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

1. Overview of the Scenic Area Location: Longwan Village, Zhongquan Town, Jingyuan County, Baiyin City, Gansu Province Highlights: The Yellow River Stone Forest is a national 4A-level scenic area that combines geological wonders with Yellow River culture. Formed 4 million years ago, it features diverse sandstone rock formations, Yellow River meanders, and oasis landscapes. Recognition: Filming location for movies like "The Granary of the World" and "The Myth," and listed as one of "China's 50 Yellow River Scenic Spots" by China Geographic Magazine. 2. Best Travel Seasons Spring and Autumn (April-June, September-October): Temperatures range from 15-25°C with mostly sunny days, ideal for hiking and photography. Summer (July-August): Daytime temperatures can exceed 30°C, but Yellow River water activities are available. Remember to use sunscreen. Winter (November-March): Unique snowy landscapes in the stone forest, but temperatures range from -10°C to 5°C, requiring warm clothing. 3. Must-Visit Attractions and Routes 1. Classic One-Day Tour Route Morning: Scenic area entrance → Observation deck (panoramic view) → Yinma Valley Grand Canyon (hiking/donkey cart) → Panlong Cave (natural spiral cave) Afternoon: Yellow River Waterwheel Park → Old Longwan Village (farmhouse lunch) → Sheepskin Raft Drift → Guanyin Cliff (sunset photography spot) 2. Detailed Highlights Yinma Valley Grand Canyon - Length: Approximately 4.5 km, takes 2 hours to hike. Along the way, you can see rock formations like "Lion at the Gate" and "Couple Under the Moon." - Tip: Enter before 9 AM for optimal lighting for photography. Panlong Cave - A naturally formed spiral cave where a Ming Dynasty Taoist reportedly practiced. The cave maintains a constant temperature of 15°C. Guanyin Cliff - Best spot for sunset views, featuring Qing Dynasty cliff carvings. Yellow River Waterwheel Park - Features a 12-meter diameter ancient waterwheel where you can experience traditional irrigation techniques. 3. Must-Try Local Delicacies Jingtai Hand-Grasped Lamb: Recommended at "Longwan Farmhouse," made with local sheep, priced around 98 RMB per pound. Gray Bean Soup: Made with red beans and ash water, priced at 5 RMB per bowl. Sour Noodle Soup: Refreshing and cooling, freshly made at farmhouses for 10 RMB per bowl. Stone Forest Family: Yellow River carp served two ways, priced around 128 RMB per fish. Jingtai Night Market: Grilled lamb hooves (15 RMB each), stuffed skin noodles (8 RMB per serving). 4. Photography Tips Best Spots - Observation deck at sunrise (5:30-6:30 AM), Yinma Valley "Thousand Sails Competing" rock formations (side backlighting), Guanyin Cliff at sunset (6:30-7:30 PM). Equipment Recommendations - Wide-angle lens (16-35mm) for panoramic shots of the stone forest, telephoto lens (70-200mm) for capturing details. - Essential wind and sand protection covers, and a sturdy tripod to prevent tipping. 5. Important Notes Safety: Weak signal in the canyon; avoid venturing alone into undeveloped areas. Environmental Protection: Do not carve or graffiti; bring your own trash bags.

Located in central Gansu Province at the upper reaches of the Yellow River where four provinces (Shaanxi, Gansu, Ningxia, Qinghai) converge, Baiyin City spans 21,200 square kilometers as China's only city named after precious metals. Its name originates from the "Baiyin Factory" silver mine established during the Ming Hongwu era, earning it the nickname "Copper City" for its glorious history in China's non-ferrous metal industry. Iconic Features: Natural Wonders: The Yellow River Stone Forest National Geopark is renowned for its yellow conglomerate peaks shaped by millions of years of erosion, featuring winding canyons and towering stone pillars, voted "China's Natural Wonder" by Chinese National Geography. Red Heritage: The Huining Red Army Memorial Site marks where three main Red Army forces united in 1936, signifying the end of the Long March, now a national patriotic education base. Silk Road Legacy: As a key Silk Road node, Baiyin preserves cultural relics like the Faquan Temple Grottoes and Wufo Yan Temple, with artifacts such as gilded Roman silver plates evidencing East-West cultural exchange. Mining Culture: The Flaming Mountains National Mining Park showcases Baiyin's century-old mining history through open pits and industrial ruins. Local Legends: Yellow River Stone Forest folklore claims Genghis Khan watered his horses here during western expeditions, naming "Yinma Gully"; ancient waterwheels at Longwan Village testify to millennia of irrigation culture. Red Army history: In October 1936, Mao Zedong and Zhou Enlai witnessed a revolutionary turning point at Huining's Meeting Tower, preserved with the Memorial Pagoda and Long March Victory Museum. ⛺【Must-Visit Spots】 1. Natural Wonders Yellow River Stone Forest Geopark Highlights: 22-Bend Road: 216m elevation drop offers "real-life Fast & Furious" driving thrills. Yinma Grand Canyon: Hike or donkey-cart through formations like "Lion Guard Pass" and "Sailing Fleet" rocks. Yellow River Rafting: Summer sheepskin raft rides (¥90/raft, max 3pax) or winter ice karting. Ticket: ¥40 (student discount); transport combo ¥85. Hours: All-day (some activities close at 18:00). Baiyin Shuichuan Wetland Park Free urban oasis with riverside trails, migratory birds, and epic sunset photography. 2. Cultural Sites Huining Red Army Memorial Essentials: Meeting Tower: Ming Dynasty wall where history was made. Tri-Army Memorial Pagoda: 11 floors represent Long March provinces; panoramic views from top. Long March Victory Museum: 200+ artifacts with immersive multimedia displays. Hours: 8:30-17:30 (summer), 9:00-17:00 (winter); free entry; guided tours ¥100-150/group. Baiyin Museum Free exhibits including Qijia Culture "Human-Head Pottery Jar," tracing local history from Neolithic era. 3. Food & Nightlife Eateries: Jingyin Lamb: 3-generation braised lamb with dipped noodles (Wansheng Road). Da Dao Liangpi: Wuyi Street's queue-worthy cold noodles with secret sauce (¥8/person). Chen Spicy Vermicelli: 20-year-old shop with fiery broth and braised trotters (¥15/person). Night Markets: Sanhe Alley: Food hub with grilled squid, Leshan skewers, and fruit salads plus live music. Red Army Street: Themed street selling revolutionary souvenirs and local snacks. 🛬【Itinerary】 1. Suggested Duration 2-Day Highlights: Day1: Huining Memorial → Stone Forest (2hr drive) → rafting → Longwan homestay. Day2: Yinma Canyon hike → Baiyin Museum → Sanhe Alley. 3-Day Deep Dive: Day1: Wetland Park → Flaming Mountains Mine Park → night market. Day2: Full-day Stone Forest (farm lunch + karting). Day3: Huining Memorial → Red Army Street → return. 2. Transportation External: Lanzhou→Baiyin: Express bus: ¥15, 1.5hr (30min frequency). Drive: 1.5hr via G6 Expressway (¥50 toll). Baiyin→Stone Forest: Tour bus: ¥15, 1.5hr (last bus 17:00). Private car: ¥300/day (4pax ideal). Local: Bus: ¥1-3; bike-sharing available. Taxi: ¥6 starting fare; ¥10-15 between downtown attractions. 3. Sample Schedule Stone Forest Day Trip: 8:00 Arrive → shuttle to 22-Bend viewpoint. 9:30 Donkey cart (¥90) through Yinma Canyon. 12:00 Farmhouse lunch (try Yellow River carp). 14:00 Rafting/karting. 16:00 Shop for local stones/wolfberries. 🏨【Accommodation】 1. Near Stone Forest Stone Forest Hotel: Only 4-star option (¥400-600/night). Longwan Homestays: Cave-style lodgings (¥100-150/person) with bonfire activities. 2. Baiyin Downtown Upscale: Hampton by Hilton: Landmark hotel (¥600-800/night). Wansheng Hotel: City-center (¥500-700) with shuttle service. Budget: Hanting (Tiantian Plaza): Renovated (¥200-300). Hongqiao Business: Spacious rooms (¥180-250). 3. Huining County Theme Stays: Meeting Tower Hotel: Red Army decor (¥300-400). Long March Victory Hotel: Pagoda views (¥280-350). 🧡【Tips】 Essentials: ID card (required for tickets), student discounts. SPF50+ sunscreen (intense UV). Layered clothing; grippy shoes for canyons. Lip balm (dry climate). Etiquette: Stay hydrated in unshaded canyons. Maintain solemnity at Red Army sites. Respect Hui dietary customs. Pro Tips: Request reduced spice levels when ordering. Best photo light: sunrise/sunset at Stone Forest. September's "Yellow River Culture Festival" features raft races and folk shows (check "Baiyin Culture Tourism" WeChat). Embark on a northwestern journey blending geological marvels, revolutionary history, and culinary delights! 🌄✨

