[2025 Sunan Attraction] Travel Guide for Mati Temple Scenic Area (Updated Jan)

⛪️ Mati Temple Grottoes, located in Gansu, China, is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history and culture. As someone who loves exploring ancient sites, I found this complex of caves and temples to be absolutely stunning. The intricate carvings and sculptures inside the grottoes are a testament to the incredible skill and artistry of the people who created them so many centuries ago. 🤩 One of the highlights of my visit to Mati Temple Grottoes was the opportunity to witness firsthand the incredible walks inside the rocks of these ancient structures. The attention to detail and dedication of the original artists is truly remarkable, and it's heartening to know that these cultural treasures are being preserved for future generations to enjoy. We stayed at a local hotel nearby, which was really nice to wake up and just walk to the temple. There are plenty of beautiful surrounding walk, and I would highly recommend going and walking up the many steps to the viewing platform opposite the stupas! Winner views!!! ⛰️ Overall, I highly recommend a visit to Mati Temple Grottoes for anyone traveling to Gansu. The combination of history, culture, and stunning natural beauty makes for a truly unforgettable experience. #roadtrip #tripleblazer #ancientlandmark

Pictures speak louder than words ✌️ How to get there: rental car from Xining (3h), best a 4 wheel drive as the last 5km are not good What’s to see: Nature, temple, local culture and horseback riding Costs: hotels are local, below 200RMb/night. For the horses we paid around 200/each for half day Time needed: full weekend What to look for: Go remote with the horses Don’t forget to bring your drone for some of these beautiful aerial shots 🛸 IG: andykoh_m8 #germaninchina #travellifestyle #aroundtheworld

Mati Temple was built in the Jin Dynasty, and features a series of grottoes that blend into the cliff face! In total there are 7 small grotto groups that stretch over 30km, and legend has it that this temple was so named because a sacred horse left a footprint in the rock here - which you can also see inside the temple!). Aside from the grottoes, the area itself is super beautiful, with lush greenery surrounding the entire area. 📍Mati Temple, Gansu Province, China #leaveyourmark

Ma Ti So horse hoof temple 马蹄寺。 Very famous destination for travelling. The built in the rock temple is admirable pattern of ancient master piece and spirit! The temple is 1600 years old. The narrow corridors in tiny rock smells like a mysterious secret place. The artifacts also are not usual, especially, that Buddha stature with another Buddha in a belly. To get there it is important to catch one bus from south bus station in Zhangye. Note: the bus schedule are varied from time to time, usually there are three morning busses: 7-25, 8-25, 9-25; but when we have arrived to buy the ticket we were told there is only one at 9-15 because there are not enough tourists. Futher, please, precise the information from the driver, where and when he will pick passengers for return trip If this only one bus will be missed, well... you have to think over your returning. The temperature difference could shock! At the night there snow fall had happened, we came with very warm clothes, but after noon it became more than 20+ degrees Celsius and we took off all clothes, even T-shirts. The surrounding landscape is beautiful, just very very beautiful. #tripaway#triplocal

#thousandbuddhatemple was constructed during the Yuan dynasty in 1271-1368. This temple, also carved out of the cliff face and pockmarked with thousands of tiny holes like a Swiss cheese mountain #zhangye #silkroad #happynewyear

Northwest Travel | Zhangye Horseshoe Temple Caves Horseshoe Temple is a tourist area that combines the art of grottoes, the scenery of Qilian Mountain and the Yugu people. The entire Horseshoe Temple is very large. If you want to play the entire scenic spot, it is estimated that it will take a day. Because of the time, we only selected a few more famous points. The Horseshoe Temple is not the same as an ordinary temple. It has no majestic treasure hall. There is no Qionglou Yuyu. It only has a labyrinth of caves in the upper and lower layers. huge cave temple complex, multiple cave statues carved on the stone walls

As a bright pearl on the ancient "Silk Road", Gansu Zhangye has formed a beautiful picture with unique western characteristics with its long history, splendid culture, beautiful mountains and rivers, and simple ethnic customs. Many people come to Gansu. I definitely want to go to the Dunhuang Mogao Grottoes to see it. I dont know that there is a temple in the Jin Dynasty in Zhangye. This is the Horseshoe Temple. It is a collection of grotto art, religious culture, ethnic customs and natural scenery. It has been around for more than 1600 years. History, the Horseshoe Temple is named after the legendary Tianma has a horseshoe print here. The legendary horseshoe imprint is now in the Horseshoe Hall of Puguang Temple and becomes the treasure of the town temple. It consists of Shengguo Temple, Puguang Temple, Thousand Buddha Cave, Upper, Middle and Lower Guanyin Caves and Jinta Temple, which are distributed in more than 100 square kilometers.

The Horseshoe Temple, also known as the "Puguang Temple", was built in the Northern Liang Dynasty. It has a history of more than 1,500 years. Because of the obvious horseshoe imprint on the bluestone plate of the horseshoe temple of the temple, it is said that it is King Saars mount was left behind, so he got his name. The original scale of the Horseshoe Temple includes the Jinta Temple, the Thousand Buddha Cave, the North and South Horseshoe Temple, the Upper and Lower Guanyin Caves and other grottoes and monasteries. There are more than 70 grottoes. It is another group of grottoes in Gansu, which is second only to Dunhuang Mogao Grottoes, Tianshui Maiji Mountain and Yongjing Bingling Temple. The temple feels very peaceful because it is located in the suburbs. This is a "temple" that subverts the image of a traditional temple in your heart. It does not have a strict temple, no ancient trees, no monks. Although it was destroyed, it can be seen through the residual statues and murals that it is a place of fragrant pilgrimage.

