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

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

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! 👇

🏔️ 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!

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.

The Qingming short holiday is the perfect time for a two-day trip to Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture and Gannan! Unlock this curated guide to experience the charm of Tibetan culture, explore the natural scenery, and make your holiday even more wonderful! / 🌟Itinerary:🌟 Day 1: Huangshui-Taohe Confluence Viewing Platform—Bingling Temple Grottoes—Liujiaxia Bridge—Bafang Shisanxiang Visit the spectacular Huangshui-Taohe Confluence and experience the charm of nature. Then, visit the historic Bingling Temple Grottoes and appreciate the beauty of Buddhist art. Cross the Liujiaxia Bridge and experience the magnificence of the bridge. Finally, stroll through Bafang Shisanxiang and savor the ancient street style. Day 2: Ganjia Secret Realm—Labrang Monastery—Sangke Grassland Step into the mysterious Ganjia Secret Realm and explore the secrets of nature. Then, visit the solemn Labrang Monastery and experience the profound heritage of Tibetan Buddhism. Finally, gallop across the vast Sangke Grassland and enjoy the free prairie scenery. / Must-see attractions: 🌟 Labrang Monastery: The resplendent architecture makes it a great place to explore art treasures! 🏞️ Ganjia Secret Realm: Geological wonders, profound history, grasslands, lakes, and stone forests all in one! 🌸 Sangke Grassland: Lush greenery, blooming wildflowers, feel the gentle embrace of nature! 🙏 Bingling Temple Grottoes: One of the three major grottoes in Gansu, appreciate the millennium-old charm of Buddhist sculptures! / Travel checklist: 👗 Clothing: Warm jacket, brightly colored clothing, multiple hats, light and breathable shoes. 🎒 Personal belongings: Sunglasses, thermos, sunscreen, toiletries. 📖 Documents: ID card, cash and bank cards, travel insurance policy, contact info. 💊 Other essentials: High-energy snacks such as chocolate and nutrition bars. / Group tours to Linxia and Gannan are so easy and fun! Don't hesitate, come and experience it! Remember to follow me for more travel guides! 🎉

First time in Tianshui and the surrounding areas? Don't miss this curated guide! It will lead you through the magnificent Zoigê grassland, the mystical Lianbao Yeze, and the solemn Namo Monastery. Enjoy a 10-day in-depth tour, experiencing the beauty of nature and culture. See you there! -------- 🚩Itinerary: Days 1-2: Depart from your origin 🛫 and fly to Tianshui to begin a panoramic tour of beautiful Gannan. Rest and adjust after arrival. Day 3: Depart from Tianshui and drive to Guanegou 🏞️, enjoying the scenery along the way. Day 4: Continue the journey from Guanegou to Diebu, and finally arrive at Langmusi 🏯 to experience the mystical atmosphere of Tibetan Buddhism. Day 5: After visiting Langmusi, head to Flower Lake and the First Bend of the Yellow River 🌊 to appreciate the magnificent natural scenery. Stay overnight in Tangke. Days 6-7: Depart from Tangke and explore the mystical Lianbao Yeze 🌺 and Namo Monastery 🕍. Then, traverse the Awacang Wetland and Sangke Grassland 🌾, experiencing the vastness and beauty of the Chinese grasslands. Stay overnight in Xiahe or Hezuo. Day 8: Depart from Xiahe or Hezuo and travel to Liujiaxia and Lanzhou 🏙️, experiencing the grandeur of the Yellow River and the prosperity of the city. Days 9-10: Depart from Lanzhou and return to your origin 🛬, concluding this unforgettable Gannan journey. -------- 🎒 Travel Preparations: 👗 Clothing: The temperature difference between day and night in Tianshui in March is significant. It is recommended to bring light jackets, long-sleeved T-shirts, hats, and sunglasses for both sun protection and style. 📄 Documents: ID card, driver's license, student ID, etc. Don't forget any discount-eligible IDs to ensure smooth entry and enjoy discounts. 🍫 Food: Bring some dry food and water, snacks such as chocolate and energy bars, to replenish energy without delaying your trip. 📷 Accessories: Camera, power bank, waterproof shoes. Record the beautiful scenery, preserve memories, and ensure your devices don't run out of power. 💊 Medicine: Cold medicine, stomach medicine, motion sickness medicine, and sunscreen will keep you healthy and comfortable during your trip to Tianshui. -------- This concludes the Tianshui journey, but the beautiful memories will last forever! Don't forget to like and save this post so that more friends can explore this mystical land! 🌄✨