The Gansu-Qinghai Loop spans across Gansu and Qinghai provinces, typically starting from Lanzhou or Xining. This route connects iconic destinations such as Qinghai Lake, Menyuan, Zhangye, Dunhuang, Golmud, and Dachaidan, before returning to Xining or Lanzhou. Covering a distance of approximately 3,000 to 4,000 kilometers, it forms a complete loop without retracing steps. The journey showcases diverse landscapes, including mountains, grasslands, forests, lakes, glaciers, deserts, gobi, yardang formations, and danxia landforms. Qinghai Lake, the largest inland saltwater lake in China, is surrounded by golden fields of rapeseed flowers that contrast beautifully with the azure waters. Chaka Salt Lake, known as the "Mirror of the Sky," offers visitors the chance to walk on its surface and admire stunning reflections. The unique water-based yardang formations at Ghost Handmaderafts are a testament to nature's artistry, set against emerald-green waters. Zhangye's Rainbow Danxia is renowned for its vibrant colors and layered textures, with red sandstone transforming under sunlight into a picturesque scene. The Qilian Mountains boast vast snow-capped peaks, grasslands, and grazing livestock, creating a breathtaking tableau. 🛬 Travel Itinerary: Best Travel Season: The ideal time to visit the Gansu-Qinghai Loop is from May to October, with July and August being peak seasons for blooming rapeseed flowers. However, these months also see higher tourist numbers and costs. September to October offers cooler weather and fewer crowds, perfect for those seeking a quieter experience. Recommended Duration: A 7-10 day itinerary is suggested to fully explore the attractions without feeling rushed. Must-Visit Attractions and Suggested Itinerary: Here’s an example of an 8-day itinerary for the Gansu-Qinghai Loop: Day 1: Gather in Lanzhou/Xining and visit Ta'er Monastery (one of the six major monasteries of Tibetan Buddhism's Gelug sect) to experience rich religious culture. Then, head to Qinghai Lake to admire the grandeur of China's largest inland saltwater lake. Day 2: Continue exploring Qinghai Lake in the morning, then proceed to Chaka Salt Lake in the afternoon to experience the unique "Mirror of the Sky." Day 3: Drive through the Qaidam Basin to reach Emerald Lake, marveling at its jade-green waters. Day 4: Travel along National Highway 315, stopping at the popular U-shaped road (exercise caution and avoid obstructing traffic for photos). Arrive at the water-based yardang formations in the afternoon to witness this one-of-a-kind geological wonder. Day 5: Depart from the yardang formations and head to Dunhuang, enjoying the desolate beauty of the gobi desert en route. After arriving in Dunhuang, visit Shazhou Night Market to sample local delicacies. Day 6: In the morning, explore the Mogao Caves to appreciate the artistic charm of ancient murals. In the afternoon, visit Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake to experience the fascinating blend of desert and oasis. Day 7: Travel from Dunhuang to Jiayuguan to see the western starting point of the Ming Great Wall. Then, drive to Zhangye and stay overnight in the city. Day 8: Visit Zhangye's Rainbow Danxia in the morning to admire its colorful landforms. In the afternoon, head to the Qilian Mountain grasslands to enjoy the vast and stunning scenery before staying overnight in Qilian County. Travel Tips for the Gansu-Qinghai Loop: Altitude Sickness: Qinghai Lake and Chaka Salt Lake are over 3,000 meters above sea level. Prepare altitude sickness medication and avoid strenuous activities. Weather Variations: The Northwest has significant temperature differences between day and night. Even in July and August, bring a jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, and other sun protection essentials. Ticket Reservations: Mogao Caves tickets must be booked one month in advance during peak season. Last-minute tickets only allow access to four caves. Transportation: The Northwest is vast and sparsely populated, with daily driving times of at least 4-5 hours. Opt for comfortable transportation and bring motion sickness remedies and a neck pillow if needed. Clothing Suggestions: Bright-colored clothing is recommended for photos at Chaka Salt Lake. ⛺ Must-Visit Attractions: - Qinghai Lake Erlangjian Scenic Area: The largest inland saltwater lake in China, surrounded by golden rapeseed flowers and azure waters, making it a perfect spot for photography and sightseeing. - Chaka Salt Lake: Known as the "Mirror of the Sky," its calm surface reflects the blue sky and white clouds, creating a dreamlike atmosphere ideal for artistic photography. - Dachaidan Emerald Lake Scenic Area: Another "Mirror of the Sky" in Qinghai, with vibrant lake colors contrasting against the surrounding gobi desert. - Zhangye Rainbow Danxia Scenic Area: A stunning combination of danxia landforms and colorful hills, best viewed from a hot air balloon for a panoramic perspective. - Ta'er Monastery: One of the six major monasteries of Tibetan Buddhism's Gelug sect and the birthplace of Tsongkhapa, featuring exquisite thangka, murals, and butter sculptures. - Mogao Caves: A world-renowned treasure trove of stone art, preserving numerous murals and statues that offer insights into ancient Chinese culture and Buddhist art. - Jiayuguan Fortress: The western starting point of the Ming Great Wall, showcasing the prosperity of the ancient Silk Road and China's historical evolution. - Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake: A unique desert spectacle where sand dunes coexist with a crescent-shaped oasis. Activities include camel rides, desert sunsets, and romantic camping. - Wusute Water-Based Yardang Geological Park: The largest water-based yardang landform cluster in China, with formations standing amidst vast waters. The eerie wind sounds at night add to its mysterious allure, making it a great spot for adventure and photography. 🍩 Must-Try Local Cuisine: - Lanzhou Beef Noodles: Known as "China's No. 1 Noodles," characterized by clear broth, white radish, red chili oil, green cilantro/scallions, and yellow noodles. The noodles are chewy, the broth flavorful, and the beef tender. - Gray Beans: A traditional Lanzhou snack with a soft and sweet taste. - Qinghai Old Yogurt: Thick and tangy, often paired with honey and nuts for a nutritious treat. - Baked Lamb Ribs: Tender and juicy lamb ribs slow-cooked with potatoes, onions, and carrots for a rich and aromatic dish. - Dunhuang Sauce Braised Donkey Meat Noodles: Thin and elastic noodles paired with flavorful donkey meat and rich broth, offering a unique taste. - Zhangye Fish-Shaped Noodles: A specialty made by hand into fish shapes, served with rich broth for a distinctive flavor. - Butter Tea: A signature Tibetan drink made from butter, tea, and salt, offering warmth, energy, and nourishment in cold climates. 🧡 Additional Tips: 1. Altitude Sickness: Some areas on the Gansu-Qinghai Loop exceed 3,000 meters in altitude, such as Qinghai Lake, Laji Mountain, and Zaga Na. Symptoms like headaches and chest tightness may occur. Carry oxygen bottles, avoid strenuous activities, and stay hydrated. 2. Sun Protection and Moisturization: The Northwest has strong sunlight and UV rays. Use both physical and chemical sun protection, including high-SPF sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and sun-protective clothing. Reapply sunscreen every two hours. The dry climate also requires moisturizing products like face masks, lip balm, and hand cream. 3. Clothing Recommendations: The Northwest's temperature varies greatly between day and night. Dress in layers ("onion style") to adjust to the weather. Wear short sleeves and sun-protective clothing during the day, and add fleece or light down jackets in the morning and evening. Prepare thick coats for sudden snowfall in mountainous areas. Comfortable sneakers or hiking boots are recommended, with sand-proof shoe covers or sandals for desert areas. 4. Dietary Considerations: Local cuisine is heavy on beef and lamb, with strong flavors. Bring pickles or instant hot pots to adjust to the taste. Tibetan butter tea may cause stomach discomfort; try it sparingly and carry anti-diarrhea medication. 5. Cultural and Etiquette: In Tibetan monasteries, avoid photographing Buddha statues and turn prayer wheels clockwise. Do not photograph people without permission, and remove shoes before entering Tibetan homes. Avoid stepping on thresholds. In halal restaurants, refrain from bringing non-beef/lamb food, drinking alcohol, or wasting food.