Spring Festival is the perfect time to travel! Take an 8-day tour from Xining to Qinghai Lake and Dunhuang to explore the beautiful scenery of the Northwest. Don't miss it! . 🏃 Itinerary: Day 1: Xining Museum Explore the history and culture of Xining and gain a deeper understanding of the city's heritage. Day 2: Ta'er Monastery Experience the unique charm of Tibetan Buddhism and admire the ancient temple architecture. Day 3: Chaka Salt Lake -> Erlangjian Scenic Area of Qinghai Lake Stroll through the mirror of the sky, enjoy the magnificent salt lake scenery, and then head to Erlangjian Scenic Area to admire the vast beauty of Qinghai Lake. Day 4: Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park Immerse yourself in the colorful Danxia landform and marvel at the wonders of nature. Day 5: Mati Ecological and Cultural Tourism Area -> Mati Temple Thousand Buddha Caves Experience the unique ecological culture, then visit the ancient Thousand Buddha Caves and feel the weight of history. Day 6: Jiayuguan Pass Visit the majestic Jiayuguan Pass and experience the grandeur of the ancient frontier and the vicissitudes of history. Day 7: Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring -> Mogao Caves Ride a camel through the desert, listen to the legend of Crescent Spring, and then visit the World Heritage Site of Mogao Caves to admire the splendor of mural art. Day 8: Dunhuang Museum Gain an in-depth understanding of Dunhuang's history and culture, and conclude this journey on a perfect note. . Some tips: 📸 Photo spots: The sunrises and sunsets at Qinghai Lake and Dunhuang are a paradise for photography enthusiasts. Don't miss them! 🛍️ Specialty prices: Xining's beef jerky and Dunhuang's dried fruits are amazing. Remember to compare prices and choose the best value for money. 🍽️ Food recommendations: Dunhuang's Mogao Liangpi and Xining's Kangguo Lamb are must-tries for foodies! 💡 Tips: The ultraviolet rays on the plateau are strong, so sunscreen is a must! The climate is also changeable, so remember to bring enough clothes to stay comfortable. . The charm of Xining, the tranquility of Qinghai Lake, and the mystery of Dunhuang await you. Head west and make the most of your time. Start your journey to the Northwest now!

Zhangye 3-Day Tour Day 1: Zhangye - Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park - Binggou Danxia Scenic Area - Zhangye Day 2: Zhangye - Pingshanhu Grand Canyon - Mati Temple - Zhangye (Overnight) Day 3: Zhangye - Kangle Grassland - Baiers Snow Mountain - Zhangye (End)

Zhangye Daduma Scenic Area: 1. Location and features: • Daduma Village is located in the Tibetan Township of Mati, Sunan Yugur Autonomous County, Gansu, on the northern slope of the Qilian Mountains. The area has a good ecosystem, lush vegetation, and herds of cattle and sheep, making it a great place to escape the summer heat. 2. Natural scenery: • The snow-capped peaks of the Qilian Mountains blend with the blue sky and white clouds, creating a dazzling scene. The original forest is lush and the alpine grassland surrounds the rolling mountains. The Daduma River flows continuously, with a large drop in water level, forming deep pools in many places. The riverbanks are steep and lined with huge rocks, creating a stunning landscape. 3. Cultural attractions: • Daduma Village has cultural walls painted with Tibetan auspicious patterns, as well as newly renovated cultural squares and rural stages. Visitors can experience the local Tibetan and Yugur culture. 4. Tourist activities: • Visitors can camp, picnic, and relax here, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful scenery. They can also taste local delicacies such as butter tea, crispy twists, and roasted barley flour. 5. Transportation and accommodation: • From Jiayuguan, take the G30 National Highway past Zhangye East, then turn onto the G227 National Highway to Liuba and exit the highway. Continue along the 355 and 354 country roads, and the 213 and 208 county roads. After reaching the Mati Temple Scenic Area, pass through the scenic area to reach Daduma Village. There are farmhouses and other accommodation options in and around the village.

The white of the snow-covered mountains, the ink of the prayer flags, the orange of the sunset, the light of the endless stars... In just a few days, after embracing the local culture again and again, I increasingly understand people's awe and longing for the snow-capped mountains. Standing on the top of the glacier, facing the wind and looking at the clear blue sky, the freedom of that moment is addictive; after a light snow, walking on the path surrounded by snow-capped mountains, listening to your own breathing and stepping on the creaking snow, that walk is a release, but also a kind of accumulation, facing your own heart between heaven and earth.

