Must-Visit Attractions 1. Dunhuang Mogao Caves: A hall of art with exquisite murals and solemn Buddha statues, a treasure of human civilization. 2. Jiayuguan: Majestic and grand, the western starting point of the Great Wall, witnessing the vicissitudes of history. 3. Qilian Grassland: Under the blue sky and white clouds, with lush green grass and herds of cattle and sheep, it is like a beautiful painting. 4. Chaka Salt Lake: A mirror of the sky, pure and transparent, making you feel like you are in a dream world. 5. Qinghai Lake Erlangjian: Vast and shimmering, a masterpiece of nature. 6. Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring: A miracle in the desert, with sand dunes and clear springs, stunningly beautiful. 5. Precautions 1. The temperature difference in Qinghai in August and September is significant, so autumn clothing is a must. Bring a jacket, long sleeves, short sleeves, and thermal pants, and don't forget a beautiful dress for stunning photos. It's best to prepare a detachable fleece jacket that is windproof, warm, and waterproof. 2. The ultraviolet rays in the plateau area are extremely strong, so you must bring sunscreen products, including sunglasses, hats, sunscreen masks, and sunscreen lotion. The western climate is dry, so face masks are also essential. 3. Bring some common medicines in case of physical discomfort. 4. Remember to bring a power bank to avoid missing beautiful moments due to a dead phone battery. 5. Prepare comfortable shoes for easy walking when getting off the car.

Dear friends🥰, today I will bring you a 5-day and 4-night travel guide in Gansu🤩 to show you the charm of Gansu😎! Come and see with me👀💖! 🌈Day 1: After arriving in Lanzhou in the morning😜, first check in at the hotel👏🤩. In the afternoon, you can go to the Gansu Provincial Museum👀 and feel the charm of history and culture😎. 💥Introduction to attractions: Gansu Provincial Museum: Rich collection👏, showing the history and culture of Gansu👀. 🤩Reason for recommendation: Understand the history and culture of Gansu👏 and increase your knowledge😎. 🎒Must-have items: Lightweight backpack 👝, comfortable shoes 👟, camera 📷, etc. 👏. 🕰How to play specifically: Visit various exhibitions👣 to learn about the history and culture of Gansu😜; appreciate precious cultural relics👀 and feel the charm of history😎. 🍱Food recommendations: 😍Lanzhou Ramen: The noodles are chewy😝, the soup is rich👍, and the beef is tender🤤! 😍Stuffed Pizi: Smooth texture😎, delicious seasoning👏, endless aftertaste🥰! 🌈Day 2： In the morning, go to Zhongshan Bridge👀 and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Yellow River😎. 💥Introduction to attractions: Zhongshan Bridge: It is one of the landmark buildings in Lanzhou👏. 🤩Reason for recommendation: Feel the magnificence of the Yellow River👏 and enjoy the beautiful scenery🤩. 🎒Must-have items: Sunscreen 👝, sunglasses 🕶️, etc. 👏. 🕰How to play specifically: Walk on the bridge👣 and enjoy the scenery of the Yellow River😜; take photos👀 to record the beautiful moments😎. 🍱Food recommendations: 😍Gray beans: sweet taste😝, rich bean aroma👍, very delicious🤤! 😍Sweet fermented rice: sweet and sour😎, refreshing and pleasant👏, a delicious summer treat🥰! 🌈Day 3: Go to Zhangye Colorful Danxia👣 for a whole day and feel the uncanny workmanship of nature😎. 💥Introduction to attractions: Zhangye Colorful Danxia: colorful👀 and spectacular scenery😝. 🤩Reason for recommendation: Admire the unique Danxia landform👏 and feel the charm of nature🤩. 🎒Must-have items: Light clothing👚, comfortable shoes👟, sun hat👒, etc👏. 🕰How to play specifically: Stroll along the plank road👣 and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Danxia landform😜; join a hot air balloon or helicopter tour👀 to overlook the Danxia landform from the air😎. 🍱Food recommendations: 😍Fried firecrackers: chewy noodles😝, rich side dishes👍, and rich flavor🤤! 😍Braised Pork Stir-fried Crackers: The aroma of meat is overflowing😎, the taste is great👏, you can’t stop eating it🥰! 🌈Day 4: In the morning, go to Jiayuguan 👀 to learn about the history and culture 😎. 💥Introduction to attractions: Jiayuguan: It is an ancient military fortress👏. 🤩Reason for recommendation: Feel the richness of history👏 and appreciate the ancient buildings🤩. 🎒Must-have items: Curiosity👀, curiosity😜, etc.👏. 🕰How to play specifically: Visit Jiayuguan City👣 to learn about its history and culture😜; admire the ancient buildings and city walls👀 and feel the historical atmosphere😎. 🍱Food recommendations: 😍Barbecue: The meat is fresh and tender😝, the aroma is fragrant👍, and it makes people salivate🤤! 😍Roasted lamb leg: charred on the outside and tender on the inside😎, crispy in texture👏, very delicious🥰! 🌈Day 5: The last day can be freely arranged😎, you can go for a walk in the urban park👣, or go shopping in the shopping mall👏. 🤩Reason for recommendation: Relax and bring a perfect ending to this trip🤩. 🍱Food recommendations: 😍Jiayuguan Barbecue: Tender and juicy😝, rich in flavor👍, very delicious🤤! 😍Local specialties: luminous cup👀, Gansu carpet👍, Taoyan🐮, etc.👏. 💖Summary: Gansu is a charming place😎, with unique natural scenery, history and culture👏. The food here is also mouth-watering🤤, kids must come💖!