#springitinerary This is a Paleozoic Geopark located in the Yellow River basin. When you enter the valley on foot, horse-drawn carriage, four-wheel drive motorcycle, or cable car, you will feel like you have entered an alien planet. In the Yellow River Stone Forest, you can feel the vastness of the desert, ride a sheepskin raft on the Yellow River, and ride a donkey cart to see the terrain of the Yellow River Stone Forest. These are all very interesting experiences. Of course, you can eat cheap and delicious honey apples in the Yellow River Stone Forest in winter.

Hey everyone!! Not sure where to go for the May Day holiday? 🙋‍♀️ Save this amazing 2-day Lanzhou route 📌, you'll regret missing it for a whole year 😭! 🌄This route covers stunning landscapes including Danxia landforms, grasslands, forests, hills, and the Gobi Desert, with surprises all along the way 🎉. It's perfect for either a 2-day trip or a 3-day self-driving tour 🚗! Just follow the order I've shared and you're good to go~ 👉I've prepared two routes for you, Route A and Route B are in opposite directions, both offering breathtaking scenery 👇 ● A: Lanzhou → Yongdeng Kushui Danxia → Yongdeng Lu Chieftain's Office → Tianzhu County Small Three Gorges → Tiantang Town Temple → Tianzhu Danxia (the highland pastures between Tiantang Town and Tianzhu are incredibly beautiful) → Tianzhu Huazang Temple → Yongtai Ancient City in Jingtai → Jingtai Yellow River Stone Forest → Return to Lanzhou ● B: Follow Route A in reverse Now let me give you details about each must-visit spot 📸, save this guide 👇 🟠Kushui Danxia A free, undeveloped Danxia wonder very close to Lanzhou! Every photo looks like a professional shot 📷 🗺️Navigation: Yongdeng County Kushui Town Danxia Self-driving Campsite 🎫Ticket: Free 🆓 🟡Yongdeng Lu Chieftain's Office Known as the "Little Forbidden City" of western China, it's a grand and well-preserved palace-style architectural complex 🏛️ 🗺️Navigation: Former Site of Lu Chieftain's Office 🎫Ticket: 20 yuan ⏰Opening hours: 8:30-18:00 🟢Tianzhu Small Three Gorges Surrounded by towering mountains, the environment is breathtakingly beautiful 🌳, and it's free!! 🔵Tiantang Town Located at the border of Gansu and Qinghai provinces, adjacent to Tianzhu Small Three Gorges and Beishan National Forest Geological Park 🌲. Though small, the town has an amazing atmosphere that makes you feel super comfortable~ 🟣Tiantang Temple Dating back to the Tang Dynasty, this grand temple is renowned in Tibetan areas 🙏 🎫Ticket: 25 yuan ⏰Hours: 8:00-18:00 🟠Tianzhu Danxia Located in Benkang Village, Tianzhu, these Danxia formations are covered with dense forests 🌴. The mountain shapes are unique, offering a different experience from Zhangye Danxia, and it's free!! 🟡Tianzhu Highland Pastures On the way from Tiantang Town to Tianzhu County, you'll pass numerous highland pastures 🐂 with impressive herds of white yaks. The scenery at dusk is so beautiful it'll make you scream, and casual photos look like magazine covers! 🟢Tianzhu Huazang Temple Located in Tianzhu County, it was one of the national guardian temples during the Qing Dynasty 🏯 🎫Ticket: Free ⏰Opening hours: 8:00-18:00 🔵Yongtai Ancient City in Jingtai (Turtle City) A well-preserved ancient military fortress with a unique turtle-shaped layout 🐢. As one of the most intact Ming Dynasty ancient cities in China, it perfectly embodies the concept of "a lonely city among ten thousand mountains"~ 🟣Jingtai Yellow River Stone Forest A rare geological wonder! Canyons, peak forests, the Yellow River, Gobi Desert, and oases perfectly blend here 🌄. Stone formations hundreds of meters high rise from the ground, making you instantly feel how small humans are! 🗺️Address: Navigate to Jingtai County Yellow River Stone Forest 🎫Ticket: 40 yuan, transportation package: 68 yuan ⏰Hours: Ticket sales stop at 4:30 PM, closes at 5:30 PM ⛺️Travel equipment tips: Definitely wear shoes suitable for hiking 👟, and don't forget a sun hat 🧢! Pair with nice clothes 👗 to take atmospheric photos in minutes~ Outdoor tables and chairs are also recommended so you can stop and enjoy the scenery anytime 🏕️ 🍽️Food recommendations: 1️⃣Stir-fried yak meat 🥩 in Tiantang Town, tender and juicy, you'll fall in love with the first bite! 2️⃣"Yibuer Beef Noodles" 🍜 in Tianzhu County, with rich broth and chewy noodles, a must-try! 3️⃣"Donglaishun Sour Meat" 🥘 in Jingtai County, with a unique flavor that lingers! Everyone, head to Lanzhou this May Day holiday 🚀 and experience the unique charm of the Northwest!