I thought Dunhuang was already amazing, but Zhangye is the real hidden gem of the Hexi Corridor. I even canceled my other plans for it. Zhangye, formerly known as Ganzhou, is one of the four counties in the Hexi Corridor. I won't go into its history, but it has many cultural and natural attractions. Cultural attractions include the Giant Buddha Temple, Mati Temple Grottoes, Jinta Temple Grottoes, and Manjusri Temple Grottoes. Natural attractions include the Rainbow Mountains, Pingshanhu Grand Canyon, Balz Snow Mountain, and Shandan Horse Ranch. Itinerary recommendations: Day 1: Mati Temple Grottoes + Rainbow Mountains For culture lovers, I recommend Mati Temple Grottoes + Jinta Temple. For nature lovers, I recommend Mati Temple Grottoes + Rainbow Mountains. Mati Temple Grottoes were first built during the Five Liang period. Unfortunately, they were destroyed, but they are beautiful in all seasons. Climb the Thirty-Three Heavens Grottoes to experience the hard work of ancient people and enjoy the snow-capped Qilian Mountains. It's worth the ticket price. The Rainbow Mountains are more beautiful in summer and fall, especially after the rain. I recommend going in the evening for softer light. There are four viewing platforms, and I found 2, 3, and 4 to be the most beautiful. Day 2: Zhangye Giant Buddha Temple + Museum I highly recommend the Giant Buddha Temple, as it's the only Western Xia temple in China. The main hall is mysterious and solemn. The main hall has a wooden clay sculpture of the reclining Buddha Shakyamuni, the largest indoor reclining Buddha in China. Behind the Buddha are the ten disciples, and on both sides are the eighteen arhats. The walls are carved with murals of Journey to the West and Classic of Mountains and Seas. The Zhangye Museum doesn't have much to see. I recommend going to the Gansu Museum in Lanzhou. If you have more time in Zhangye, I suggest visiting Pingshanhu Grand Canyon. Tips: Shandan Horse Ranch: Unfortunately, it's closed in winter and spring. I recommend going in summer to see the horses bathing. Hotels are cheap in the off-season, and I ate beef and lamb every day. Gansu's attractions are scattered, so I recommend joining a tour or renting a car to save time.

I thought the highlight of my trip to Zhangye would be the Rainbow Mountains, but it turned out that Mati Temple was the biggest surprise. Especially in autumn, Mati Temple is like a colorful painting, with every stroke created by the magical hand of nature. As I stepped into the Mati Temple Scenic Area, the autumn colors overwhelmed me. The golden leaves seemed to be set ablaze by the sun, gently swaying in the autumn breeze, as if playing a symphony of autumn. The red walls of the ancient temple, set against the colorful autumn scenery, appeared even more ancient and solemn, adding a touch of mystery to the place. The distant mountains looked like a palette overturned by nature, with colors so rich they couldn't be dissolved. Besides Mati Temple, there are many other attractions worth visiting in Zhangye. For example, Pingshan Lake Grand Canyon, with its unique landforms, resembles an alien world. The canyon is deep, and the rocks are rugged. Walking through it, you can feel the craftsmanship of nature. There's also the Giant Buddha Temple, where the massive reclining Buddha is solemn and majestic. Every detail of the statue showcases exquisite craftsmanship and carries a rich historical and cultural heritage. Speaking of food, you can't miss the beef rice in Zhangye. The beef is stewed until it's very tender, mixed with distinct grains of rice, and topped with green onions, cilantro, and other seasonings. The rich flavors in every bite are full of the strong taste of the northwest. There's also the "cuoyu" noodles, with their unique shape, smooth and chewy texture, and local "saozi" sauce, which is a taste sensation. There are some special considerations when visiting Mati Temple. If you're going in autumn, it's best to bring a thick coat, as the temperature in the mountains is relatively low. Additionally, some attractions in Mati Temple may require long walks, so it's recommended to wear comfortable shoes. Also, Jinta Temple requires advance reservations and has a visitor limit, so be sure to plan your trip in advance. Otherwise, you might end up with regrets like I did. I didn't get to see Jinta Temple this time, but that's okay. It gives me a reason to return to Zhangye and experience the beauty of Mati Temple again.

Xining–Qinghai Lake 8-Day Tour: Explore the Great Northwest! A super detailed guide to help you enjoy the plateau scenery without detours. Save it now! . 🚩Itinerary: Day 1: Xining Museum Explore the history and culture of Xining and admire the museum's collection of exhibits. Day 2: Ta'er Monastery Visit the sacred site of Tibetan Buddhism and feel the solemnity and profound heritage of Ta'er Monastery. Day 3: Chaka Salt Lake > Erlangjian Scenic Area of Qinghai Lake Enjoy the mirror-like Chaka Salt Lake and then head to the Erlangjian Scenic Area of Qinghai Lake to admire the magnificent scenery of the plateau lake. Day 4: Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park Admire the fantastic colors of Zhangye Danxia and feel the magic of nature. Day 5: Mati Temple Scenic Area > Mati Temple Thousand Buddha Caves Explore the natural beauty of Mati Temple Scenic Area and then visit Mati Temple Thousand Buddha Caves to admire the charm of Buddhist art. Day 6: Jiayuguan Pass Climb Jiayuguan Pass to feel the magnificence of the ancient frontier and the weight of history. Day 7: Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Moon Spring > Mogao Caves Ride a camel across Mingsha Mountain, listen to the legend of Crescent Moon Spring, and then head to Mogao Caves to explore the treasures of millennia-old Buddhist art. Day 8: Dunhuang Museum Visit Dunhuang Museum to admire the historical and cultural relics and art treasures of Dunhuang and end your pleasant journey. . 🎒 Travel Essentials: Xining–Qinghai Lake Packing List 👕 Clothing: Thick coat, long-sleeved clothes, and long johns to keep warm and stylish. Sunscreen clothing, sun hat, and sunglasses to protect you from the sun. 📿 Accessories: Charger and power bank to keep your phone fully charged. Thermos to enjoy hot water. U-shaped pillow for a good sleep on the road. 🆔 Documents: ID card, student ID, and driver's license are essential for travel. Cash and bank cards for emergencies. 💊 Medicine: Motion sickness medicine and cold medicine for emergencies. Lip balm and hand cream to combat the dry climate. . Want to explore Xining and Qinghai Lake? Like and save this guide to start your dream trip! 🚗✨

