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

The temples stood perched on the cliff face like eagle nests; the endless steps took me higher and higher, as I felt like I was climbing the back of sleeping giant. As I finally reached the top of the mountain I walked through a forest of ancient pine trees. Long after the emperors who built the temples have turned to dust and taken their place in history books, these trees, these silent witnesses are still standing tall and proud, braving the storms. There was an explosion of crude green so I decided to mute it with black and white photos, and keep the green forever in my heart and memories. Located in the Taizi Shan mountain range, a short distance from the town of Hezheng, Songmingyan National forest park is a great place to visit in every season. Go in the summer for endless hiking possibilities; take a trip there in the winter if you want to ski; autumn is the season of a thousand hues of rusty leaves; while spring will delight you with the smell of flowers. #mountainview #hiking #forest

On November 28, Songmingyan International Ski Resort in Hezheng County was bustling with activity as numerous ski enthusiasts gathered to freely glide along the slopes and enjoy the unique charm of winter sports. In recent days, the ski resort has been fully advancing the grooming and shaping of slopes at all levels. Now, the beginner, intermediate, and advanced slopes have all passed inspection and are officially open. The resort offers a variety of slopes to meet the needs of skiers of different skill levels, whether you are a novice or an expert, you can find a challenge that suits you. Moreover, it serves as the Gansu Province sub-venue for the 12th National Public Ice and Snow Season, hosting a series of ice and snow events and winter cultural tourism activities, including the Gansu Public Ski Open and the 11th "Songmingyan Yunfa Cup" Alpine Ski Invitational, making the events rich and exciting. Visitors here can not only experience thrilling skiing but also immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of ice and snow competitions, gaining plenty of surprises and joy. Come to Songmingyan International Ski Resort and start an unforgettable ice and snow journey, releasing your energy on the slopes!

