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

🏔️ Why Choose Southwest Gansu? ✓ Price Reality ▸ Accommodation: Tibetan guesthouse ¥80/night vs. Tibet's ¥400+ for similar ▸ Food: Hand-torn mutton ¥40/jin vs. Tibet's ¥70+ ▸ Tickets: 90% attractions free or under ¥50 vs. Tibet's ¥200+ fees ✓ Off-the-Beaten-Path Yet Developed: Good roads (accessible by sedan), high Mandarin proficiency (no language barrier), authentic Tibetan culture with minimal commercialization 📍 Precise Location: Core area of southwest Gansu 🔥 Top Destinations: - Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture (Xiahe/Hezuo/Luqu/Maqu) - Linxia Prefecture (Bingling Temple Grottoes) 🚩 Key Geography: Gannan sits at the northeastern edge of the Tibetan Plateau, averaging 3,000m altitude (lower than Tibet, reducing altitude sickness risk) 🚌 Budget Transport Tips Route | Recommendation | Cost/Duration Lanzhou→Gannan | Bus from Lanzhou South Station to Hezuo (transport hub) | ¥75, 3hrs Gannan Circuit | Charter car from Hezuo for grasslands/temples (5-seater ¥400/day) | ~¥80/person/day Hidden Gems Access | Hezuo→Gahai Lake in Luqu County (bus ¥25) | 1.5hrs ✅ TIP: Download "Gannan Travel" APP for county bus schedules - 60% cheaper than chartering! 🌄 5 Severely Underrated Divine Experiences 10 【Free Wonderland】Awancang Wetland - Hundreds of serpentine Yellow River channels visible from observation deck (Free!) - Pro shot: Sunrise photos from western hillside with morning mist, prayer flags & smoke 20 【Tibet Alternative】Labrang Monastery - World's longest prayer wheel corridor (3.5km, ¥40 vs. Tibet's ¥200+ for comparable temples) - Hidden experience: Observe 6am monk chanting sessions (quiet participation allowed) 30 【Nordic Forest】Zecha Stone Forest - Plateau's only stone canyon (¥35), hike among bizarre peaks & streams - Pro route: Horseback to Fairy Lake (bargain to ¥80/hr vs. Tibet's ¥300+) 40 【Millennium Grottoes】Bingling Temple - 169 caves of Western Qin murals carved into Yellow River cliffs (¥50, 90% fewer visitors than Mogao) - Access: Speedboat from Liujiaxia Reservoir (¥110 round-trip) 50 【Hidden Grasslands】Sangke Grassland Depths - Avoid tourist zones, reach herder settlements (navigate to "Gesar Tent Camp") - Experience: Fresh yak milk ¥5/bowl, pasture tents ¥50/person ▶ Must-Eat List - Daoshihe: Mutton-stuffed sheep stomach (Luqu street stalls ¥35, feeds two) - Tibetan buns: Juicy yak meat filling (Xiahe market ¥10/basket) - Juecong rice: Wild ginseng fruit with butter (Tibetan restaurants ¥15) ⚠️ Avoid: "Tibetan experience" restaurants near attractions - prices double! Local markets rule. 💡 Worth It: Charter costs dominate, but remote grasslands require private transport! ⚠️ Bloody Lesson Guide 10 Fake Goods: Temple "blessed dzi beads" are often Yiwu products. Buy at Xiahe Ethnic Market (bargain under ¥30) 20 Altitude Sickness: Don't wash hair first night! Stay below 2,500m (Hezuo/Linxia) 30 Charter Scams: Clarify "driver's meals/lodging included" in contracts to avoid hidden fees 📆 Best Season & Gear ✅ Golden Periods: June-August (greenest grasslands), late September (autumn stone forests) 🎒 Essential Gear: - Sun protection trio: Plateau UV is extreme! - Hand sanitizer (scarce restrooms) - Foldable kettle (rare in guesthouses) Southwest Gansu is like time-forgotten jade—here, prayer wheels creak clearer than Tibet's, grassland hoofprints run wilder than Inner Mongolia's, and butter tea costs just ¥3. Unlock 200% of Tibet's soul for 1/5 the price. Time to go!

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I drifted to sleep while the old boat was pushing lazily against the current; after more than an hour I was surrounded by a magical forest of stone, surreal spires piercing the clouds, as if trying to scratch the blue of the sky. Was this a dream? I got off the boat and started walking deeper into the canyon, huge yellow walls on both sides, and a drowning forest in the midst of the gorge. After a few hundred meters I saw him, a giant Buddha; it looked like it was tired and decided to sit, leaning against one of the walls of the canyons. He must have been very tired because he has been sitting like this for a few hundred years. Bingling Si is located where the silty waters of the Yellow River meet the clear mirror of the Lujiaxia reservoir. You can take a slow or a fast boat from the Lujiaxia dam to reach it. It’s an ancient place with numerous displays of Buddhist art, including a giant Buddha statue. #historicplaces

Went to Yongjing, Gansu for 2 days. The main reason to go here is the Bingling Si (Bingling Temple) We took the boat across the reservoir to see the temple, but that was a mistake. I highly recommend skipping the boat transport and just hire a car to drive you there. The boat system is not good unless you have a large group/family. And the boat captain determines how much time you have at the temple. The temple had construction as of August 2020 so you are limited to what you can do and see there. I felt frustrated and disappointed as this was not told to us by anyone. If I would have known, I would have skipped this and chose to spend my time seeing something else. Yongjing is a nice small city. We walked around the old town and explored the area. We asked our hotel and taxi driver for the biggest and best shopping mall. They both recommended the same place. We wanted to go there because we assumed we could find a nice restaurant to try, but no. The “big” mall was mostly empty. the first floor had some shops open, but about 70% of the mall was empty or closed. We continued walking around the streets looking for a place to eat. The most popular restaurant according the dianping app, closes at 4:00pm. So we just tried some random Sichuan style restaurant and it was amazing! 👍🏼 After that, we dropped some stuff at our hotel and asked the hotel about any interesting areas or parks. The hotel lady recommended we cross the bridge and check out the massive flower park. Crossing the bridge we could see a lot of the area was flooded. The heavy rains have caused the river water to rise and it covered a lot of the land. However, we continued across and saw very large displays of flowers. Some of the flower areas were also flooded and roped off, but you can still see a lot of wonderful flower displays. #gansu #yongjing #lanzhou #xiahe #china #sichuan #buddha #temple #flowers #peaceful #binglingsi

Yongjing, a seriously underrated treasure town, hides grotto art comparable to the Mogao Caves and stunning Yellow River landscapes 🎨 Only 1.5 hours from Lanzhou, with fewer crowds, beautiful scenery, and free admission, please keep this 2-day travel guide! . 🚗 Itinerary Planning DAY 1: Lanzhou → Liujiaxia Reservoir → Dinosaur Geopark → Jingwei Distinct Confluence Viewing Point → Yellow River Flower Embankment (night tour) DAY 2: Bingling Temple Grottoes → Yellow River Three Gorges → Luojia Cave Temple → Gangou Temple Grand Canyon (optional) . ✅ Must-Visit List 1️⃣ Bingling Temple Grottoes ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ See a thousand years of grotto art for 50 yuan, with exquisite Northern Wei polychrome sculptures in special caves (highly recommend caves 169/172) 2️⃣ Liujiaxia Reservoir ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Boat tour on the azure lake, with a magnificent dam flood discharge (best value free attraction) 3️⃣ Yellow River Three Gorges ⭐⭐⭐⭐ A landscape painting of loess stone forests and the Yellow River, even more stunning from aerial views 4️⃣ Luojia Cave Temple ⭐⭐⭐⭐ A Ming Dynasty temple built on a cliff, with well-preserved grotto Buddha statues . 📸 Photo Guide ▪ Yellow River Flower Embankment: Purple vervain flower sea in July + Yellow River background, like being in Provence ▪ Jingwei Distinct Confluence: Capture the magical moment of the blue and yellow river waters meeting with a telephoto lens ▪ Grotto Walkway: Shoot silhouettes with the grottoes as the background for a full artistic vibe . 🍲 Food Tips ▫ Hand-pulled lamb with Sanpaotai: refreshing and healthy ▫ Highland barley cake: crispy, sweet, perfect as travel snacks ▫ Yellow River big carp: freshly caught from the reservoir, incredibly tender . 💎 Practical Advice 🔸 Recommend combining with Baolong Mountain, White Pagoda Temple, and other attractions to extend your trip 🔸 Large temperature difference between morning and evening, bring a light jacket 🔸 Please follow cultural relic protection regulations when visiting the grottoes

Only 1.5 hours by car from Lanzhou, Yongjing is definitely an excellent choice for a summer family getaway to beat the heat! 🌊 This small town boasts the Yellow River Three Gorges and Liujiagxia Reservoir, along with stunning grotto culture and dinosaur relics. The average temperature in midsummer is over 20℃, making it perfect for family trips 👨‍👩‍👧 . 🚌 Transportation Guide ✈️ Flight: Direct to Lanzhou Airport, then transfer by bus/car rental for 1.5 hours to Yongjing 🚗 Self-driving: All paved roads from Lanzhou, with beautiful scenery along the way . 🎯 2-Day Itinerary 𝐃𝐚𝐲 1: Lanzhou → Liujiagxia Reservoir (High Gorge Flat Lake) → Dinosaur Geopark (free science education) → Jingwei Distinct Viewpoint (Yellow River wonder) → Yellow River Flower Embankment (dreamy flower sea) 𝐃𝐚𝐲 2: Yellow River Three Gorges → Bingling Temple Grottoes (must-see special caves) → Luojia Dong Temple (hanging ancient temple) → Return trip . 🌟 Highlights Recommendation 🔹 Bingling Temple Grottoes A World Cultural Heritage site! The 20-meter-high Maitreya Buddha is breathtaking, and the well-preserved Northern Wei murals in caves 169/172 are artistic treasures (special cave ticket 300 RMB, photography prohibited ❌) 🔹 Liujiagxia Reservoir Known as the "Erhai of Gansu," the blue lake against the loess plateau is stunning, with a full-score boat experience ⛵ 🔹 Dinosaur Geopark Dinosaur skeletons and footprint fossils, a free science education base that kids will scream for 🦕 🔹 Yellow River Boundary Line For just 3 RMB, you can see the amazing scene where the clear and turbid waters of the Tao River and Yellow River meet—a must-visit for family science education! . 🏨 Accommodation Recommendation Yongjing Yellow River Pearl Hotel: Enjoy a five-star experience for just over 100 RMB per person, with very convenient parking . 🍜 Food Highlights ▪ Wensheng Hand-Pulled King: Locals highly recommend the hand-pulled lamb, tender and not gamey ▪ Zuhai'er Copper Pot Hotpot: Barley cakes paired with freshly sliced lamb, warm and comforting . 💡 Travel Tips ✅ For families, private car tours are recommended; travel time between attractions is 15-30 minutes ✅ Walking is required in the grotto area; sports shoes and drinking water are advised ✅ Verbena blooms on the flower embankment in July and August, perfect for photos 📸