Horseshoe Temple, also known as Puguang Temple, was built in Beiliang during the Sixteen Kingdoms period of the Eastern Jin Dynasty. It has been more than 1,600 years ago. Guo Yu, a native of Jin Dynasty, once opened a cave here to teach in seclusion and led his disciples to build the caves. After the Northern Wei, Western Wei, Northern Zhou, Sui, Tang, Song (Western Xia), Yuan, Ming, Qing and the Republic of China, there were statues and paintings in all dynasties, and gradually formed the horseshoe. Temple Grottoes Group Art. The Jinta Temple was excavated during the Northern Liang Period, about 1,600 to 1,700 years ago, but it cannot be fully verified because there are not enough written records yet. Due to its remote location, high mountains and overhanging walls, and inconvenient transportation, it was fortunate to have escaped the previous campaigns to exterminate Buddhism in history and was relatively completely preserved. High flesh-carved flying apsaras: The flying apsaras hanging on both sides of the lintel on the first floor of the East Grotto are its most distinctive art form. These flying apsaras appear to be flying in the air relative to each other. They are rare treasures of cave art. Their history is much earlier than the Dunhuang apsaras. The figure is plump and simple, and is known as the "essence of the Oriental Feitian". Unique statue style: For example, there is the Reflexive Bodhisattva, which is unique to China only in the Jinta Temple. The statue stands on its back, with a half-naked upper body, wearing Hercules shorts and long monastic hair. There is also a statue of Sakyamuni in ascetic practice. His cheeks are thin and bony, but his eyes are firm and energetic, and his facial contours are gentle. No photography is allowed in the cave. This is the most expensive 4A scenic spot I have ever visited. More expensive than Mogao Grottoes, Mogao Grottoes has two movies and a scenic bus. There is also a museum, which has nothing.

Despite being far from Zhangye and finding little information about how to reach the place, it was impossible for us to miss it. After searching through the internet for hours, we were informed that buses were not reliable to go there and we're often canceled if it wasn't the busy season. Given the fact that the city was empty, we decided to ask our hostel if they could arrange something, and they did. We paid 70rmb for a round trip to Mati Si, as well as transportation inside, which I think is much needed if you don't have much time as some sites are far from the others. It's important to note that at the moment, there's no sidewalk so you have to walk on the road, and even though there's not much traffic , it's not really pleasant, and there's no shuttle bus service inside the scenic area. This price was definitely a good bargain as most taxis or drivers would take around three times that for the same service. Mati temple means "Horseshoe" temple. Legend says that a hoof's print was left by a horse descending from the sky. You can actually see the print in one of the temples. But the horseshoe is not the only reason to visit. Going through the many grottoes, narrow stairs, climbing even to reach some is definitely an adventure worth the trip. Witnessing this, you wonder how this was built, and marvel at the ingenuity of those people. There are some beautiful carvings, and some murals are definitely worth seeing. The unusual setting is something that shouldn't be missed while on a trip to Zhangye. When we were there, it wasn't very busy, but I imagine during summer it can get pretty crowded, and thus hard to reach some grottoes as climbing might be needed or going through narrow stairs and corridors. 💰Average Price per Person: 74rmb per person (first Price ticket for the main attractions, it can go to much more expensive if you want to see all the sights in the area) 💞Reasons to Recommend: rare sights, spiritual journey, impressive architecture ⏱️Time spent there: three hours, fast paced. #matitemple #zhangye #temple #spiritual #grottoes #travel #china

Mati Temple is located in Mati Tibetan Township, Sunan Yugu Autonomous County, 60 kilometers away from Zhangye. It was built in the Northern Liang Dynasty. It is said that when the heavenly horse descended to the world, it left a horseshoe on a rock here, leaving a hoof print, and the temple was named after it. Mati Temple is now a large group of grottoes. It includes seven small grotto groups, stretching nearly 30 kilometers, with Qianfodong, North and South Mati Temple, Shangzhongxia Guanyin Cave and Jinta Temple. Among them, the most famous is the 33-day grotto of Beisi, which was excavated from the Northern Dynasty and lasted for hundreds of years. It is on the red sand rock wall, with a large bottom and a small top in the shape of a pagoda. There are 7 layers and 21 caves, and there is only one "Z" shaped internal passage up and down, and the corridor is winding. After hundreds of years of wind and rain, it still stands on a cliff of hundreds of feet. Jinta Temple Grottoes, in Zhangye Mati Temple Scenic Area, in the south of Zhangye near Qilian Mountain. The three-dimensional flying sky in Jinta Temple, with a twisted body in the shape of a V, is simple and childish, 300 years earlier than the flat flying sky of Mogao Grottoes. Looking at the grottoes from the viewing platform, there is a spectacular and magnificent feeling. When you walk closer and look up, the rough and heavy oppressive feeling is overwhelming, which is shocking! Thirty-three days grotto