💫Lanzhou's Secret "Moonlight over the Lotus Pond"🏡 🌃Hey friends, hidden within the Taiji Island Scenic Area in Yongjing, Gansu, is a place resembling a dreamlike wonderland. 🌅In the early morning, as the first rays of light descend, open your eyes to a scene of mountains and sunrise in the same frame; in the evening, the setting sun drapes the lotus pond in colorful gauze, a beauty beyond words. 🌙The night is even more breathtaking, with hazy moonlight blending seamlessly with the water and sky, just like a fairyland on earth. 🛏There are only 8️⃣ rooms here, triangular wooden houses hidden in the corner of the village, standing above the water. Inside, the pine and leather furniture exudes a luxurious feel, and the panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows allow you to greet the morning sun🌞 from your bed. On the outdoor terrace, enjoy tea while admiring the scenery, with the sunset reflected in the water, every frame is wallpaper-worthy. 🍽A reception hall and dining room are available, along with a water-view terrace. The B&B provides breakfast and simple meals, and Zaoyuan New Village, 500 meters away, is a food paradise with numerous farm-to-table restaurants. 🎣The fish pond at the entrance is always open for fishing, offering unexpected surprises. Enjoy daily cycling, strolling, and embracing nature with all your senses. Escape the hustle and bustle, come here for the weekend, and give your soul a break💖. Limited availability, come and check in quickly!

The short holiday is here! Want to experience a unique Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture? Come here, enjoy a leisurely hike, stop as you wish, and take photos at will. Every step is a scenic view. A four-day itinerary to explore Linxia. Save this guide now! 🚗Suggested Route: In-depth Tour of Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture Day 1️⃣: Huang-Tao Rivers Confluence Viewing Platform - Ganjia Secret Realm - Labrang Monastery On the first day, we will head to the Huang-Tao Rivers Confluence Viewing Platform to admire the spectacular confluence of the rivers. Next, we will explore the magical Ganjia Secret Realm and experience the wonders of nature. Finally, we will visit the historic Labrang Monastery and appreciate the profound culture of Tibetan Buddhism. One day's journey, enjoying the beauty of both nature and culture. Day 2️⃣: Sangke Grassland - Gansu Gahai-Zecha Nature Reserve-Gahai Lake - Langmusi Town On the second day, we will stroll through the Sangke Grassland and enjoy the freedom and comfort of a leisurely hike. Afterwards, we will head to the Gansu Gahai-Zecha Nature Reserve to visit the beautiful Gahai Lake and experience the tranquility and mystery of the plateau lake. In the evening, we will arrive at Langmusi Town and experience the unique charm of the Tibetan town. Day 3️⃣: Zoige Flower Lake Ecological Tourism Zone On the third day, we will go to the Zoige Flower Lake Ecological Tourism Zone, where the sea of flowers and the lake complement each other, forming a beautiful picture. We will spend a leisurely afternoon here, stopping and taking photos as we go, capturing every touching moment. Day 4️⃣: Zhagana - Maitreya Buddha Pavilion of Ando Hezuo Monastery On the last day, we will go to Zhagana to admire the magnificent scenery of the plateau mountains. Afterwards, we will visit the Maitreya Buddha Pavilion of Ando Hezuo Monastery and experience the exquisite craftsmanship and profound heritage of Tibetan Buddhist architecture. The four-day trip comes to a successful end, and we embark on our return journey with full memories and gains. **Things to Note**: - Local Customs: Respect Hui customs and avoid bringing outside food into halal restaurants.～🕌 - March Climate: There is a large temperature difference between day and night, so remember to bring a thick coat and warm clothing!🧣 - Souvenir Prices: Linxia is rich in local specialties. Compare prices when purchasing and choose products with good value for money.💰 - Food: Be sure to try Linxia's lamb skewers and hand-grabbed mutton. They are super delicious!🍖 Come to Linxia and experience the unique ethnic customs and food culture!✨ Alright, that's all for sharing! I hope this helps you plan your group tour to Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture and other places~ Remember to like and save this post. Have a great trip!