! The Yellow River and Tao River meet here but do not merge! 🤯 This seriously underrated small city in Northwest China, Yongjing, hides so many surprises you wouldn't expect! Follow me to explore this "Yellow River Pearl"～ 📍Location: Yongjing County, Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu Province 🚗Transportation: Only 1.5 hours driving from Lanzhou! Super convenient! 🏡Recommended accommodations: Jinghu Wild Luxury Homestay, Bingling Residence (open the window to see the lake view! Absolutely stunning!) 🍜Must-try foods: Tender hand-pulled lamb, refreshing niangpi (cold skin noodles), rich gaiwan tea (local divine delicacies!) ✨Must-visit attractions✨ 1️⃣ Confluence of the Yellow and Tao Rivers: Nature's "Yin-Yang Hotpot"🌊 Near Liujiaxia Dam, witness the magical meeting of the Yellow River (clear water) and Tao River (muddy water) that do not blend! Climb the viewing platform for perfect photos! 📸 📍Exact location: Near Liujiaxia Dam, 15 km from Yongjing County ⏰Best time to visit: Early spring (most vivid color contrast!) 2️⃣ Bingling Temple Grottoes: A millennium of Buddhist art treasure🕊 A thousand-year-old grotto built during the Western Qin period! The 216 niches and over 800 Buddha statues amazed me! The murals are eternally stunning! 📍Address: 35 km west of Yongjing County, north bank of the Yellow River 🎫Ticket reference: 65 RMB/person 💡Must-see: The millennium-old Western Qin inscription in Cave 169! 3️⃣ Taiji Island: Jiangnan beyond the Great Wall🌿 Reeds swaying, egrets flying! Cycling or strolling here feels like being in the water towns of Jiangnan! 📍Address: East bank of the Yellow River, Yongjing County 🎫Admission: Free! Free! 👗Outfit tip: Wear light-colored dresses for fairy-like photos! 4️⃣ Dinosaur Footprint Park: A billion-year time imprint🦕 Home to the largest dinosaur footprints from the Cretaceous period! Walking among the fossils instantly transports you back to the dinosaur era! 📍Address: Yanguoxia Town, Yongjing County ⏰Opening hours: 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM 🔍Great for kids' science education! Fun and learning combined～ 5️⃣ Yellow River Three Bends: The most beautiful riverbank in Northwest China💙 An 8 km winding riverbank! Golden Bay, Blue Bay... Watching the sunset from the swing is breathtaking! 📍Address: Dongfeng Village, Sanyuan Town, Yongjing County 📸Photo tip: The evening light is the softest! 💯Best travel time: June to August (the grasslands are most beautiful! Wildflowers bloom!) Late September (autumn colors dye the stone forest! Absolutely stunning!) Tips: 1. Self-driving is recommended, as attractions are far apart～ 2. Bring sunscreen! UV rays are strong in Northwest China! 3. Wear comfortable shoes, some spots require walking～ Promise me! Next time you come to Northwest China, you must visit Yongjing! The scenery here will definitely make you say "Tai Ku La" (super cool)! 🔥

🚗 Transportation Options ➊ By Land Drive 2.5 hours from Lanzhou directly to the site; just navigate to "Bingling Temple Grotto Parking Lot." ✨ Advantages: Flexible timing, allowing a complete visit to all special grottoes without regrets! ✨ Disadvantages: The last 11 kilometers are mountain roads as challenging as "Akina Mountain," so sedans should proceed with caution, especially during the rainy season when road conditions are more complicated. ➋ By Water Take a speedboat from Liujiaxia Pier; the small speedboat takes 1 hour (thrilling ride cutting through the waves!), while the large boat takes 2 hours, allowing you to leisurely enjoy the scenery on both sides. ✨ Advantages: You can also witness the spectacular "Yellow River Qinghuang Confluence," checking off two beautiful sights in one trip. ✨ Fatal Disadvantage: Only 1.5 hours are allowed at the grotto, which is not enough time to visit the special grottoes! Heartfelt advice: Really want to check out Grotto 169? Trust me, choose land travel! 🎫 Ticket Information Alert - Regular grotto ticket: 50 RMB/person (photography allowed 📸, great value) - Special grotto ticket guide: · Grotto 169 + Grotto 172 "Double King Combo": 300 RMB/person (a must-see! You can see Western Qin statues and Tang Dynasty flying apsaras, extremely valuable) · Choose one from Northern Wei special grottoes: 80-90 RMB/person (recommend Grotto 128, which has exquisite Ming Dynasty murals) ⚠️ To visit all special grottoes, the total cost is 530 RMB, including guided services! Tickets can be purchased at the window on the left side of the ticket inspection area. 🚶‍♂️ 2-Hour Fast-Paced Tour Route Regular grotto corridor (no iron mesh blocking, very visually striking) → 27-meter Tang Dynasty Great Buddha (look up at the restored golden body, very impressive) → Climb the "Hell Staircase" to Grotto 169 (wooden stairs tilted at 70°, so steep your legs will go weak!) → Cross the bridge to see the Reclining Buddha → Head to the Huangtao Confluence viewing platform (pay 9.9 RMB to capture the "Mandarin Duck Pot" style Yellow River two-color wonder) 📸 Perfect Photo Spots | Secret Divine Perspectives 1️⃣ Shoot upward from the foot of the Great Buddha: Use a wide-angle lens aimed at the sky! The Buddha’s head floating in the air creates a sense of pressure, making you instantly look like the hero of a martial arts film. 2️⃣ Overlook the stairs of Grotto 169: Capture the scene where the red rock canyon and the turquoise Yellow River intertwine (⚠️ Note: photography is strictly prohibited inside the special grottoes). 3️⃣ Huangtao Confluence glass viewing platform: Best light at 4 PM! The collision of green and golden river waters forms a "Y"-shaped pattern, resembling lightning ⚡️. ✨ Dressing Tips: Wear a caramel-colored shawl! It matches the Danxia landform colors, and paired with gold accessories, it instantly enhances the Buddhist atmosphere. ⚠️ Pitfall Avoidance Guide | Altitude Sickness + Taboo Life-Saving Reminders 💥 Physical Precautions - When climbing the special grotto stairs, going down backward is safer! Tested personally—climbing up normally makes your legs so weak you want to kneel. - The altitude here is over 2000 meters, with intense UV rays and strong sun exposure! Be sure to bring arm sleeves, apply sunscreen, and carry Huoxiang Zhengqi liquid—I personally saw a young lady faint from heatstroke 😭. 🙏 Behavioral Taboos Reminder ❌ Photography is strictly forbidden inside the special grottoes! Secretly taking photos may get you "invited for tea" by staff. All my photos were taken outside the special grottoes. ❌ Do not touch the Buddha statues; respecting cultural relics is a basic rule. ❤️ A Soul-Stirring Moment When seeing the "Jianhong First Year" inscription in Grotto 169, the guide shone a flashlight on the rock wall and said, "Look! This is a mark left in 420 AD—" The knife marks from the Western Qin period seemed to cut through 1600 years of time, instantly sending chills down my spine. History truly has warmth. 【Grottoes are never ordinary attractions but time-space cracks connecting the past and present】

Escape the crowds and quietly enjoy the pristine and pure Tibetan landscapes. The grasslands turn golden, the canyon forests are painted in vibrant colors, and the temples appear even more serene in the autumn mist. The scenery is stunning and the crowds are minimal! Autumn enhances the richness of Tibetan culture, making it perfect for a peaceful and immersive experience. Transportation Options: - **By Plane**: Fly directly to Lanzhou Zhongchuan International Airport to save time. - **By High-Speed Rail/Train**: Arrive at Lanzhou West Station or Lanzhou Station. Though it takes longer, it’s more economical and allows you to enjoy the scenery along the way. Temperature & Clothing Guide: - **September**: 6°C-18°C (Significant temperature difference between day and night!) - Recommended attire: Windbreaker + fleece inner layer + long-sleeve quick-dry shirt + light down jacket (mornings and evenings are chilly). - **October**: -2°C-12°C (Possibility of early snow in high-altitude areas). - Recommended attire: Thick down jacket + sweater + thermal underwear + windproof pants + woolen hat + scarf. In high-altitude areas, sudden snow or hail is possible, so be sure to bring a windbreaker and warm inner layers! Must-Visit Attractions: - **Labrang Monastery**: Known as the world’s Tibetan academic hub, it features the longest prayer wheel corridor in the world. - Ticket: ¥40/person. - **Sangke Grassland**: In autumn, the golden grass stretches endlessly, with winding rivers and herds of cattle and sheep, resembling a miniature version of Hulunbuir. - **Zagana**: A secluded paradise surrounded by rocky cliffs, offering a temporary escape from urban chaos. - Ticket: ¥80/person. - **Flower Lake**: Known as China’s most beautiful wetland, it’s a place to encounter protected animals like the black-necked crane. - Ticket + shuttle bus: ¥105/person. - **Liujiashixia Yellow River Confluence**: Surprisingly, the clear green water is the Yellow River, while the muddy and turbulent flow is the Tao River. The two streams meet but "refuse to merge," creating a geographical wonder akin to "water and fire coexisting." - **Langmu Temple**: Dubbed "Little Switzerland of the East," this small town is surrounded by mountains, perfect for leisurely strolls and experiencing a slow-paced lifestyle. - Ticket: ¥30/person. Accommodation Recommendations: 1. **Lanzhou City**: A hub with diverse hotel options. 2. **Hezuo City**: Well-equipped facilities and convenient transportation. 3. **Xiahe County**: Offers various unique accommodations, including guesthouses, tents, and campsites. 4. **Diebu County**: Located half an hour’s drive from Zagana, with relatively good infrastructure. 5. **Langmu Temple Town**: Close to Langmu Temple scenic area, with convenient transportation. 6. **Tangke Town**: Ideal for watching the sunset at the first bend of the Yellow River, just a 10-minute drive away. 7. **Jiuzhi County**: Near the Lotus Treasure Leaf Scenic Area, with diverse accommodation options. Will you experience altitude sickness in Gannan? Gannan has an average altitude of 3,000 meters, making it a "friendly" Tibetan area. Generally, altitude sickness is unlikely. However, some people may experience mild symptoms within the first two to three days. Maintaining a positive mindset is crucial. Lanzhou · Gansu Gannan · Gansu Zagana · Diebu Labrang Monastery Ganjia Secret Land