Linxia, a "Little Mecca of China" embraced by the Yellow River and Taizi Mountain, where brick carvings and wood carvings with Hui ethnic charm, the millennium-old Buddhist aura of grottoes, and the vastness of grasslands are hidden. Take seniors to listen to brick carving stories in ancient alleys, accompany children to chase butterflies in the grasslands; here, every day you can experience the beauty of diverse cultural integration. 🗓️Itinerary Overview Day 1: Arrive in Linxia → Eight-Block Thirteen-Lane → Hongyuan Day 2: Bingling Temple Grottoes → Liujiaxia Reservoir Day 3: Hezheng Ancient Animal Fossil Museum → Songming Rock → Departure 🏘️Day 1: Explore Ancient Alleys, Admire Brick Carvings 📍Eight-Block Thirteen-Lane (Free) Key Highlights: Known as "China's First Hui Ethnic Street," with ancient alleys dating from the Ming and Qing dynasties to the Republic of China era, filled with brick carvings, wood carvings, and colorful paintings, showcasing rich Hui ethnic customs. Seniors can admire the brick carving screen walls (featuring exquisite patterns like "Hundred Blessings," "Plum, Orchid, Bamboo, Chrysanthemum") in "Dagaxiang" and listen to grandpas tell stories of the ancient alleys; children can learn simple brick carving from intangible cultural heritage inheritors (30 yuan/session, can take home their work), buy Hui paper-cut pendants (20 yuan/each), and enjoy hand-grabbed lamb (60 yuan/jin) at "Eight-Block Big Bowl Beef Noodles," which is tender and not gamey. 🕙Opening Hours: All day (suggested visit 10:00-17:00 when all shops are open) 📸Photo Spots: By the Hongshui River (ancient alleys and river reflections), in front of brick carving screen walls (people framed with traditional patterns) 💡Tips: Respect Hui customs; remove shoes and do not wear shorts when entering mosques; wear non-slip shoes as many alleys have flagstone paths. 📍Hongyuan (Free) Key Highlights: A park blending Hui brick carvings with Jiangnan-style gardens, featuring pavilions, towers, and an artificial lake, perfect for a stroll and relaxation. Seniors can admire calligraphy in the "Stele Corridor" and chat on stone benches; children can feed fish by the lake (5 yuan/bag of feed), chase pigeons, and buy Tangyougao (fried sugar cake, 3 yuan/each) as a snack. 🏨Recommended Accommodation: "Hezhou International Hotel" next to Eight-Block Thirteen-Lane (family rooms available, includes breakfast), priced at 300-400 yuan/night, a 5-minute walk to the attractions. 🗿Day 2: Grottoes and Lake Scenery 📍Bingling Temple Grottoes (5A, entrance ticket 50 yuan, includes boat ride 110 yuan) Key Highlights: "The First Grottoes on the Upper Reaches of the Yellow River," excavated during the Western Jin Dynasty, with 183 existing caves, Buddhist statues, and murals blending Chinese and Western styles. The "Flying Apsaras" mural in Cave 169 is particularly precious. Seniors can take a boat (1.5 hours) to the grottoes and walk along the gentle boardwalk to see the Great Buddha in Cave 172; children can listen to guides explain that "Bingling" means "Thousand Buddhas," learn to draw simple Thangkas at the "Thangka Experience Center" (40 yuan/set), and buy grotto Buddha cultural and creative products (25 yuan/each). 🕙Opening Hours: 8:00-17:00 (two boat trips daily, suggested departure at 8:00 AM) 💡Tips: The boat ride is smooth, no pressure for seniors; no photography allowed inside the grottoes; bring a jacket (windy by the lake). 📍Liujiaxia Reservoir (Free, boat ride 30 yuan/person) Key Highlights: A large reservoir on the upper reaches of the Yellow River, with vast waters, where you can witness the spectacular "half yellow, half clear" phenomenon at the confluence of the Yellow River and Tao River. Seniors can watch the spillway at the pier (water in summer) and enjoy the lake view by boat; children can run and jump on the dam, learn about the reservoir model, and buy Yellow River stone ornaments (30 yuan/piece). 🍖Recommended Dining: "Liujiaxia Fish Restaurant" near the reservoir, a must-try is the Yellow River carp (88 yuan/fish, steamed fresh and tender) and Jiao Tuan (a local dish, 8 yuan/bowl), average cost 50 yuan per person, rich in river fresh flavors. 🦕Day 3: Fossil Exploration, Pine Roar Listening 📍Hezheng Ancient Animal Fossil Museum (4A, free admission, reservation required) Key Highlights: "Kingdom of Ancient Animal Fossils," housing fossils of shovel-tusked elephants, three-toed horses, and more, vividly recreating the "Hezheng fauna" from millions of years ago. Seniors can see the "Giant Rhinoceros Fossil" (largest in Asia) and listen to stories of Earth's evolution; children can assemble fossil models in the "Interactive Zone" (20 yuan/session), play "fossil excavation" games, and buy dinosaur dolls (35 yuan/each). 🕙Opening Hours: 9:00-17:00 (last entry at 16:30) 📍Songming Rock (4A, entrance ticket 40 yuan) Key Highlights: "Famous Scenic Spot in Longshang," a forest park in the Taizi Mountain range, featuring Buddhist temples and Taoist temples. The "Hua'er Festival" (folk song festival) is held annually on the eighth day of the fourth lunar month. Seniors can stroll along the wooden boardwalk and admire the sea of trees from "Yuhuang Pavilion"; children can play wildly at "Songming Rock Ski Resort" (grass sliding available in summer, 30 yuan/session), pick wildflowers, and listen to "Hua'er" folk songs (sung by local seniors). 💡Tips: The mountainous area is cooler, bring a light jacket; seniors aged 60 and above get free admission, bring ID. 🍖Recommended Dining: "Farmhouse Restaurant" outside the scenic area, enjoy a final meal of hand-grabbed lamb (70 yuan/jin) and Jiangshui Noodles (6 yuan/bowl), average cost 55 yuan per person, savoring Linxia flavors. ✨Linxia Survival Guide 1️⃣Transportation: Taxi starting fare in the city is 6 yuan, bus 1 yuan/ride; to Bingling Temple, first go to Liujiaxia Town (taxi 60 yuan, 1 hour), then take a boat; chartering a car to Hezheng and Songming Rock costs 200 yuan/day, suitable for families with seniors and children. 2️⃣Clothing: Wear a light jacket in spring and autumn (cooler mornings and evenings in the mountains), short sleeves + sun protection clothing in summer (strong UV rays), down jacket in winter (cold and dry), and comfortable shoes (lots of walking). 3️⃣Taboos: Respect dietary customs in Hui residential areas (no pork products allowed); maintain quiet in mosques and do not take photos casually; no climbing or picking flowers/plants in scenic areas. 4️⃣Accommodation: Stay in the city on Day 1 (near Eight-Block Thirteen-Lane), stay in Liujiaxia Town on Day 2 (convenient for the next day's itinerary), return to the city on Day 3 for easy departure. 🛍️Must-Buy Souvenirs ① Linxia brick carving small items (50-100 yuan/each, intangible cultural heritage handmade, exquisite patterns) ② Hezheng Piteguo dried fruit (25 yuan/bag, sweet and sour, loved by seniors and children) ③ Hui paper-cuts (30-50 yuan/piece, rich in folk characteristics) ④ Hezhou steamed buns (vacuum-packed 20 yuan/bag, fresh and fragrant lamb filling, easy to carry) The soul of Linxia is the exquisite craftsmanship carved in the brickwork of Eight-Block Thirteen-Lane, the distant charm painted in the murals of Bingling Temple, and the vibrant life carried by the "Hua'er" folk songs. Whether it's taking parents to see brick carvings in ancient alleys, accompanying children to "excavate fossils" in the museum, or listening to "Hua'er" with friends in the grasslands, every moment here holds the warmth of diverse cultural integration. If you come to Linxia, would you rather explore the ancient alleys of Eight-Block Thirteen-Lane first, or visit the grottoes of Bingling Temple?