Stay in a 180° full lake view standalone villa with a terrace in Liujiaxia Look through the room's windows to see the clear, blue waters of the Yellow River. Are you wondering why the Yellow River isn't yellow here? The answer lies at the Huangtao Confluence Viewing Platform, sixteen kilometers away from the villa. From the villa, you can enjoy panoramic views of the azure lake, the Liujiaxia Bridge, and the Danxia landforms. ◽️Room Types The villa offers three room types: Double Room, Superior Suite, and Deluxe Suite, all with lake views. ◽️Room Amenities Rooms are equipped with viewing terraces, outdoor tables and chairs, parasols, and more. Inside, the rooms are meticulously detailed and fully equipped with air conditioning, TVs, refrigerators, bathtubs, and other amenities for a comfortable stay. ◽️Facilities Lobby lounge area, lake-view restaurant, outdoor public pool, and sunset viewing platform. ◽️Restaurant The restaurant serves local delicacies, including Yellow River carp, salmon, golden trout, rainbow trout, and other local specialties.

**Super Practical 3-Day Lazy Person's Guide to Lanzhou** **Day 1: Culture and Nature**✔️ * Morning: Explore the Gansu Provincial Museum and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Lanzhou and Gansu Province. * Lunch: Savor a bowl of authentic Lanzhou Beef Noodles. 🥢 * Afternoon: Visit the Mother Yellow River Statue and marvel at the wonders of nature. * Evening: Ascend Baitashan Park for panoramic city views. 🌅 * Night: Enjoy a relaxing stroll along the Yellow River and admire the nightscape. **Day 2: In-Depth Exploration and Adventure**✔️ * Morning: Visit Zhongshan Bridge and delve into its historical significance. * Lunch: Sample Lanzhou's unique local snacks. * Afternoon: Take a boat trip to the Liujiaxia Dam and explore the Bingling Temple Grottoes. ㊙️ * Evening: Head to the Liujiaxia Bridge and admire this magnificent structure spanning the Yellow River. * Night: Witness a breathtaking sunset from the Benzhigou Viewing Platform and experience the magic and grandeur of nature. **Day 3: Leisure, Shopping, and Reminiscing**✔️ * Morning: Explore Lanzhou's characteristic markets and pick up some souvenirs. * Lunch: Try some local Lanzhou specialties. 🍒 * Afternoon: Wander through the city center, experiencing both its bustling energy and tranquil corners. * Evening: Return to your hotel, relax, and pack your bags. * Night: Conclude your delightful Lanzhou trip, ready for your return journey or your next destination. ✈️ **Accommodation Recommendations**: 📣 We recommend choosing a hotel or homestay in the city center for convenient access to transportation, dining, and shopping. **Food Recommendations**: Besides Lanzhou Beef Noodles, don't miss out on local treats like Tianpeizi (sweet fermented glutinous rice), Huidouzi (grey bean soup), and Niangpi (cold noodles). 🌽 📸Lanzhou, 🌈a city brimming with charm, awaits your exploration and discovery. Whether you're a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or a foodie, you'll find something to love in Lanzhou. Embark on a spontaneous adventure today! 🎈

Weekend sunlight streamed through the curtains, gently waking us from our slumber. As we drew back the curtains, the view before us banished any lingering sleepiness—Yongjing's morning, serene and beautiful, with the Yellow River shimmering in the distance, complementing the blue sky and white clouds. Such a morning is perfect for spending quality time with your loved one at the Yongjing Yellow River Hotel. 🏡 Home Away from Home Stepping into the Yongjing Yellow River Hotel feels like coming home. Every corner exudes warmth and hospitality. The rooms are spacious and bright, decorated in a simple yet elegant style. Wooden furniture and soft lighting create a cozy atmosphere. The large, soft bed is especially inviting. 🌳 Embrace Nature Nestled amidst the mountains, the hotel is surrounded by lush greenery and fresh air. Strolling through the hotel gardens is like stepping into a natural oxygen bar. The hotel boasts orchards and dedicated cherry picking gardens, as well as soilless cultivation greenhouses, allowing you to pick fresh fruit and experience the joys of rural life. 🚗 Convenient Transportation Yongjing Yellow River Hotel offers easy access to both Liujiaxia Bus Station and Yongjing Bus Station. If you plan to explore the beauty of Gannan, the convenient transportation around the hotel will get you to your destination with ease. It's an ideal base, especially for road trips. 🍽️ Local Cuisine While the breakfast selection is somewhat limited, the hotel's other dining options are sure to satisfy. The buffet restaurant offers dishes infused with local flavors, each one a culinary delight. The dinner buffet is particularly recommended, offering a wide variety of dishes and authentic northwestern flavors. At Yongjing Yellow River Hotel, you can fully embrace the beauty of slow living. Bring your loved one and spend an unforgettable holiday here!