🌈 Zhangye, a place with magnificent natural scenery and rich history and culture. 📍 Recommended attractions: 1. Seven-Colored Danxia: One of the most representative attractions in Zhangye, the colorful hills are like a palette knocked over by God. Under the sun, the various colors complement each other, creating a breathtaking view. You can choose to take a sightseeing bus or hike to the observation deck to enjoy this natural wonder from different angles. 2. Binggou Danxia: Unlike the Seven-Colored Danxia, Binggou Danxia is famous for its unique shapes and spectacular momentum. The peaks here are diverse, some like castles, some like camels, and some like Buddha statues, making people marvel at the wonders of nature. 3. Mati Temple: A tourist destination that combines cave art, Qilian Mountain scenery, and Yugur ethnic customs. The temple houses a large number of caves and murals, which are of high artistic value. You can visit the caves, admire the murals, and climb to the top of the mountain for a panoramic view of the Qilian Mountains. 4. Pingshan Lake Grand Canyon: The deep canyon and unique peaks have been praised by China National Geography Magazine and renowned geologists and tourists as "rivaling Zhangjiajie" and "comparable to the Grand Canyon of Colorado". Here, you can hike through the canyon and experience the grandeur and mystery of nature. 📅 Itinerary: Day 1: Arrive in Zhangye - Seven-Colored Danxia • Morning: Arrive in Zhangye, take a bus or private car to the Seven-Colored Danxia Scenic Area. • Afternoon: Visit the Seven-Colored Danxia and admire the colorful Danxia landforms. • Evening: Check in to a hotel or guesthouse near the scenic area. Day 2: Binggou Danxia - Mati Temple • Morning: Visit Binggou Danxia and experience the unique Danxia landforms. • Afternoon: Visit Mati Temple, see the caves and murals, and experience the charm of history and culture. • Evening: Check in to a guesthouse near Mati Temple. Day 3: Pingshan Lake Grand Canyon • Morning: Depart for Pingshan Lake Grand Canyon and begin your hiking adventure. • Afternoon: Continue exploring the canyon and take photos. • Evening: Return to Zhangye City and check in to a hotel. 🛎️ Recommended food: 1. Beef Rice: The noodles are cut into small pieces and served with beef soup and various seasonings, which are delicious. 2. Saomian: The noodles are long and thin, and the sauce is fragrant. It is one of the traditional delicacies in Zhangye. 3. Fried Cannon: Shaped like firecrackers, the texture is chewy. Served with braised meat and vegetables, it is very delicious. 4. Fish Roe: Shaped like small fish, the texture is smooth. It can be stir-fried or boiled, with a variety of flavors. 💡 Precautions: 1. Zhangye has a dry climate, so pay attention to moisturizing and sun protection. 2. The distance within the scenic area is long, so it is recommended to wear comfortable shoes. 3. When visiting caves and murals, please follow the regulations of the scenic area and do not touch or damage the cultural relics. 4. Check the local weather conditions in advance and arrange your itinerary accordingly.

| Zhangye, the arm of the Zhang Dynasty, leads to the Western Regions. Zhangye is known as the "Jiangnan of the Frontier", a large-scale geomorphological park with diverse landscapes such as canyons, Gobi deserts, grasslands, snow-capped mountains, Danxia landforms, Yardangs, and wetlands. It is very suitable for in-depth tours. Experience summary: 1⃣️🚕 Transportation: Taxis start at 5 yuan, very convenient 2⃣️🏨 Hotel: We stayed at the Hanting Plus (Zhonggulou Branch) for 250+ yuan. It is very convenient to get around (booked half a month in advance) 3⃣️ The portions are quite large, so try to order less 4⃣️ Must-have items for travel: motion sickness pills, lip balm, and hydrating products 5⃣️ Pay attention to sun protection, sunglasses, sun protection clothing, long pants, sunscreen, and umbrellas ✅ Itinerary (3 days and 2 nights) Day 1⃣️ Zhangye Museum 👉🏻 Dafo Temple 👉🏻 Zhenyuan Tower 👉🏻 Ming and Qing Streets 👉🏻 Ganquan Park 📍 Zhangye Museum A comprehensive introduction to the characteristics of Zhangye in different historical periods, showcasing the development and integration of the Han and minority ethnicities here 📍 Dafo Temple A royal temple of the Western Xia Dynasty, the temple has three treasures: the most complete Western Xia temple complex; the largest indoor reclining Buddha; the most complete collection of the Northern Tripitaka. The couplet of the main hall of Dafo Temple is very Zen: "The sleeping Buddha sleeps for a thousand years and never wakes up, the questioner asks for a hundred years and never understands." 📍 Zhenyuan Tower The largest bell and drum tower in the Hexi Corridor, a three-story wooden tower, is a landmark of Zhangye City 📍 Ming and Qing Streets There are many delicious and fun things to do here, and you can experience the local life up close 📍 Ganquan Park Known as the "Royal Garden" of Zhangye, with a history of over a hundred years, it is mainly water-based, with mountains and water interspersed, and winding paths leading to secluded places Day 2⃣️ Mati Temple 👉 Ganzhou Night Market 📍 Mati Temple Scenic Area Tickets are required for the Thirty-Three Caves, Thousand Buddha Caves, and Special Caves ➡️ Visiting order: First go to the Thirty-Three Caves inside, limit the flow and queue in advance, then go to the Special Caves, then the Thousand Buddha Caves. The documentary "Hexi Corridor" mentions that Mati Temple was a cave temple excavated by Guo Yu, a university scholar, and his disciples. It was a place for them to stay away from worldly disputes. It is a witness to the confluence of Confucianism and Buddhism. 📍 Jin Tower Temple 24 kilometers away from Mati Temple, limited number of vehicles, need to make an appointment with the "Mati Temple Management Office" a few days in advance, belongs to the Mati Temple Grottoes, and is known as the Three Great Buddhist Art Treasures of the Hexi Corridor along with Mogao Caves and Yungang Caves.⚠️ Must make an appointment in advance❗️ 📍 Ganzhou Market Also known as Ganzhou Alley, similar to a food court, there are many delicious things to eat Day 3⃣️ Seven-Colored Danxia → Jiuquan 📍 Seven-Colored Danxia There are a total of 4 viewing platforms. No. 1 is generally, No. 2 is impressive, No. 3 has a wide view but the color changes are generally, and No. 4 is the most famous and has the richest colors. The sunset is very beautiful, don't miss it! Tickets for Seven-Colored Danxia can be used for two days 🥯 Special food: Beef noodles, scallion and egg stir-fry, roasted lamb, apricot skin tea, Forward milk, chicken rolls, Lao Zhou stir-fried Polla, try to buy and experience less.