🌟The Yellow River Stone Forest National Geopark is located in Jingtai County, Baiyin City, Gansu Province. It is famous for its unique stone forest landform and Yellow River scenery. It is a perfect combination of geological wonders and cultural history. The following is a detailed gameplay guide: 1. Basic Information - Address: [RoundNails] Longwan Village, Zhongquan Town, Jingtai County, Baiyin City, Gansu Province - Opening hours: [8:00]8:00-18:00 (peak season: April-October), off-season hours may be adjusted. - Tickets: 🎫 - About 40 yuan per person in peak season, discounts in off-season. - [Tricycle] Shuttle bus + electric car package is about 85 yuan (must be purchased, the distance within the scenic area is far). - Sheepskin rafting, donkey cart and other experience items are charged separately. 2. Transportation 1. Self-driving: 🚗 - From Lanzhou: about 2.5 hours drive (150 km), 🛣 take the Beijing-Tibet Expressway (G6) and turn to Provincial Highway 217. - Depart from Baiyin: about 1.5 hours (70 km). - 🅿️The parking lot in the scenic area charges about 10 yuan per day. 2. Public transportation: [Tramcar] - Take a bus from Lanzhou Bus Station to Jingtai County (about 2 hours), and then transfer to the bus from Jingtai to Longwan Village (about 1 hour). 3. Must-see attractions and experiences✅ 1. Yinmagou Grand Canyon (core scenic area): - Take a donkey cart or hike through the spectacular Stone Forest Canyon, with towering stone pillars on both sides that resemble a mighty army. - Photo spots: 📷 Pictographic stones such as "Dragon Looking Back" and "Lion Guarding the Gate". 2. Yellow River sheepskin rafting: - Take a raft from Longwan Village Pier and go downstream (about 30 minutes) to experience the wonders of the Yellow River and the Stone Forest. 3. Observation Deck: - Xishan Square: overlooking the Yellow River meander and the panoramic view of the stone forest, 🌅especially magnificent at sunrise and sunset🌄. - Shenlong Terrace: 📸An excellent location for photographing stone forests and rural scenery. 4. Film and TV shooting locations: - The filming locations of TV series and movies such as "The Myth" and "The World's Granary", where you can check in at the same scenes. 5. Longwan Village: - Experience the farmhouse and taste local delicacies such as Yellow River carp and gray bean soup. 4. Recommended Tour Routes - One-day tour: Scenic area entrance ➡️ Shuttle bus to Longwan Village ➡️ Sheepskin rafting ➡️ Donkey cart tour of Yinmagou ➡️ Hike or electric car to the viewing platform ➡️ Return. - In-depth tour (2 days): - Day 1: Visit the main scenic area of ​​Shilin and stay at Longwan Village B&B. - Day 2: Hike to nearby Panlong Cave, Laolong Bay and other niche attractions. 5. Notes 1. Clothing: There are many gravel roads in the scenic area. 👟It is recommended to wear non-slip sports shoes, 🧢a sun hat, and [SunGlasses] sunglasses. 2. Weather: Spring and autumn are the best ([Seeding] April-May, [FallenLeaf] September-October). In summer, be careful to protect yourself from the sun; in winter, it is cold and windy. 3. Security: ⚠️ - There may be occasional rockfalls in the canyon, so stay away from dangerous cliffs. - When rafting on the Yellow River, you must obey the rafting crew's instructions and wear a life jacket. 4. Environmental protection: 🈲No climbing of stone pillars or scratching of rocks. 6. Nearby joint tours - Yongtai Ancient City (about 1 hour drive): a military fortress from the Ming Dynasty, suitable for photography. - Jingtai Turtle City: The ruins of an ancient city in the desert, full of vicissitudes. 💎The Yellow River Stone Forest combines natural wonders with cultural experiences, and is suitable for tourists who like geological scenery, photography and slow travel. [Calendar] Plan your route in advance to avoid the holiday crowds and experience its stunning and tranquility!

#Mainland Travel Yongtai Ancient City is also known as "Turtle City" My first impression of the ancient city came from a documentary I watched in middle school. From that time on, I was full of yearning for the mystery of the ancient city. At that time, there were still residents in the village and a few students in the school. Now when you step into the ancient city, you will see ruins. There are only two or three households left, mostly elderly people who look after their sheep. Most of the dilapidated houses have been demolished. There are many broken walls left. … 📌 Recommended tour routes from Lanzhou: Depart from Lanzhou - Yellow River Stone Forest - Yongtai Ancient City - Tianzhu County - Tiantang Town Basically two days is enough, three or four days if you have enough time 🗺️ Address: Yongtai Ancient City, Jingtai County, Baiyin, Gansu 🚗 Transportation: Self-driving is recommended (more than 2 hours from Lanzhou and Zhongwei) One and a half hours from Yellow River Stone Forest 2 hours from Tianzhu County About 2 hours from Wuwei City 🎫 Tickets: Free and open 24 hours a day (A similar visitor center is being built nearby, I don’t know if it will be developed and charged in the future) 📷 Take photos: In the morning and evening, there will be flocks of sheep entering and leaving the city gate (recommended on a sunny day) 🍽️ Catering: Recommend "Donglaishun Sour and Rotten Meat" in Jingtai County

#Mainland Travel The Yellow River makes a desolate turn here. The cliffs rise from the ground Exposing the bony bones The wind-eroded folds were dyed ochre red by the setting sun Buried with thousands of years of dry sobs shepherd's whistle Crushed into sand in the canyon The village is huddled at the foot of the mountain Like a few forgotten seeds The smoke just rose Swallowed by the shadow of the stone forest The Yellow River shines with copper Flowing quietly in the twilight This is the wound of the earth. It is also a stamp of time It is recommended that you drive to the Yellow River Stone Forest The nearby Yongtai Ancient City (Turtle City) is not far away (highly recommended 👍) When you arrive at Shilin, don't go directly into the scenic area. If you enter the scenic area, you will go down the mountain directly. The visitor center is on the top of the mountain, and there is an observation deck behind it (free) You can see the twists and turns of the Yellow River and the magnificence of the stone forest. Don't miss it. ⚠️ The scenic bus stops at 5:30, so if you want to watch the sunset in the scenic area, you probably have to walk up by yourself If you don't want to walk up, you can go up the mountain to the observation deck to watch the beautiful sunset. 🗺️ Address: Navigate to Yellow River Stone Forest in Jingtai County, self-driving is recommended 🎫 Ticket: 40, scenic tour package: 68 (no self-driving ticket now) ⏰ Time: Ticket sales stop at 4:30 pm and end at 5:30 pm (if you miss it, you need to walk out by yourself) ☁️ Weather: Recommended to come on a sunny day 🥾 Equipment: hiking shoes, sun hat (for sun exposure at high altitude)

📍 Yellow River Stone Forest Scenic Area (approx. 2 hrs by car) ✅ Marvel at the breathtaking landscape of the Yellow River Stone Forest—it's like stepping onto another planet! ✅ Take an exciting and thrilling sheepskin raft ride down the Yellow River! 🚶‍♂️ Hike through the canyons and admire nature's handiwork. Every photo you take will be a masterpiece! 📍 Bingling Temple Grottoes at Liujiaxia Reservoir (approx. 2.5 hrs by car) 🕌 Discover a treasure trove of Buddhist art along the Silk Road. The thousand-year-old grotto statues and murals are truly awe-inspiring! ✅ Take a boat tour of Liujiaxia Reservoir and be mesmerized by the stunning scenery of the high gorges and serene lake! 📍 Labrang Monastery in Xiahe (approx. 4 hrs by car) 🏯 Visit one of the six great monasteries of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery is renowned for its grand scale, magnificent architecture, and rich Tibetan cultural atmosphere! 🌾 On the way, stop by Sangke Grassland, where the wind whispers through the grass revealing grazing cattle and sheep—a scene straight out of a fairy tale! 📍 Lanzhou Shuimo Danxia Scenic Area (approx. 1 hr by car) 🎨 Feast your eyes on the colorful Danxia landforms, resembling a natural ink painting. It's the perfect spot for taking stunning photos! 🎢 Enjoy thrilling activities like the glass walkway and zip line—perfect for unwinding and having fun! 💡 Travel tips: ✅ If you have plenty of time and want to experience different cultures: Labrang Monastery in Xiahe ✅ If you want to marvel at natural wonders: Yellow River Stone Forest or Lanzhou Shuimo Danxia Scenic Area ✅ If you're interested in Buddhist art: Bingling Temple Grottoes at Liujiaxia Reservoir 📸 Grab your camera and embark on a spontaneous adventure! Don't forget to like, save, and share this with your friends! ❤️