Songmingyan Ski Resort Autumn and Winter Travel Guide: From Golden Forest Seas to Ice and Snow Festivities 1. Preparation Before Travel Best Travel Time: Autumn (October to early November): Colorful foliage, perfect for hiking and photography. Winter (December to March): Snow-covered wonderland, ideal for skiing and snow activities. Transportation: Self-driving: Navigate to "Songmingyan Ski Resort," parking available within the scenic area. Public Transport: Take a bus from Lanzhou South Bus Station to Hezheng County, then taxi to the scenic area. Accommodation Recommendations: Inside the scenic area: Songmingyan International Ski Resort Hotel, convenient for skiing. Hezheng County town: More options and affordable prices, recommended hotels include Hezheng Hotel and Songmingyan International Hotel. Clothing Guide: Autumn: Large temperature difference between day and night; bring windbreakers, fleece jackets, thermal underwear, etc. Winter: Cold temperatures require down jackets, thermal pants, hats, gloves, scarves, and other cold-weather gear. Other Items: Autumn: Sunscreen, sunglasses, trekking poles, camera. Winter: Ski goggles, protective gear, thermos. 2. Recommended Autumn Activities Hiking to Enjoy Autumn: Wander through Songmingyan National Forest Park and experience the stunning golden forest seas. Recommended route: Songmingyan - Yaoshui Gorge - Nancha Valley. Photography: Capture the vibrant autumn colors and the wonders of nature. Best photo spots: Songmingyan Viewing Platform, Yaoshui Gorge Waterfall. Camping and Picnicking: Enjoy the crisp autumn weather with family and friends. Recommended spot: Songmingyan Camping Base. Tasting Local Cuisine: Try local specialties such as hand-pulled lamb, fazi noodles with intestines, and Hezhou steamed buns. 3. Recommended Winter Activities Skiing Experience: Songmingyan Ski Resort offers multiple slopes suitable for skiers of all levels, with professional instructors available. Snow Entertainment: Participate in snow tubing, snowmobiling, snow tank rides, and other fun activities to enjoy the ice and snow. Hot Springs Relaxation: Soak in hot springs after skiing to relieve fatigue. Recommended: Hezheng County Hot Spring Resort. Ice Sculpture Viewing: Every winter, the scenic area hosts an ice sculpture art exhibition showcasing exquisite ice artworks. 4. Itinerary Suggestions One-day Tour: Autumn: Morning hiking to enjoy autumn, afternoon photography, evening tasting local food. Winter: Morning skiing, afternoon snow entertainment, evening hot spring soak. Two-day Tour: Day 1: Arrive in the morning, hike or ski in the afternoon, stay overnight in the scenic area. Day 2: Continue activities in the morning, return in the afternoon. 5. Precautions The scenic area is at a high altitude; be mindful of altitude sickness. Wear protective gear and ski within your ability for safety. Protect the environment; do not litter. Check the weather in advance and prepare accordingly. 6. Travel Tips Follow the official WeChat account of Songmingyan Ski Resort for the latest news and discounts. Book accommodation and ski tickets in advance, especially during holidays. Bring common medicines such as cold medicine and gastrointestinal medicine. May you have an unforgettable journey on this land where golden hues and snowy whites intertwine!