Trains from Lanzhou head west to Zhangye, where the snow-capped peaks of the Qilian Mountains are clearly visible in the distance. A thousand years ago, some people kept walking, some traveled long distances, also passing through this narrow Hexi Corridor. Zhangye·Gansu Perhaps for the Qilian Mountains, a millennium is just a moment; but now, standing at the foot of the mountains looking eastward, a moment has already crossed a thousand years. I really like the people of Zhangye, they are gentle and enthusiastic, straightforward and bold. The cuisine in Zhangye is also very rich, I really like stir-fried Baoluo with some wine, or spicy hot pot with a cup of apricot peel tea. After a good meal, I stagger to Ganzhou Park, Ganzhou Park, feeling the cool breeze of the night, watching the fiery Western Region dance performed by uncles and aunties, something seems to be ignited in my heart

Copy this 3-day tour itinerary for your first visit to Zhangye. Poetic Gansu, Colorful Zhangye. A must-visit place in Gansu travel is Zhangye! How to play in Zhangye for the first time? Just copy this 3-day tour itinerary! Day1: Lanzhou West ➡️ Zhangye West ➡️ Stay in Zhangye ➡️ Pingshan Lake Grand Canyon Day2: Zhangye ➡️ Gaotai County Dahu Bay ➡️ Zhangye Rainbow Mountains Day3: Zhangye ➡️ Sunan Matisi Grottoes Scenic Area ➡️ Minle County Silk Road Pastoral Complex ➡️ Binhe Jiuliangye Scenic Area ➡️ Return trip ⭕️ 'Zhangye Attractions': ▫️ Pingshan Lake Grand Canyon: Known as 'China's Colorado Grand Canyon', it boasts deep canyons, steep cliffs, and magnificent scenery. ▫️ Gaotai County Dahu Bay: With its picturesque lakes and scenery, taking a boat trip and climbing the tower, it's like a little Jiangnan in the northwest. ▫️ Rainbow Mountains: A must-visit in Zhangye, with its unique geological structure and colorful rock layers, like a rainbow. ▫️ Sunan Matisi Grottoes Scenic Area: A tourist destination that combines natural scenery and religious culture, the grotto temples are truly magical! ▫️ Minle County Silk Road Pastoral Complex: Experience the folk culture and rural charm of Zhangye. ▫️ Binhe Jiuliangye Scenic Area: Zhangye's 'national' ecological brand, learn about the profound historical and cultural connotations of Binhe Jiuliangye and its unique brewing process. ⭕️ 'Gourmet Strategy': When in Zhangye, don't miss out on the local cuisine. Specialty food recommendations: Fish Rubbing, Fried Cannon, Flavorful Baked Stuffed Buns, Bag Keng Lamb, Stir-Fried Bola, Zhangye Rolled Chicken, and more. Restaurant recommendations: Ganzhou Famous Eats, Sun Ji Fried Cannon, Yugur Ethnic Garden ⭕️ 'Transportation Strategy': ✈️: You can fly directly to Zhangye Ganzhou, or fly to Lanzhou and take the high-speed train from there. 🚄: Take the high-speed train from Lanzhou West for a little over 2 hours to Zhangye West For traveling in Zhangye, it is recommended to drive yourself or charter a car, customize a group tour, and of course, taking the public bus is also very convenient.