Here is an optimized six-day self-drive tour route in Gannan, with practical advice and tips to make your trip smoother: D1: Lanzhou → Huangtao Confluence → Liujiaxia Bridge → Hezuo City Highlights Huangtao Confluence: Recommended for drone photography, a spectacular confluence of two rivers (navigate to 'Longhui World' viewing platform). Liujiaxia Bridge: Stop at the viewing platforms along the way for photos, and pay attention to safety. Tips Hezuo City is at an altitude of about 3000 meters, avoid strenuous exercise upon arrival. For dinner, try Tibetan cuisine, such as Tsampa or Yak Meat Hotpot. Accommodation: Stay in Hezuo City. D2: Hezuo → Milarepa Buddha Pavilion → Rock Road → Zhagana Highlights Milarepa Buddha Pavilion: The only nine-story pavilion dedicated to the founders of various Tibetan Buddhist sects, shoes must be removed to enter. Rock Road (G248): The journey takes 5-6 hours, with the best section from 'Guanggaishan' to Zhagana, mostly gravel roads, SUVs are preferred. Tips Book accommodation in Zhagana in advance, recommended in Yeri Village or Dari Village scenic homestays. There is no signal on Rock Road, download offline maps in advance and bring enough food. D3: Zhagana → Xiao Duku → Ruoergai Flower Lake → First Bend of the Yellow River → Tangke Highlights Zhagana Sunrise: Capture the morning light at Dari Viewing Platform. Xiao Duku (550 County Road): Traverse canyon pastures, be cautious on narrow sections. First Bend of the Yellow River Sunset: Take the elevator to the viewing platform (ticket + elevator 105 yuan). Tips Ruoergai Flower Lake is most beautiful in summer (June-August), scenery is less impressive in other seasons, adjust stop time accordingly. Tangke Town is at an altitude of 3500 meters, choose a hotel with oxygen supply. D4: Tangke → Lianbaoyeze → Gemo Temple → Jiuzhi County Highlights Lianbaoyeze: A magical stone mountain scenic area, drive to 'Zhagaer Lake' entrance, hike 20 minutes (altitude 4200 meters, bring oxygen tank). Gemo Temple: Houses the world's largest indoor Maitreya Buddha statue (37 meters), free admission. Tips Weather in Lianbaoyeze is unpredictable, bring windproof jackets and rain gear. Accommodation in Jiuzhi County is limited, recommended hotels in Zhiqingsongduo Town. D5: Jiuzhi → Niangma Temple → Langmu Temple → Gahai Lake → Xiahe Highlights Niangma Temple: The world's largest prayer wheel (50 meters high), you can participate in turning the wheel. Langmu Temple: Divided into Sichuan (Gerti Temple) and Gansu (Saichi Temple), you can hike Namo Canyon from the Sichuan temple. Gahai Lake: If the reserve is closed, you can view the wetland scenery from G213. Tips Stay near Labrang Monastery in Xiahe. D6: Xiahe → Labrang Monastery → Ganga Secret Land → Lanzhou Highlights Labrang Monastery: The world's longest prayer corridor (3.5 kilometers), the best experience is during morning prayers. Ganga Secret Land: Baishiya Canyon + Bajiao Ancient City, drone photography is more impressive. Tips Labrang Monastery guide fee is about 50 yuan per group, for an in-depth understanding of Tibetan culture. Ganga Secret Land has narrow and winding roads, drive carefully, return to Lanzhou before dusk. ⚠️ General Tips 1. Vehicle: Preferably SUV/off-road vehicle, bring snow chains (rainy season/winter). 2. Altitude Sickness: High altitudes in Lianbaoyeze, Tangke, etc., avoid running, bring Rhodiola. 3. Road Conditions: Check with local hotels or 'Gansu Traffic' WeChat public account before departure to confirm if Rock Road is passable. 4. Cultural Respect: No photography inside temples, turn prayer wheels clockwise. 5. Environmental Protection: Do not litter, protect the grassland ecosystem. Alternative Plan If Rock Road is closed, take G316 via Min County to Zhagana. If time permits, add a short stop at 'Guomang Wetland' on D5. This route balances nature and culture, and can be adjusted flexibly to cope with weather changes. Have a pleasant trip! If you have any other needs, feel free to ask.

