[2025 Sunan Attraction] Travel Guide for Mati Grottoes Tourism Area (Updated Nov)

The Thousand Buddha Caves, located in Zhangye, are a spectacular sight to behold. These caves, beautifully carved into the rock, contain an impressive collection of Buddhist sculptures and paintings that date back to the Yuan and Ming Dynasties. Visitors can marvel at the intricate designs and details of the artwork, and gain a deeper appreciation for the rich history and culture of the region. The temple itself is peaceful and serene, making it an ideal place for contemplation and reflection. The caves are located just a short five-minute drive from the Mati Temple Grottoes, adding to the overall historical and cultural significance of the area. One thing to note is that there are no food options in the immediate vicinity of the caves, so it is advisable to bring snacks and water with you. Additionally, the area is home to a charming small walking suspension bridge, which adds to the scenic beauty of the location. Overall, the Thousand Buddha Caves are a must-see attraction for anyone interested in art, history, or religion. The intricate designs and peaceful atmosphere make for an unforgettable experience. #roadtrip #tripleblazer

⛪️ 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

#matitemple is temple with legend a winged horse with dragon scales descended from the heavens and left a hoof print on where the temple was established. The site is mentioned as described as a chiseled-out cave in the process of being enlarged and decorated with Buddha statues in the fifth/ sixth centuries #zhangye #silkroad. #unforgetabletrip #temple #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.

🌄Touch the palette spilled by God at the Colorful Danxia; listen to the thousand-year-old Buddhist chants echoing in the Matisi Grottoes; encounter the magnificent geological epic at Pingshan Lake Grand Canyon... -------- No matter what kind of trip you want, Trip.com's local guide Yang Ai can customize it for you✅! There are at least two impulses in life: one is reckless love, the other is a spontaneous trip! -------- 👫👭For couples/small families, we recommend👉 Economy 5-seater, accommodates 4 people + 2 pieces of luggage, recommended cars like Volkswagen Lavida or similar🚗, lightweight and fuel-efficient, suitable for 2-3 people traveling light～ 👨👩👧👦For comfortable family/friends groups, we recommend👉 Comfortable 5-seater, accommodates 4 people + 2 pieces of luggage, Nissan X-Trail Glory or similar🚙, more spacious, highly comfortable seats, great for long trips without fatigue! 👨👩👧👦👴For three generations together/small groups, we recommend👉 Compact 7-seater, accommodates 6 people + 4 pieces of luggage, Baojun 730 or similar🚐, cost-effective choice, suitable for families with many members or friends traveling together! 💼For business reception/high-end travel, we recommend👉 Business 7-seater, accommodates 6 people + 4 pieces of luggage, Buick GL8 or similar🛋️, independent seats + soundproof design, perfect for business meetings/airport transfers with style! 🎉For small gatherings/short trips, we recommend👉 9-seater minibus, accommodates 8 people + 5 pieces of luggage, Jiangling Fushun 9-seater or similar🚌, flexible space, suitable for small teams under 10 people! 🏢For corporate team building/large family trips, we recommend👉 15-seater midibus, accommodates 14 people + 6 pieces of luggage, Yutong 15-seater or similar🚍, everyone rides together for a lively atmosphere, no worries about lots of luggage! -------- 🚗Brand New Journey Commitment We guarantee: Our driving team consists of experienced native Zhangye drivers with deep fleet operation experience, ensuring every minute of your trip is on time⏳ Carefully selected nine must-experience scenic spots, offering dozens of flexible combination plans, exclusive custom routes to create a unique travel experience 24-hour online guide available throughout the trip, ready to respond to every need, making your journey worry-free and enjoyable👨‍✈️

For the National Day holiday, I chose the Qinghai-Gansu Grand Loop, starting from Xining, covering a total of 2666.4 km. If you can only self-drive during the October long holiday, you can refer to my route, autumn weather, and scenery. 🔄 We chose the counterclockwise route: ① To avoid peak traffic ② Gradual altitude increase to reduce altitude sickness ③ Save the most stunning scenery for later to avoid aesthetic fatigue 🚗 Xining ➔ Zhangye ➔ Jiayuguan ➔ Dunhuang ➔ Heidushan ➔ Emerald Lake ➔ Chaerhan Salt Lake ➔ Qinghai Lake ­­ 🌡 Weather: October 4, 2025 Xining: Cloudy turning to light rain, 7–16°C Zhangye: Light rain turning to cloudy, 9–20°C 🚗 Day 1 itinerary route (P2) ◆ Dabanshan Viewing Platform P3 It is recommended to take the Zhangye-Wen Highway; the time is similar, but the national highway mountain road has many bends and is less safe. ⚠️ Do not suddenly open windows while driving to avoid altitude sickness. There are parking areas; stop and take photos. In autumn, if it’s cloudy or foggy, you won’t see the scenery below the mountain, so it’s better to go directly to the next spot. ◆ Gangshika Snow Peak P4-P5 Netizens say it depends heavily on the weather, but after reaching Lianxin Lake, the snow peak seen from halfway up the mountain on a cloudy day is also very atmospheric. ◆ Qilian Mountain Grassland (Ebao Town) P1 / P6 In October, the grass turns golden, and the snow-capped mountains in the background look even more rugged. Be sure to bring a telephoto lens! Only then can the snow mountains appear closer in photos! ◆ Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park (Colorful Danxia) P7-P10 Rush to Viewing Platform No. 4 before sunset! Entry stops at 18:00. We chose to enter from the closest East Gate, arriving around 17:50 (it’s recommended to enter 0.5-1 hour earlier), no queues, shuttle buses departed immediately, and before sunset, we checked in at platforms 2, 1, and 4. The Colorful Danxia looks more vivid after rain; it was still raining before we arrived, and although there was no sunset, it was still beautiful. 🏨 Accommodation can actually be around the Colorful Danxia area, where there are many restaurants. But fearing heavy waiting times for meals during peak season near the park, we stayed in the city. It takes about 1 hour to drive back from the park to the city. 🥘 Dinner recommendation: Zhang Danxia Fish Restaurant Zhangye Golden Soup Fish | Freshly sliced sand scallion lamb | Sand scallion beef rice bowl 💡 If you start before October and have more time, you can extend to a 2-day route and add these spots along the way: ① Menyuan Rapeseed Flower Scenic Area ② Zhuo’er Mountain ③ Matisi Temple I will keep updating the Qinghai-Gansu Grand Loop guide~ Please stay tuned!

Qilian Mountains' forests are ablaze with color, and the cliffside grottoes await silently for a thousand years The autumn feast at the Mǎtí Grottoes Tourist Area has quietly begun! Located on the northern foothills of the Qilian Mountains, this millennium-old treasure trove of grotto art is donning its most splendid golden attire of the year, welcoming the best viewing season. The Thirty-Three Heavens Grottoes appear even more ancient and weathered under the autumn sun. From a high vantage point, the Qilian mountain slopes are ablaze with colorful forests, with verdant pines and cypresses and golden poplars forming a natural giant oil painting. As the autumn breeze blows, falling leaves dance gracefully, as if telling stories spanning a thousand years. --- Best time to enjoy autumn: From now until October 25. Must-experience: · Climb the Thirty-Three Heavens Grottoes to feel the architectural marvel of the cliffside grotto cluster · Stroll through the Thousand Buddha Cave, appreciating the interplay of autumn leaves and ancient grottoes · Capture the light and shadow as the autumn sun bathes the stone carvings in warm gold Travel tips: The scenic area is located on the northern foothills of the Qilian Mountains, where there is a large temperature difference between day and night. Remember to dress warmly. Autumn is at its peak, and the time is just right. This autumn, why not take a break from the hustle and bustle, meet with family and friends at the Mǎtí Grottoes Tourist Area, and experience the poetic romance that spans a thousand years in the perfect blend of grotto art and natural autumn scenery!