#chinatravelitinerary Baiyin, located in Gansu Province, is a peaceful city with stunning desert landscapes, historical sites, and natural beauty. This 3-day chill itinerary keeps things easygoing while letting you enjoy the highlights! ✨🚆 🌟 Day 1: Beijing → Baiyin (Arrival & City Exploration) 🚄🏙️ Morning: Travel to Baiyin 🔹 8:00 AM – Take a high-speed train from Beijing to Lanzhou (6-7 hours) 🚄. 🔹 2:00 PM – Transfer to Baiyin (1-hour drive). 🚗 🔹 3:30 PM – Check into your hotel and rest. 🏨 Afternoon: Easy City Walk & Local Markets 🔹 5:00 PM – Explore Baiyin People’s Park, a quiet spot for a stroll and people-watching. 🌳🏞️ 🔹 6:30 PM – Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, trying hand-pulled Lanzhou beef noodles. 🍜 Evening: Night Lights & Relaxation 🔹 8:00 PM – Walk around Baiyin’s city center, enjoying the lights and relaxed atmosphere. ✨🚶♂️ 🔹 9:00 PM – Head back to the hotel for a good night’s sleep. 😴 🌟 Day 2: Yellow River Stone Forest Adventure 🌄🐪 Morning: Scenic Nature Escape 🔹 7:30 AM – Have a delicious breakfast. ☕🥐 🔹 8:30 AM – Drive 1.5 hours to Yellow River Stone Forest (黄河石林). 🚗 Afternoon: Desert Vibes & Relaxation 🔹 10:00 AM – Explore the unique rock formations and desert landscapes. You can also take a camel ride! 🐪🏜️ 🔹 12:30 PM – Lunch at a local restaurant, tasting fresh lamb skewers and local Gansu dishes. 🍢 Evening: Sunset & Return to Baiyin 🔹 4:00 PM – Drive back to Baiyin and rest at the hotel. 🚗 🔹 6:30 PM – Enjoy a relaxing dinner, perhaps spicy hotpot or more beef noodles! 🍲 🔹 8:00 PM – Leisure walk along the Yellow River in Baiyin before heading back to rest. 🌙🌊 🌟 Day 3: Slow Morning & Return to Beijing 🚄🏡 Morning: Local Temple & Last Stroll 🔹 8:00 AM – Have a slow breakfast and enjoy the morning vibes. ☕🥞 🔹 9:30 AM – Visit a local temple or scenic park to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. 🏯🌿 🔹 11:00 AM – Take some last-minute photos and grab a snack before leaving. 📸🍡 Afternoon: Travel Back to Beijing 🔹 12:30 PM – Depart for Lanzhou, then take a train back to Beijing. 🚄 🔹 7:00 PM – Arrive in Beijing and relax at home! 🏡 ✨ Final Tips! ✅ Best time to visit: Spring (🌸) ✅ Pack comfortable shoes & sun protection for exploring the desert! 👟🧢 ✅ Try the famous Lanzhou beef noodles & lamb skewers! 🍜 #china #travel #travelingchina

1. Overview Yellow River Stone Forest National Geopark is located in Jingtai County, Baiyin City, Gansu Province, China. It is a tourist destination that combines natural scenery, geological wonders, and cultural landscapes. The park attracts many tourists with its unique stone forest landscape, rich geological relics, and magnificent natural scenery. 2. Travel plan 1. Transportation: Self-driving or joining a tour group is recommended. If you choose to drive, you can take a plane or train to Baiyin City, Gansu Province, and then drive to Jingtai County. 2. Best time to visit: Spring and autumn are the best times to visit, as the weather is pleasant and the scenery is beautiful. 3. Tour route: It is recommended to visit the stone forest wonders, the Yellow River Canyon, and historical and cultural sites. 3. Recommended attractions 1. Stone Forest Wonders: This is the core attraction of the Yellow River Stone Forest National Geopark. The stone forest has various shapes and is staggered, which is breathtaking. 2. Yellow River Canyon: Walking along the Yellow River Canyon, you can enjoy the spectacular canyon scenery and unique Yellow River culture. 3. Historical and cultural sites: There are rich historical and cultural relics here, such as ancient village sites and Stone Age sites, where you can learn about the local history and culture. 4. Precautions 1. Environmental protection: Please do not litter in the scenic area and protect the natural environment here. 2. Safety: Please pay attention to safety during the tour, follow the regulations of the scenic area, and do not climb the stone forest or enter dangerous areas. 3. Sun protection and heatstroke prevention: The sun is strong in the scenic area, so please take sun protection measures and bring enough water and sunscreen. 5. Recommended food In Jingtai County, you can taste local specialties, such as Yellow River fish, roasted whole lamb, and hand-grabbed mutton. These foods are not only delicious but also have rich nutritional value. 6. Recommended accommodation There are various types of accommodation options around the scenic area, such as star-rated hotels, budget hotels, and homestays. You can choose suitable accommodation according to your needs and budget. 7. Summary Yellow River Stone Forest National Geopark is a tourist destination that combines natural scenery, geological wonders, and cultural landscapes. During the tour, please follow the regulations of the scenic area and protect the natural environment. Also, don't forget to taste local food and experience local folk culture. I wish you a pleasant and unforgettable trip to the Yellow River Stone Forest National Geopark!

🌟Highlights: On the Loess Plateau, the Yellow River has carved out a majestic deep gorge with its natural power. After years of gravitational collapse and wind erosion, a large yellow sandstone peak forest landscape was finally formed in Baiyin, Gansu. 📍Address: Baiyin, Yellow River Stone Forest National Geopark 💰Average cost: Off-season CNY 88/person, this is the self-driving ticket 📝Tips: ① Self-driving ticket, in fact, you can only drive a few kilometers, pass through 22 bends, park at the interval car and transfer (there is no notice or prompt in the scenic area, many cars go wrong), I don't quite understand the meaning of this self-driving. ② The last entry time of the scenic area is 16:30, but the staff said that they must get off work at 17:30 and cannot be delayed. If you want to take pictures slowly, especially the light of the sunset, it is impossible. ③ There are farmhouses in the scenic area where you can stay, but there may be no heating or hot water in winter. You can go to the free Leopard Valley the next day. ④ In general, it is suitable for viewing from a distance and aerial photography, and you can enjoy it for free at the viewing platform at the gate. It is not as spectacular as the Wensu Grand Canyon in Xinjiang, nor as exquisite as the Ganquan Grand Canyon in Shaanxi, which may be related to the geographical location, and the special landform of the Loess Plateau is like this.

Baiyin, a city named after a precious metal, seems to have a noble and mysterious aura. Located on the banks of the Yellow River, it boasts beautiful mountains and rivers, fertile land, and a rich historical and cultural heritage. It is the site of the Great Yu's water control relics and one of the origins of the legends of Fuxi and Nuwa. When you enter Baiyin, you will feel the overwhelming historical and cultural atmosphere. Even though time has passed like water, the ancient and mysterious aura still permeates every corner of the city. 🏨 The Red Army Meeting Building witnessed the hardships and glory of the revolutionary years, while the Yongtai Ancient City takes you back to the era of war and horses. The Long March Victory Park, with its miniature landscapes, recreates the hardships and tragedies of the Long March, making you feel as if you have traveled through time and space to relive that glorious era. 🌲 The Yellow River Stone Forest shows us the grandeur of Baiyin. The towering stone pillars, each with its own unique shape, are like works of art carved by Mother Earth, each telling a story of a thousand years. Entering this magical land is like stepping into Pandora from Avatar, with surprises at every step and awe at every turn! 🌌 In addition to the scenery, there are many interesting experiences waiting for you! For example, you can try riding a camel through the stone forest, feeling the sound of camel bells and the wind and sand on your face, which is simply too cool! 🐪 The Yellow River Stone Forest is not just a scenic spot, but more like a heavy history book, waiting for us to read and savor. 📚 🪐 In Baiyin, you can not only feel the magic of nature, but also appreciate the profoundness of human civilization. Especially when you stand on top of the stone forest and look down at the surging Yellow River, you will understand that all the fatigue and troubles have been healed by this magical land. At that moment, you will feel that all the waiting and anticipation are worth it! 🌟