Where is the best place to see grottoes? Dunhuang and Maijishan have too many tourists. In fact, there are many grottoes in Gansu with high artistic and historical value. I recommend a scenic spot with good scenery and fewer tourists, the Mati Temple Thousand Buddha Caves. Mati Temple Grottoes is one of the important Buddhist grottoes in China. It is located in the Lin Song Mountain, more than 80 kilometers southeast of Sunan Yugur Autonomous County in Gansu Province. There are North Temple, South Temple, Thousand Buddha Caves, Jinta Temple, and Upper, Middle, and Lower Guanyin Caves. The distances between these places range from several kilometers to more than ten kilometers. Due to the coarse red sandstone of the mountain cliffs, which is not easy to carve, most of the statues are made of clay. The Northern Dynasty grottoes are mostly concentrated in the Thousand Buddha Caves. Located on the cliff about 3 kilometers northeast of Mati Temple, there are more than ten caves. Caves 2 and 8 are central pillar style, with four layers of statues on the four sides of the pillar, preserving some statues and murals from the Northern Wei and Northern Zhou dynasties. Caves 1 and 4 are similar to the Kizil Grottoes in Xinjiang, with statues from the Northern Wei or Western Wei dynasties, later renovated. Cave 6 contains a standing Buddha and two disciples and two Bodhisattvas from the early Tang Dynasty, about 3 meters high. The Mati Temple Thousand Buddha Caves Grottoes include four special caves, which can be visited with a combined ticket. Overall, the statues in the special caves of the Thousand Buddha Caves are not well preserved, and their artistic value is average. 🚗 There is a parking lot opposite the Thousand Buddha Caves, which is not large. If it is full, temporary parking on the roadside is also possible.

Gansu Zhangye | Is the Matisi Temple worth the best guide? |||| At Matisi Temple, you can learn and experience Tibetan and Southern Yugur culture, appreciate cave art, enjoy the scenery of Qilian Snow Mountain from afar, and personally experience climbing caves. I think it's really worth a visit!!! Tickets ▪️ Basic ticket: Adult 67r, Student/Elderly 37r Natural scenery, Thousand Buddha Caves, King Gesar Hall, Matisi North Temple Grottoes (33 Heavens Grottoes, Matisi Temple, Tibetan Buddha Temple, North and South Sitting Buddha Temples) (excluding parking fees, Jinta Temple, Special Caves 1-4) ▪️ Full package ticket: 415r Route: Thousand Buddha Caves - Special Caves 1-4 - Matisi North Temple - Jinta Temple East and West Boutique Special Caves ▪️ Jinta Temple and Matisi Temple package ticket: 335rmb Route: Thousand Buddha Caves - Matisi North Temple - Jinta Temple East and West Boutique Special Caves ▪️ Others: 1. Matisi Special Caves 1-4 (tickets purchased separately): 80r 2. Jinta Temple (reservation required): 300r ⏰ Play time: Matisi Temple Grottoes: Half a day Matisi Temple Grottoes and Jinta Temple: A full day is more relaxed ️ I chose the basic ticket. Here are my feelings and introductions to some basic ticket attractions️ Thousand Buddha Caves: The passage to the Medicine Buddha Hall is the hardest to climb, with a vertical 90-degree angle, making your legs weak after climbing down, haha. 33 Heavens Grottoes: The climbing difficulty is not high because the number of people going up each time is limited, so there are many people queuing during the peak season. It is the most famous and iconic building of the Matisi Temple Grottoes. However, the damage here is also shocking, as you can clearly see tourists scribbling on the walls. Entrance: King Gesar Hall 🈶 Horse riding, a vast grassland is very impressive, and you can also see the snow-capped mountains️. It is said that King Gesar is the incarnation of Guru Rinpoche, who spent his life as a warhorse, promoting good and suppressing evil, spreading Buddhism, and promoting ethnic culture. ️ Tips: 1. About 60 kilometers from the city center, public transportation is inconvenient. It is recommended to charter a car/self-drive/join a tour group. 2. 🈶 Climbing and drilling holes, girls should not wear skirts/shorts, mainly sportswear! 3. It must be mainly casual sportswear, and no slippers. 4. It is recommended not to come during the peak season, as the queues are very long and you have to wait for a long time.