At the end of August last year during our annual leave, we took the Qinghai-Gansu Grand Loop, passing through Dunhuang Mogao Caves, Jiayuguan, and also visited Zhangye Matisi Temple. I didn’t expect Zhangye to be so suitable for family trips, so this National Day holiday we specifically brought the kids here again. It’s hard to imagine that within 1-3 hours’ drive from the city, you can take your kids to see such diverse landscapes as snow-capped mountains, grasslands, deserts, canyons, and wetlands, and also visit cultural sites like Matisi Temple and the Giant Buddha Temple. Previously, I was most impressed by the Duku Highway, but Zhangye is really much more family-friendly! Zhangye’s scenery is beautiful, varied, and rich in layers—truly a wonderful surprise. Most people on the Qinghai-Gansu loop just treat this place as a stopover and only visit the Danxia landform, which is such a pity. The Northwest is truly a “spiritual recharge station” for us city parents. Looking at the vast wilderness and distant mountains, the golden meadows and streams beneath the snow mountains, it feels like traveling with kids has more hope and joy. If it weren’t for a few provinces I haven’t checked off yet, I’d really want to come back next National Day! Trip sharing (family version): 9.30 Beijing - Xi’an: Stay at Atour Hotel near Xi’an North High-Speed Rail Station (convenient transportation, suitable for kids) 10.1 High-speed train to Tianshui South → Maijishan Grottoes → High-speed train to Wuwei East: Stay at Yitel Zhishang Wanda Hotel Wuwei Station (relaxed pace, kids can handle it) 10.2 Rent a car in Wuwei, self-drive to Binggou River P5 (beautiful natural scenery, kids love it) Stay in Wuwei 10.3 Wuwei - Zhangye self-drive, visit the Colorful Danxia P4 (vivid colors, kids like it) Stay at Zhangye Holiday Inn Express 10.4 Self-drive to Daduma Village P1-2 (scenery along the way looks like a fairy tale), originally planned to go to the wetland park (changed to hot pot due to bad weather) 10.5 Pingshan Lake Grand Canyon P3 (spectacular, suitable for family hiking), return car by high-speed train then go to Lanzhou: Stay at Holiday Inn Express Zhengning Road 10.6 Gansu Provincial Museum (a great place for kids to learn) → Return to Beijing Tips: National Day is crowded but manageable; the Danxia plank road is long, but fewer people go deeper inside; the Pingshan Lake section is narrow, with staff guiding visitors. The route from Matisi Temple to Jinta Temple is not yet a regular route; self-driving or chartering a car is more convenient. Staff said that visiting Jinta Temple/Daduma Village is free of charge (may change in the future). The Northwest looks more beautiful the sunnier it is, but cloudy days have their own desolate charm~ When traveling with kids, just go with the flow!

Mati Temple is a comprehensive scenic area that blends grotto art, Qilian Mountain scenery, and Tibetan customs. It is not only a national cultural relic protection site, but is also considered one of the "Three Great Buddhist Art Treasures of Hexi," along with the Mogao Grottoes in Dunhuang and the Yulin Grottoes in Anxi. Mati Temple's uniqueness lies in its blend of diverse cultures and stunning architectural wonders. · Unique Grotto Art: The Mati Temple Grottoes were constructed during the Northern Liang Dynasty, dating back over 1,600 years. The most striking of these is the "Thirty-three Heavens" Grottoes, carved in layers in the shape of a pagoda, comprising five levels and twenty-one caves. Climbing through the steep and narrow passages requires the use of both hands and feet, creating a unique experience. · Blending Han and Tibetan Buddhism: The temples here feature both Han and Tibetan Buddhist temples, each with its own distinct styles coexisting in a unique setting. Mati Temple was originally a Han Buddhist monastery and later became a Gelugpa monastery of Tibetan Buddhism. Beautiful Legend and Natural Scenery: Mati Temple derives its name from a beautiful legend: a celestial horse is said to have left a horseshoe print while drinking water here. This legendary horseshoe print is now preserved in the Horseshoe Hall of Puguang Temple and is considered the temple's treasure. Furthermore, the scenic area is located within the Qilian Mountains National Nature Reserve, and the surrounding Qilian Mountain grasslands have been named "one of China's six most beautiful grasslands" by China National Geographic magazine. Transportation Guide · Self-Driving: From Zhangye city center, the journey is approximately 65 kilometers, with good road conditions. · Public Transportation: From Zhangye Nanguan Long-Distance Bus Station, take a shuttle bus to Sunan, then take a taxi to Mati Temple. Alternatively, you can take a dedicated tourist bus directly from Zhangye city center to Mati Temple. · Climbing Safety: The passages of the "Thirty-Three Heavens" Grottoes are steep, requiring both hands and feet to climb. It is not recommended for the elderly and children. · Civilized Tour: Photography is prohibited in many areas within the grottoes. Please observe the regulations.