1. Itinerary Arrangement Day 1: Arrive in Linxia, Experience Hui Ethnic Culture Morning: Arrive in Linxia and check into your hotel (Recommended: Linxia Hotel, Linxia Ethnic Hotel, price about 200-300 RMB/night). Noon: Taste Linxia’s specialty hand-pulled mutton (Recommended: Captain Ma’s Hand-Pulled Mutton, Dongxiang Hand-Pulled City, average cost about 50-80 RMB per person). Afternoon: Visit Bafang Shisan Xiang (Eight Lanes and Thirteen Alleys) to experience Hui architectural style and folk culture (free). Evening: Enjoy Linxia Hua’er folk song performance (Recommended: Linxia Grand Theater, ticket price about 50-100 RMB). Day 2: Explore Natural Scenery and Experience Historical Culture Morning: Head to Songmingyan National Forest Park to admire Danxia landforms and forest landscapes (ticket about 50 RMB). Noon: Have lunch inside Songmingyan scenic area (Recommended: scenic area restaurant, average cost about 30-50 RMB per person). Afternoon: Visit Bingling Temple Grottoes to appreciate Buddhist art charm (ticket about 60 RMB). Evening: Return to Linxia city center and taste Linxia specialty snacks (Recommended: Niangpi, Tianpei, Youxiang, average cost about 20-30 RMB per person). Day 3: Experience Rural Scenery and Return Morning: Go to Tangwang Town in Dongxiang County to enjoy apricot blossoms (seasonal) or experience farmhouse fun (free). Noon: Taste Dongxiang potato slices and farmhouse dishes in Tangwang Town (average cost about 30-50 RMB per person). Afternoon: Return to Linxia city center to buy Linxia specialty souvenirs (Recommended: Linxia brick carvings, ethnic costumes, dried fruits, budget about 200-300 RMB). Evening: Return trip. 2. Budget Details Transportation: Round-trip transportation cost depends on departure location, recommended to reserve 500-1000 RMB. Accommodation: Two nights about 400-600 RMB. Meals: About 300-500 RMB. Tickets: About 170 RMB. Others: Souvenirs and miscellaneous about 200-300 RMB. Total: About 2000-3000 RMB. 3. Travel Tips Linxia is at a high altitude, pay attention to sun protection and keeping warm. Respect local ethnic customs and religious beliefs. Book hotels and tickets in advance, especially during peak season. Bring common medicines such as cold medicine and gastrointestinal medicine. 4. Optional Itinerary If time allows, you can add an extra day to visit Hezheng County Paleontological Fossil Museum or Yongjing County Liujiaxia Reservoir. If budget permits, choose higher-end hotels and restaurants or try activities like horseback riding and camping. 5. Souvenir Recommendations Linxia Brick Carvings: Exquisite traditional handicrafts. Ethnic Costumes: Colorful and unique. Dried Fruits: Linxia is rich in walnuts, almonds, and other dried fruits. Dongxiang Potato Slices: Crispy and delicious local specialty snack. Hope this guide helps you plan a pleasant trip to Linxia!

Absolutely blown away by this hidden stunning secret spot in Gansu! Songmingyan truly amazed me, every snap feels like a cinematic masterpiece 🏞 📍Address: Diaotan Village, Songming Town, Hezheng County, Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture 🎫Ticket: 43 RMB ⏰Opening Hours: 08:30-17:30 Right upon entering the scenic area, I was stunned by the breathtaking view! Climbing the steps, you'll encounter a gorgeous waterfall, with water cascading down the cliff spectacularly 💦 There are many viewing platforms in the mountains to overlook the entire canyon, offering an incredibly wide view～ My favorite part is definitely the forest oxygen bar here 🌲 Towering ancient trees block out the sun, and walking along the forest trails is especially healing! Photos taken here have a natural cinematic filter effect; I recommend wearing bright-colored clothes for better shots 📸 Travel tips: ✅ Arrive around 9 AM for fewer crowds and better scenery ✅ Wear non-slip shoes as some stone steps can be slippery ✅ Bring a light jacket; it’s 5-8°C cooler in the mountains than in the city ✅ The scenic area sells snacks like cold noodles and niangpi at affordable prices ✅ You can take the scenic area shuttle bus for 15 RMB per person, very convenient Notes: ⚠ Some sections are quite steep, so be extra careful with elderly and children ⚠ The waterfall is more spectacular during the rainy season when water flow is stronger ⚠ The whole visit takes about 3-4 hours