Zhangye Danxia Landform, a place that captivates the imagination, is hailed as one of the most beautiful outdoor filming locations in the world. The unique landform and vibrant colors resemble a natural painting. Here, you can experience the magical charm of nature and admire the magnificent Danxia landform scenery. The formation of Zhangye Danxia Landform is related to geological movements and the colors of the rocks. Due to the different colors of the rocks and the changes in the angle of sunlight, a splendid visual effect is created. Here, you can see various shapes and sizes of earthen forest stone pillars, colorful hills, and canyons, each with its unique beauty. Recommended Route: Qinghai, China; Gansu, China Xining—Qinghai Lake—Chaka Salt Lake—Dachaidan Emerald Lake—Dunhuang Mogao Caves—Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring—Zhangye Danxia Landform—Qilian Grassland Six Days Five Nights Tour Day 1: Xining—Sun and Moon Mountain—Daotang River—Qinghai Lake—Rubber Mountain—Chaka Salt Lake (Overnight) Day 2: Chaka Salt Lake—Qaidam Basin—Dachaidan Emerald Lake—Dachaidan (Overnight) Day 3: Dachaidan—South Eight Yadan of Qinghai—Petroleum Town—Dunhuang Ancient City—Dunhuang (Overnight) Day 4: Dunhuang Mogao Caves—Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring—Dunhuang (Overnight) Day 5: Dunhuang—Son of the Earth—Zhangye Danxia Landform—Zhangye (Overnight) Day 6: Zhangye—Biandukou—Qilian Grassland—Xining (End of the trip)

The Palette Spilled by God - The Colorful Danxia In the northwest, one can feel the charm of nature even more A romantic and dreamy breathtaking scenery The Palette Spilled by God has created the beautiful Colorful Danxia Zhangye's Colorful Danxia is a compound area of Danxia landform and hilly landscape, one of the seven most beautiful Danxia landforms in China. Like a palette on earth, whether it is sunny or rainy, it always presents an amazing landscape. With its perilous and exquisite beauty, rugged ravines, morning and evening glows Vivid lines, interlaced strata, reminiscent of the long Chang'an dresses A breathtakingly beautiful scenery with an extremely high rate of good photo shots Every photo will make you marvel at the magic of nature In the midst of a busy life, come for a feast for the eyes~

😉 Colorful Danxia, daytime, nighttime, sunny, cloudy The best time to visit Colorful Danxia is in the afternoon. In the morning, due to backlighting, it is not as beautiful as in the afternoon. The best time to view Colorful Danxia is right after the rain when the sky clears up. After being washed by the rain, the colors become more vivid and bright. However, such a moment is rare, so a sunny day is also fine. The ticket is valid for two days. On the second day, you only need to buy a bus ticket to enter. If you plan to visit again on the second day, inform the ticket seller when purchasing the ticket, and they will stamp it for the next day. Otherwise, you will need to buy a new ticket to enter on the second day. The buses stop at four viewing stations regardless of which gate you enter from, and they do not stop midway. The difference is only in the order of the stops. The shuttle buses run counterclockwise. During the visit, you can take any bus regardless of the gate you entered from, but after visiting the 4th station, you cannot take any bus randomly. You need to find the buses going to the East, West, or North gates respectively. If you take the wrong bus and exit from the wrong gate, it will be quite troublesome.

