Yulin Wave Valley, a Danxia landform natural landscape located in Longzhou Town, Jingbian, Shaanxi Province, was formed 96 million years ago during the Cretaceous period. Formed by vast sand dunes eroded and carved by water and wind over countless centuries, the resulting landscape is known as the "Chinese version of Antelope Valley" and the "Earth's Rings."
Wave Valley is approximately 160 kilometers from Yulin city, a two-hour drive. We chose a nearby B&B (Jingbian Rancheng Hotel), which leads to the Wave Valley ticket office just over a small hill. Full-price tickets cost 90 yuan per person. Upon entering the main gate, there's a glass bridge (50 yuan per person for a separate fee). If you prefer to avoid walking, this bridge leads directly to the Flame Danxia formation, which otherwise requires a long descent and a long climb. The wooden staircases are well-maintained, but the slope is steep in some areas, making the hike quite tiring. The scenic area is divided into three main sections: Flame Danxia, Chibi Danxia, and Earth's Core Danxia. While each has its own distinct characteristics, I feel they form a cohesive whole, a masterpiece of nature's uncanny craftsmanship. Layers of sandstone, sculpted by wind and water, create wonders and works of art resembling flowing water, clouds, and waves. The interplay of light and shadow, shimmering brightness and darkness, makes the colors even more vibrant and dazzling. Wandering through the area, the path twists and turns, offering new surprises with every step. Sometimes narrow enough for only one person (a narrow gap in the sky), flanked by towering rock faces, it feels like entering a mysterious time tunnel. Other times, the path opens up, revealing a vast expanse with breathtaking views, completely relieving the pain of the climb and leaving you wanting to exclaim, "This is stunning!" The area is overflowing with photo spots, and any shot is a true masterpiece. It's a truly worthwhile natural wonder, a place you'll never want to leave and never forget.
A few more notes:
1. Protect the environment: This is an extremely precious and fragile geological relic. Please do not step on or scratch the rocks! Stay on the designated plank paths and be a civilized traveler.
2. Weather and Equipment:
• We went in late August, and the temperature was pleasant, with occasional breezes, which was quite comfortable. However, sunny weather can be very hot, so sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses) is crucial. My husband never gets any plastic surgery, and the next day his entire face and neck were red 🤭.
• Be sure to wear comfortable running shoes. Although the entire trail is about 6 kilometers, the Wave Valley is actually quite large, combining water, canyons, and highlands. You'll have to go down to the valley floor and then climb to the top. I personally think the distance was probably more than double (we skipped some spots because we couldn't walk anymore). The entire trail took 6 hours. 3. Suitable crowd: I personally think that the elderly (over 65 years old), people with poor legs and feet, and those with heart problems should consider it carefully. Although there are rest areas in the scenic area, going up and down the stairs in the canyon is not as easy as you think.