💃🏻If the Yellow River has islands It will stop for Liujiaxia〰️ 💌Liujiaxia〰️Gansu's own sea Liujiaxia Bridge The sky city on the banks of the Yellow River A unique landscape of red rocks and green water Total length of 568 meters The largest suspension bridge in the northwest Huangtao Confluence Viewing Platform CNY 10/person The distinct yellow and blue The Yellow River flows into the world from here Best viewing season: May to October Bingling Temple Grottoes Ticket CNY 50/person World Cultural Heritage Excavated in the early Western Jin Dynasty One of the three major grottoes in Gansu, along with Mogao Grottoes and Maijishan Grottoes Depart from Lanzhou by car, arrive at Donggan Wharf and take a boat to Bingling Temple (boat fare not included) ❤️‍🔥Tips: The boat fare at Donggan Wharf is generally CNY 80/person, and it increases to CNY 170-180 during holidays and the peak season in July and August 🕐The waiting time for the boat at Bingling Temple is 90 minutes, so please plan your time accordingly!

New Year travel destination 📍 Gannan in winter｜3 days and 2 nights in Tibet|||Not Tibet Not Western Sichuan 📍Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu This place is full of natural beauty At an altitude of about 3,000 meters Perfect for those who want to visit Tibet But are afraid of altitude sickness —————————————— 【Attractions】 Labrang Monastery Rock Road Zagana Langmu Temple Sangke Grassland —————————————— Day 1: Lanzhou - Labrang Monastery - Sangke Grassland - Gahai Lake - Langmu Temple Day 2: Langmu Temple - Namo Grand Canyon - Zagana Day 3: Zagana - (Rock Road, weather permitting) - Lanzhou ————————————— If you visit Gannan in winter Be sure to wear warm clothes Wear a hat, it's cost-effective Snow-capped mountains Blue sky, white clouds, cattle and sheep Every photo will be a hit on social media 📸

Winter vacation is coming! Join us on a 3-day tour of Gannan and Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture to experience the unique ethnic customs and the warmth and tranquility of winter! -------- 🛣️Itinerary: Day 1️⃣: Liujiaxia We will set off for Liujiaxia in the morning. Surrounded by mountains and rivers, Liujiaxia is a picturesque place. We will immerse ourselves in the embrace of nature and enjoy the peace and beauty. Day 2️⃣: Zhagana On the second day, we will visit the mysterious Zhagana, which boasts rich natural landscapes and profound cultural heritage. You will be reluctant to leave. Day 3️⃣: Gahai-Zechawa Nature Reserve, Gansu Province -> Gahai Lake On the last day, we will head to Gahai-Zechawa Nature Reserve, Gansu Province, to explore this primitive natural treasure. Then, we will stroll along Gahai Lake and enjoy the tranquility and comfort of the lake and mountains. 🔚After the 3-day tour, we will return home with fond memories and gains. -------- Recommended attractions: 🌟 Zhagana 🌟🌟 - Address: X412 (Niza Section), Diebu County, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu Province - Opening hours: All day - Duration: 1-2 days - The scenery is fantastic. The wooden houses of Tibetan villages are built along the mountains, showing a simple pastoral style. 🌊 Liujiaxia 🌊 - Address: Taiji Island, Liujiaxia, Yongjing County, Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture - Opening hours: All day - Duration: 1 day - The blue sky and clear water complement each other. The natural scenery of the canyon and the scenery of the plateau pearl are integrated, which is breathtaking. 🌸 Gahai-Zechawa Nature Reserve, Gansu Province - Gahai Lake 🌸 - Address: Gahai Township, Luqu County, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture - Opening hours: No restrictions - Duration: 1-2 hours - As a bird sanctuary, the blue sky forms a beautiful reflection on the lake on sunny days. Wildflowers bloom on the lakeside, and the scenery is picturesque. -------- Tips: - Food: The Hezhou buns and Niangpi in Linxia are amazing. Don't miss them! 😋 - Airport transportation: There are direct buses from Gannan Airport to Linxia, which are convenient and fast. 😊 - January climate: It is cold in Linxia in January. Remember to wear more clothes to keep warm! 🧣 - Specialty prices: In Linxia, various specialties are affordable, so you can shop to your heart's content! 🛍️ -------- Gannan and Linxia boast beautiful scenery and unforgettable food. I will come again next time! 🌄✨Remember to like and save this post, and share your travel stories!