Visit Gannan in September-October! Dive into a golden fairy tale and encounter breathtaking autumn scenery If there’s any place that can make your heart skip a beat at first sight in autumn, Gannan definitely counts! From September to October, it feels as if God has spilled a palette here—the grasslands are covered in molten gold, the red walls of temples stand out vividly, the Yellow River glistens with turquoise, and the forests are dyed orange and red. Every glance is a surprise, and walking through it feels like stepping into a golden dream blending faith and nature~ Gannan Weather & Dressing Tips • Weather characteristics: The key is the huge temperature difference between day and night! Daytime temperatures range from about 10-20°C, but at night they can suddenly drop to 0-5°C; mostly sunny with occasional showers, so be sure to check the short-term weather forecast before traveling. • Dressing suggestions: ◦ Choose “onion-style layering”: wear a windproof jacket or lightweight down jacket on the outside, a warm sweater in the middle, and a breathable long-sleeve T-shirt inside, so you can add or remove layers according to the temperature. ◦ Must-have items: windproof jacket, warm hat, scarf, gloves to handle cold nights and occasional windy days; shoes should be non-slip, waterproof hiking boots or sneakers suitable for outdoor terrain. ◦ Special reminder: The plateau’s UV rays are very strong, so bring sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen to avoid sunburn. Must-Visit Autumn Attractions • Zhagana: In the early morning, mist wraps around jagged giant rocks, and sunlight shines on the roofs of Tibetan villages, resembling Middle-earth from The Lord of the Rings. It’s recommended to hike to Fairy Beach and overlook the entire village and autumn scenery from a high vantage point—an absolutely stunning view. • Langmu Temple: A small town spanning the two provinces of Gansu and Sichuan, with Saichi Temple in Gansu and Gerdie Temple in Sichuan facing each other across the river. In the morning, you can witness the sky burial’s incense burning ceremony, and at dusk, the sunset makes the temple’s golden roofs shine brilliantly—perfect for photography. • Sangke Grassland: The summer greenery fades, and the grassland dons a golden coat. Herdsmen drive sheep back to their tents, embodying the leisurely autumn vibe. Here you can ride horses or sit quietly watching the clouds roll by, feeling the vastness of the world. • Flower Lake: In autumn, the lake surface is like a mirror, with yellowed meadows reflecting the water. Migratory birds pause here briefly during their southward journey. Standing by the lake to capture light and reflections, every frame looks like an oil painting. • Labrang Monastery: Follow the Tibetans clockwise around the prayer wheels to truly feel the power of faith. The red walls and white towers look even more solemn and serene against the autumn leaves. The chanting from the Buddhist college drifts on the wind, bringing inner peace. • Liujiasha Yellow River Confluence: The vastness of the Loess Plateau meets the clear tributaries of the Yellow River, forming a distinct “half-clear, half-muddy” boundary. A drone shot reveals a spectacular scene that is truly breathtaking. • First Bend of the Yellow River: Climb the viewing platform to see the Yellow River winding like a ribbon across the grassland. At sunset, the entire valley is dyed golden-red, and the afterglow sparkles on the river surface—so beautiful it leaves you speechless. • Milarepa Buddha Pavilion: The only pavilion in the country dedicated to Milarepa. From the top, you can overlook the entire city of Hezuo. The murals and Buddha statues inside are exquisitely detailed, full of Tibetan cultural charm. Accommodation Recommendations • Zhagana: Choose Tibetan-style guesthouses (such as Yun Jing Ye She), where you can see snow-capped mountains and autumn forests right from your window, immersing yourself in Tibetan local culture. • Langmu Temple: Prioritize boutique inns in the town (such as Luqu Secret Realm Langmu Temple), close to the temple for easy access to morning mist or sunset photography. • Xiahe (around Labrang Monastery): Recommended Tibetan culture-themed hotels (such as Tianzhu International), offering a cultural atmosphere and comfortable accommodation. • Ruoergai/Tangke: Choose scenic hotels near the First Bend of the Yellow River (such as Yuntu Starry Ranch), where you can stargaze at night and conveniently watch the sunrise in the morning. Important Notes 1. Gannan’s average altitude is over 3,000 meters. First-time visitors should avoid strenuous exercise and prepare glucose oral solutions in advance to alleviate possible altitude sickness. 2. Respect local religious customs: walk clockwise around prayer wheels, do not wear hats or take photos inside temples, and avoid pointing at Buddha statues with your fingers. 3. Some mountain roads have many bends and complex conditions. It is recommended to rent a car or drive an SUV, and prepare snow chains to handle possible rain or snow. 4. The National Day holiday is a small peak season for autumn travel in Gannan. Be sure to book hotels and vehicles in advance to avoid last-minute shortages. If you missed Gannan in summer, don’t let this golden September-October slip away!

🚗 Small Loop Itinerary Day 1: Lanzhou—Ganga Secret Land—Labrang Monastery Day 2: Xiahe—Sangke Grassland—Guomang Wetland—Langmusi Day 3: Langmusi—Ruoergai Flower Lake—First Bend of the Yellow River—Tangke/Ruoergai Day 4: Tangke—Zagana Day 5: Zagana—Milarepa Buddha Pavilion—Lanzhou City (end of trip) ♥ Scenery: Along the way, you'll see mountains and grasslands, with endless greenery that never gets boring even after days of travel. One grassland is dotted with small yellow flowers, while another is filled with clusters of purple blooms. The vegetation on one mountain differs from another, with varying shades of green. Driving through this landscape is incredibly refreshing. ❤ Rock's Road: Navigate from Zagulu Town to Zagana. Driving in reverse direction avoids traffic jams. The forward route is downhill, while the reverse is uphill. The highest pass reaches an altitude of 4,000 meters. Road construction is underway, with the worst sections being the pothole-ridden areas before and after the "bomb crater" stretch. Otherwise, the road is decent. Along the way, you'll encounter clouds, green trees, cliffs, rocky mountains, and even small animals. The best scenery is often on the road itself. ❤ Zagana: Not as stunning as expected; the scenery isn't significantly better than what you see along the way. If you can wake up early, climb the observation deck at dawn to see the misty clouds, which might give you a sense of a "hidden paradise." The scenic area shuttle bus costs 40 yuan, and if you want to go further, you'll need to ride a horse (expensive). Book accommodations in advance (also pricey, with facilities not matching the cost). ❤ Mini Duku Highway: Highly recommended! Route: Zagana—Tiebu Town—Bengba Village—Ruoergai Flower Lake, mainly along County Road 550, known as the "Mini Duku Highway." You'll pass through Tibetan villages, streams, alpine meadows, valleys, and eventually reach vast grasslands. The scenery changes with every stretch of the journey. ❤ Flower Lake: Expansive wetlands, blue skies, white clouds, and flying birds—absolutely beautiful. Some travel guides say Flower Lake isn't worth visiting, but I found it to be a hidden gem. ❤ Ruoergai: A vast, flat grassland where you can see herders offering horseback rides and marmots along the roadside. The Yellow River meanders through the grassland. Take a super-long escalator to the top to watch a breathtaking sunset. ❤ Ganga Secret Land: Navigate to Yishi Secret Land, where you'll find towering white stone cliffs in the distance and sprawling grasslands underfoot. However, the narrow roads require skilled driving for passing vehicles. ❤ Monasteries: Tibetan-style architecture with golden rooftops glistening in the sunlight. The contrasting colors of the outer walls exude a strong sense of faith and aesthetic beauty. It's a serene escape to experience the cultural and spiritual charm. ♡ Other Notes: The 5-day itinerary feels a bit rushed, leaving little time to fully explore some grasslands. On the last day, I missed visiting the Bingling Temple Grottoes. Some sections of the route reach altitudes of 3,900–4,000 meters, causing mild altitude sickness. I also didn't get to visit Lianbao Yeze. These regrets will have to wait for another trip.

Here is the stunning travel route👇 🌈DAY1: Huang-Tao Confluence Viewing Platform 📍 Bingling Temple World Cultural Heritage Tourism Area, Yongjing County ✨The breathtaking spectacle of the Yellow River and Tao River converging, with a clear dividing line at the confluence—perfect for photos! Anduo Cooperative Monastery Milarepa Buddha Pavilion 🏨 Stay: Langqin Tent Camp 📍 ✅Window views of cattle and sheep + starting point of the Rock Road + hearty breakfast 🌈DAY2: Starting Point of Jiangdie Road 📍 G248 (Jiangni section), Zhuoni County 🚗 The scenery along the way is stunning beyond words! Every snap is a masterpiece 🏨 Stay: Fengshe | A guesthouse with all room types offering views of the sunrise over the main peak of Zhagana 📍 Yiwa Town, Zhagana Administrative Village ✨All room types have views of the Zhagana main peak sunrise🌄! 🌈DAY3: Ruoergai Huahu Ecotourism Area 📍 National Highway 213, Ruoergai County 💦 Ticket 103 RMB | Limited-time beauty of grasslands + lakes + flower seas 🏨 Stay: Ruoergai Shangheshuji Guesthouse 🌿 An eco-friendly guesthouse to experience grassland life 🌈DAY4: Gemo Monastery 📍 Aba County 🙏 A sacred site of Tibetan Buddhism, the Vajra Mandala is stunning 🏨 Stay: Aba Zunge·Zhouyue Hotel 💎 Clean and comfortable, a great place to rest on the plateau 🌈DAY5: Lianbaoyeze Scenic Area 📍 Aba County 🏔️ "The magical world of the East," with towering giant stones that are awe-inspiring Aba Namo Grand Canyon 🌊 Unique canyon scenery, perfect for hiking and adventure 🏨 Stay: Luqu Langmusi Jincheng Inn 🛏️ Newly opened modern inn 🌈DAY6: Labrang Monastery, the Tsinghua and Peking University of Tibetan Buddhism 📍 Xiahe County 🏨 Stay: Puyan Hotel, West Station, Lanzhou Old Street ✨ Rustic and elegant, stroll the old street, near Yellow River Tower, convenient high-speed rail to the airport 🔥Must-Visit TOP 5: 1️⃣ Lianbaoyeze Scenic Area | Magical Stone City 2️⃣ Ruoergai Huahu | Grassland Flower Sea Wonderland 3️⃣ Huang-Tao Confluence | Spectacle of Two Rivers Meeting 4️⃣ Namo Grand Canyon | Natural Oxygen Bar 5️⃣ Gemo Monastery & Labrang Monastery | Tibetan Buddhist Sacred Sites 📌Tips: ✨Strong UV rays on the plateau, be sure to use sunscreen ✨Big temperature differences between morning and night, bring warm clothes ✨Respect local customs, no photography inside temples