🏔️ Ice and Snow Kingdom · Four Seasons Adventure! Gansu Fatai Mountain is so fun you won’t want to leave! ❄️ Reasons to Visit Northwest Switzerland! The all-around choice for skiing and fun 🏂 🚗 Travel Tips 📍 Address: Songmingyan Town, Hezheng County, Linxia Prefecture (700 meters west of Songmingyan) Drive and navigate to "Fatai Mountain Scenic Area," about 2.5 hours direct from Lanzhou ⏰ Opening Hours 08:30-18:30 (Winter night sessions are amazing!) 🔥 Recommended Activities 1️⃣ Winter Exclusive · Skiing Paradise 5 professional ski slopes + 100,000 sqm snow play area Beginners choose the magic carpet zone! Experts rush to the advanced slopes 🏂 Night skiing with beautiful lights and snowy scenery (remember to rent a little turtle hip protector!) 2️⃣ Cloud Swing · Heart-Racing Experience 25-meter-high swing on the cliff edge A hundred-meter-deep valley right below your feet (dare to keep your eyes open, I’ll admit defeat!) 3️⃣ Rainbow Slide · Full of Childlike Fun 200-meter super long slide A must-play with kids! Screaming all the way down 🌈 📸 Perfect Photo Spots ✔️ Ski resort mountaintop café Panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows + snowy background (holding a hot chocolate is super romantic) ✔️ Songmingyan Plank Road Winter rime wonder + summer cool escape secret spot 🍴 Food Supply Stations ▪️ Ski resort restaurant: warming lamb noodle slices ▪️ Songmingyan whole roasted lamb: freshly slaughtered and roasted, sizzling with oil ▪️ Hezheng special fruit beer: unique sweet and sour wild fruit juice from Northwest China ❗️ Pitfall Avoidance Tips - Rent ski gear by booking one day in advance - Big temperature difference at the mountaintop! Down jacket + waterproof pants are essential - Bring spare socks (playing in the snow easily gets them wet)

​​Fossil Hunter➕Flower Song Singer➕BBQ Master Kids unlock three identities in one day❗ This summer vacation was definitely worth it. . ⏰10:30 Travel back 30 million years!​​ 📍 Hezheng Ancient Animal Fossil Museum​​ (Photos 2-7) Who would have thought Gansu hides such a low-key yet treasure-filled museum? Not just kids, even adults are amazed by the "Top Ten World Records" here. The giant rhino skull​​ is taller than a 6-year-old child, and the shovel tusks of the shovel-tusked elephant look like slides. Turns out the elephant slide in the park is actually realistic! . ⏰12:30 Lunch above the clouds 📍 Hezheng Xingyu Cloud Scenic Area (Photos 1, 8-10) At over 2000 meters above sea level, sit in the mountaintop restaurant with 270° floor-to-ceiling windows. The view is unbeatable, clouds at your feet, appetite and mood both great. The roasted potatoes smell amazing; peel off the crispy skin and dip in spicy noodles or cumin. This is truly the taste of heaven😋. . ⏰15:00 Mountains and “Flower Songs” are the perfect match 📍 Songmingyan Scenic Area (Photos 11-12) On the sun-drenched hillside grass, intangible cultural heritage inheritors teach on-site! Learn the Flower folk songs line by line with the teacher. Singing in the Gansu accent brings the songs to life. . ⏰19:00 BBQ Night Feast 📍 Yeliguan Ama Zhoucuo Hotel (Photos 13-15) The hotel’s design and vacation vibe are top-notch; enjoy the cool summer evening breeze. Feast on soul-stirring BBQ and cured meat stewed with noodle slices. Watch the sunset and evening glow slowly disappear behind the mountains... . 🏁 Self-driving route Yongjing → Hezheng (1.5h) → Xingyu Cloud (30min, with a short mountain winding road) → Songmingyan Scenic Area (10min) → Yeliguan (1.5h)