Yellow River Stone Forest Park is located in the southeast of Jingtai County, Baiyin, Gansu, China.  Overview - Geology and landforms: Composed of orange-yellow sandstone, the stone forest was formed 4 million years ago as a result of the Yanshan Movement, crustal uplift, riverbed downcutting, and geological processes such as weathering, rain erosion, and gravitational collapse. - Ecological environment: Located in the transition zone between the Loess Plateau and the Tengger Desert, the park has two ecosystems: the Longwan Oasis and the Batan Gobi Desert. The plants are mostly drought-tolerant species such as black thorn and red sand, while the animals are mostly small mammals and birds. - Scenic area size: The scenic area covers an area of 34 square kilometers, of which the stone forest covers an area of 10 square kilometers. Scenic area features - Unique landscape: The park combines stone forests, the Yellow River, gobi deserts, sand dunes, and oases. It features towering stone forests in various shapes and the Longwan Oasis formed by the meandering Yellow River. - Cultural heritage: Laolongwan has a rich and profound Yellow River culture dating back hundreds of years. Visitors can experience western folk customs and participate in bonfire parties. - Entertainment: Visitors can enjoy sheepskin raft drifting, sand sliding, collecting Yellow River stones, and riding animal-drawn carts through the stone forest. Travel information - Opening hours: 08:00–18:00 - Ticket prices: Admission is around CNY 40, sightseeing bus tickets are around CNY 20, and entertainment such as sheepskin rafts are charged separately.

Winter is a great time to explore! Check out this 8-day itinerary for Lanzhou-Jingtai-Badain Jaran Desert and save it for later! -------------------- 🚩Route suggestion: A magical journey through Lanzhou-Jingtai-Badain Jaran DAY 1: Arrive in Lanzhou Explore the city at your own pace. DAY 2: Yellow River Stone Forest National Geopark Discover the Yellow River Stone Forest and marvel at this natural wonder. DAY 3: Badain Jaran Desert - Badain Lake - Bilutu Peak - Miaohaizi Explore Badain Jaran and experience the fusion of desert and lake. Conquer Bilutu Peak and spend the night at Miaohaizi under the stars. DAY 4: Heicheng Ruoshui Populus Euphratica Scenic Area - Ghost Forest Visit the Heicheng Ruins and admire the resilience of the Ruoshui Populus Euphratica. Stroll through the Ghost Forest and marvel at nature's wonders. DAY 5: Juyan Lake - Erdaoqiao - Populus Euphratica Forest Scenic Area Watch the sunrise at Juyan Lake, stroll through Erdaoqiao, and explore the magnificent Populus Euphratica Forest. DAY 6: Zhangye Alien Valley Scenic Area Enter Alien Valley and explore the unknown world of outer space. DAY 7: Balz Snow Mountain - Hongwan Temple Climb Balz Snow Mountain and admire its majesty and beauty. Visit Hongwan Temple and experience the tranquility and depth of religious culture. DAY 8: Wuwei - Binggou River - Lanzhou Depart from Wuwei and enjoy the natural scenery of Binggou River. Return to Lanzhou and end this unforgettable journey. -------------------- Travel preparation: 🧳 Don't forget to bring these things to Lanzhou-Jingtai-Badain Jaran Desert! 👕 Clothing: The temperature is moderate in December, but it is cool in the morning and evening. Bring a warm coat and sweater. In the desert, long boots are good for keeping out sand and keeping warm. 🎩 Accessories: Sunglasses and sun hats are essential to protect against UV rays. Masks protect against sand, and scarves can be used for decoration and sun protection. 💳 Documents: ID card, driver's license, cash, and credit card for a worry-free trip. 💧 Supplies: Fill a water bottle and bring some snacks to replenish your energy. 📱 Electronics: Phone, charger, and power bank so you can take photos without worry. 💊 Medicine: Bring cold medicine and painkillers just in case. 🎒 Other: Choose a lightweight backpack and pack some tissues and wet wipes for easy cleaning. All set? Let's go! 🚀 -------------------- I hope this guide helps you have a great time and make the most of your trip to Lanzhou-Jingtai-Badain Jaran!

The Yellow River Stone Forest in Jingtai, Gansu! It's simply a masterpiece of nature! The Yellow River Stone Forest in Jingtai, Gansu is located in Longwan Village, Zhongquan Township, Jingtai County, Baiyin City, about 150 km from downtown Lanzhou. The stone forest was formed in the early Pleistocene of the Quaternary period 2.1 million years ago. Due to geological processes such as crustal movement, weathering, and rain erosion, a stone forest landscape with yellow gravel as the main feature and a variety of shapes was formed. 🚗Transportation guide: From Lanzhou, you can choose to charter a car or drive yourself. A chartered car costs about CNY 600 per day, and it takes about 3 hours to drive. 🏨Accommodation recommendation: You can choose to stay in a farmhouse in Longwan Village, which is cheap and offers local specialties. 👀Attraction recommendations: 1. Yinma Valley Grand Canyon: The core attraction of the Yellow River Stone Forest Scenic Area, the canyon has spectacular stone forests, clear Yellow River water, steep cliffs, and thrilling iron cable bridges. 2. Yellow River Mother Peak: The iconic landscape of the Yellow River Stone Forest and a great place to take photos. 3. Panlong Cave: A naturally formed cave with many unique stalactites and stalagmites, well worth a visit. 4. Viewing platform: Overlooking the entire Yellow River Stone Forest Scenic Area, the view is very open. Folks, the scenery of the Yellow River Stone Forest in Jingtai, Gansu is really spectacular. If you haven't been there yet, you must find a chance to go there. I believe you will be shocked by the scenery there!

Who knew! Gansu has such an ancient city ✨ Yongtai Ancient City was built in the 36th year of the Wanli period of the Ming dynasty, more than 400 years ago. It is a military fortress made of rammed earth, and a well-preserved ancient castle. Due to a lack of water resources, the ancient city was once abandoned, but its appearance still attracts many tourists. 👀 Climb the ancient city wall to overlook the whole view of Yongtai Ancient City, and see the snow-capped peaks of the Qilian Mountains in the distance. The roads inside and outside the ancient city crisscross, making it very suitable for taking photos. Some residents still live in the ancient city, and they have retained their traditional way of life, making you feel like you have traveled back in time. The ancient city is very quiet at night, with only the stars and the sound of insects to accompany you. 👀 I stayed here for one night and felt the charm and tranquility of the ancient city. It was an unforgettable travel experience!

||Don’t miss this attraction when you are transiting in Lanzhou It’s so photogenic! And it’s not too tiring Bookmark this guide now✅ one ✈️Transportation: -Self-driving, the road conditions are very good throughout the journey, it takes about 2.5 hours from Lanzhou - For group tours, make a reservation before 24:00 the day before. Round-trip transportation is included. The starting station is Lanzhou Station or Gansu Provincial Museum. You can get on the bus from whichever is closest. one 🗿Attractions: 1⃣️Tickets🎫➕Scenic Area Transportation: The total cost is 108 yuan if you buy it by yourself, or 98 yuan if you go with a group. After entering the gate, take the bus to the sightseeing car, and then transfer to the sightseeing car to enter. The sightseeing car will stop when you wave. Just tell the driver where you want to get off. - 2⃣️The main attractions are divided into three. In fact, you can ride back and forth unlimited times during the journey. The recommended attractions are: 🔸Jinchan looks back and has the most beautiful curve in the scenic spot 🔸The 22 turns at the entrance are suitable for drone aerial photography 🔸Yinma River Grand Canyon, the shapes of the boulders on both sides of the road here are the most exotic. 🔸The last observation deck on the top of the mountain, the scenery is beautiful when you walk up there one The entire tour lasts 3 hours which is enough one 📍Address: Baiyin Yellow River Stone Forest National Geopark, Gansu Let’s dig into this treasure town together! ! !