Bingling Temple Grottoes are carved into the Danxia cliffs. When visiting the grottoes, you can see the red Danxia on both sides of the Yellow River. The Danxia peaks here are towering, and in winter, the withered plants make the distant view look like a wonderful landscape painting, which is a pleasant surprise on this trip.

Travel with Trip.com Season 16 - Gansu-Qinghai-Ningxia Road Trip (19) World Heritage Site - Bingling Temple Grottoes Haidong, Qinghai - Huangnan - Linxia, Gansu Sep 14, 2023 Sunny to cloudy, 8-30°C, max altitude 2,300m. Today we bid farewell to Qinghai after 8 days of sightseeing and return to Gansu. The Yellow River, the mother river of the Chinese nation, meanders eastward through the northwest. To attract tourists and develop tourism, many places have claimed to be the "First Bend of the Yellow River". The place we stayed last night, Hualong County, also claims to be the "First Bend". We took off and filmed a section of the river at a suitable location along the way (Pic 1). The Yellow River here is even clearer than what we saw in Guide the day before yesterday. The Yellow River flows slowly here, as smooth as a mirror (Pic 2). We set off for Bingling Temple in Linxia Prefecture. We drove on a winding road for nearly 25 km, which was quite tiring, but we saw some nice scenery (Pic 3). We arrived at Bingling Temple in the afternoon. Bingling Temple Grottoes (World Heritage Site, 5A) (Pic 4) is located in Yongjing County. It was first built in the first year of Jianhong in the Western Qin Dynasty (420 AD), with a history of more than 1,600 years. On the steep red sandstone cliffs, which are 2 km long from north to south, the grottoes and niches are lined up, and the statues are well preserved and lifelike (Pic 5, Cave 70, Eleven-faced Avalokitesvara with Eight Arms). Niche 171 is the third largest Maitreya Buddha statue in Gansu (Pic 6). The relief pagodas and esoteric murals of Bingling Temple are as famous as the Mogao Grottoes and Maijishan Grottoes. Compared with other famous grottoes, it has a bay of clear water (downstream of Liujiaxia Reservoir, which has been turbid due to rain in the past two days), which adds to its aura; it has a cluster of peaks, which makes it more beautiful (Pic 7). The "Sister Peaks" at the entrance are one of the main symbols of Bingling Temple (Pic 8). We left Bingling Temple and passed by Lijiaxia Reservoir, where China's first million-kilowatt hydropower station was built, known as the "Blue Yellow River" (Pic 9). We arrived at our destination in the evening, a beautiful small town - Yongjing County. Tomorrow we will head to Gannan.

Called "China's Cool Capital" by CCTV, its scenery is even more beautiful than Gannan! |||Gansu’s summer is not only fun in Dunhuang and Gannan. Linxia, ​​which was rated as the "Cool Capital of China" by CCTV, is located in the northwest, but the average temperature in summer is only 22°C. It is a small place to escape the high temperature! 👇👇 Linxia, ​​Gansu Located in the south-central part of Gansu Province, it is located in the transition zone between the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and the Loess Plateau. It has a profound history and is known as the "Hehuang Hero Town". It has spectacular landforms and a long history of culture. If you have the opportunity to travel to Gannan, remember to include Linxia in your itinerary! : : : : : : : : : : : : : : :