If you're looking for a summer road trip that combines cool escapes with adventurous exploration, these destinations and itineraries are perfect for you. Most are located in high-altitude or densely forested areas with average summer temperatures between 18–25°C (64–77°F), offering picturesque landscapes and refreshing comfort—ideal for July and August travels. --- 🌄 **1. Western Cool Retreats (High-Altitude Scenery + Tibetan Culture)** 1. **Gannan Loop (Lanzhou—Labrang Monastery—Zagana—Langmusi)** - **Temperature**: 10–20°C (50–68°F) in summer, pleasantly cool - **Highlights**: - **Zagana**: A mist-shrouded stone village with panoramic views from Duri Viewing Platform; July brings vibrant rapeseed flower fields. - **Labrang Monastery**: Home to the world’s longest prayer wheel corridor (1,700+ wheels), showcasing Tibetan Buddhist solemnity. - **Langmusi Town**: Straddling Gansu and Sichuan, this "Little Switzerland of the East" features ethereal stupas and prayer flags at dawn. - **Best for**: Travelers who love culture-nature blends and prefer altitudes under 3,000m (to avoid altitude sickness). 2. **Western Sichuan Grand Loop (Chengdu—Siguniang Mountain—Daocheng Yading)** - **Temperature**: Daocheng Yading averages 10°C (50°F) in July—pack a light down jacket. - **Highlights**: - **Daocheng Yading**: Mystical hues of Milk Lake and Five-Color Lake mirror snow-capped peaks during the rainy season. - **Xinduqiao**: A photographer’s paradise with alpine meadows and golden morning light. - **Note**: Higher landslide risks in July; carry a satellite phone and emergency supplies. --- 🏞️ **2. Northwest Cool Corridor (Grasslands + Danxia + Silk Road Culture)** 1. **Linxia’s Taizi Mountain Route (Exclusive for Jinan Residents)** - **Temperature**: Average 22°C (72°F); Jinan citizens enjoy free entry to all A-level scenic spots (valid until end of 2025). - **Highlights**: - **Zhuzigou**: Horseback riding through grasslands and riverside BBQ camping. - **Starry Cloud Homestay**: At 2,400m altitude, stargaze from futuristic pods with Milky Way views. - **Itinerary**: 3 days, 2 nights; ideal for family trips. 2. **Qilian Highway No. 9 (Qinghai’s Qilian County)** - **Temperature**: Around 20°C (68°F) with refreshing plateau breezes. - **Highlights**: - **Zhuoer Mountain**: Striking red Danxia landscapes contrast with emerald grasslands, framed by snow-capped Niuxin Mountain. - **Amdo Dongsuo Camp**: Pitch tents by forest streams under starry skies. - **Unique appeal**: Connects snow peaks, canyons, and ancient towns for off-the-beaten-path explorers. --- 🌲 **3. Northeast Forest Escapes (Woodlands + Grasslands + Wetlands)** 1. **Ulan Butong Grassland Route (Zibo—Chengde—Ulan Butong)** - **Temperature**: 10°C cooler than North China Plains; ~25°C (77°F) on grasslands. - **Highlights**: - **Chengde Mountain Resort**: Imperial gardens blending lakes and Qing-era architecture. - **Ulan Butong**: Post-rain vistas of dark green grasslands under dramatic clouds—perfect for drone shots. - **Tip**: 9-day, 2,000km route suited for multi-generational families. 2. **Greater Khingan’s Tahe Route (G331 Highway)** - **Temperature**: Average 22°C (72°F), cooler in forests. - **Highlights**: - **Guqigu Wetland Park**: Drive through primeval forests spotting reindeer herds. - **Forest Concerts**: Summer events featuring Oroqen ethnic culture. - **Facilities**: Campsites and supply stations along the way; ideal for RV trips. --- 🏔️ **4. Southern Mountain Retreats (Fujian & Shaanxi Hidden Gems)** 1. **Jiupengxi, Zhangping (Fujian)** - **Temperature**: 19°C (66°F), 3–5°C cooler than urban areas. - **Highlights**: - Boat through 14km of waterborne forests; stroll wooden trails along streams. - Pair with **Longxiao Rock Rafting**: 7km route with 18 thrilling drops for a cooling adrenaline rush. - **Access**: 2.5-hour drive from Xiamen. 2. **Guanshan Grassland, Longxian (Shaanxi)** - **Temperature**: Peaks at 20°C (68°F); evenings require a jacket. - **Highlights**: - Northwest China’s only alpine grassland, with 350,000 acres of pastures dotted with livestock. - **Longmen Cave**: Cliffside plank paths lead to a gravity-defying Taoist temple. - **Route**: 3-hour drive from Xi’an; recommended as a 2-day trip. --- ⚠️ **Self-Driving Tips** - **High-altitude areas** (Gannan, W. Sichuan): Carry oxygen, warm layers, and monitor weather shifts. - **Mountain roads** (G318, Taizi Mountain): Check conditions; avoid night drives and rainy seasons. - **Gear up**: Emergency car kit, sun protection, and camping gear (for grasslands/forests). Each route offers unique charms—whether you seek Tibetan mystique, grassland freedom, or forest serenity. Check real-time weather and road updates to ensure a cool, smooth journey 🚗💨.