▻Geography + History + Art ▻All-Subject Field Trip A 3-Day Summer Vacation Family Road Trip in Gansu, Day One is So Hardcore— Depart Lanzhou at 9:30 AM ⏰11:00 Geography Blast! 📍Huangtao Confluence Observation Deck (Photo 2) Geography Books Come to Life! Yellow and Blue Rivers Collide to Create a Giant Double-Boiled Pot Who Can Guess Which River is the Tao River, the Yellow or the Blue? ⏰12:00 Yellow River Fish Feast 📍Liujiaxia Reservoir (Photos 3 & 4) Northwest China's "Glass Sea" Challenges Inland Prejudices The Water is So Clear It Looks Like a Filter Eating a Fish Feast on Fish Fillets—A Superb Feel ⏰3:00 Journey Through Millennia! 📍Bingling Temple Grottoes (Photos 1, 7, 8, 9) Boat from Xiangyang Wharf and travel by water to Bingling Temple, a truly ceremonial experience. The Danxia landforms along the way are a sight in themselves (Photos 5, 6). This World Heritage site, with its mystical feel and over 1,600 years of history, boasts 171 niches housing the Tang Dynasty open-air Maitreya Buddha, equivalent to a nine-story building. The murals in some of the smaller caves are incredibly exquisite; I'd love to spend the entire day here. ⏰7:00 PM Hand-painted Painted Pottery (Photo 10) 📍Yellow River Natural Residence Hotel Intangible Cultural Heritage inheritor Ma Heimai gives hands-on instruction. Children hand-paint intangible cultural heritage painted pottery designs. The 8,000-year-old Majiayao culture revival competition is live! A truly fulfilling sense of accomplishment. ⏰8:00 PM Roasted Whole Lamb (Photo 11) Half roasted, half hand-cooked, the aroma is soul-stirring! A human cub's appetite whetted, instantly transforming into a desert wolf king. 💡TIPS: ➊ The Huangtao River confluence is backlit in the afternoon. ❌ Even better photos in the morning! ➋ The boat ride to and from Bingling Temple Grottoes is more comfortable on deck than in the cabin, but be sure to wear plenty of sunscreen. ➌ Ask for a guide to Bingling Temple Grottoes, otherwise you'll miss many hidden gems.

In the blink of an eye, the children of Doraemon gradually became as tall as me shoulder to shoulder🙋‍♂️ Ever since I was a child, I have enjoyed taking him to see the world, and although the older he gets, the less time we can spend together, I still try to make time to make every trip perfect. Five years ago, we took him on a self-driving tour of the Qinggan Line. Five years later, we took him to Gansu again. This time, we chose a Gannan small ring line that is very suitable for children to study. 3 days and 2 nights, parent-child drive Gannan Little Loop Line, for us both mother and son, this is a super "super awesome" journey! 🔁3 Days 2 Nights Itinerary Route: Day 1️⃣ Lanzhou Departure - Liujia Gorge Reservoir Huangyuan Intersection Wonder - Bingling Temple Grottoes Accommodation: Yongjing Yellow River Natural Residence Day 2️⃣ Museum of Ancient Animal Fossils - Song Naing Rock Forest Park Accommodation: Lintan Ama Zhoucuo Grand Hotel Day 3️⃣ Yeliguan - Meiren Grassland - Milareba Buddha Pavilion - Return to Lanzhou Accommodation: Lanzhou ✅ Daily itinerary highlights ▪️ Liujia Gorge Reservoir: The Yellow River and the Yu River meet with distinct yellow and green colors, a natural "Yuanyuan Pot" natural wonder ▪️Bingling Temple Grottoes: Millennium Grotto murals in the Yellow River Gorge ▪️Hezheng Museum of Paleontological Fossils: The Museum of Ancient Vertebrate Fossils dating back to the Permian, one museum has ten of the world's best ▪️Meliguan: Plateau Tianchi Lake, riding on the mountain, zipline down the mountain, hanging prayer flags to stimulate rafting ... very strong playability ▪️ Meiren Grassland: the only frozen hilly landform in Gannan, 600 meters of prayer flag tunnel super shocking ▪️ Milarepa Buddha Pavilion: 9-story Buddhist pavilion, feel the sacred Tibetan culture 🍜Must-eat delicacies Grilled whole lamb, various barbecue skewers, Gannan's lamb is very fresh, the most amazing is the whole fish feast of Liujia Gorge Reservoir, salmon sashimi raised in the waters of the Yellow River, super fresh, no different from deep sea salmon 🏨 Hotel recommendations The first day near the Bingling Temple Grottoes chose the Yellow River Natural Residence, a resort-style hotel with a good environment, roasted whole lamb was eaten in this hotel The next day stayed at Lintan Ama Zhoucuo Grand Hotel, a small county town can have such a complete hotel is indeed great, the hotel night view is super beautiful, we self-service barbecue on the outdoor platform, super happy, in addition, the hotel is 2 minutes drive from Yeliguan, very convenient On the third day Lanzhou is too many choices to make any more recommendations 🚗 About self-driving There are many roads ahead of the Gannan Ring Road, and the road conditions are complex. It is recommended to choose an off-road vehicle, which can cope with the complex and changeable road conditions i️ Precautions Gannan is relatively two or three thousand meters above sea level. It is recommended to avoid strenuous exercise and pay attention to sun protection in plateau areas

A Zen Journey in a Sea of Golden Flowers 🌸 Along Yongjing's Provincial Road S105 lies the most healing summer scenery, with bright yellow rapeseed fields paired with ancient Tibetan Buddhist temples. Every snapshot looks like wallpaper material! 🌼 Must-Visit Spots Recommended: 📍 Rapeseed Flower Sea along Provincial Road S105 (Free) Starting from Yongjing County, drive along S105 where rapeseed fields stretch for kilometers on both sides. The best time to shoot is between 9-10 AM when the sunlight is soft. Remember to wear light-colored clothes for better photos~ 📍 Bingling Temple (Entrance 60 RMB/person | 08:30-17:30) This 1600-year-old Tibetan Buddhist sacred site is nestled by the Yellow River. The murals and sculptures inside the grottoes are well preserved. The hillside behind the temple offers an excellent vantage point to overlook the rapeseed fields meeting the Yellow River 📸 📍 Luojiaodong Temple (Free | 08:00-18:00) A little-known secret temple! It requires a 15-minute hike uphill, passing through layers of terraced rapeseed fields. The temple with red walls and golden roofs surrounded by a sea of flowers looks like a scene from a Studio Ghibli animation ✨ 🚗 Travel Tips: 1. It’s recommended to hire a car (round trip from the county town costs about 300 RMB) for flexible stops to take photos. 2. Yongjing Bus Station has rural buses to various attractions (limited schedules, inquire in advance). 3. Provincial Road S105 has many sharp turns; please pay attention to speed limit signs when driving. 🥘 Food Highlights: After enjoying the rapeseed flowers, be sure to try Yongjing’s three treasures — Yellow River carp (recommended at "Liujiaxia Fishing Village"), sour noodle slices ("Old Street Sister Ma’s Noodle Shop"), and sweet fermented rice (available freshly brewed at roadside stalls). ⚠️ Notes: • Please keep quiet and do not touch the Buddha statues in temple areas. • When photographing in the rapeseed fields, be careful not to trample the crops. • The peak blooming season is May to June, but UV rays are strongest then, so be sure to use sun protection.

Rated by National Geographic as one of the must-visit places in a lifetime June 5-9 is not the best season for Gannan, but we still set off on our journey, turning all the places we longed for into paths we have walked. Here is the itinerary: Day 1: Lanzhou Airport - Meiren Grassland - Hezuo Accommodation on 6/5: Vienna International Hotel Xiangbala Plaza Branch Day 2: Hezuo - Rock Road - Zhagana Accommodation on 6/6: Zhagana Yunshang Ejie Homestay Day 3: Zhagana (Fairy Beach hiking) - Langmu Temple - (via National Highway 345) Maqu County Accommodation on 6/7: Maqu Xueyu Jin Zhu Hotel (We made a mistake in the travel plan here; we should have stayed in Xiaqu, so the next day’s trip to Labrang Monastery wouldn’t be so long and would save a lot of time. We stayed in Maqu, so the next day’s visit to Bingling Temple was too late. It’s possible to just view it from outside, but it’s a pity.) Day 4: Maqu - Labrang Monastery - Huangtao Confluence - Bingling Temple Grottoes - Lanzhou Accommodation on 6/8: Lanzhou Days Wyndham Hotel Day 5: Casual stroll in Lanzhou, buy some local specialties and return to Hangzhou Notes for traveling in Gannan: 1) The weather in early June is still a bit cold, be sure to bring a windbreaker or a thin down jacket. The temperature difference is large, so use the onion layering method and carry layers all year round. 2) Pay attention to sun protection; the ultraviolet rays on the plateau are very strong. 3) It is recommended to hire a car with a driver in Gannan. The road conditions are special, and it is safer to find a local driver. We rented a five-day Buick seven-seater for 5600 RMB. 4) The distances between attractions are quite long, so be mentally prepared. Rock Road is very exhausting with poor road conditions. It is not recommended to take this route in early June; the scenery is not as beautiful as imagined. 5) The heating in Gannan is already turned off in June. When booking hotels, ask if there is air conditioning. The hotel we stayed at in Maqu had no air conditioning, only electric blankets. 6) If you are afraid of altitude sickness, it is recommended to buy an oxygen pillow or get oxygen refills at local hospitals. This has a higher oxygen content and is convenient to use in the car during the trip. 7) Temple taboos: ask for permission before photographing monks, and turn prayer wheels clockwise. Finally finished organizing my notes on Gannan, haha Gannan is a place that lacks oxygen but not faith.