Who gets it! Avoid the crowds in Zhangye and dive into Sunan Yugur Autonomous County, where the wildness and gentleness of Northwest China will shock you deeply✨ Here hides even more magnificent Danxia landforms than Zhangye, accessible glaciers, millennium-old grottoes, and pastoral songs on the grasslands. A 3-day, 2-night in-depth trip where every spot makes your heart race. This hidden guide is a must for niche travelers! 🌟3 days 2 nights in-depth itinerary (unlock unique experiences + stunning scenery) Day 1: Binggou Danxia (Red Castle) → Matisi Temple (Grotto Secret) - Transportation: Fly first to Zhangye Ganzhou Airport, then taxi 1.5 hours to Sunan County (about 180 RMB), or take a shuttle bus from Zhangye West Bus Station (25 RMB/person, 2 hours direct). It’s recommended to start early to avoid the harsh midday light. - Morning: Rush to Binggou Danxia (ticket + sightseeing bus 74 RMB/person)! Unlike the colorful Danxia in Zhangye, this is the “palace-style Danxia” pinnacle🏯 Red sandstone forms windowpane and honeycomb-like landforms, like a millennium castle sculpted by nature. Key spots: “Louvre Phantom” and “Root of the Earth.” Under morning light, the rock layers glow red, making silhouette photos incredibly stunning. Insider tip: Walk along the hiking trail to the mid-mountain viewpoint to overlook the entire Danxia group without crowds—every shot looks cinematic. - Noon: Eat Yugur home-style dishes at the scenic area entrance. Recommended: hand-pulled lamb (freshly cooked and sliced, delicious with pepper salt) + barley cake. The lamb is tender and odorless, carbs paired with meat bring ultimate happiness. - Afternoon: Drive 40 minutes to Matisi Temple (ticket 44 RMB/person), a millennium grotto group hidden under the Qilian Mountains, more niche and tranquil than Mogao Caves. Must climb the “Thirty-Three Heavens Grottoes,” 218 steep steps embedded in the cliff. At the top, overlook the grasslands and temple panorama—super rewarding. Also visit the “Thousand Buddha Cave,” with well-preserved murals and solemn Buddha statues, experiencing Buddhist culture from the Northern Liang period. - Evening: Stroll the grasslands beside Matisi Temple, cattle and sheep scattered on the meadow, distant Qilian snow mountains stretch endlessly, sunset dyes the grassland golden red, and the air carries the scent of butter. - Night: Stay in Sunan County (recommended Yugur-style guesthouse with wooden structure + ethnic embroidery decoration, very atmospheric). Dinner: yak hot pot with yak meat and local mushrooms simmering, paired with Yugur milk tea (salty and rich, warming and anti-cold). Chat with the guesthouse owner after dinner and listen to Yugur migration stories. Day 2: Qiyi Glacier (Ice and Snow Secret) → Kangle Grassland (Pastoral Charm) - Morning: Drive 1.5 hours to Qiyi Glacier (ticket 120 RMB/person), the closest accessible glacier to a city in China! Transfer to the scenic area’s off-road vehicle (100 RMB/person, must buy) to go up the mountain. The scenery changes from grassland to snow mountain. After arrival, hike 1 km to see the full glacier view. The blue-white ice tongue extends downward, ice cracks look like sapphire veins. Standing before the glacier, feel the grandeur and purity of nature❄️ Insider tip: Bring a bottle of mineral water and fill it with melted glacier water to drink—sweet and refreshing, a “glacier direct drink” experience. - Noon: Have a simple meal at the glacier scenic area (recommended yak beef rice bowl, generous portion), or bring self-heating rice and picnic under the snow mountain for full atmosphere. - Afternoon: Drive 1 hour to Kangle Grassland (ticket 60 RMB/person), a high-altitude grassland under the Qilian Mountains. In summer, the grass is lush green; in autumn, golden yellow. White tents of herders dot the grassland like stars. Special experiences: horseback riding (50 RMB/hour) galloping on the grassland with snow mountains in the distance; wear Yugur costumes for photos (30 RMB/set), embroidered long skirts + silver jewelry, perfect for shooting on the grassland; also milk cows and make milk skin with herders to feel authentic life. - Evening: Watch the sunset on the grassland, the snow mountains turn orange-red, cattle and sheep return to the pens, pastoral songs linger, healing to the point of speechlessness. - Night: Stay in a grassland tent guesthouse (book in advance), bonfire party arranged! Sing and dance with Yugur people, roast whole lamb crispy outside and tender inside, paired with barley wine for a slight buzz, and look up to see a sky full of stars and a clear Milky Way. Day 3: Wenshu Temple Grotto Group → Yugur Folk Resort → Return - Morning: Drive 1 hour to Wenshu Temple Grotto Group (ticket 40 RMB/person), millennium grottoes on the Silk Road, divided into front and back mountains. The front mountain has Buddhist grottoes, the back mountain Taoist grottoes, a unique coexistence of Buddhism and Taoism. Focus on “Thousand Buddha Cave” and “Ten Thousand Buddha Cave,” with vivid murals and lifelike Buddha statues. Few people and quiet, perfect for slowly savoring the weight of history. - Noon: Eat Yugur specialty snacks near Wenshu Temple. Recommended: fried noodle chunks (mixed grain noodles + lamb + vegetables, savory and flavorful), buttered zanba (eat with milk tea, the more you chew the more fragrant). - Afternoon: Head to the Yugur Folk Resort, visit the Yugur intangible cultural heritage workshop, see ethnic embroidery and silver jewelry making, try embroidery on small pendants (50 RMB each) and take home exclusive souvenirs; also visit the Yugur Culture Museum to learn about the Yugur language, clothing, and festival culture, feeling the unique charm of this “horse-riding ethnic group.” - Evening: Before returning, buy local specialties. Recommended: yak jerky (vacuum-packed, half the price of scenic area), butter, milk skin. Then drive back to Zhangye, ending the Northwest secret trip. - Optional: If time allows, add 1 day to visit Huangcheng Grassland, the birthplace of the Yugur people. The grassland is vast with wildflowers everywhere, and you can see the “Huangcheng Ruins,” experiencing the relics of the ancient Silk Road. 🍜 Must-try food list (Yugur specialties + Northwest flavors) - Staples: hand-pulled lamb, yak hot pot, fried noodle chunks, yak beef rice bowl, buttered zanba - Snacks: milk skin, milk tofu, barley cake, fried oil cake, lamb offal stew - Drinks: Yugur milk tea (salty or sweet options), barley wine, glacier mineral water - Restaurant recommendations: Yugur-style restaurants in Sunan County, home-style dishes at grassland tent guesthouses, restaurants at Binggou Danxia scenic area entrance 🏡 Accommodation recommendations (choose according to needs, no pitfalls) - Comfortable in county town: Yugur-style guesthouse (strong ethnic features, complete facilities), Sunan Hotel (cost-effective, near business district) - Grassland experience: Kangle Grassland tent guesthouse (bonfire party + starry sky, suitable for niche travelers) - High-end comfort: Sunan Yugur Autonomous County Hotel (good hardware, rich breakfast, suitable for families) 📌 Practical tips (avoid pitfalls + special guide) 1. Best season: June to August (green grassland, clear glacier), September to October (golden grassland, redder Danxia, fewer crowds and quiet) 2. Transportation: Sunan’s attractions are scattered; car rental with driver recommended (about 300 RMB/day), more flexible than shared rides, can stop anytime for photos; self-driving requires caution due to many mountain roads. 3. Clothing: Large temperature difference between day and night (up to 20℃), wear windbreaker + sweater + thermal underwear, hiking with non-slip sports shoes, bring hat, sunglasses, sunscreen (strong UV in Northwest). 4. Altitude sickness: Qiyi Glacier is about 3700 meters high; take Rhodiola 3 days in advance, avoid strenuous exercise, carry glucose and oxygen bottle. 5. Special experiences: Follow herders’ guidance when horseback riding, pay attention to safety; book intangible cultural heritage workshops in advance; respect Yugur customs, do not casually photograph herders’ private life. 6. Avoid pitfalls: Prices inside scenic areas are high; bring your own snacks and water; buy specialties outside scenic areas, county shops are cheaper; wear non-slip shoes for glacier hiking to avoid slipping on ice. The beauty of Sunan is a blend of Northwest wildness and gentleness—the red of Danxia, the blue of glaciers, the green of grasslands, the white of snow mountains, and the simple charm of the Yugur people. Every place is unforgettable~ Save this guide and set off quickly to unlock this off-the-beaten-path but incredibly stunning Northwest secret!

We took flight from Urumqi to Zhangye, arrived at late evening, checked in Quality Hotel Zhangye for a rest. Quality Hotel room is spacious and clean. The day had a simple breakfast at hotel then meet up our sifu at 8.30am, first point visit to Big Buddha Temple, then Ma Ti Si Temple and arriving colorful Dan Xia around 4pm. Abit rush but at each point but we covered the main spots at all the places and see beautiful sunset at Dan Xia. Worth a visit to Zhangye. The next day, took morning train to Lanzhou and back to my home country. Hope you like Zhangye too 😘