I have shared with friends the guide to the museum and the Giant Buddha Temple in Zhangye city, and now we have arrived at the renowned Mati Temple Scenic Area! To visit Mati Temple Scenic Area, if you are taking public transportation, you would generally depart from Zhangye South Bus Station, with usually one round-trip bus per day; there might be more buses during holidays, so it's necessary to confirm and book tickets in advance; if you are driving by yourself, then it doesn't matter. Mati Temple Scenic Area is located within the territory of Mati Tibetan Township, Sunan Yugur Autonomous County, Gansu, about 65 kilometers north of Zhangye city center, roughly an hour's drive from the city. The scenic area is a tourist zone that combines grotto art, Qilian Mountain scenery, and Tibetan culture. It consists of seven parts: Shengguo Temple, Puguang Temple, Thousand Buddha Caves, Jinta Temple, Upper, Middle, and Lower Guanyin Caves, with more than 70 grotto niches in total, founded during the Northern Liang dynasty. Folklore has it that when a heavenly horse descended to earth, it drank water here and left a hoof print on a rock, which is how the temple got its name. The legendary hoof print is now preserved in the Mati Hall of Puguang Temple and has become the treasure of the temple. Mati Temple Grottoes are a grand group of grottoes, including seven smaller grotto clusters stretching nearly thirty kilometers, and are a national cultural heritage site. The Mati Temple Grottoes were first constructed during the Eastern Jin Dynasty and the Sixteen Kingdoms period of the Northern Liang, and have experienced the Northern Wei, Northern Zhou, Sui, Tang, Song (Western Xia), Yuan, Ming, Qing, and the Republic of China, spanning over 1600 years. They were carved by Guo Yu and his disciples, initially as a retreat for Guo's teaching, and later expanded with more Buddha statues. At its peak, there were more than 300 monks. However, it is regrettable that due to the warlord era in the north at that time, coupled with the changes of dynasties and prolonged wars, many of the original grand buildings of Mati Temple were destroyed, including Jinta Temple, Thousand Buddha Caves, South and North Mati Temples, Guanyin Caves, and many other grottoes. The surviving Thirty-Three Heavens Grottoes, Hoof Print Grotto, Tibetan Buddha Hall Grotto, Shengguo Temple, Thousand Buddha Caves Grotto, etc., were mostly restored after the reform and opening up. The main buildings in the temple, such as the Mahavira Hall, Standing Buddha Hall, Guanyin Hall, and Medicine Buddha Hall, are mostly relics from the Ming Dynasty's Wanli era. It is fortunate that these halls, despite being battered by centuries of weather, still stand majestically on the cliffs, a testament to the ancient people's extraordinary architectural skills, offering a profound visual and spiritual impact. The temple's collection of artifacts, including a standing Buddha from the Jin Dynasty, a precious sword of Manjushri from the Northern Wei, an emperor's dragon robe from the Qing Dynasty's Kangxi era, and a saddle from Emperor Qianlong, all evoke a sense of the historical vicissitudes and the past glory of Mati Temple. Mati Temple boasts a beautiful environment, with green mountains, clear waters, peculiar peaks, and unique caves, known as the 'Four Wonders,' making it a place where visitors linger and forget to return.

This is an ancient and mysterious place, resembling a golden ribbon lying across the northwest border of China, unfolding a millennia-old scroll of vicissitudes of history—'Hexi Corridor', its splendor still shines brightly! According to relevant literature, the Hexi Corridor has a history of more than 2000 years, dating back to the Han Dynasty. It is a scenic corridor that integrates mountains, glaciers, oases, colorful hills, deserts, and Gobi, as well as a civilization corridor that encompasses the Great Wall, frontier passes, ancient cities, and grottoes. This place possesses a long history and a brilliant culture, and is a treasure of the Chinese nation.

| The brave are the first to see the world. Zhangye An underrated tourist city Both natural and cultural landscapes are exceptional More itinerary details will be edited later ———————————————— 1️⃣ About transportation: We had arranged for a driver in Zhangye in advance, including airport transfers and trips to various attractions, which was really convenient. The specific cost depends on the itinerary. We landed at Ganzhou Airport in Zhangye on the 10th afternoon. There are also taxis at the airport, but it is recommended to contact a driver in advance because the airport is really far from the city center! Our driver, Master Chen, was great and even brought us apples from his own garden, which were super delicious! 2️⃣ About attractions Since we landed on the 10th and it was already close to evening, we didn't visit any attractions. After checking into the hotel, the driver took us to have dinner in the city and then we rested. On the 11th, our itinerary was to spend the whole day at Matisi and Jinta temples. Master Chen told us in advance to bring some food because almost no restaurants in the scenic area were open and he said the food was not good, haha. Since you need to book in advance, you can ask the driver to help buy tickets. The scenery along the road from Matisi to Jinta Temple is really not to be missed, and there are photo spots along the way. The driver will ask if you want to take pictures and can stop and wait for us (scenery in p4, p5). Here, you must not miss Jinta Temple. Photography is not allowed in the grottoes here, and the artistic value is extremely high. It's a pity that it was protected by the state too late, and some parts were stolen. Also, due to geographical conditions, half of it has collapsed, which is a pity. But the scenery outside is super beautiful, right at the foot of the Qilian Mountains, with a clear view of the snow mountains (scenery in p6). Our driver is very skilled, and not all cars can drive up the mountain roads, but ours could! On the 12th, we first went to Pingshan Lake Grand Canyon in the morning. There are two types of tours: a basic tour and an in-depth tour. We chose the basic tour because we wanted to walk more. This place is really the 'flat substitute' for the Grand Canyon of Colorado, and since it was the off-season, there were hardly any tourists, almost like walking in the middle of the canyon by ourselves, with only the sound of footsteps on sand and stones and the wind. Moreover, the bottom of the valley is also very photogenic, and if you're not in a hurry, you can take pictures while walking. At around 3 pm, they took us to the Rainbow Danxia. We bought our own tickets, which also come in two types: a standard tour and an in-depth tour. This time we chose the in-depth tour, which includes a shuttle bus, a personal guide, drinks and snacks for everyone, and visits to several additional attractions with no crowds, allowing for free photography! 3️⃣ About food For breakfast, according to Master Chen, they would eat beef rice, Zhangye Sàozi noodles, buns, etc. There is a Xinhui Food City in Zhangye, where various local delicacies are gathered, and many locals eat there too, which is very convenient! There are dishes like rolled chicken, stir-fried Bo La, spicy hot pot, apricot peel tea, grey bean soup, and so on. In short, we didn't repeat any meals during our stay! On the morning of the 13th, we returned, and Master Chen took us to the airport, ending our trip to Zhangye!