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] In the embrace of the upper reaches of the Yellow River, there is a land full of rich Islamic culture - Linxia. It is not only an important node on the ancient Silk Road, but also a treasure trove of diverse cultures. When it comes to Linxia, people always think of the magnificent mosques, the colorful Bafang Thirteen Alleys, and the fragrant hand-grabbed mutton. However, the charm of Linxia is far more than that. Today, let's walk into this magical land and explore those little-known surrounding attractions. The first thing that catches your eye is the Dadun Gorge Scenic Area in Jishishan County. The mountains here are green and the water is like a mirror, known as the "Little Jiuzhai on the Loess Plateau". Along the winding path into the canyon, you will find one surprise after another: waterfalls cascading down, rainbows looming; exotic flowers and plants are scattered in the forest, and the sound of birds is pleasant. Here, every breath is the purest taste of nature. Next, you might as well drive to Songmingyan, which is only a few dozen kilometers away from Linxia City. This is a national forest park, named after the sound of pine waves like thousands of horses galloping when the wind rises. Walking on the dense forest boardwalk, listening to the low moan of the wind blowing through the pine needles, your soul will be at peace like never before. When you reach the top, you can see the surrounding peaks and ridges, like an ink painting under the sunlight. Of course, how can you miss the mysterious Bingling Lake when you come to Linxia? This artificial lake behind the Liujiaxia Hydropower Station has a winding shoreline of 53 kilometers. You can take a boat tour to enjoy the steep cliffs and various islands on both sides. Among the lakes and mountains, there are also ancient Buddhist caves - Bingling Temple Grottoes. They have gone through thousands of years of vicissitudes and still silently tell the stories of the past. Finally, allow me to take you to a secret place in Dongxiang Autonomous County - Wangji Wetland Park. There are vast reeds, scattered ponds, and flocks of migratory birds. When the sun sets, the entire wetland is shrouded in golden light, as if entering a dream world. Through the exploration of these little-mentioned surrounding attractions, we can see a more colorful side of Linxia. Every place has its unique history and story, and every landscape contains endless vitality. Just like this land of Linxia, it has both the accumulation of heavy history and the beauty of nature's gifts. I hope this short article can inspire your curiosity about the unknown world and encourage every travel-loving friend to discover more beautiful chapters of their own. After all, "the best scenery is always on the road".

Songmingyan Ski Resort, nestled among magnificent mountains, is a winter wonderland. With pure snow and winding trails, it offers fun for both beginners and seasoned skiers. Strap on your skis and race down the mountain for an adrenaline rush, or take a leisurely stroll through the snow to enjoy the tranquility and beauty. The resort also boasts excellent facilities and a professional coaching team to ensure your safety. This winter, come dance with the snow, unleash your passion and energy, and let your spirit soar in this snowy paradise. Songmingyan Ski Resort awaits your challenge for an unforgettable winter adventure!

Hey, travel experts👋! Today, I will take you to explore the treasure of Linxia - Taizishan🏞️, a stunning fairyland that combines natural scenery and ethnic customs! 🚗Get ready, our exciting 3-day and 2-night journey is about to begin! Day1️⃣: Depart from Lanzhou and drive to Kangle County. The first stop is Lianhua Mountain National Forest Park🌳. Not only is it a holy place for Buddhism and Taoism, but it is also a paradise for summer vacation! The green sea is full of eyes, and the fresh air is like being in a paradise🌸. In the evening, you might as well enjoy a meal of authentic farmhouse dishes at the Wild View Pavilion🍽️, and feel the tranquility and comfort of the mountains. Day2️⃣: Continue along the Taizishan Tourism Expressway and check in at the Bamboo Gully Scenic Area🌳. Backed by Taizishan with an altitude of 3,600 meters, the meadows here are like yin, and the primeval forests are densely covered. It is an excellent place for taking photos and checking in📸. In the afternoon, go to Caochang Gully. Although the altitude is high, the scenery is stunning. It is close to the mountains and rivers, as if walking into a moving landscape painting🖼️. Stay at Taizishan Hot Spring Resort Hotel♨️ at night, soak away the fatigue and welcome the wonderful second day. Day3️⃣: In the early morning, after being nourished by the hot springs, go to Taizishan Tianchi🏞️. Tianchi is like a mirror, reflecting the majesty of Taizishan, with beautiful scenery in all seasons. Then, visit Huai Shuguan to feel the heaviness of history and the harmony of nature. After lunch, drive back, but don't forget to stay in Guantan Gully Scenic Area for a while, watch the sika deer play in the forest, and enjoy this tranquility and beauty🦌. This trip to Taizishan in Linxia is not only a visual feast, but also a baptism of the soul. Remember to bring your camera📷 and curiosity to capture those fleeting beautiful moments!