🌈The reason why the Great Northwest is one of the most popular tourist routes is that in addition to the excessively beautiful scenery, the non-repeating and surprising changes along the way are important reasons for people's fascination. 🌈 Pass through Menyuan and arrive at Zhangye, an important town in the Hexi Corridor. It is not only an important node on the Silk Road, but also the area where Zhang Qian passed through on his way to the Western Regions. Having read the history of the Han Dynasty, the moment I set foot in Zhangye, I seemed to have entered a parallel time and space. I was also shocked by the wonders in front of me. The land of more than ten square kilometers turned into God’s palette, it was like a rainbow on the ground❤️ 🌈Although the weather is gray, the camera in my hand has not stopped. Various light and shadows can be reflected from different angles. It is a pity that I cannot save such a magnificent scenery in my mobile phone. I can only use my eyes to record it as best as I can. Zhangye, the magical Danxia landform is so touching❤️ #Danxia landform that you must see in your lifetime

The colorful Danxia and the white snow crisscross and spread The sun shuttles between the canyons Winter is the off-season for tourism in the northwest, but I really recommend you to come here! ⛰【Zhangye Colorful Danxia】 Ticket: 93/person (including sightseeing car) Opening hours: 7:30-17:00 Traffic situation: The scenic area is tens of kilometers away from Zhangye city, remember to buy tickets from the north gate (if you just want to check in the Danxia landform, you can drive to the east gate, although you can't go into the main scenic area, but you can get it for free! Originally we planned to sneak in from the east gate to see the colorful Danxia and leave, but later decided to buy tickets to enter from the north gate) The colorful Danxia sightseeing car will take you to 4 scenic spots 1st viewing point: Colorful Fairy Platform Apart from being able to see the mountain up close, everything else is very ordinary 2nd viewing point: Colorful Cloud Sea Platform You need to climb up by yourself, the view from the top of the mountain is particularly beautiful! It is also the viewing platform with the best view among these scenic spots! It's worth getting off the sightseeing car to check in! 3rd viewing platform: Colorful Brocade Platform The sightseeing car driver said it was not good-looking, so only two or three of the 20 people on the sightseeing car got off to see it, our driver just drove us directly to the next scenic spot, we didn't go to see 4th viewing platform: Colorful Rainbow Platform The viewing angle is multiple and beautiful, recommended for watching the sunset! You can climb up, compared to the second viewing platform, the scenery here will be more lively! 📝Note tips: The winter activities here are basically all stopped, it's a pity not to get on the hot air balloon! There is no need to buy a deep tour during the off-season, there are not many people in winter, there are 3 more scenic spots than the ordinary tour, but the price difference is not a little bit, if you don't want to queue for the sightseeing car and don't want to take pictures, you can consider the deep tour

We made a Trip to Zhangye in Gansu province to see the spectacular rainbow mountains with our own eyes. We flew from Beijing Daxing airport and it took 2:45 hours to get to Zhangye. On arrival we found our hotel and it was just by a food market, we had lunch and breakfast here during our stay. We were five persons traveling together so we asked our hotel to arrange trips for us around Zhangye. They had a mini bus to take us around. First stop: 🌈 Rainbow mountains We had certain expectations and were not disappointed. You can actually see the colors in the mountains. Its reddish sandstone that has been eroded to create magnificent rock formations with gorgeous colors over billions of years. By entrance of the park we had to take a bus to the different viewing points. Second stop: Bingguo Danxia landform Bingguo is the lesser known Danxia in the shadow of Rainbow mountain with less colors, mainly red. However we found it extremely cool to do a 3 hour hike in this spectacular landscape. Third stop: Giant Buddha temple With the largest sleeping Buddha in China. We had a little stroll inside the temple to kill time before our train Dunhuang. #instagramworthydestinations #Rainbow mountains #china #gansu