⛱️Must-see attractions: Bingling Temple Grottoes The Bingling Temple Grottoes were first built during the Sixteen Kingdoms period and continued to be built until the Tang Dynasty. The grottoes are located on a cliff face overlooking a small tributary of the Yellow River, and most of them are more than ten meters above the ground, so they have not been seriously damaged by theft. The construction of the Liujiaxia Reservoir has buried some of the caves underwater, but it has also raised the viewing platform to the best viewing point. "A mountain is famous if it has a fairy, and water is spiritual if it has a dragon." Here you will find the Yellow River Stone Forest and the Liujiaxia Reservoir, with both mountains and water, high mountains and deep water; here you will also find Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, sitting, standing, or lying, each in their own concentration; the Yellow River itself is a giant dragon, a hidden dragon in the abyss. It is a famous mountain and a beautiful water, with a lively spirit. After the tour, I am very happy! 🍜Food guide: Liu's Courtyard in Yongjing County, braised Yellow River carp. 🏨Accommodation guide: Gonghang Travel Yellow River Pearl Hotel 🚄Transportation guide: Self-drive 💗Other tips: The road from Yongjing County to Bingling Temple Grottoes is in good condition, with a winding mountain road that is fun to drive, and there are several mountain top viewing platforms along the way that are worth stopping to take a break and enjoy the view.

Lotus Pond Moonlight B&B in Liujiaxia Located on Taiji Island, you can fish, rent a car and ride a bike in the surrounding area. The scenery is pleasant and very suitable for taking pictures. The accommodation is a stand-alone house, private and comfortable, very suitable for weekend relaxation. The beautiful environment gives people a sense of freedom and relaxation away from the hustle and bustle of the city The only drawback is that there is no chef and no meals, and the included breakfast is very simple. You can bring your own food or eat at nearby farmhouses. Relax

1.5 hours’ drive from Lanzhou, there is a beautiful and smart town - Yongjing, Gansu. In addition to the scenery of the Yellow River, it also has the world cultural heritage of Bingling Temple Grottoes, which is known as one of the five largest grottoes in China. ️ ✅The Bingling Temple Grottoes have a history of more than 1,000 years, and were excavated about 100 years earlier than the Mogao Grottoes. It is a must-pass place on the ancient Silk Road heading south to Tubo, and is also one of the earliest dated grottoes in China. ✅The excavation of the entire grottoes spanned a long period of time, starting from the Western Qin Dynasty, and going through the Northern Wei, Northern Zhou, Sui, Tang, Song, Western Xia, Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties. It has been continuously expanded and repaired in various dynasties to reach its current scale. ✅Here you can see the Gandhara art of West Asia, the Mathura art of India, the Kucha art, the Northern Liang art, the Chang'an art and the Tibetan Buddhist art... ✅Bingling Stone Forest is very suitable for light hiking, the trail is flat, and there is no pressure for the elderly and children ✅The ticket is 50 yuan, and children are half price; there are also tickets for the ticket and the stone forest. We drove there by ourselves and the parking fee was 5 yuan; you can also take a speedboat from Liujiaxia to Bingling Temple Grottoes. The manual explanation is at the ticket gate, about 10 yuan per person. The tour guide is waiting for us in Cave No. 3. The whole explanation takes about 30 minutes.

❤️Recommendation reason: A Yellow River Grotto on the Silk Road, whether it is its historical origin, or its architecture and landscape, is full of unique charm. Standing on the height of the grotto, overlooking the surrounding mountains and canyons, it seems to be in a fairyland 🎈Bingling Temple Grottoes, located in Jishishan, Yongjing County, Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu Province, is a world cultural heritage. The grottoes were excavated in the early Western Jin Dynasty and can be said to be the ancestor of grottoes. There are 183 caves, 694 stone sculptures, 82 clay sculptures, and murals of about 900 square meters. It is more than 100 years earlier than the Dunhuang Grottoes. The murals and Buddha statues are well preserved and wonderful 🚥 Transportation strategy: 🉑By boat: You can take a boat to Bingling Temple from Liujiaxia Dam, and you can also enjoy the scenery of the Yellow River Three Gorges along the way. The disadvantage is that you can only stay in Bingling Temple for 1.5 hours 🉑Self-driving: All asphalt roads, many mountain roads, there is a parking lot in the scenic area, and it can be reached in 2 minutes on foot . 🎫Tickets: 50 (No. 169 and No. 172 Special Caves 300) 🚗Self-driving: 1.5 hours from Lanzhou 📋Note Tips: The grottoes are divided into the upper temple, the lower temple and the east ditch. Now you can only visit the lower temple. There are general caves and special caves. The ticket for general caves is 50 yuan; there are 5 special caves, 169 and 172 together are 300 yuan per person, Cave 126 is 80 yuan, Cave 128 is 60 yuan, Cave 132 is 90 yuan, Caves 169 and 172 are the earliest caves and murals in Western Qin. The remaining three are all from the Northern Wei Dynasty and have similar shapes. You can choose one of them. Explain the general caves 50-100. Special cave tickets include explanations. 🚗Recommended routes along the way 𝐃𝐚𝐲𝟏: Lanzhou➠Liujiaxia Reservoir➠Dinosaur Geopark➠Yellow River Dividing Line➠Yellow River Flower Dike 𝐃𝐚𝐲𝟐: Yellow River Three Gorges➠Bingling Temple Grottoes➠Luojiadong Temple➠Return trip