📖 Hezheng Ancient Animal Fossil Museum is located in Liangjiazhuang, Chengguan Town, Hezheng County. The museum currently houses more than 30,000 fossil specimens, holding six world records. The most famous are the unique Hezheng Sheep, the world's largest three-toed horse fossil, and the shovel-tusked elephant fossil. The museum is beautifully designed, rich in collections, and unique. Visitors can see various rare fossils and learn a lot of scientific and cultural knowledge. Many animals are named after regions, and for those extinct ancient animals, there are several naming schemes. For example, some are named after people, while others are named after the place where they were discovered. In this museum, some are named after the county name 'Hezheng,' such as Hezheng Pheasant and Hezheng Sheep. Equus eisenmannae is named after a Frenchman, but this species was discovered within the territory of Linxia Prefecture. 🔅Highlights: A national second-class museum in a small county. In the museum's introduction materials, it lists ten world records. In terms of appearance, the shovel-tusked elephant is quite interesting. Just like an elephant's trunk is used for sucking water, people believe its large teeth were used for shoveling some grass and aquatic or semi-aquatic vegetation. But later, it was discovered that, surprisingly, they were used for peeling bark, functioning like a scythe! Given that it is the excavation site, the museum is large, and the exhibits are so rich that the shovel-tusked elephant fossils can be displayed by age, from small to large, in a row. Moreover, the characteristic of Equus eisenmannae is its long face. Very long. The materials state that 'its face is the longest among horses, both in absolute and relative terms,' but it is also extinct. 👍Wonderful Experience: Bringing children here to 'play' is quite rewarding. 📱Navigation and Parking: The museum has a parking lot, costing 3 yuan per hour. ❗️Tip: On the north side of the road, there are two rows of parked cars, and there are no no-parking signs. 📍Location | Hezheng Ancient Animal Fossil Museum, Linxia Prefecture, Gansu 🎫Free Admission

| Stunning Niche Cultural Architecture.💖 The Treasure Land of Linxia | Stunning Niche Cultural Architecture 🎊 🏮 In Hezheng County, Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture, there is an amazing place - Hetan Gongbei. As we drove from Linxia to Yeliguan, it successfully caught our attention from afar. 🌟 'Gongbei,' a term originating from Arabic, originally means an arched building or a domed pavilion. Later, it specifically referred to the domed buildings constructed by the Sufis over the tombs of their sheikhs, saints, and sages, becoming a holy place for people to visit and worship, as well as a center for preaching and holding major religious activities. (Excerpt from Baidu) 🎫 This is not a tourist attraction and does not charge an entrance fee. It is like a pearl, situated on a small island in the river, connected to the embankment by only two small bridges. Initially, out of respect for local customs, we only observed from the outside. Then, a warm-hearted seventy-year-old grandfather appeared, chatted with us kindly, and introduced the place. Although we couldn't fully understand most of the content, we learned that Hetan Gongbei was first built during the Ming and Qing dynasties, was demolished during a special period, and was rebuilt in the late 1980s. The grandfather led us into the courtyard and informed us that we could freely visit the courtyard but not enter the hall. 👀 The architecture here is exquisite, with walls and roofs featuring Linxia's intangible cultural heritage 'Linxia Brick Carving,' and the wooden eaves and beams are adorned with intricate carvings. 📸 Hezheng County also has the Songmingyan Scenic Area, Linxia folk song 'Hua'er,' Taizi Mountain Tourist Area, and many other beautiful sceneries waiting for you to explore. 📍 Navigate to 'Hezheng County Hetan Gongbei' to reach this magical place. Please respect the customs of all ethnic groups, enter only with permission, and do not fly drones.

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Gansu Linxia Prefecture and Political Paleontology Fossil Museum is located in Liangjiazhuang, Chengcheng County, Hezheng County. It covers an area of 120 mu and has a construction area of 23,000 square meters. It consists of three independent buildings, namely No.1 Exhibition Hall, No.2 Exhibition Hall and No.3 Exhibition Hall. , in the "good" font layout. There are more than 30,000 fossil specimens in the collection, belonging to 3 classes, 8 orders and more than 150 genera. Four different mammalian groups in the late Cenozoic, buried in the four lithological strata of the Hezheng area, occupying the six of the world's most, namely, the world's unique and political sheep, the world's largest three-toed The fossils of horse fossils, the world's most abundant shovel-like fossils - the shovel-toothed skull individual development series, the world's first Quaternary hairy rhinoceros skull fossil, the world's largest true horse - Ehrlich horse and the world The biggest hyena - the giant hyena.