Here we go! Taking you to check in at the earthly rainbow land 🌍—Zhangye Danxia Colorful Landform! It's truly stunning beyond rules!! Ladies, quickly save this nanny-level guide👇～ 【Must-Visit Nearby Attractions】 🔸Pingshan Lake Grand Canyon 📍Pingshan Lake Township, Ganzhou District, Zhangye City 🕒07:30-18:00 💰130 RMB Known as the "Colorado of Gansu"! Super shocking window-pane shaped Danxia mountains ⛰️ and you can even challenge a 90° cloud ladder climb! Adventure lovers, let's go! 🔸Binggou Danxia 📍Sunan Yugur Autonomous County, Zhangye City 🕒08:00-18:00 💰40 RMB A super hidden secret spot! The red palace-style landform 🏰 "Louvre Phantom" and "Divine Camel Welcoming Guests" are perfect for photos～ 🔸Mati Temple 📍Mati Tibetan Township, Sunan County 🕒08:00-18:00 💰52 RMB The millennium cliffside grottoes are breathtaking! You can also experience Yugur ethnic customs 🏕️ and feel like you’ve traveled back in time! 【Stunning Danxia Colorful Landform Guide】 🌈Attraction Info ⏰07:30-18:00 (last entry at 17:00) 🎫Ticket + sightseeing bus 93 RMB 🚗Transportation Guide - ✈️Flight: Zhangye Danxia Airport → 30 min taxi ride - 🚅High-speed rail: Zhangye West Station → direct shuttle to the scenic area, super convenient - 🚗Self-drive: Navigate to "Danxia Colorful Landform Visitor Center" 🌟Must-Visit Viewing Platforms 1️⃣Colorful Sea of Clouds Platform 👉The highest point in the park! Watching the "Monks Worshiping Buddha" in the morning mist is magical 🌫️ Best spot for sunrise photos 📸 2️⃣Colorful Fairy Fate Platform 📍Great for close-up shots! The "Divine Turtle Asking the Sky" is amazing 🐢 Recommended to shoot in the morning with good lighting! 3️⃣Colorful Splendor Platform 🎈Hot air balloon photo spot! Wearing light-colored clothes makes your photos pop 👗 4️⃣Colorful Rainbow Glow Platform 🌄A must-see at sunset! Filming location of "Three Guns"! Colors after rain are explosively beautiful!! 【Foodie Benefits】 🍢Around the scenic area - Spicy fish 🌶️ so delicious it’ll make you fly! - Sand scallion egg fried rice 🍳 local specialty - Roasted whole lamb 🐑 big bites of meat, super satisfying 🏙️City Food - Beef small rice bowl 🥩 - Hand-pulled fish noodles 🍜 - Rolled chicken 🐔 【Accommodation Guide】 🏨Near the scenic area - Danxia Pearl Hotel: 5 min walk 👟 perfect for watching sunrise 🏠City Recommendations - Yumen Pearl Hotel (South Road, New City Square) 💯Reviews: Super large rooms! Dry and wet separation! Very rich breakfast～ 💰Value: Peak season around 200 RMB per person, great deal! 【Recommended Itineraries】 👉One-day tour: Morning at Fairy Fate Platform → Noon at Sea of Clouds Platform → Afternoon at Splendor Platform → Evening at Rainbow Glow Platform for sunset 👉Two-day tour: DAY1: Danxia Scenic Area DAY2: Pingshan Lake Grand Canyon + Danxiakou Town (Flying wire adventure is super fun!) ✨Tips: 1️⃣Colors are most vivid the day after rain! 2️⃣The hour before and after sunrise/sunset is the most beautiful! 3️⃣Drones are prohibited in the scenic area～

Mati Temple Autumn Travel Guide🍂 with gentle sunshine and crisp air, making it very suitable for outdoor hiking and sightseeing. 2. Vibrant Colors: This is the most beautiful season at Mati Temple. The poplar forests at the foot of Qilian Mountains turn golden, the shrubs in the mountains become fiery red, intertwining with the red of the Danxia landform, the blue of the sky, and the white of the snow-capped mountains to form a rich and colorful oil painting. 3. Avoid Crowds: Compared to the peak seasons of summer vacation and National Day Golden Week, late September and early October is a minor off-season, with relatively fewer tourists, allowing for a more peaceful and in-depth experience. 4. Unique Experience: You can simultaneously witness the wonders of "Golden Autumn Forest Sea" and "Distant Snow-capped Mountains," feeling the magnificence of seasonal transitions. II. Practical Information 🎫 Tickets: Adult tickets are 87 RMB/person, student tickets are 50 RMB (including sightseeing bus). ℹ️ Opening Hours: 08:00 to 18:00. It is recommended to depart early in the morning to avoid peak crowds. 🚌 Chartered Car: A round trip from Zhangye city center costs approximately 300 RMB/car. 🚘 Self-driving: Non-self-driving visitors within the scenic area need to take the sightseeing bus (already included in the ticket). 🏢 Accommodation: We recommend [Silk Road Jinma International Hotel] at the entrance of the scenic area. It features Tibetan-style decor, is a 100-meter walk to the entrance of Mati Temple, and allows you to enjoy the peaceful grottoes and starry sky in the morning. III. Itinerary Suggestions 1⃣️ One-Day Tour Morning: Visit Thirty-Three Sky Grottoes → Thousand Buddha Cave → Mati Hall (focus on experiencing grotto climbing and historical legends). Afternoon: Visit King Gesar Hall → Orchid Meadow → Lotus Bay (hiking) → Visit ethnic attractions for dining → Experience horseback riding → Return. 💡Tips: ✅ Clothing: It is recommended to wear loose and comfortable long pants and non-slip athletic shoes (essential for grotto climbing), and bring a windbreaker to cope with temperature differences in the mountains. ✅ Accessories: Sunscreen (SPF15+), sunglasses, sun hat (strong UV rays at high altitudes); a lightweight backpack for supplies. ✅ For photos, light-colored clothes tend to look better! ✅ Altitude Sickness Prevention: Mati Temple is approximately 2600 meters above sea level. First-time visitors should avoid strenuous exercise and can carry energy supplements like chocolate.

#chinatravel The Matixi Temple Grottoes are located in the Matixi Scenic Area of Sunan Yugur Autonomous County, Gansu Province. The complex includes seven main parts: Jinta Temple, the Upper, Middle, and Lower Guanyin Caves, the Thousand Buddha Cave, and the Northern and Southern Temples. These grottoes are spread across surrounding rugged mountains, with more than 70 cave niches in total, making it a large-scale site. The largest cave is the Tibetan Buddha Hall, believed to have been carved between the Western Xia and Yuan dynasties. This cave has a complex structure, consisting of a front hall, worship hall, and corridors, representing a rare form of grotto architecture. It was also called the “Standing Buddha Hall” because it originally housed a large standing Buddha statue. Unfortunately, the original statue was damaged long ago, and the one displayed today is a modern replica. Despite enduring natural disasters and wars over centuries, the grotto has been restored multiple times and largely retains its original appearance. The remaining murals and sculptures inside mostly date back to the Ming Dynasty, offering invaluable artistic and cultural insights into a thousand years of religious heritage. This site is an important physical record for studying Western Xia and Ming-era Buddhist culture.

【Impressions of Zhangye】🌟 This small northwestern city is breathtakingly beautiful!🌈 It boasts both the grandeur of "lone smoke rising over the vast desert" And the gentle charm of "a Jiangnan scene beyond the Great Wall" By day, witness landscapes that resemble Mars more than anywhere on Earth By night, feast at street stalls for just 30 RMB per person What a heavenly place this is!🥳 Zhangye has been a vital commercial hub on the Silk Road since ancient times and remains an important comprehensive transportation center in northwest China. Known as the "Jiangnan Beyond the Great Wall" and "Golden Zhangye." With profound cultural heritage and rich historical sites, it's a National Historical and Cultural City and an Excellent Tourism City of China. Home to 1,270 immovable cultural relics, 5 national intangible cultural heritage items, plus attractions like Qilian Mountain Grassland and Zhangye Danxia. [StarEyes] 🚗【3-Day Itinerary】🚗 Day1️⃣ Nature's Color Palette 🌅 5:30 Sunrise at Rainbow Danxia (⚠️Tip: Observation Deck 4 offers the best photos!) 🏞️ 15:00 Stroll through Wetland Park See snow-capped mountains reflected in reed marshes 🌃 19:00 Ganzhou Alley Night Market Must-try: Cuoyu noodles + apricot peel drink combo Just 30 RMB per person for a feast!🍜 Day2️⃣ Canyon Adventure + Ancient Temple ⛰️ 9:00 Pingshanhu Grand Canyon Opt for the in-depth tour package! Ride off-road vehicles through Jurassic rock layers Perfect camel ride photo ops 🐫 🕌 16:00 Giant Buddha Temple The 34.5-meter reclining Buddha is awe-inspiring Try AR guides for hidden experiences Day3️⃣ Cave Temples + Grassland Fun 🪜 8:00 Mati Temple Thrilling Thirty-Three Heavens Caves New cliffside swing faces snow mountains Not for the faint-hearted‼️ 🌿 14:00 Shandan Horse Ranch Horseback riding for just 50/hour See thousands of galloping horses in July-August 🍽️【Food Guide】🍽️ Breakfast: Heshunyuan Beef Rice Porridge Lunch: Locals' favorite Rolled Chicken Late-night: Beer with stir-fried Mongolian leek eggs 🏨【Accommodation】🏨 💰Luxury: Danxia Grand Hotel Close to scenic areas, perfect for stargazing 💰Budget: Home Inn·neo Convenient downtown location 💡【Pro Tips】💡 ✅Must-pack: Windbreaker! Huge temperature swings ✅Sun protection trio is essential ✅Book hot air balloons 3 days in advance