When the Yellow River bends into an emerald bay on the Loess Plateau, the Bingling Temple Grottoes are hidden between the clear waters and red cliffs. This Silk Road gem, 300 years older than Dunhuang, has carved a Buddhist kingdom secret into red sandstone over 1,600 years, making every statue a frozen historical poem. 🌊 3 Days and 2 Nights In-Depth Itinerary Day 1: Explore the Thousand-Year-Old Grottoes by Boat Drive 1.5 hours from Lanzhou to Liujiaxia Dam, then transfer to a boat to start a magical journey. The speedboat cuts through the emerald water, along the way admiring the “clear distinction” phenomenon where the yellow Tao River meets the blue Yellow River, forming a “two-colored water belt” stretching for kilometers. Upon arrival at the grottoes, walk along the cliffside plank road through 183 caves: look up to worship the 27-meter-high Tang Dynasty Maitreya Buddha, whose solemn stone and clay face has withstood a thousand years of weather; climb the 60-meter “Z”-shaped plank road to explore Cave 169, home to China’s earliest dated inscription “Jianhong First Year.” The murals depict bodhisattvas with flowing robes, as if you can hear the chiseling sounds from 1,600 years ago. In the evening, stay at the “Tangfan Yun She” guesthouse by the Yellow River, savor hand-pulled lamb on the terrace, and watch the sunset drape the Danxia landform in golden silk. Day 2: Danxia Secret Realm and Water Fun Early morning drive to Bingling Stone Forest, where red peaks rise like countless ceremonial tablets pointing to the sky, hiking here feels like stepping into an alien world. At noon, feast on Yellow River carp prepared three ways (braised, deep-fried, and soup) at Weijiapo fishing village; the tender meat rivals deep-sea seafood. In the afternoon, head straight to Bingling Lake, coinciding with the Yellow River Paddleboard Race on August 9-10. Watch expert racers or join paddleboard lessons to experience speed and excitement on the waves. At dusk, climb the Yellow Tao River confluence viewing platform to capture the stunning “Two Dragons Playing with a Pearl” scene with a telephoto lens; the drone’s perspective of the two-colored Yellow River is perfect for photography masterpieces. Day 3: Decode the Silk Road Code and Culinary Feast Return to the grottoes for a professional guided tour. In Cave 6, see the Northern Zhou “Monkey King Jataka” mural, with bold yet lively lines; in Cave 70, the Ming Dynasty eleven-faced Avalokiteshvara with eight arms, each face subtly embodying Buddhist teachings. Before leaving, be sure to check out “Yibula Boutique Hand-Pulled Lamb,” where Dongxiang lamb costs 45 yuan per jin, paired with salted garlic slices. The authentic way is “weigh by the jin, eat with your hands,” and pack vacuum-sealed lamb as a souvenir. If time allows, detour to Tangwang Town to taste sweet fermented dough under century-old apricot trees and take home some Dongxiang embroidery as a keepsake. 📌 Local Insider Tips ✅ Avoid Pitfalls: During peak season (July-August), boat tours require queuing an hour in advance. It’s recommended to buy a guided package ticket (about 150 yuan) to avoid aimless wandering. ✅ Hidden Photo Spots: The red-walled courtyard across from the grottoes offers zen-like shots of the reclining Buddha with Danxia landforms; deep in the stone forest, the “One Line Sky” at noon looks like a time-space crack under sunlight. ✅ Gear Tips: Wear non-slip shoes for climbing plank roads, bring a sun hat and sunscreen (the grottoes are exposed). Special caves require an extra 20-100 yuan; prioritize visiting Cave 169 and the Reclining Buddha Hall. 🍲 Culinary Delights of Hezhou Besides hand-pulled lamb, be sure to try the sour and spicy Heyan noodle slices at “Sulaiman Restaurant,” with a broth so rich you’ll want to drink it all; start your day with salty milk tea soaked fried rice to instantly awaken your Northwest appetite. Night market grilled lamb skewers sprinkled with local Sichuan peppercorns, paired with chilled Yellow River beer, is the perfect way to enjoy summer nights. 🚗 Practical Tips 📍 Transportation: Take a bus from Lanzhou West Bus Station to Yongjing County (25 yuan/2 hours), then a 15-minute taxi to the dock; for self-driving, navigate to “Bingling Temple World Cultural Heritage Tourism Area.” 📍 Accommodation: For luxury, choose Yellow River Pearl International Hotel (Taiji South Road); for cost-effective options, recommend Gansu·Jinghu Wild Luxury Guesthouse (Sanyuan Town), book at least one week in advance during peak season. 📍 Tickets: 50 yuan per person (including boat), special caves extra; half price for seniors over 60 and students with ID. Standing beneath the Maitreya Buddha, watching the Yellow River rush eastward, the camel bells of the Silk Road seem to travel through time. Here, there are no bustling crowds, only faith frozen on stone walls and the breathtaking scenery of clear waters and Danxia landforms—this is the Northwest’s most hidden cultural shock. 🚢✨

#chinatravel Also known as the Thousand-Buddha Caves, Bingling Temple Grottoes sit on a cliff above the Yellow River and house 183 caves, nearly 700 stone statues, and 900 m² of murals crafted from the 5th century onward. With a mix of clay and stone Buddhist figures and vividly preserved art, it showcases centuries of devotional artistry. Access typically involves a boat ride on the river and walking paths—making it both serene and spiritually inspiring.

The Liujiaxia Bridge, a north-south suspension bridge spanning 568 meters, opened to traffic at the end of 2013, is the longest span bridge in Northwest China. The tower design, imbued with strong ethnic cultural characteristics, contrasts beautifully with the lush green waters, verdant mountains, and red rocks, creating a unique landscape. The clear waters of the Yellow River meander through the sedimentary rock formations, complementing the surrounding scenery and creating a rare landscape spectacle in the upper Yellow River. Near the Liujiaxia Dam, a magical sight awaits: two rivers, one clear and one turbid, one green and one yellow, meet to form a distinct dividing line. From the observation deck high above Longhui Mountain, one can admire the magnificent fusion of the two rivers from a bird's-eye view. This is the famous "Huangtao Confluence," also known as "Two Dragons Playing with a Pearl." 📍Address: Liujiaxia

#Sign up for tripbest7月酒店试睡員 Bingling Temple is located in Wuwei, Gansu Province. It is an ancient temple that combines Buddhist art and natural landscape. When I walked into Bingling Temple, the towering cliff in front of me was like a living history book, with ancient stone carvings and Buddha statues cleverly inlaid in the cliff. The sun shines through the mist, illuminating the Buddha statues that have been silently guarding this land for thousands of years. Each Buddha statue seems to be whispering to me, telling me about their unknown past. Standing in the temple, looking up at the big Buddha on the cliff, I feel a speechless shock. These Buddha statues carved on the stone wall are not only a symbol of religious belief, but also a crystallization of nature and human wisdom. Bingling Temple made me understand that faith is not far away from the world, but is rooted in this desolate cliff, becoming an immortal spiritual sustenance for thousands of years. The tranquility of each Buddha statue is a transcendence of the hustle and bustle of the world, and they make me feel a speechless stability and tranquility.

🌟【8-Day Itinerary】🌟 Day1️⃣: Xi'an Xianyang International Airport✈️ → Baiyue Hotel (Xi'an Xianyang International Airport T2 Branch)🏨 📍Address: Opposite T2 Terminal, No.16 West Section of Airport Expressway, Weicheng District, Xianyang Day2️⃣: 【Must-Visit】Qianling Mausoleum🚩 → Famen Cultural Scenic Area🏯 → IU Hotel (Baoji Branch)🏨 → China Stone Drum Garden🏛️ ✨Famen Temple is known as the "Ancestor of Pagoda Temples in Guanzhong" and is a sacred Buddhist site worldwide～ Day3️⃣: Baoji Bronze Ware Museum⚱️ → Maijishan Grottoes🙏 → Fuxi Temple🔮 → Tianshui Ancient Town🏮 → Wanxin Zhige Hotel🏨 💡Tip: Maijishan Grottoes is one of China's Four Great Grottoes - remember sun protection! Day4️⃣: 【Natural Wonder】Kongtong Mountain⛰️ → Tuke China Light Hotel🏨 📌Kongtong Mountain Address: Kongtong Town, Kongtong District, Pingliang City, Gansu Day5️⃣: Yellow River Culture Museum🌊 → Huang-Tao Confluence Viewing Platform🌈 → Dongxiang Viewing Platform🛣️ → Bafang Thirteen Alleys🏘️ → Linxia Shankeyouyue Hotel🏨 ✨The Huang-Tao confluence is spectacular! Two rivers meet with distinct colors～ Day6️⃣: 【Tibetan Buddhist Sacred Site】Kumbum Monastery🕌 → Laji Mountain Pass🏔️ 💫Kumbum Monastery Address: No.56 Jinta Road, Huangzhong District, Xining Day7️⃣: Qinghai Lake Erlangjian Scenic Area🌊 → Chaka Salt Lake💎 🌅The "Mirror of the Sky" Chaka Salt Lake offers stunning photos! Wear bright-colored dresses～ Day8️⃣: Qinghai Tibetan Culture Museum📚 → Qinghai-Tibet Plateau Natural Museum🏔️ → Return Flight✈️ 🔥【Top 5 Must-Visit Attractions】 1️⃣ Qinghai Tibetan Culture Museum: World's largest Tibetan-themed museum 2️⃣ Kumbum Monastery: One of the six great monasteries of Gelug school 3️⃣ Qinghai Lake Erlangjian: China's largest inland saltwater lake 4️⃣ Famen Temple: Houses Buddha's true relic 5️⃣ Maijishan Grottoes: Known as "Oriental Sculpture Gallery" 📝【Travel Tips】 ✅ Large temperature differences in northwest China - bring windproof jackets ✅ Respect local customs in ethnic minority areas ✅ Sun protection and hydration at high altitudes ✅ Book tickets for popular attractions in advance