The history of the Mati Temple Grottoes dates back about 1600 years. These grottoes not only contain a wealth of Buddhist art but also many precious cultural relics and murals. Looking up from the foot of the mountain, it gives a visual impression similar to the Hanging Temple of Mount Heng in Shanxi. The grottoes spread from the base of the mountain to the summit, layered upon each other, compelling admiration for the ancient people's imagination and perseverance.

#chinatrip A place that is really impressive but rarely mentioned in Gansu tours. The high-quality religious grotto art and monument environment is well-preserved and complete. It is a tourist attraction suitable for families, friends and individuals to visit. It is a magnificent cultural and natural scenic spot in Zhangye, China. Best to come is in winter, and the snow-covered Horseshoe Temple scenic spot is even more interesting. It is highly recommended to come here to see the beautiful snow scenery. It is so beautiful and touching. It is a highly recommended attraction in Zhangye.

🌟Highlights: The stunning scenery of the Qilian Mountain snowy mountains attracts tourists from afar. The Hexi Corridor is a model of the blend between Buddhism and Confucianism, showcasing how Buddhist culture integrates with Confucianism in the region. Experience the aspirations and ideals of literati such as Guo He and Guo Yu, which collectively reflect the Confucian life realm of self-cultivation, family management, and governance for peace. ⛰【Travel Tips】 📍Detailed address: Mati Temple Scenic Area 🚗Transportation tips: Ctrip day tour, choose the vehicle type according to the number of people, very convenient, about an hour's drive from the city to the scenic spot. 🌟Suggested visiting time: Half a day is enough, especially during holidays when it's crowded. If you want to visit the Thirty-Three Heavens caves, you need to enter in batches. 🎫Ticket: Great value for money, combo ticket 74 (including the Thirty-Three Heavens grottoes) 📌Little Tips: 1. For snow mountain photography, the ticket office parking lot is a good spot, as well as the Thousand Buddha Caves entrance parking lot, and there is a special viewing platform next to the Thirty-Three Heavens grottoes (requires climbing). 2. The interior passages of the Thirty-Three Heavens are narrow, and the view from the outside is already stunning. Those who want an in-depth visit can enter the caves for a closer look.

Matisi is 60 kilometers away from Zhangye city. Our group of seven chartered a car to go there, expecting it to take half a day. Matisi Grottoes are named after the legend of a celestial horse leaving its hoof prints while drinking water here, and one such hoof print is preserved in the Hall of the Horse King. The exact founding date of the Matisi Grottoes is still a matter of debate. According to the 'Book of Jin' and the biography of Guo Xu, an Eastern Jin Dynasty figure, Guo Xu once 'traveled to Zhangye... and secluded himself in Lin Song Xie Valley, where he carved out grottoes to reside in.' The 'Ganzhou Prefecture Records' also mention that 'the stone caves were carved by Guo Xu and his disciples, and later generations expanded them and added Buddhist statues.' Along with the Mogao Caves in Dunhuang and the Yulin Caves in Anxi, they are collectively known as the three great art treasure caves of the Buddhist pagoda holy land in the Hexi Corridor. The grotto complex consists of numerous caves, including the Thirty-Three Heavens Grottoes, the Treasury of Buddha, the Hall of the Horse Hoof, the Hall of the Horse King, and the Hall of the Medicine Buddha, among other cultural landscapes. We focused on climbing the 'Thirty-Three Heavens' grottoes at the northern temple of Matisi. They are distributed on a cliff face 2 to 40 meters high, with a total of 7 levels and 21 niches. The scale of the excavation is grand, making it a landmark construction among the Matisi Grottoes. The marvel and exquisite craftsmanship are breathtaking. I climbed the Hall of the Medicine Buddha alone, which was even more challenging than the 'Thirty-Three Heavens.' Using hands and feet in places that only one person could pass through, I felt a deep reverence for the ancient wisdom, as if it were embodied in my very actions at that moment. We heard that the flying Apsaras at Jinta Temple are the most beautiful, but it was still 24 kilometers away, and everyone was tired, so we decided to head back to Zhangye. We still had to visit the Rainbow Danxia in the afternoon. The entrance fee for Matisi is 75 yuan, with half price for those over 60. At the 'Thirty-Three Heavens' grottoes, they check tickets separately. Luckily, we had the tickets with our driver, and fortunately, the scenic area was very accommodating, allowing us to video call with our driver for ticket verification before letting us through.