If it weren’t for the publication of National Geographic in 2010 I might not know about this shockingly low-key national key cultural relic protection unit: Yongtai Ancient City This place arose because of the war In the thirty-sixth year of Wanli in the Ming Dynasty, this prominent fortress was built to resist invasion. There is an urn on each side of the oval-shaped city surrounded by a moat. It looks like a golden turtle, with not only a head, but also four legs. It is also called Yongtai Turtle City. More than 400 years Yongtai Ancient City resists the never-ending wind and sand under the Qilian Mountains day after day, and is visibly weathered and collapsed every year. Now the moat and the buildings on the city wall no longer exist. It is rated as one of the top ten disappearing scenery in China. Yongtai Ancient City 🎫Tickets: None 📍Location: Sitan Township, Jingtai County, Baiyin City, Gansu Province 🚗Transportation: It takes about 3 hours to drive from Lanzhou, and public transportation is inconvenient. ‼ ️Recommendation: Go by car or charter a car. You can go on a one-day tour with the Yellow River Stone Forest and the Greater Dunhuang Film and Television City. It’s great value for money. Easter Egg: When the sheep passed through the ancient city gate, I almost traveled through time

The Yellow River Stone Forest is located in Longwan Village, Zhongquan Township, southeast of Jingtai County, Baiyin City, Gansu Province. It is 70 km north of Jingtai County and 70 km south of Baiyin City. It is 136 km from Lanzhou. The scenic area is bordered by the Yellow River's Longwan River bend in the north and by continuous eroded hills in the south. The Yellow River flows from east to west through the scenic area. The Yellow River Stone Forest is famous for its unique landforms and natural landscapes, and is known as the "Natural Wonder of China". It is a shining pearl of northwest tourism. The Yellow River Stone Forest was formed in the late Tertiary and early Quaternary periods, about 4 million years ago. Due to geological processes such as crustal movement, weathering, and rain erosion, a unique stone forest landscape has been formed, mainly composed of orange-yellow sandstone and conglomerate. The scenic area features steep cliffs, diverse shapes, winding paths, and countless wonders. Stone pillars and stalagmites are generally between 80 and 200 meters tall. The main attractions of the Yellow River Stone Forest include the Longwan Ancient Waterwheel, Panlong Cave, Qingliang Temple, and Stone Forest Observation Deck. Visitors can take a sheepskin raft down the Yellow River and experience the local traditional mode of transportation. Longwan Village within the scenic area retains its original natural village appearance and offers agritourism services such as farm stays, allowing visitors to experience local rural life and cuisine. The Yellow River Stone Forest is not only a treasure trove of natural scenery, but also a popular filming location for movies and TV series. For example, the movie "Myth" starring Jackie Chan was filmed here, showcasing the stunning beauty of the Yellow River Stone Forest. Visitors can reach the Yellow River Stone Forest by plane, train, or car. The scenic area offers various services, including animal-powered carts, Longwan Ancient Waterwheel, farm stay western rural customs tour, and bonfire party with various styles. These services provide visitors with a rich tourism experience. The entrance fee for the Yellow River Stone Forest Scenic Area is 40 yuan. The bundled price for a bus and electric car is 75 yuan. The bundled price for a bus, electric car, and boat is 105 yuan. The cost for a sheepskin raft is 90 yuan per raft for three people. The cost for a donkey cart is 90 yuan per cart for three people. The cost for horseback riding is 80 yuan. The cost for a go-kart is 50 yuan per person. The cost for a helicopter is around 450-650 yuan per person. Transportation guide for the Yellow River Stone Forest Scenic Area: Plane: Flights are available from various cities to Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport. From there, take a train or car to Jingtai County. Train: There are many trains from Lanzhou to Jingtai County. Trains generally depart in the morning or afternoon, with one train every hour. The journey takes about 4 hours. Bus: A new tourist bus route was opened on April 23, 2019, connecting Jingtai County and the Yellow River Stone Forest Scenic Area. The Yellow River Stone Forest Scenic Area is a tourist destination that integrates natural landscapes, cultural history, and leisure and entertainment. It is suitable for sightseeing, adventure, leisure, religious tourism, Silk Road tourism, and conference tourism.

Yongtai Ancient City, also known as Yongtai Turtle City, is located in Yongtai Village, Sitan Township, Jingyuan County, Baiyin City, Gansu Province. It is an ancient city with a history of more than 400 years. It was built in the 36th year of the Wanli period of the Ming Dynasty (1608) and was a military fortress built by the Ming government to defend against the invasion of northern minorities. The city wall of the ancient city is rammed with loess, with a circumference of 1717 meters, a wall height of 12 meters, and a city base thickness of 6 meters. The entire city is elliptical in plan, and there are three closed semi-circular moon cities on the east, west, and north sides of the city wall. There are urn cities and moats under the city, and beacon towers extending for tens of miles are built in the direction of Lanzhou and the Great Wall on the south and north sides of the city. There are many ancient sites in Yongtai Ancient City, including city gates, city walls, several ancient houses, Ganlu Pond, Wuyan Spring, and Yongtai Primary School, a Gothic building combining Chinese and Western styles. In addition, there are many architectural relics that were destroyed during the Cultural Revolution, such as turrets, beacon towers, Dianjiangtai, schoolyard, General Liwen Mansion, Taiji Round Pond (Jihai, Laochi), Dafosi, Zhushen Pavilion, Longwang Temple, Laojun Pavilion, Xingguan Temple, Sanguan Temple, Yuhuang Pavilion, Chenghuang Temple, warehouse, yamen, enemy building, archway, theater building, etc. The moat of the ancient city is about 6 meters wide and about 1~2.5 meters deep, with a total length of 2003 meters. Archaeological discoveries in 2017 show that Yongtai City did not have a closed moat that completely surrounded it. There were only protective "flood control ditches" on the east and west sides, and the south and north ends were empty. A triangular area without a moat. Yongtai Primary School is the best-preserved public building in the ancient city and one of the three well-preserved primary school cities in the Republic of China. It is an important witness to China's modern primary education. The tourist information of Yongtai Ancient City is as follows: Address: Yongtai Village, Sitan Township, 27 kilometers southwest of Jingyuan County, Baiyin City. Transportation: Self-driving is the most convenient. Public transportation: You can take a bus to Jingyuan at the bus station in Lanzhou or Baiyin. It takes about 3 hours to depart from Lanzhou, and the fare is 46 yuan. It takes about 2 hours to depart from Baiyin, and the fare is 25 yuan. After arriving in Jingyuan, you need to charter a car to Yongtai Ancient City, which is about 100 yuan round trip. Tickets: Free and open all day. Due to its unique historical value and architectural style, Yongtai Ancient City attracts many tourists and photography enthusiasts to visit, and has also become the shooting location for many film and television works.

The Yellow River Stone Forest is located in Jingyuan County, Baiyin City, Gansu Province. It was formed 2.1 million years ago in the Pliocene Wushan Formation. It is a geological landscape formed by neotectonic movement, rainstorm erosion, gravity collapse, and wind erosion. It is a Gansu Provincial Geological Heritage Nature Reserve and a National Geological Park.