🌈 3D2N in Zhangye｜A Color Explosion of Danxia, Ancient Temples & Canyons! "Left hand touching billion-year-old rock layers, right hand cradling the Qilian Mountain wind—Zhangye’s beauty is Earth’s love letter to the sky!" From the fantasy of rainbow hills to cliffside grotto climbs, from wetland birds to canyon hikes… This Silk Road gem hides raw vitality more stunning than any filter! Save this locally-curated, stress-free itinerary to unlock geological epics and cultural codes in 3 days. **Travel Mantra** ✨ Core experiences: Chasing Danxia sunset light × Vertical climb at Mati Temple × Heart-of-canyon adventures 🚗 Transport: Private car/self-drive (Gobi highways come with *Into the Wild* BGM) 📅 Pace: 2 sites per day—no commando trips! Hide from midday sun, go wild with golden-hour photos. **𝐃𝐀𝐘 1: Danxia Blitz｜Enter an Alien Palette** 🌅 Afternoon｜Sunset Chasing at Colorful Danxia 16:00 Rush to No.4 Rainbow Viewpoint! Watch 70-million-year-old rock layers melt into gold under sunset. Wear a white maxi dress and run as hot air balloons rise—drones will capture your skirt dancing with the rainbow hills, *Interstellar* vibes guaranteed. *Pro tip:* Sneak to the undeveloped "Rainbow Aohe Terrace"! Walk barefoot on rust-red sandstone with tree-ring-like patterns, owning this untouched realm. 🌌 Evening｜Dark Aesthetics at Binggou Danxia 18:30 Camp at "Louvre Phantom"! Gothic-style wind-carved pillars loom like castles. Strike a pose in black tank top + combat boots in crevices for *post-apocalyptic* wide-angle shots (⚠️ Ditch colorful scarves—monochrome outfits elevate the vibe). 🌙 Midnight Feast: Hit *Ganzhou Night Market*! *Chao Bo La:* Sizzling lamb offal with onions, wok hei punching your soul. *Cuo Yu Zi:* Hand-rolled "wheat fish" noodles with wild mushroom sauce—slurp on stone stools for full wildness. **𝐃𝐀𝐘 2: Cultural Ciphers｜Temple Climbing & Wetland Birds** 🛕 Morning｜Time Travel at Giant Buddha Temple 8:00 Catch the first glimpse of the reclining Buddha! This 34.5m wooden-clay statue’s half-closed eyes and flowing robes exude millennia of compassion. Hidden gems: *Journey to the West* murals predate the novel by 200 years; sutra cabinets hide "Tangut Braille" codes. *Hidden gem:* Behind the temple, *Shanxi Guild Hall* has Qing-dynasty brick-carved Guan Yu! Role-play a Hanfu-clad ancient caravan guard here. ⛰️ Afternoon｜Mati Temple Vertical Challenge *Reverse route hack:* Head straight to *Thirty-Three Heavens Grottoes*! Climb 70° steep stairs on all fours—push open the window atop to see Qilian snow peaks with prayer flags dancing beneath (⚠️ Wear sports pants—skirts risk exposure). *Secret drive:* Cruise *Country Road Y334* to Jinta Temple! Alpine meadows outshine Switzerland; roll down windows to film marmot cameos for a *road-movie vlog*. 🌿 Dusk｜Bird Chasing at Grass Lake Wetland Stake out *Ruoshui River reeds*! Endangered gulls skim emerald waters—telephoto their white feathers mirroring Danxia mountains. Run into July’s lavender fields in lilac dresses for *Monet painting* moments. **𝐃𝐀𝐘 3: Earth’s Core Quest｜Canyon Hike & Grassland Gallops** ⛰️ Morning｜Pingshanhu Canyon Conquest *Warrior route:* Scale 90° ladders through *Heaven’s Crack*! Squeeze through narrow walls to see divine "sky slits" (⚠️ Not for 80kg+). *Scenic route:* Ascend *Lingzhi Valley*’s spiral stairs—388 steps reveal Mars-like red canyons. 🐎 Afternoon｜Shandan Horse Ranch Glory Gallop through rapeseed seas! July turns miles golden—ride Akhal-Teke horses (pick gentle mares, yell "Giddyup!" to feel like nomads). *Hidden gem:* Sip fresh mare’s milk in herder tents with grilled wild mushrooms—umami so intense it’ll *shake your pupils*✨ **📸 𝐅𝐑𝐄𝐄·Photography Bible** *Outfit + Prop Cheat Sheet* Rainbow Danxia: White maxi + fringe shawl + vintage telescope Mati Grottoes: Utility vest + bandana + bronze compass Pingshanhu Canyon: Camo pants + climbing gloves + distressed canteen Horse Ranch: Red cloak + cowboy hat + leather quiver **✨ 𝐓𝐎𝐏 𝐓𝐈𝐏𝐒** 1️⃣ *Wilderness hacks* Danxia = anti-slip shoes! Camera anti-sand kit: cling wrap + UV filter + blower. Canyons need trekking poles—download offline maps (no signal below). 2️⃣ *Cultural respect* No flash in grottoes! Circle stupas clockwise. If Yugur people offer *khadak*, bow and receive with both hands; respond with local blessings (not "Tashi Delek"). 3️⃣ *Timing secrets* Danxia shots = dawn/dusk (midday light flattens colors). Giant Buddha Temple = empty mornings; Mati Temple = serene off-season afternoons. "In Zhangye, time takes shape— Danxia is 70 million years in rock rings, the reclining Buddha is Xixia’s unending dream, and we glimpse Earth’s youth in canyon slivers of light."⛰️