#fallingseason The Zhangye National Geopark, located in the Gansu Province of China, is a breathtaking natural wonder and a geological treasure trove. The park is renowned for its stunning Danxia landforms, often referred to as the "Rainbow Mountains." These unique rock formations feature a vivid array of colors, including red, orange, yellow, green, and blue. The result is a mesmerizing, almost otherworldly, landscape. Zhangye National Geopark is a geological wonderland, with layers of sedimentary rocks that have been eroded over millions of years. This process has revealed the colorful layers that form the distinctive patterns seen today. The Danxia landforms have a rich geological history dating back millions of years. They provide a unique insight into the Earth's geological processes and ancient landscapes. Tips and Tricks ⁉️ 🥾Visitors can explore the park on designated walkways and platforms, allowing them to get up close to the vibrant rock formations. The park offers panoramic viewpoints, making it a photographer's paradise. 🚌Zhangye National Geopark is easily accessible for tourists, with well-maintained pathways and facilities, making it a popular destination for both domestic and international travelers. 🌈The park's appearance can vary with the seasons and the angle of the sun, providing different and equally stunning vistas throughout the year. 👀The park is also close to other attractions in the region, including the Mati Temple and the Zhangye Buddha Temple, offering visitors a well-rounded experience. #SpinTheWorld #wecreate #trip

As I stood before the majestic Mati Si, also known as the Horse Hoof Temple, I couldn't help but marvel at its uniqueness. Nestled on the rocky walls of a mountain in Zhangye, this Tibetan masterpiece stood as a testament to human artistry and devotion. Unlike any other temple I had seen before, Mati Si seemed to defy gravity itself. The temple complex was intricately carved into the rugged cliffs, seemingly hanging on to the sheer rock face. It was a sight that left me in awe of the incredible human ingenuity and determination that went into creating such a remarkable structure. As I explored the temple, the relaxed atmosphere engulfed me, transporting me into a realm of tranquility. The soft whispers of the wind caressed my face, carrying with it a sense of serenity that seemed to be inherent to this sacred place. The gentle rustling of the leaves and the distant sound of chanting monks created a symphony of peace that resonated deep within my soul. Every step I took revealed intricate details etched into the rock walls. The vibrant colors of the frescoes depicted scenes from Tibetan Buddhism, telling stories of enlightenment, compassion, and spiritual journeys. The delicate sculptures of Buddhist deities seemed to come alive, their serene expressions radiating wisdom and tranquility. As I reached the highest point of the temple, a breathtaking panoramic view unfolded before my eyes. The vast expanse of the surrounding landscape stretched out endlessly, the mountains standing tall and proud in the distance. It was a moment of pure bliss, a feeling of being connected to something greater than myself. Mati Si was not just a temple; it was a place of pilgrimage, a sanctuary for those seeking solace and spiritual awakening. The combination of natural beauty and human craftsmanship made it a place of profound significance. It was a reminder that even amidst the chaos of the world, there are sanctuaries of peace and tranquility waiting to be discovered. As I reluctantly left Mati Si, I carried with me a deep sense of gratitude for having experienced such a remarkable place. The memory of the hanging temple, the gentle whispers of the wind, and the awe-inspiring beauty would forever be etched in my heart. Mati Si truly was a hidden gem, a Tibetan masterpiece that left an indelible mark on my soul. #trip #China #chinalife #chinatravel #adventure #zhangye #danxia

Located in the Zhangye Danxia National Park of Gansu province, these colorful mountains were formed as a result of sandstorms and iron oxides. Covering 200 square miles, they have become a famous destination for many international tourists. I was inspired immersed in the this geological wonder, feeling both beauty and chaos all at once. Definitely a life changing experience! Are the rainbow mountains on your bucket list? 📍Zhangye National Geopark #awesomepic #summervacation #celebratewithtrip #nationalpark #passionpassport