The Loess Plateau in Longdong and Longzhong is generally 2,000–3,000 meters above sea level, making it the highest part of the Loess Plateau. It is home to thousands of gullies and fertile fields. The Loess Plateau has been shaped by wind, water, and time, creating a series of unique landscapes. The Yellow River Stone Forest is located in Longwan Village, Zhongquan Township, southeast of Jingyuan County, Gansu Province. The scenic area is bordered by the winding Yellow River to the north and the continuous eroded hills to the south. The Yellow River flows from east to west through the scenic area, which mainly includes the Yinma Gully, Panlong Cave Guanyin Cliff, and Diwan, three main scenic spots. Looking down from the air, the deep canyon formed by the Yellow River Valley is due to the strong uplift of the earth's crust, coupled with rain erosion and gravity collapse, forming cliffs and precipices up to 80-200 meters high.

Yellow River Stone Forest National Geopark [Attraction Guide] 📍 **Detailed address**: Longwan Village, Zhongquan Township, Jingtai County, Baiyin City, Gansu Province 🚗 **Transportation Guide**: - **Public Transportation**: Starting from Lanzhou, you can take a long-distance bus or train to Jingtai County, and then transfer to a local bus or taxi to go to the park. - **Self-driving**: Starting from Lanzhou, drive along the G2012 Expressway to Jingtai Exit, then follow the signs to the Yellow River Stone Forest National Geopark. 🕙 **Opening Hours**: Open all year round, Monday to Sunday 08:00-17:00. 💰 **Ticket Price**: Ticket price is 40 yuan. 🌟 **Highlight Features**: - **Ancient Stone Forest Group**: Formed 2.1 million years ago by neotectonic movements, rainwater erosion and gravity collapse, it is a peak forest and peak cluster composed of cliffs and rock pillars with a height of 80-200 meters. - **Yinmagou Grand Canyon**: There are many scenic spots such as the lion at the pass, the falcon looking back, etc., which are both physical and spiritual and lifelike. - **Panlong Cave - Guanyin Cliff**: The cave has a constant temperature all year round, with a naturally formed Tai Chi diagram, and a dragon and phoenix on the top of the cave. - **Combination of nature and humanity**: The Yellow River Stone Forest cleverly combines ancient stone forests, the Yellow River, deserts, oasis, Gobi, and farms to present a paradise-like landscape. 📌 **Tips**: - **Best time to visit**: It is recommended to choose spring and autumn to avoid high temperatures and rainy seasons for the best visiting experience. - **Dress for comfort**: Wear comfortable shoes and clothing for long walks and outdoor activities. - **Sun Protection**: Bring sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses to protect your skin from UV rays. - **Scenic Area Activities**: You can experience donkey carts, horse riding, sheepskin rafts and other special activities to experience local folk customs. - **Safety Instructions**: Tickets are required to enter Yinmagou. Please show your tickets and cooperate with the staff to check. If you do not have tickets, you need to make up for them here. I hope this guide can help you better plan your trip to the Yellow River Stone Forest National Geopark!

⛱️Must-see attractions: Yinmagou Grand Canyon, with twenty-two turns, eight ditches including Qikou Valley, Panlong Valley, Xiwang Valley, and dozens of caves such as Panlong Cave and Qianmi Cave. 🌄Travel guide: You can drive 58 kilometers from Baiyin City to the Yellow River Stone Forest Geopark Scenic Area. The scenic area is close to the bank of the Yellow River and consists of the Yellow River, Longwan and Meandering River. The scenic area has farmhouse "Western Countryside Tour" and entertainment projects sheepskin raft The sheepskin raft is a major feature of the scenic spot. It is also the most primitive and oldest ferry tool along the Yellow River in the northwest region. You can experience the Yellow River culture. animal-drawn cart The round trip mileage from Yinmagou to the foot of the Observation Deck Mountain is 9 kilometers in total. Animal-drawn carts are the best means of traveling around the stone forest. Here you can feel the simple folk customs of the local villagers and sing a northwest ditty when you feel like it, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in the stone forest. Come from the rough cultural atmosphere of the west. Overview of the scenic spot The steep cliffs in the scenic area are soaring in the sky, and the scenery changes with each step. Most of the stone pillars and stalagmites are between 80 and 100 meters high, and the highest can reach more than 200 meters. Their shapes are created in heaven and are uncanny in workmanship, just like the dream masterpieces of sculptors. Film and television base After the TV series "The Granary of the World", "Hot Land of the West", "Sweaty Horses", "Shocking Legend", "Dunhuang in the Desert" and other TV series filmed here were broadcast, the Yellow River Stone Forest became famous all over the world. 🏨Accommodation guide: There are many farmhouses around where you can stay. In Baiyin City, if the conditions are better, the Baiyin Jinwo Kaidi Mandarin Hotel is very good, cost-effective, and the environment is excellent. The service is considerate and the environment is good. 💗Other tips: gourmet food, special food, special food Sha scallion vegetables, large plate chicken, Yellow River carp, stuffed skin, fried donkey meat, etc. Entertainment activities: Bonfire party The river breeze blows, the wine is fragrant, the roasted lamb is glowing in the bonfire, the oil drips in the fire, an arrow of flame shoots up with a "pop", the music echoes in the wilderness, and the passionate Ethnic girls and boys will lead you to sing and dance. This is a bonfire party with various styles on both sides of the Yellow River.

Yongtai Ancient Castle is located 25 kilometers southwest of Jingtai on the ancient Silk Road. It was built in the 36th year of the Wanli period of the Ming Dynasty and has a history of more than 400 years. Because the castle is shaped like a turtle, it is also called "Turtle City". It was an important military fortress built by the Ming Dynasty to defend against the invasion of ethnic minorities in the north and is also a key location on the way to Qinghai, Hetao, Xinjiang, and Tibet. At that time, three castles, Yongtai, Zhenlu, and Baoding, were built along the ancient Silk Road between Lanzhou and Wuwei. Today, only Yongtai Castle has been preserved.

Recommended Reason: You can feel the vicissitudes of the Ming Dynasty military fortress. Although remote, it has a unique charm. The city walls are majestic, and you can experience the collision of sophistication and antiquity, making it suitable for walking pets. Attraction Address: Located in Jingtai County, Baiyin City, Gansu Province, with a history of over 400 years. Attraction Transportation: Both self-driving and chartered cars are available, and sedans can pass. Must-Visit Attractions: City gates, city walls, shepherd scenes, and a cultural school built in the early Republic of China. Ticket Information: Free all day. Other Tips: 1. The ancient city is a national protected unit, do not step on or damage it. 2. Bring a drone for aerial photography for better photo effects. 3. It may be renovated and upgraded in the future, with additional tourist facilities.

Located in the southwest of Jingtai County, Baiyin City, Gansu Province, Yongtai Ancient City controls the throat of the ancient Silk Road and is the only way from Chang'an to the Western Regions. First built during the Wanli period of the Ming Dynasty, Yongtai Ancient City has a history of more than 400 years. It was a military fortress during the Ming and Qing Dynasties, and an important barrier against foreign enemies. Walking into the ancient city, you will be attracted by the quaint frontier loess landscape here. It is like a fairy tale world, and the rows of abandoned earth walls seem to exude vitality. This ancient city is currently in an undeveloped state. Walking inside, you can still smell the aroma. It is said that the few residents are villagers from nearby villages, and the government invited them to live here. The architecture of Yongtai Ancient City is unique, with towering city walls and majestic city gates. The entire city is oval in shape, like a sleeping giant turtle. The ancient buildings in the city are scattered in an orderly manner, including the Jade Emperor Pavilion, the General's Mansion, the Martial Arts Field... each one exudes a simple and elegant atmosphere. Standing on the city wall and looking into the distance, you can see the surrounding mountains and the winding Yellow River, and a magnificent picture slowly unfolds before your eyes. The buildings here are indeed very unique. If they are well developed and maintained, and some of the ruins are preserved, leaving traces of history here, it may become a very distinctive local landscape!