It's not about lacking the money to visit Switzerland, but rather that Subei offers better value for money. This summer, come explore Subei with me! ✨ This little-known county in Gansu is a hidden gem, occupying a significant portion of the province. ✨ Nestled at the foot of the vast Qilian Mountains lies Subei Yugur Autonomous County, the only Yugur autonomous county in China and a dazzling pearl along the Silk Road. ✨ Be a "city shepherd" for a day. Subei's grasslands are the ancestral home of the Yugur people, and the pastoral experiences here allow you to deeply immerse yourself in the traditional lifestyle of "living by water and grass." In Subei, follow local herders as they guide their flocks across the grasslands, experiencing the freedom of "boundless skies and endless plains." Learn traditional Yugur milking techniques and use fresh milk to make butter tea. At the intangible cultural heritage workshop, join local women in crafting handmade wool products. 💡 Ma Ti Temple Founded during the Eastern Jin Dynasty, this temple combines Han and Tibetan Buddhism. Over 1,600 years later, the grottoes carved into the cliffs of Song Mountain still gaze upon the majestic Qilian Mountains. 💡 Jin Ta Temple Located in Ma Ti Tibetan Township, Jin Ta Temple's red Danxia cliffs are a symphony of nature and human effort. The stone cave pathways wind through lush greenery at the base of the mountain, leading to grottoes carved into the middle of the cliff. The eastern and western grottoes are ingeniously built along the cliff's recesses. Above the grottoes, horizontal rock layers protrude like "brims," shielding them from years of wind and rain. 💡 Balz Snow Mountain A rare snow-capped mountain on the Gansu-Qinghai loop. From the viewing platform, you can admire the glacially eroded terrain beneath the snowy peaks, with vast grasslands stretching behind you. 💡 Ping Shan Lake Grand Canyon A masterpiece of geological wonders 👍👍👍: Danxia formations: Featuring red cliffs and steep slopes, the landscape is vibrant and colorful, showcasing typical arid-region Danxia landforms. Strong winds have intricately sculpted the relatively soft rock layers 🌹, creating castle-like wind-eroded formations and stone pillars reminiscent of a ghost town, highlighting the rugged and mysterious beauty of the Yardang landforms. Water has continuously carved through structural fissures and weak rock layers, eventually shaping this deep, spectacular canyon with its crisscrossing ravines. 💕 🌈: Simplified Itinerary: D1 Various locations—Zhangye—China Yugur Museum—Shambhala Quco—Stay in Subei D2 Zhangye—Kangle Grassland 🍃—Colorful Danxia 🌈—Stay in Subei D3 Zhangye—Ma Ti Temple Grottoes—Jin Ta Temple Special Grottoes—Stay in Subei D4 Zhangye—Balz Sacred Mountain 🏔️—Hongwan Temple—Stay in Subei D5 Zhangye—Ping Shan Lake Grand Canyon 🌹—Khar Kha Town—Stay in Subei D6 Zhangye—Return to various locations

#chinatravel Mati Temple Grotto in Zhangye was such an unexpected highlight. It's carved right into the side of a mountain, like literally, temples and caves stacked into the cliff, and it looks so cool in person. I didn’t even know places like this existed outside of photos. You can climb up into the caves and check out ancient Buddhist statues, murals, and these tiny little rooms that monks used to live in. It’s a mix of peaceful, mysterious, and totally awe inspiring. The views from up there? Unreal. The whole area around the grotto is super quiet and scenic too, green valleys, horses grazing, and fresh mountain air that just makes you feel super relaxed. Not a ton of tourists either, which made it even better. If you’re in Gansu or visiting Zhangye Danxia nearby, Mati Temple is so worth the detour. It’s spiritual, beautiful, and just a really cool place to explore and slow down. Big yes from me.

🔥【Visual Spectacle】Series: 1. "God spilled the paint palette! Are these colors of Zhangye Rainbow Mountains real?🌈 2. "This 'Flaming Mountain' in Zhangye, Gansu hides alien-like terrain! Aerial views are god-tier!👽" 3. "Warning! Hiking through Zhangye Pingshanhu Grand Canyon left my legs shaking for 3 days - totally worth it!⚠️" 📸【Photo Ops】Series: 4. "Found the real-life 'A Thousand Miles of Rivers and Mountains' painting location in Zhangye! Ancient artists didn't lie!🎨 (Includes secret photo spots)" 5. "Gansu locals' best-kept secret: The stunning Zhangye National Highway 227 - every frame could be a Windows wallpaper🛣️" 6. "This little-known Zhangye grotto is more impressive than Mogao Caves! 99% don't know this Western Region gem🕌" 🍜【Foodie Heaven】Series: 7. "Zhangye night market packed at 2am! This beef noodle soup made southerners switch loyalties!🍜8. "How hardcore are Gansu breakfasts? Zhangye minced-noodle soup + stir-fried offal will carb-bomb you into bliss!💥" 🎒【Immersive Experiences】Series: 9. "Became a shepherd for a day in Zhangye! Stayed in yurts drinking butter tea, sunset over grasslands took my breath away🐑" 10. "Journey through Hexi Corridor! Climbing Matisi Temple's Thirty-Three Heaven Caves reveals ancient devotion🙏" 💎【Hidden Gems】Series: 11. "Gansu's ultimate off-the-beaten-path spot! Zhangye Shandan Horse Ranch - where General Huo Qubing bred warhorses 2000 years ago🐎12. "Zhangye Wetland Park hides a Jiangnan-style paradise? Boating through reeds feels like Baiyangdian!🚣♀️"

Beyond the Rainbow Danxia Landform and the Giant Buddha Temple in Zhangye City, Gansu Province, lies another heavyweight scenic area—the Mati Ecological and Cultural Tourism Zone centered around the Mati Temple Grottoes, which is truly awe-inspiring. Located in Mati Tibetan Township, Sunan Yugur Autonomous County, Zhangye City, the Mati Ecological and Cultural Tourism Zone is a national 4A-level tourist area that combines grotto art, religious culture, ethnic customs, and natural scenery. [TeaDrinker] 【Main Attractions】 1. Mati Temple Grottoes The Mati Temple Grottoes were carved during the Northern Liang period of the Sixteen Kingdoms, dating back over 1,600 years. They consist of seven sites—Shengguo Temple, Puguang Temple, Thousand Buddha Caves, Upper, Middle, and Lower Guanyin Caves, and Jinta Temple—spread across an area of over 100 square kilometers. These include the Thousand Buddha Caves, Thirty-Three Heavens Grottoes, and King Gesar Hall, preserving the simple yet majestic early forms, statues, and murals that showcase the unique charm of grotto art. 2. Thirty-Three Heavens Grottoes Carved into a cliff in the shape of a 7-story, 21-cave pagoda, this site is magnificent and breathtaking. Visitors must climb using both hands and feet, offering a unique adventure experience. 3. Thousand Buddha Caves Home to numerous Buddha statues and four special caves, this is one of the key areas for visitors to explore. 4. Stupa of Elder Monk Dijing [Coke] Visiting Time: It is recommended to allocate around 3 hours to fully appreciate the beauty of each attraction. Transportation: Self-driving is the best way to explore the Mati Ecological and Cultural Tourism Zone. Private vehicles can enter the scenic area, or you can take a shuttle bus to Mati Temple, which stops at key areas like the Thousand Buddha Caves and Thirty-Three Heavens Grottoes. 🏖️ 【Overview】 The Northern Mati Temple is large in scale, grand in architecture, and the most incense-laden, serving as the center and main body of the entire Mati Temple Grottoes. Also known as Puguang Temple, it is the core part of the Mati Temple Grottoes. In the 14th year of the Yongle era of the Ming Dynasty, the emperor bestowed the name "Puguang Temple." Historical records indicate that the grottoes were first carved during the Jin Dynasty when Guo Yu carved them for seclusion, writing, and teaching. Later generations expanded the grottoes, turning them into a renowned temple. The Puguang Temple Grottoes consist of numerous caves, including the Thirty-Three Heavens Grottoes, Tibetan Buddha Hall, Mati Hall, Horse King Hall, and Medicine Buddha Hall, with a history of about 1,600 years. In the 17th year of the Yongle era of the Ming Dynasty, when a high-ranking official petitioned the emperor for an inscribed plaque, news of a military victory in the south arrived, leading to the temple being named "Puguang Temple." [Kiss]