My night stay in the yurts in the Rainbow Mountains was absolutely incredible. The location is unbeatable, as it's very close to the scenic spot and provides a stunning view of the stars at night. The hotpot was also a highlight, as it was delicious and provided a perfect way to warm up after a long day of hiking. The yurts were heated with electric blankets and super cozy. A shared shower and toilet yes but they were incredible clean and not far from our yurt. If you're in the region, I highly recommend visiting Jupiter Valley, also known as Extraterrestrial or Alien Valley on CTrip. The 100 RMB per person fee is well worth it, as the valley is truly a unique and otherworldly experience. The surreal landscape, with its towering rock formations and vibrant colors, is like nothing else on Earth. It's also conveniently located close to all the other spots worth seeing in the area. Overall, my night stay in the yurts and visit to Jupiter Valley were unforgettable experiences that I would highly recommend to anyone visiting the region. The stunning scenery, delicious food, and unique attractions make it a must-visit destination. #tripleblazer #roadtrip

A solo trip in Gansu is the cathartic experience you didn’t know you needed! The nature is just incredible, and you can spend a lot of time hiking 🥾

#fallingforfall the perfect trip for autumn! Pictures speak louder than words ✌️ How to get there: rental car from Xining (3-4h) What’s to see: beautiful nature and scenery Costs: 250Rmb/pP Time needed: 2-4h Don’t forget to bring your drone for some of these beautiful aerial shots 🛸 IG: andykoh_m8 #germaninchina #travellifestyle #aroundtheworld

#fallingforfall Best trip to do in autumn 🍂 Pictures speak louder than words ✌️ How to get there: rental car, from Dunhuang (3h) or Xining What’s to see: cool hotel, we’ll equipped and heated/ACd tents with comfortable beds Costs: 600/night (rmb) Time needed: weekend Don’t forget to bring your drone for some of these beautiful aerial shots 🛸 IG: andykoh_m8 #germaninchina #travellifestyle #aroundtheworld

The rainbow mountains. An UNESCO heritage sight and one of my absolute best memories from China. It is a geographic marvel of astonishing beauty. When the sun hits the mountains they really do have a rainbow pattern. You can't actually hike on or climb on the mountains but you do get several viewing platforms which allow you too see different views and perspectives of the scenery. It's less busy here than you may think, it's a well known spot but it's in remote Gansu province so it's really quite far away. It could be combined onto your 'Silk Road' trip. If you're in China these really are a must visit #china #nationalpark #naturalwonders

When visiting Zhangye, the Colorful Danxia scenic spot is a must! 📍How to get there - During my trip in Gansu, I hired a private driver. I’m not sure if you can take a bus from the city if Zhangye (I assume you can). The easiest way to get there is taking a DiDi. ⏰ Recommended time - About 2.5-3 hours. ⭐️Attraction- Beautiful colorful mountains. Before going there, I honestly wasn’t expecting much. The photos I saw were obviously photoshopped, so my expectations weren’t very high. To my surprise, the mountains are actually naturally colorful. It’s beautiful!! There’s also a bus taking you from one spot to the other so you don’t have to walk too much. 🥤Food and drinks - Quite a few options. #passionpassport #gansu #mountainview #china #naturalwonders

Getting There - Our guesthouse was close by so just 5 minutes drive to the West gate. Our tour driver took us with the bus and in the park ourselves we took the shuttle bus to the different lookout points. You can take a taxi to Danxia Geopark or you can drive yourself there's a big parking area. Put in Danxia Geopark or tell your driver that's where you want to go. Attractions - There are different lookout points to admire the beautiful mountains. There's a shuttle bus that takes you around to the different scenic spots. You can also take a hot air balloon ride if you're up for it. Hotels - There are hotels in the nearby surrounding area. We stayed at the Kaoshan Self-driving Guesthouse in Yurts which was an amazing experience and so conveniently close to the West entrance. Food & Restaurants - There are restaurants at the entrance/exit what you can explore or buy some refreshments. Shopping - There's a lot of stalls to buy souvenirs and places to buy food and drinks. #silkroad #summervacation #danxiageopark #rainbowmountains