On the way from Huangtao Observation Deck to Bingling Temple, I came across a magnificent but deserted temple. I parked the car and took photos and entered the gate. I immediately saw an old lady and a young man coming from different directions. I instinctively thought that it was not open and came to drive me away, but when I came to the front, I was warmly welcomed to visit and took the initiative to explain. The main hall in the middle enshrines three Buddhas. The doors in the middle and the right are closed. Only the hall on the far left enshrines the founder of the Gelug Sect of Tibetan Buddhism, Tsongkhapa. The door is open. There are many cushions for believers to worship in front of the Buddha statue. The Buddha statue is solemn and dare not enter. The two pavilions on both sides of the main hall were suspended due to insufficient funds. The main structure was completed, and the corners and eaves looked very imposing. On the platform on the right side of the main hall, there is a glass-covered wooden wheel car with complicated decorations. The young man in the hall explained that when Princess Wencheng entered Tibet, she was stationed here. The car was built according to the style of the year. Later, when I checked the map, the current driving route from Xi'an to Xining does not pass through Linxia. Maybe the route nearly 1,500 years ago was slightly different!

The motherland is very big, and I have seen so many scenery, but I like this place only. The vastness of the Northwest makes me deeply love this land. It is the wind in Lanzhou, and the cry of Jincheng resounds across the Yellow River. I spent a day visiting here around Lanzhou. This is Yongjing, Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu Province. Hidden here is the Bingling Temple Grottoes, one of the six famous grottoes in China. Here is the "Huang-Tao Intersection" landscape that creates the unique Yellow River. It is located in the Danxia rock pillars with different shapes in the Danxia landform. The Bingling Temple Grottoes were excavated in the early Western Jin Dynasty and were first called Tangshu Grottoes. In the Tang Dynasty, it was called Longxing Temple, in the Song Dynasty, it was called Lingyan Temple, and in the Ming Dynasty, it was called Bingling Temple. The first Yellow River Grottoes on the Silk Road is a world cultural heritage. There are 183 cave niches in existence, and the artistic styles of different historical periods are known as the "Encyclopedia of Chinese Grottoes". It is really a treasure place. TipsBingling Temple Grottoes Strategy Guide 1. "Natural Buddha" of Tang Dynasty The iconic landscape of the Bingling Temple Grottoes, the stone clay sculpture Maitreya Buddha (Cave 171) carved on the mountain in the Tang Dynasty is an attraction that tourists cannot miss. The 27-meter-high Buddha has attracted the attention of countless tourists with its majesty and exquisite craftsmanship. 2. Main grotto groups Visit other major grotto groups in sequence, spanning multiple historical periods, showing the artistic styles and characteristics of different periods, and appreciate works of different styles such as stone sculptures from the Western Qin Dynasty, graceful statues from the Northern Wei Dynasty, and full and magnificent works from the Sui and Tang Dynasties. 3. Murals and stone carvings A large number of murals and stone carvings are preserved in the grottoes, showing the artistic styles and characteristics of different periods. The murals are rich in content, and the stone carvings are vivid with their exquisite skills. 4. Bingling Stone Forest The Danxia landform landscape, with thousands of peaks and ravines, is also an ideal place for hiking enthusiasts. It is a natural landscape that cannot be missed when visiting the grottoes. 5. The intersection of the Yellow River and Tao River When taking a boat from the Bingling Temple Grottoes, you can enjoy the spectacular scene of the intersection of the Yellow River and the Tao River. Where the two rivers meet, the water has distinct colors, forming a unique landscape.