Don't just travel—experience the journey | Complete guide to Sunan tourism If you yearn for a trip that takes you far from the hustle and bustle, reconnects you with nature, and offers deep immersion in ethnic culture and historical heritage, then Sunan Yugur Autonomous County is undoubtedly your perfect choice. Located in Zhangye, Gansu, this hidden gem of the northwest boasts stunning ecological beauty, magnificent natural landscapes, rich ethnic traditions, and abundant historical relics, waiting for you to unveil its mysteries. I. Pre-trip Preparation 1. Documents: Bring your ID card and any discount cards (student ID, senior citizen card, etc.) to enjoy ticket discounts. 2. Clothing: Sunan has significant temperature differences between day and night. Even in summer, pack a thick jacket. Spring and autumn are windy with sandstorms, so windproof clothing is recommended. In winter, bundle up with down jackets, snow boots, and other warm gear. 3. Sun protection: The UV rays are strong here, so sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, and UV-protective clothing are essential. 4. Medicine: Prepare common medications like cold medicine, stomach medicine, and motion sickness pills in case of discomfort. 5. Other: Power bank, camera, and some cash (mobile payments may not be available in remote areas). II. Transportation Guide 1. External Transportation - By air: Fly to Zhangye Ganzhou Airport, then take a 1.5-hour bus ride to Sunan. - By train: Arrive at Zhangye Station or Zhangye West Station, then take a bus to Sunan from Zhangye South Bus Station. There are frequent departures, making it very convenient. 2. Local Transportation - Public transport: Buses and coaches connect Sunan to major attractions, but schedules are limited, so check timetables in advance. - Private car/rental: For more freedom, renting a car is ideal. You can find rental companies in Zhangye or Sunan, with prices varying by vehicle type and itinerary. The scenic routes are perfect for spontaneous photo stops. III. Must-Visit Attractions 1. Barsi Snow Mountain: Dubbed the "Oriental Alps" and known as the "Secret Land of Western China," it ranges from 3,500 to 5,100 meters in elevation, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Try paragliding for an adrenaline rush, challenge yourself with mountain climbing, or relax at a snow mountain café while soaking in breathtaking views. At night, camp under a sky full of stars, feeling as if you could touch the Milky Way. 2. Alien Valley Interstellar Theme Park: Its rare, dreamlike, and mysterious Danxia landforms resemble an alien world. Marvel at the surreal red cliffs like "Louvre Phantom" and "Camel Greeting," showcasing nature's artistry. Dress in futuristic gear for cyberpunk-style photos. 3. Mati Temple Grottoes: Carved during the Northern Liang period, these grottoes are one of the "Three Great Buddhist Art Treasures" of the Hexi Corridor, alongside Mogao and Yulin Caves. The "Thirty-Three Heavens" grotto is particularly awe-inspiring, with 21 caves carved into a 30-story-high cliff. The climb is thrilling, and the summit offers panoramic valley views. Around June, you can capture the stunning contrast of snow-capped peaks and ancient Buddhist caves. The grottoes house exquisite murals and statues, rich in Buddhist heritage. 4. Yugur Cultural Corridor: Here, you’ll encounter sacred snow mountains, vast grasslands, endless forests, and pristine blue skies. Immerse yourself in Yugur culture through traditional performances and local delicacies like hand-grabbed lamb and butter tea. Spin the world’s largest prayer wheel, the Sunan Shangri-La Chörten, a Guinness World Record holder, to bless your loved ones. 5. Sacred Deer Park: Get up close with the gentle red deer of the Qilian Mountains. The picturesque grasslands, with deer grazing against a backdrop of distant snow peaks, evoke a poetic scene straight out of ancient verses. IV. Food Recommendations 1. Hand-Grabbed Lamb: Made from local highland sheep, the meat is tender and barely gamey. Simply boiled and dipped in salt and pepper, it’s juicy and deeply satisfying. 2. Fried Liver Wrapped in Fat (Zhire): Wrapped in sheep net fat and stuffed with blood and liver, it sounds strong but tastes mild. Fried after stewing, it’s crispy outside and soft inside, with a lingering flavor. 3. Stuffed Sheep Intestines: Minced lamb neck and tenderloin mixed with spices and fried flour are stuffed into intestines. Sliced and served with garlic sauce and vinegar, it’s rich but not greasy, delicious hot or cold. 4. Butter Tea: A blend of rich milk and tea, it’s creamy and warming—a staple in Yugur daily life. 5. Shaokezi (Baked Bread): Dough the size of a pot is buried in burning sheep dung until golden and crispy outside, soft inside, with a unique smoky aroma. V. Accommodation Options 1. Sunan County Hotels: Options like Xizhi Hazhi Hotel and Yuxin Business Hotel offer convenience and amenities, priced between ¥200–500. 2. Yugur Homestays: Near attractions like Alien Valley and Binggou Danxia, these homestays (¥300–800) immerse you in ethnic culture with traditional décor. 3. Scenic Campgrounds: Campsites like Barsi Snow Mountain are perfect for nature lovers. Sleep under the stars to the sound of wind and insects, but bring gear or book rentals in advance. VI. Itinerary Suggestions 3-Day Trip: - Day 1: Zhangye → Alien Valley → Yugur Cultural Corridor → Yugur Homestay - Day 2: Sacred Deer Park → Barsi Snow Mountain (optional camping) - Day 3: Mati Temple Grottoes → Return 5-Day Trip: - Day 1: Jiayuguan → Wenshu Temple → Barsi Snow Mountain - Day 2: Barsi Snow Mountain → Sacred Deer Park → Yugur Homestay - Day 3: Yugur Cultural Corridor → Alien Valley - Day 4: Binggou Danxia - Day 5: Free time/shopping → Return VII. Tips 1. Respect local customs and religions, especially in temples—avoid loud noises and unauthorized photography. 2. Some high-altitude areas may cause altitude sickness; avoid strenuous activity. 3. Drive cautiously on mountain roads. 4. Be mindful of food hygiene to prevent stomach issues. 5. Protect the environment—no littering! Sunan’s beauty lies in its harmony of nature and culture, history and modernity. Pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable journey!