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle and find inner peace, Gannan is the perfect choice. Here, you'll find vast grasslands, sacred monasteries, deep blue lakes, and the rich, authentic Tibetan culture. Having just returned from a trip to Gannan, I can't wait to share this healing travel guide with you. Itinerary: 5 Days and 4 Nights to Discover the Beauty of Gannan Day 1: Arrive in Lanzhou and Experience the Charm of the "Golden City" Upon arriving in Lanzhou, take some time to explore the city's unique charm. Visit the Gansu Provincial Museum during the day, where you'll find a treasure trove of cultural relics, including the famous "Flying Horse of Gansu." These historical artifacts offer a glimpse into the profound cultural heritage of Gansu. As night falls, head to Zhengning Road Night Market, where the aroma of local delicacies fills the air. Don't miss the signature sweet fermented rice with milk and eggs—rich, fragrant, and utterly delicious. At Lanzhou Old Street, you can rent a set of exquisite Dunhuang Feitian costumes and take stunning photos against the backdrop of ancient architecture, as if stepping back into Dunhuang a thousand years ago. Day 2: Marvel at the Two-Colored River and Visit the Nine-Story Buddhist Pavilion Depart from Lanzhou to Liujiaxia. At the Liujiaxia Viewing Platform, you'll witness a natural wonder—the confluence of the Tao River and the Yellow River, where clear and muddy waters meet, resembling a "yin-yang hotpot." This unique two-colored river scene is a must-see and perfect for photos. Next, head to Hezuo City, the capital of Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, and visit the Milarepa Buddhist Pavilion. Built to honor the famous Tibetan Buddhist master Milarepa, this nine-story pavilion blends Tibetan and Han architectural styles. Inside, you'll find numerous statues and exquisite murals, creating a mystical religious atmosphere. Walk clockwise along the prayer wheel path, feel the power of faith, and capture stunning Tibetan-style photos. Day 3: Journey Along the Jiangdie Highway and Immerse in Tibetan Culture Today's adventure takes you along the breathtaking 100-kilometer Jiangdie Highway. Along the way, you'll pass grasslands, forests, snow-capped mountains, and lakes—a feast for the eyes. At the Prayer Flag Pass, colorful prayer flags flutter in the wind against the backdrop of blue skies and white clouds, making it a perfect spot for magazine-worthy photos. In the evening, arrive at a Tibetan village, where hospitable locals will welcome you with a lively bonfire party. Join in the singing and dancing to experience their joy and warmth. As night falls, gaze up at the dazzling Milky Way—so clear it feels within reach—a sight you'll never forget. Day 4: Explore the "Little Duku" and the Enchanting Flower Lake Today's journey is full of surprises. Travel along the "Little Duku" highway, where the scenery unfolds like a painting. Arrive at Flower Lake, a haven for waterfowl and a paradise for photographers. Stroll along the wooden boardwalks and admire the crystal-clear lake reflecting the sky like a giant "mirror of the sky." Next, visit Namo Gorge, a pristine ecological area where you might spot adorable marmots. Bring some biscuits for a chance to interact with these little creatures. The gorge, with its babbling streams and lush greenery, is perfect for a peaceful hike. Day 5: Pray at Labrang Monastery and Discover the Hidden Ganjia Secret Land On the final day, visit the world-renowned Labrang Monastery, a center of Tibetan Buddhist learning. Here, you'll find the world's longest prayer wheel corridor, stretching 3.5 kilometers. Walk along it, turning the prayer wheels and offering your prayers. The monastery's grand architecture and solemn Buddha statues offer a deep dive into Tibetan Buddhist culture. Then, head to the Ganjia Secret Land, where vast grasslands, mysterious white cliffs, and the ancient Octagonal City await. The unique landscapes here resemble scenes from the movie *Interstellar*, making every photo a sci-fi masterpiece. Finally, conclude your unforgettable Gannan journey with a heart full of memories. Food Recommendations: A Taste of Gannan 1. Tibetan Dumplings: Similar to steamed buns but larger, filled with beef, lamb, scallions, and spices. The chewy skin and juicy filling burst with flavor. Pair it with butter tea for a perfect balance. 2. Butter Tea: A traditional Tibetan drink made with butter, brick tea, and salt. The unique flavor grows on you, and it’s especially warming in the cold highlands. 3. Hand-Torn Lamb: Fresh local lamb, simply boiled to retain its natural flavor. Eat it with your hands, dipped in salt or chili sauce—tender, juicy, and utterly satisfying. 4. Fern Barley Rice: A nutritious dish made with fern, barley, butter, and sugar. The vibrant-colored rice is sweet and sticky, a staple for Tibetan hospitality. 5. Tsampa: A Tibetan staple made from roasted barley flour mixed with butter tea. Customize it with cheese or sugar for a unique taste of Tibetan cuisine. Travel Tips: 1. Outfit Suggestions: - Bright-colored dresses (white, red, yellow) stand out against the green grasslands for stunning photos. - Pack warm layers like jackets, as temperatures drop sharply at night, even in summer. - Sun protection is a must: sunglasses, sunscreen, hats, and scarves to avoid sunburn. 2. Other Tips: - Acclimate to the high altitude slowly; avoid strenuous activity and hot showers on the first day. Consider bringing anti-altitude sickness medication. - Pack snacks and water for long drives. - Respect local customs: don’t touch religious items like prayer flags or Buddha statues, and always walk clockwise around prayer wheels. - Some accommodations are basic; bring personal toiletries if needed. - Secure your hat at windy spots like Flower Lake. - Order food wisely—Tibetan dishes are hearty, so avoid overordering. Gannan’s beauty is best experienced with an open heart and eager footsteps. May this guide help you embark on a memorable journey, filled with healing and wonder.

Real Experience of a Family Self-Driving Tour in Gannan! These Tips Are a Must-Know! Family! I just returned from a self-driving trip to Gannan with my 65-year-old parents and 5-year-old daughter! We did a lot of research before departure, but still got caught off guard by altitude sickness😭 Fortunately, the scenery along the way was absolutely stunning, and the kids had a great time! I've compiled some super practical tips, so if you're planning to go, make sure to save this! 🗺️ Our 8-day self-driving route Lanzhou → Meiren Grassland → Hezuo Hezuo → Zhuoni Dayugou → Dayugou Dayugou → Rock Road → Zhagana Zhagana → Langmu Temple → Namo Grand Canyon → Guomang Wetland → Sanke Grassland → Linxia Linxia → Hezheng Paleontological Museum → Songmingyan → Linxia Linxia → Benzhi Valley Viewing Platform → Huangtao Confluence Viewing Platform → Gansu Provincial Museum → Lanzhou ❗ A harsh lesson from altitude sickness I originally thought the elderly and children were the "high-risk groups" for altitude sickness, but the first to go down was actually me! On the first day at Meiren Grassland, at 3600 meters altitude, I got a headache immediately, and the child was also breathing heavily. That night, after taking ibuprofen and resting flat, I finally recovered. So! If you're going to Gannan, always carry altitude sickness medicine with you! Don’t tough it out if you have a headache! 🌟 Blood, sweat, and tears compiled super practical tips 1️⃣ Dayugou vs Zhagana? I want both! I was originally torn about only going to Zhagana, but after altitude sickness in Hezuo, we changed plans and went to Dayugou first. Unexpectedly, it was a treasure! Fewer people, beautiful scenery, and lower altitude—perfect for elderly and kids~ ⚠️ Warning: After rain, the water in Ajiagou turns yellow. If you want to photograph emerald green streams, watch the weather carefully! 🏠 Accommodation recommendation: Zhuoni Luoyang Home, a clean and cozy guesthouse 🍖 Food recommendation: "Jiuhe Niba" in Zhuoni County, Tibetan cuisine so delicious you'll lick your plate! I thought I wouldn’t like it, but ended up loving it from the first bite! 2️⃣ Rock Road: Bumpy but worth it! From Dayugou, we crossed Rock Road to Zhagana. The 30 km "washboard road" was so bumpy it made me question life, but the scenery was truly amazing! Guardrails have now been installed along the roadside, so it’s not as dangerous as imagined~ 🍲 Zhagana dining guide: Dongga’er Tibetan Restaurant, the owner cooks personally! Tibetan fragrant pork is a must-order, and the hotpot is also very tasty! 3️⃣ Namo Grand Canyon: A paradise for kids! I planned to turn back halfway, but when the kid heard there were marmots, she pulled me all the way to the end! The whole trip took about 25 minutes, and seeing the marmots digging holes was worth it! When I asked the kid which spot she liked best, this was her first answer~ If you’re hiking with kids, just go for it! 4️⃣ Grassland check-in and pitfall avoidance guide Sanke Grassland is okay to just pass by; the wetland has little water and the scenery is average. Guomang Wetland is worth stopping at; standing on the viewing platform and feeling the breeze is so comfortable! 5️⃣ Linxia hidden gems for food, drink, accommodation, and transport To avoid altitude sickness, we drove straight from Zhagana to Linxia! 🍗 Food recommendation: Gajiu Yi Big Plate Chicken, chicken is tender and flavorful; Yasar Yogurt, sweet and sour, thick and refreshing; Bafang Shisan Street Maqi Beef, locals line up for it! 🏨 Accommodation recommendation: Tianyuan Wanda Jinhua, rooms are spacious and comfortable 👧 Kid’s favorite: Horse riding at Songmingyan, the little one couldn’t stop smiling on the horse! 6️⃣ No-fail accommodation in Lanzhou Hyatt and Lanzhou Old Street Puyan Hotel are both good, close to downtown and convenient for travel~ 💡 Other small tips - Altitude sickness emergency kit: ibuprofen, oxygen bottle, glucose are essential! Take medicine and rest immediately if you have a headache - Weather changes a lot: big temperature difference between day and night, bring thick jackets and sun protection clothes - Food surprises: Tibetan and Hui cuisine are both delicious! Don’t be scared off by "niche" foods, be bold and try them! The scenery in Gannan is truly addictive! What else do you want to know, friends? Or if you have other hidden gem activities, come chat in the comments!

In the vast northwest of our motherland, there is a place that boasts the majestic grandeur of the Yellow River, unique cultural relics, and picturesque scenery reminiscent of Jiangnan beyond the Great Wall—this is Liu Jiaxia. Liu Jiaxia is located in Yongjing County, Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu Province. Here you will find the spectacular Yellow River Gorge, clear high gorge lakes, ancient grotto art, and a rich and colorful ethnic culture. It is a tourist destination where natural and cultural landscapes perfectly blend. Recommended Attractions 1. Huangtao Confluence Viewing Platform: The Yellow River and Tao River converge here, forming a "Y"-shaped spectacle with distinctly clear and turbid waters. The blue and yellow waters collide yet flow side by side. The aerial view is even more stunning; it is recommended to bring a drone. Free admission. 2. Bingling Temple Grottoes: A World Cultural Heritage site housing Buddhist art from the Northern Wei to Ming and Qing dynasties. Cave No. 169 requires a guided tour reservation. You can take a speedboat from the dam pier round-trip (about 3 hours, 140 RMB/person) or reach by land. Tickets cost around 80 RMB. 3. Taiji Island Wetland Park: Known as the "Jiangnan beyond the Great Wall," it offers cycling, camping, and birdwatching. The autumn reed marsh scenery is breathtaking, and the popular internet-famous bridge is perfect for photos. Free entry. 4. Liu Jiaxia Dinosaur National Geopark: Explore the Cretaceous dinosaur footprint fossil group and enjoy an immersive experience in the 5D cinema (20 RMB/person). It is an ideal choice for family trips. 5. Weijiapo & Huanhai Highway: Known as the "Little Erhai Lake" of Gansu, with clear water reflecting the Danxia landform. You can experience bamboo raft drifting (30 RMB/person), camping, and barbecues. The scenic Huanhai Highway offers beautiful views perfect for photography. 6. Liu Jiaxia Hydropower Station: A million-kilowatt-level hydropower station. Standing on the dam, you can see the Yellow River being cut off in the middle—a truly spectacular sight. You can also learn about the principles of hydropower generation. Free admission. Food Experience 1. Yellow River Carp: Firm meat best enjoyed steamed or stir-fried with fresh chili, very delicious. Recommended to try at Xiakou Fishing Village. 2. Hand-Pulled Mutton: A signature dish of Linxia, tender and without any gamey taste, served with garlic cloves and pepper salt. Wensheng Hand-Pulled’s "Ice Grab" is a specialty. 3. Fazimen Pian (Sour and Spicy Noodles): A local Hui ethnic snack with a sour and spicy flavor, appetizing and refreshing. 4. Fried Sanzi with Eight-Treasure Tea: Crispy fried Sanzi paired with sweet and rich Eight-Treasure Tea, an authentic northwest flavor. 5. Niangpi (Cold Skin Noodles): Smooth and chewy, served with a tangy and spicy sauce, very appetizing. Accommodation Recommendations 1. Yongjing Liu Jiaxia Public Aviation Hotel · Yellow River Pearl International Hotel: Excellent environment with immersive garden scenery, located at No. 18 Taiji South Road, Taiji Town. Prices range from 500-800 RMB/night. 2. Gansu Stay · Jinghu Wild Luxury Lake View Detached Terrace Homestay: Enjoy stunning lake sunset views, located 800 meters south of Qiyangjia on Huanhu North Road, Sanyuan Town. Prices range from 300-600 RMB/night. 3. Gansu Stay · Lotus Pond Moonlight | Quiet Detached Waterside Wooden House: Beautiful and tranquil environment facing the lake with green grass behind, located 500 meters northwest of the Taiji Island Scenic Area Pier on Huanhu Road. 4. Yongjing Fumen Kaiyuan Grand Hotel: Some rooms offer park views, located on Chunming Road in the Ancient City New District. Prices are moderate. Travel Tips 1. Best Travel Time: May to October, when the climate is suitable, making it a great summer retreat and a chance to enjoy beautiful autumn colors; April to May is ideal for viewing tulip flower seas. 2. Transportation - Self-driving: About 1.5 hours from Lanzhou with beautiful scenery along the way and plenty of spots to stop for photos. - Public Transport: First arrive at Lanzhou Zhongchuan International Airport, then take a bus to Liu Jiaxia, about 2 hours, ticket around 50 RMB; alternatively, take a bus to Yongjing County and then a taxi to the scenic area. Car rentals are also available, costing about 100-120 RMB per person. 3. Precautions - Confirm weather conditions for boat trips in advance and wear life jackets when boarding. - Respect local ethnic customs, especially Hui customs; do not bring non-halal food into restaurants. - Strong UV rays at high altitude require sun protection such as hats and sunglasses. - Mountain roads have many curves; drive carefully when self-driving. Liu Jiaxia, this pearl by the Yellow River, with its unique natural scenery and profound cultural heritage, brings endless surprises and emotions to visitors.