Address - You can get a train to Linze and them get a driver from there. If you take your own car you can type in Kaoshan Self-driving guesthouse. We went with a tour so our tour bus to us to the camp. Ambiance/Facilities - The yurts are big, beds are comfortable, there's a big yurt where you go for breakfast and you can eat lunch or dinner. We had some hot pot which was really good when we areived late at night. You have to share a bathroom but it's clean and got all the amenities that you need, powerful air dryer which I loved. Highlights - Sleeping in yurts next to the Rainbow mountains! It was awesome! Whar a great experience, will recommend ot to anyone! Avg. Price per Person - Between 280-400 yuan, depends on the type of yurt you want and the season you plan to go. Rating - 5/5 #summervacation #silkroad #rainbowmountains

The Rainbow Mountains, or Zhangye Danxia, are a must see in China. On a cloudless day, the colours of the mountains is breathtaking. The landscape formations are truly beautiful and at first don't seem real. During your journey through the park, the best really is saved for last where the iconic photographs of the landscape can be captured. To preserve the mountains and prevent erosion, you are very much limited to the boardwalks and paths which are clearly laid out and transport through the park is done by buses with multiple drop off points. Getting There - Zhangye Danxia Landform Geological Park is about a 30-minute car ride from the city of Zhangye in Gansu Province. It’s also possible to get to the park by bus from Zhangye. Getting to Zhangye City - The most convenient way to get to Zhangye is by air or by train. Trains are available from most major cities including Shanghai, Hangzhou, Chengdu, Xi'an, Lanzhou and Beijing. Direct flights to Zhangye are possible from Xi'an and Lanzhou. Attractions - Whilst in the geopark there are multiple stops from start to finish. If camel rides and hot air balloons interest you, rides on both are available although they are not a necessity to fully experience the landscape. Accommodation - A variety of accommodation is available outside of the park ranging from hotels to camping. - Camping: Kaoshan Tent Zhangye - Hostel: The Silk Road Travelers Hostel - Hotel: Holiday Inn Express Zhangye Shopping - At the tourism centre there a several shops where souvenirs can be bought. #rainbowmountains #zhangye #gansu #张掖丹霞 #甘肃 #china #mountainview #createwithtrip #naturewonders

Address - Kaoshan tent, Danxia Geological Park Ximenkou Xiangxi 600 Mi, Linze Zhangye Gansu China Ambiance/Facilities - The vibe here is extremely relaxed, suitable for couples and families. Each ‘tent’ is extremely secure, with a lock and key. The showers and toilets are cleaned regularly and provide toilet paper, towels and slippers. Highlights - The evening barbecue has a fantastic vibe and community feel to it. There’s a selection of meat, vegetables and tofu that you can choose to DIY BBQ. The customer service is great, not only is the upkeep of the area fantastic, but the manager is extremely helpful organising transport and tours in the surrounding area. Avg. Price per Person - a twin room is around 300rmb Rating - 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 we enjoyed our stay here so much we extended to 2 nights #campingglamping

Getting There - take the bullet train to Zhangye railway station. Danxia scenic area is about 45 minute drive west from the city. Attractions - Danxia scenic area- rainbow mountains. this is an area of natural beauty which can partly be explored on foot (limited trails) and by hop on hop off tour bus. To buy your ticket you must bring your passport. The best times to go are sunrise and sunset! Hotels - we stayed at Kaoshan tents which are walking distance from this scenic area. The tents have fans, locks on the doors and towels and slippers provided. The showers and toilets are cleaned regularly making this a great ‘glamping’ experience. Food & Restaurants - We ate at Kaoshan tents as a great buffet breakfast was provided (waffles, eggs, Chinese options). In the evening, at an extra cost, you can have a DIY buffet barbecue which was a highlight of our stay. #campingglamping