Travel Notes on Xinjiang (Part 3: Tianshui, Gansu)

Last year, on my way to Xinjiang, I passed through Tianshui. At that time, her spicy hot pot was not as popular as it is now, otherwise I would definitely have to try a couple of bowls... I had watched some documentaries about the Maijishan Grottoes, and since I was passing by, I naturally had to visit the site in person. Let me share a few potentially useful tips: First, within the core area of the scenic spot, there are local villagers' homestays with decent conditions. Staying here, you can find the best spot to view Maijishan from a distance. Cars can be parked by their roadside (you might get a ticket, but the homestay owner said that for out-of-town cars, the first time is just a warning, with no points deducted or fine imposed). After all, the parking lot at the bottom of the scenic area is a certain distance from the entrance to the grottoes, and it's uphill. Getting up early allows you to visit first thing in the morning and avoid the crowds. Second, the more exquisite special caves of Maijishan Grottoes, like those in Dunhuang, have an additional charge per cave, and it's said that viewing all the special caves would cost over 2000 yuan. Third, most of the ordinary caves are also viewed through tight wire mesh, but there are some who have mastered the angles and can take complete photos through the tiny holes in the mesh. Fourth, those who are afraid of heights should proceed with caution when visiting, and also be mindful during windy and rainy weather. Fifth, do not trust the so-called guides by the roadside. Although they are cheap, charging only 50 yuan, they just hold an album and give you a few minutes of explanation at the entrance plaza without even entering the actual scenic area. It's better to watch some videos online by yourself. If you really want a guide, you can contact the official scenic area.