Babes! Who’s still struggling in the Northwest heatwave? Come check out this underrated fairy-tale town—Linxia! 🌬️ While others are frying eggs at 40℃, it’s a cool 22℃ here, perfect for wearing jackets! Although it’s in the Northwest like Ningxia, it hides a “Little Erhai Lake,” a “Little Altay,” plus millennia-old grottoes and Yellow River wonders… The best part? Fewer people, beautiful scenery, and cool weather—truly the ultimate summer escape! Today, we’re dropping 9 must-visit spots with full food, accommodation, and travel guides. After reading, just book your ticket and go! 🚗 🌿【Linxia Must-Visit Spots · Nature】 🔻① Bingling Lake | Northwest’s “Little Erhai,” breathtaking lake and mountain views 🌊 “Half lake, half mountain, boats sailing in a painting” perfectly describes it! The lake is sapphire blue, mountains lush and green in the distance, reeds swaying by the shore—every snap feels like “Erhai vibes” 📸. Rent a small boat (50r/hour), sail to the lake’s heart, watch sunlight shatter into golden flakes on the water, listen to the rustling reeds… If lucky, you might spot water birds skimming the surface, instantly healing all fatigue! ✨ (Tips: Come at dusk for sunset shots; the lake turns a stunning orange-red, so beautiful it’ll make you cry!) 🔻② Liujiaxia | The Yellow River and Tao River’s “clear divide” wonder 🌊 For just 10r, witness the Yellow River “changing color”! The yellow Tao River meets the green Yellow River in the canyon, forming a sharp dividing line like nature’s spilled palette 🎨. From the viewing platform, watch the Yellow River rush down while the Tao River surges in—this “yellow + green” visual impact is off the charts! (Photo tip: wear white for amazing color contrast!) 🔻③ Songmingyan | A natural oxygen bar with “off-the-charts beauty” in spring, summer, and autumn 🌲 - Spring: Wildflowers bloom into seas of color—azaleas, peonies, lilacs… the fragrance is intoxicating, like stepping into Alice’s Wonderland 🌸; - Summer: Cool 22℃ canyon, stone paths shaded by trees, babbling streams—perfect for summer outings with kids (don’t forget mosquito repellent!); - Autumn: Mountains covered in red leaves, forests dyed in layers, every shot looks like an “autumn fairy tale” 🍁. (Tips: Deep in the park is a waterfall reachable by a 20-minute hike, the roaring water is breathtaking!) 🔻④ Caoshangou | The “Little Altay” straight out of a Miyazaki anime 🌳 “Grasslands, wooden cabins, cattle, streams…” This isn’t Scandinavia, it’s Linxia’s Caoshangou! 🌿 The lush green grass looks like a carpet, cabins scattered neatly, cows and sheep grazing leisurely on hillsides, crystal-clear streams… Put on a floral dress, stand on the wooden boardwalk, and instantly become a “forest-style heroine” 📸. (Must-do: picnic on the grass, sip milk tea, watch clouds drift over the mountain tops—maximum healing vibes!) 🔻⑤ Yanzhi Lake | The “blue secret” hidden in the city 💙 Only 10r for a “blue sky, white clouds + clear water and grass” healing scene! The lake is mirror-like, reflecting distant mountains, reeds sway in the breeze, like a watercolor painting 🎨. Take the sightseeing bus (10r/person) around the lake, hop off anytime to snap photos—every angle is breathtaking! (Tips: Soft light at dusk is perfect for portraits, bring a reflector!) 🕌【Linxia Must-Visit Spots · Culture】 🔻① Bingling Temple Grottoes | Millennia of Buddha light illuminating the Yellow River bank 📿 50r ticket unlocks the “encyclopedia of Chinese grottoes”! Caves 169 and 172 cling to cliffs; climbing the stairs gets your heart racing (fear of heights, cover your eyes), but look up! The flying apsaras on the murals seem ready to float out any second ✨. Sunlight filters through cave cracks onto the statues, the sacred feeling is beyond what any camera can capture! (Tip: Hire a guide to hear the grottoes’ history and instantly travel back a thousand years!) 🔻② Linxia Museum | The “Painted Pottery Kingdom” from 5,000 years ago 🏺 Want to learn about the Majiayao culture? This is the place! Among 4,288 artifacts, painted pottery takes center stage: Majiayao’s brilliant swirl patterns, Banshan’s serrated designs… each piece is a work of art! Six immersive exhibition halls tell the story of how painted pottery evolved from clay into a symbol of civilization. After visiting, you’ll realize Linxia’s ancestors had impeccable aesthetics 5,000 years ago! (Tips: The museum is dimly lit, wear bright clothes for better photos.) 🔻③ Yellow River Culture Expo Park | Immersive “touch” of Yellow River history 📜 “Every artifact tells a story”! From stone tools at the Yellow River’s source, to Silk Road camel-bell pottery, to modern Yellow River management… here you can “touch” the pulse of Yellow River civilization. The exhibition design is thoughtful, with light and shadow effects plus interactive installations that bring history to life! (Must-see: the Yellow River basin map sand table, a vivid experience of the mother river’s grandeur!) 🔻④ Fataishan | The “scream park” for thrill-seekers 🎢 20r ticket unlocks multiple exciting attractions: - Glass skywalk: a dizzying abyss below, not for the faint-hearted (but the views are stunning!); - Jungle zipline: fly from the mountaintop to the foot, feel the wind roar past (adrenaline rush!); - Cliff swing: swing out and take in the entire valley view (for the brave only!). (Tips: Children under 1.2m and retired soldiers get free entry, great value!) 🍖【Linxia Food · Paradise for carb and meat lovers】 - Hand-pulled lamb: choose bone-in lamb, boiled until tender, dip in pepper salt and eat directly, juicy and tender, garlic slices cut the grease perfectly! - Niangpi (fermented wheat gluten noodles): sour and spicy, chewy gluten, a bowl in summer clears the heat 🌶️; - Hezhou buns: lamb and carrot filling, soft dough, bite and the soup bursts out (a breakfast must!); - Sweet fermented barley milk tea: sweet fermented barley (qingke) plus milk tea, sweet and sour, refreshing and grease-cutting, carb happiness maxed out! - Youguozi (fried dough): golden and crispy, sprinkled with sugar, perfect as a snack~ (Recommended restaurants: “Lao Hua Hand-Pulled” and “Hezhou Food Mansion” in Bafang Shisan Alley, loved by locals!) 🏨【Accommodation & Transportation · Stress-Free Guide】 - Accommodation: - Choose near Hezhou Avenue in the city (e.g., “Linxia International Hotel,” great value and convenient for sightseeing); - For ethnic vibes, stay in a guesthouse in Bafang Shisan Alley (at night, the ancient alley lights up with lanterns, instantly turning into a “Western Region town” 🏮). - Transportation: - 1.5-hour self-drive from Lanzhou (good road conditions, beautiful scenery along the way, perfect for a road trip); - High-speed train to Linxia Station (Lanzhou West → Linxia, 30 minutes, about 20r ticket); - Local taxis start at 6r, for sightseeing spots it’s best to rent a car with driver (30-50r per person per day, convenient and fast, drivers can also be guides!). 🌟【Travel Tips】 1. Season: Best in spring, summer, and autumn (June to October). 22℃ summer is perfect for cooling off, autumn leaves are stunning; 2. Clothing: Bring a light jacket in summer (cool mornings and evenings), wear a windbreaker in spring and autumn; wear bright colors (white, yellow, red) for photos to double your chances of great shots; 3. Sun protection: Strong UV in the Northwest, sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen are must-haves (don’t ask how I know…); 4. Souvenirs: Painted pottery crafts, Linxia brick carvings, halal pastries—great gifts for friends and family! 🔥Ending: Linxia, the cure for “travel fatigue”! “Only after visiting Linxia do you realize the Northwest isn’t just deserts and heatwaves, but also 22℃ coolness, stunning landscapes, and millennia of civilization…” 🌿 Save this guide now, and when summer comes, rush to this “cool capital” to take in snow mountains, lakes, grottoes, grasslands… all in one trip! ✨ Comment below: which spot do you want to visit most? Or any hidden gems in Linxia to add? Let’s explore the Northwest together and own this summer’s social feed! 👇

Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture, nestled in the southwestern part of Gansu Province, lies at the transitional zone between the Loess Plateau and the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. The Yellow River flows through its heart, nurturing the unique "Hehuang Culture." As one of China's primary Hui ethnic enclaves, Linxia is a melting pot of diverse ethnic traditions, renowned for its rich Islamic heritage and often called the "Little Mecca of China." With a history dating back to the Qin Dynasty, ancient Linxia—known as "Hezhou"—was a vital hub on the southern Silk Road, leaving behind cultural treasures like the Bingling Temple Grottoes. Its cuisine, centered on lamb and beef, features specialties like hand-grabbed mutton and Heyan noodle slices, while the intangible heritage "Hua'er" folk songs add poetic charm to this vibrant land. 【Must-Visit Spots】 🌟 **Culture & History** **Bafang Thirteen Lanes**: A "living folk museum" of Linxia, comprising 8 mosques and 13 ancient alleys adorned with Hui-style brick carvings and embroideries. Lit by lanterns at night, it transforms into a flowing tapestry of tradition. **Bingling Temple Grottoes**: A 1,600-year-old Buddhist art treasury with 216 caves, showcasing exquisite Tang Dynasty statues. Reachable by boat through the Liujiaxia Reservoir, the journey offers stunning views of "high gorges meeting calm lakes." Don’t miss the esoteric murals in Caves 169/172. **Dong Mansion & Butterfly Tower**: The former residence of warlord Ma Buqing, famed for its intricate brick carvings depicting motifs like "Double Peonies of Wealth" and "Five Bats Embracing Longevity," earning it the title "Linxia’s Grand View Garden." 🌿 **Natural Wonders** **Yellow River Three Gorges (Liujiaxia Reservoir)**: Cruise through Bingling, Liujia, and Yanguo Gorges to witness the surreal confluence of the turquoise Yellow River and the muddy Tao River. In summer, try paragliding at Liujiaxia for aerial vistas. **Songmingyan Scenic Area**: A forest park named for its roaring pine winds. Enjoy spring blooms, summer coolness, autumn foliage, winter skiing, and the annual "Hua'er Festival" of folk songs. 🍲 **Culinary Delights** **Hand-Grabbed Mutton**: Try "Dawu Hand-Grabbed Mutton" or "Ersa Hand-Grabbed Mutton"—tender meat served with spiced salt and garlic, traditionally eaten by hand. **Heyan Noodle Slices**: Savor the beef broth noodles at "Sulaiman Restaurant," a spicy-sour comfort dish. **Street Bites**: Don’t miss Bafang’s fermented pancakes, sugar-oil cakes, sweet fermented barley, or night-market lamb skewers and offal stews. 【Travel Guide】 📅 **Best Time to Visit** **May–August**: Cool weather, blooming grasslands, and the peak "Hua'er Festival" season. **September–November**: Crisp autumn air with fewer crowds and great value. **Stay Duration**: 3–4 days for a deep dive into culture and nature. 🗺️ **Itinerary** **Day 1: Cultural Immersion** AM: Explore Bafang Thirteen Lanes, visit brick carving exhibits, and snack on sugar-oil cakes. PM: Tour Dong Mansion and Butterfly Tower. Evening: Stroll Hongyuan Garden (peonies in April–May) or Dongjiao Park, then night-lit Bafang lanes with dinner at "Sulaiman." **Day 2: Yellow River Adventure** AM: Drive to Yongjing for Liujiaxia Dam views. Noon: Feast on Yellow River carp (braised, fried, or stewed) at Weijiapo. PM: Cruise the Three Gorges, stop at the Tao-Yellow confluence, and explore Bingling Temple’s Cave 169/172. Night: Stay at Yellow River Pearl International Hotel for lakeside views. **Day 3: Nature & Folklore** AM: Hike or zipline at Songmingyan, listen to "Hua'er" duets. PM: Return to Linxia for the Prefecture Museum (ancient pottery exhibits). Evening: Boat ride at Dongjiao Park. **Day 4 (Optional): Dongxiang Ethnic Culture** Full-day: Visit Tangwang Apricot Blossom Village (April blooms), hike Shilaquan Canyon, stay at "Tangfan Yunshe" homestay, and try Dongxiang hand-grabbed mutton. 【Stay Options】 **Luxury**: - Linxia Wanda Realm: Downtown elegance for business/leisure. - Liujiaxia Yellow River Pearl Hotel: Lakeside retreat with panoramic views. **Boutique**: - Tangfan Yunshe: Earth-walled chic with Dongxiang cuisine. - Gansu Mirror Lake Wild Luxury: Secluded lakeside lodges. **Budget**: - Home Inn Neo (Central Square): Steps from Bafang lanes. - Linxia Polanti Hotel (Bafang location): Parking + foodie haven. 【Tips】 **Transport**: No airport/rail; take a 3-hour bus from Lanzhou or drive (2 hours). Use tourist buses (¥1) or taxis (¥5 starting fare). **Etiquette**: Remove shoes in mosques; dress modestly (no shorts/skirts); respect halal dietary rules. **Gear**: Sun protection for summer; jackets for cool evenings; grippy shoes for Songmingyan hikes. **Tickets**: Bingling Temple: ¥50 (students half-price); Caves 169/172 + guide: ¥300. **Souvenirs**: Dongxiang embroidery, Baoan knives, Linxia brick carvings, "Wushanchi" rice wine, Tangwang apricots. 🌟 **Pro Tips**: - Book Yellow River cruises early (peak departures: 11:00/14:00/16:00). - Songmingyan’s "Hua'er Festival" is held in lunar June—check local updates. - Some trails (e.g., Shilaquan Canyon) are rugged; hire a guide if needed. Linxia, this northwestern gem cradled by the Yellow River, awaits with open arms—its history, landscapes, and warm ethnic hospitality ready to enchant you.

📍Address of the attraction: Liujiaxia Reservoir is located in Yongjing County, Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu Province, only 75 kilometers away from Lanzhou. The Yellow River makes a sharp 90-degree turn here, forming a magnificent canyon landscape. 🚗 Transportation to the scenic spot: Drive from Lanzhou, take G109 National Highway to Liulan Highway, and arrive directly in 1.5 hours. It is recommended to arrive before dusk, park your car next to the reservoir viewing platform (we chose the location of the salt field, the last picture marks the location), and wait for the sunset (there is no standard parking lot, so don’t park too close to the water system). If you take public transportation, there are several buses from Lanzhou West Bus Station every day that go directly to Liujiaxia (the ticket price is about 30 yuan and the journey takes 2 hours). After getting off the bus, you can take a taxi to the viewing point. Small teams are suitable for chartering a car, which costs about 400 yuan per day. They can flexibly stop at small attractions such as the Taohuang intersection and Weijiaopo along the way. 👍️Must-see attractions: 1. The wonder of the confluence of the green and yellow rivers: The Tao River (yellow and turbid) and the Yellow River (clear) meet in the upper reaches of Liujia Gorge, forming a "clear distinction" wonder, which is particularly spectacular after the rain. The ticket for the viewing platform is 10 yuan, and it is the first choice for drone aerial photography. 2. Stunning sunset: In the evening, the setting sun dyes the canyon orange, and the water ripples like broken gold. It is recommended to take panoramic photos from the observation deck. 3. Bingling Temple Grottoes: Close to the west bank of the reservoir, about an hour’s drive away, the grottoes retain traces of history and are well worth a visit. 🎟️Ticket related: Liujiaxia Reservoir is free to visit, but you must pay attention to safety as the reservoir lacks management. The surrounding areas such as Bingling Temple Grottoes are 50 yuan/person and Qinghuangjiaohui Observation Deck is 10 yuan/person. 💗Other tips: The magic of Liujiaxia Reservoir lies in the fact that it is not only an epic of the Yellow River management, but also a picture scroll gifted by nature. Whether chasing the afterglow of the sunset or listening to the roar of hydroelectric power, this place allows travelers to feel the fusion of power and beauty. Stop the car when passing by and wait for a visual feast of the Yellow River in the evening. The reservoir itself was built as a "proud project" for New China. In 1958, 20,000 builders dug it out by hand in the Yellow River Gorge, using steel chisels and wooden baskets to build China's first one-million-kilowatt hydropower station, setting seven "firsts in the country" records, including the tallest concrete gravity dam and the largest single-unit capacity. The power station was completed in 1974, which not only ended the history of power shortage in Northwest China, but also became a symbol of the spirit of "self-reliance". Today, a monument with Mao Zedong's inscription "We must manage the Yellow River well" is still preserved on the top of the dam, bearing witness to the mark of the times.

The following is a travel guide for "Lanzhou - Liujiaxia - Milarepa Pavilion - Hezuo - Zhagana": Itinerary - Lanzhou - Liujiaxia: Approximately 70 kilometers away, a 1.5-hour drive. You can drive along the Lanyong Highway, or take a bus to Yongjing County from Lanzhou West Bus Station, and then transfer to a bus or taxi to Liujiaxia. - Liujiaxia - Milarepa Pavilion: Approximately 160 kilometers away, a 3-hour drive. Starting from Liujiaxia, take the corresponding highway to the Milarepa Pavilion in Hezuo City. - Milarepa Pavilion - Hezuo: The two are close to each other. After visiting the Milarepa Pavilion in Hezuo City, you can go directly to the urban area of Hezuo for accommodation. - Hezuo - Zhagana: Approximately 180 kilometers away, a 5-hour drive under normal traffic conditions, passing through Locke's Road. If the road is closed, take the highway instead. Attraction introduction - Liujiaxia: There is the Liujiaxia Hydropower Station, which is China's first megawatt-level hydropower station; there is also the Huangtao confluence scenic spot, where you can see the spectacle of the Yellow River and the Tao River converging in a "Y" shape; the Bingling Temple Grottoes are also located here, which is one of China's famous grottoes and is known as the "Encyclopedia of Chinese Grottoes." - Milarepa Pavilion: Built to commemorate Milarepa, it is a representative temple of the Kagyu school (White Sect) of Tibetan Buddhism in the Amdo Tibetan area. The pavilion has 9 floors, and each floor is a separate Buddhist hall, with different main deities enshrined, and many murals, Thangkas, and statues. - Zhagana: Surrounded by mountains, there are four Tibetan villages, as well as canyons, highland barley fields, temples and other landscapes. You can take a light hike on the Fairy Beach meadow and enjoy the tranquil and beautiful sacred village. Accommodation arrangement - Liujiaxia: You can choose hotels or homestays in Yongjing County, with different grades to choose from. - Hezuo: There are Nuosang Intercontinental Hotel, Yihe Hotel, etc., with good facilities and conditions to meet different needs. - Zhagana: Mainly Tibetan-style homestays, such as Zhagana Moye Homestay, etc., you can experience local characteristics, but the accommodation conditions are relatively limited. Precautions - Respect customs: Most of the areas along the way are inhabited by ethnic minorities. You must respect local beliefs and customs. Take off your hat before entering the main hall of the temple. Do not make noise or point at the Buddha statues. Photography is generally prohibited in the hall. - Altitude sickness: The altitude of Hezuo, Zhagana and other places is about 3,000 meters. Prepare anti-altitude sickness medicines in advance, and avoid strenuous exercise when you first arrive on the plateau. - Road condition information: Locke's Road is a relatively primitive unpaved road. It may not be passable in the event of natural disasters or government control. You need to understand the road conditions in advance.