—From Lanzhou to Dunhuang, Unlock the Vastness and Splendor of the Northwest✨ 🚗 Daily Itinerary **Day 1: Lanzhou → Wushaoling → Tiantishan Grottoes → Leitai Han Tomb → Western Xia Museum → Wuwei** ✔️ **Tiantishan Grottoes**: The origin of Chinese grottoes, showcasing the primitive style of Northern Liang Buddhist art! ✔️ **Leitai Han Tomb**: Discover the authentic "Galloping Horse Treading on a Flying Swallow" (replica) and uncover the burial culture of Han Dynasty nobility! ✔️ **Western Xia Museum**: Artifacts from the Heishui City ruins, decoding the mysterious legacy of the Western Xia Dynasty! 🍜 **Stay in Wuwei**: Visit the Liangzhou Market Night Market—must-tries include lamb with rolled dough and the "Three-Course Meal" (noodles, braised meat, and almond tea)! **Day 2: Wuwei → Shandan Horse Ranch → Giant Buddha Temple → Zhangye** ✔️ **Shandan Horse Ranch**: Asia's largest horse ranch, lush green in summer—witness thousands of galloping horses! (Horseback riding available.) ✔️ **Giant Buddha Temple**: Home to a 34.5-meter indoor reclining Buddha, the largest in Asia, and legends of the "Western Xia Yipintang"! 🌃 **Stay in Zhangye**: Visit the Ganzhou Night Market for stir-fried dishes and sao noodles—full of local flavor! **Day 3: Zhangye → Mati Temple → Rainbow Danxia → Zhangye** ✔️ **Mati Temple**: Cliffside grottoes exploring Yugur culture—don’t miss the "Thirty-Three Heavens" Buddhist caves! ✔️ **Rainbow Danxia**: Capture sunset views like an oil painting! Recommended spots: Viewing Platform 4 (Rainbow Fan) and 6 (famous for its "Mazi Noodle Shop" angle). 📸 **Tips**: Wear bright colors for better photos! The shuttle bus costs 10 RMB one-way—don’t miss the sunset! **Day 4: Zhangye → Pingshanhu Grand Canyon → Jiayuguan Fort → Jiayuguan** ✔️ **Pingshanhu Grand Canyon**: A paradise for hikers! Take the "One-Line Sky" route for thrilling cliffside paths! ✔️ **Jiayuguan Fort**: Climb the "Mighty Pass" for views of the Qilian Mountains and snap a photo with the Overhanging Great Wall! 🌙 **Stay in Jiayuguan**: Try grilled meat with sand onions at Datang Food Street and explore the Tang Dynasty-themed night market! **Day 5: Jiayuguan → Shuangta Reservoir → Yulin Grottoes → Desert Baby → Dunhuang** ✔️ **Yulin Grottoes**: The sister caves of Mogao! Cave 25’s "Western Xia Water-Moon Guanyin" is stunning—join a guided tour! ✔️ **Desert Baby**: A giant infant sculpture in the Gobi—a striking contrast of desolation and tenderness (free to photograph)! 🚗 **Tips**: Stop by Shuangta Reservoir for its serene blue waters! **Day 6: Dunhuang → Mogao Caves → Singing Sand Dunes & Crescent Lake** ✔️ **Mogao Caves**: With a Class A ticket, visit 8 caves! Book 30 days in advance and listen to stories of flying apsaras from guides! ✔️ **Singing Sand Dunes**: Enter after 4 PM—ride camels, sandboard, and watch the sunset! Optional desert camping with bonfire under the stars (extra fee). 🍹 **Must-try**: Apricot juice and Li Guang apricots at Dunhuang’s Shazhou Night Market! **Day 7: Dunhuang → Yumen Pass → Yangguan Pass → Yadan Devil City** ✔️ **Yumen Pass**: The historic site of "Spring Breeze Never Crosses Yumen Pass"—explore Xiaofangpan City and Hecang Fortress! ✔️ **Yangguan Pass**: Dress in Hanfu for epic "West of Yangguan" photos and visit the museum’s artifacts! ✔️ **Yadan Devil City**: Witness the sunset "Fleet Sailing" spectacle—bring snacks and water! **Day 8: Dunhuang → Departure**

Horseshoe prints in the snow reflect a Zen heart, and the clouds of Qilian Mountains part to reveal Buddha's light. Location Mati Temple is located in Sunan County, Zhangye, Gansu Province, about 65 kilometers from the city center. Nestled at the foot of the Qilian Mountains, it is a perfect destination combining stone grotto art, Qilian scenery, and Yugur ethnic culture. 🌟 Highlights 1. Thirty-Three Heavens Grottoes: A seven-layered series of Buddhist caves carved into the cliffs. Climbing the steep stairs feels like ascending to the heavens. Inside, murals and statues from the Northern Wei to Ming and Qing dynasties are preserved. 2. Horseshoe Mark: The legendary "heavenly horse hoof print" within the temple, said to be left by the steed of King Gesar, located in the Dizang Hall of the Thousand Buddha Caves. 3. Qilian Secret Realm: Snow-capped mountains and grasslands in summer, vibrant autumn foliage. Nearby attractions include Jinta Temple (special grottoes require reservation). 📌 Practical Information Tickets: Peak season (May–October) ¥74, off-season ¥55; Jinta Temple requires an additional ¥300 ticket for special grottoes (includes guided tour). Transportation: Recommended to hire a car or drive yourself (about 1.5 hours from Zhangye). Some sections are mountain roads. Accommodation: Stay at the Yugur ethnic tent lodges within the scenic area for stargazing at night and snow mountain views in the morning. 💡 Tips The grotto stairs are narrow; wear non-slip shoes, and those with a fear of heights should be cautious. Respect Tibetan Buddhist customs; photography is prohibited inside the grottoes. Combine with Zhangye Danxia and Pingshan Lake Grand Canyon for a 2–3 day itinerary for the best experience. Mati Temple is not only a sacred Buddhist site but also a stunning visual blend of nature and culture—a cliffside Buddhist kingdom waiting for you to explore.

| A millennium-old sacred site on the cliff. "Not looking at the snow on the Qilian Mountains, mistaking Zhangye for Jiangnan." Hidden in the folds of the Hexi Corridor lies a sacred site on a cliff—the Matisi Grottoes. During the Eastern Jin Dynasty, Guo Yu inherited his master's will, set up an altar in a quiet valley to teach, and carved grottoes for cultivation on Matisi Mountain. They never imagined that this refuge would later become a witness to the convergence of Confucian and Buddhist civilizations, preserving the spiritual homeland of scholars through the turbulent times of the Five Liang regimes. ✨ Who built this sacred place of faith that has lasted for a thousand years on the cliff? When the Buddha niches coexist with the landscape, a thousand years of time become a silent footnote～ 📸 Zhangye・Matisi Temple・Hexi Corridor・Listening to the call of the Qilian Mountains Big reveal of hidden experiences at Jinta Temple: advance phone reservation is required, with a daily limit of 40 visitors. Those planning to go must arrange their time in advance. Contact staff to report your license plate number for smooth access. If you are coming from afar, it is highly recommended to visit Jinta Temple as well. The scenery along the way from Matisi Temple to Jinta Temple is a visual feast that you absolutely cannot miss. The mystical road to Jinta Temple: On the way to Jinta Temple, vast layers of spruce trees overlap, and the grasslands that are not yet fully green look like a natural velvet carpet casually spread out. Lambs grazing with their heads down create a charming contrast with the silent snow-capped mountains in the distance. Even local drivers can’t help but praise: "Coming here to escape the summer heat cools both the eyes and the heart～" 🚗 Travel Tips 👭 Girls traveling together by chartered car have more flexibility, can stop anytime for beautiful views, and take photos to their heart’s content. 🚙 You can ask staff to recommend a chartered driver. Experienced drivers can arrange the trip worry-free and help you manage your time well so you don’t miss the first afternoon guided tour at Jinta Temple. 💴 Cost Reference: Matisi Temple + Jinta Temple Special Grotto + Chartered Car ≈ 585 RMB, with Jinta Temple East and West Special Grottoes costing 300 RMB. Although the price is a bit high, as a cultural treasure, it is definitely worth seeing. ⚠️ Special Reminder: Only the East and West grottoes remain at Jinta Temple; the others have collapsed. It was officially opened to the public in 2023, with opening times yet to be determined. When you pass through the narrow passage into the grotto, sunlight filters through the colored windows, illuminating the half-relief V-shaped high-relief painted sculptures of flying apsaras, their robes seeming to flutter in the wind. This artistic miracle predates the Mogao Grottoes by 300 years. Seeing it once is enough to etch it into your memory. Local Cuisine - **Yugur Ethnic Flavor**: Hand-pulled lamb and roasted whole lamb are traditional Yugur dishes, with tender and nutritious lamb. - **Farmhouse Dishes**: Around Matisi Temple, farmhouse restaurants offer authentic local dishes such as stir-fried potato slices and stewed tofu, made with fresh ingredients and original flavors. - **Special Drinks**: Yugur milk tea warms the body and drives away cold, along with barley wine. There is also original yogurt, which is very sour but delicious. - **Other Delicacies**: Zhangye’s specialty noodles, Youmian Kaolaolao, have a chewy texture and are delicious with vinegar sauce or lamb soup. Niangpi is thin as cicada wings, refreshing and tasty. Lamb paomo is also a must-try local delicacy. Photos and text sourced from the internet; please notify for removal if there is any infringement. #ZhangyeTravel #MatisiGrottoes #HexiCorridor #JintaTempleSpecialGrotto #QilianMountainScenery