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

I drifted to sleep while the old boat was pushing lazily against the current; after more than an hour I was surrounded by a magical forest of stone, surreal spires piercing the clouds, as if trying to scratch the blue of the sky. Was this a dream? I got off the boat and started walking deeper into the canyon, huge yellow walls on both sides, and a drowning forest in the midst of the gorge. After a few hundred meters I saw him, a giant Buddha; it looked like it was tired and decided to sit, leaning against one of the walls of the canyons. He must have been very tired because he has been sitting like this for a few hundred years. Bingling Si is located where the silty waters of the Yellow River meet the clear mirror of the Lujiaxia reservoir. You can take a slow or a fast boat from the Lujiaxia dam to reach it. It’s an ancient place with numerous displays of Buddhist art, including a giant Buddha statue. #historicplaces

Went to Yongjing, Gansu for 2 days. The main reason to go here is the Bingling Si (Bingling Temple) We took the boat across the reservoir to see the temple, but that was a mistake. I highly recommend skipping the boat transport and just hire a car to drive you there. The boat system is not good unless you have a large group/family. And the boat captain determines how much time you have at the temple. The temple had construction as of August 2020 so you are limited to what you can do and see there. I felt frustrated and disappointed as this was not told to us by anyone. If I would have known, I would have skipped this and chose to spend my time seeing something else. Yongjing is a nice small city. We walked around the old town and explored the area. We asked our hotel and taxi driver for the biggest and best shopping mall. They both recommended the same place. We wanted to go there because we assumed we could find a nice restaurant to try, but no. The “big” mall was mostly empty. the first floor had some shops open, but about 70% of the mall was empty or closed. We continued walking around the streets looking for a place to eat. The most popular restaurant according the dianping app, closes at 4:00pm. So we just tried some random Sichuan style restaurant and it was amazing! 👍🏼 After that, we dropped some stuff at our hotel and asked the hotel about any interesting areas or parks. The hotel lady recommended we cross the bridge and check out the massive flower park. Crossing the bridge we could see a lot of the area was flooded. The heavy rains have caused the river water to rise and it covered a lot of the land. However, we continued across and saw very large displays of flowers. Some of the flower areas were also flooded and roped off, but you can still see a lot of wonderful flower displays. #gansu #yongjing #lanzhou #xiahe #china #sichuan #buddha #temple #flowers #peaceful #binglingsi

The Qingming short holiday is the perfect time for a two-day trip to Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture and Gannan! Unlock this curated guide to experience the charm of Tibetan culture, explore the natural scenery, and make your holiday even more wonderful! / 🌟Itinerary:🌟 Day 1: Huangshui-Taohe Confluence Viewing Platform—Bingling Temple Grottoes—Liujiaxia Bridge—Bafang Shisanxiang Visit the spectacular Huangshui-Taohe Confluence and experience the charm of nature. Then, visit the historic Bingling Temple Grottoes and appreciate the beauty of Buddhist art. Cross the Liujiaxia Bridge and experience the magnificence of the bridge. Finally, stroll through Bafang Shisanxiang and savor the ancient street style. Day 2: Ganjia Secret Realm—Labrang Monastery—Sangke Grassland Step into the mysterious Ganjia Secret Realm and explore the secrets of nature. Then, visit the solemn Labrang Monastery and experience the profound heritage of Tibetan Buddhism. Finally, gallop across the vast Sangke Grassland and enjoy the free prairie scenery. / Must-see attractions: 🌟 Labrang Monastery: The resplendent architecture makes it a great place to explore art treasures! 🏞️ Ganjia Secret Realm: Geological wonders, profound history, grasslands, lakes, and stone forests all in one! 🌸 Sangke Grassland: Lush greenery, blooming wildflowers, feel the gentle embrace of nature! 🙏 Bingling Temple Grottoes: One of the three major grottoes in Gansu, appreciate the millennium-old charm of Buddhist sculptures! / Travel checklist: 👗 Clothing: Warm jacket, brightly colored clothing, multiple hats, light and breathable shoes. 🎒 Personal belongings: Sunglasses, thermos, sunscreen, toiletries. 📖 Documents: ID card, cash and bank cards, travel insurance policy, contact info. 💊 Other essentials: High-energy snacks such as chocolate and nutrition bars. / Group tours to Linxia and Gannan are so easy and fun! Don't hesitate, come and experience it! Remember to follow me for more travel guides! 🎉

First time in Tianshui and the surrounding areas? Don't miss this curated guide! It will lead you through the magnificent Zoigê grassland, the mystical Lianbao Yeze, and the solemn Namo Monastery. Enjoy a 10-day in-depth tour, experiencing the beauty of nature and culture. See you there! -------- 🚩Itinerary: Days 1-2: Depart from your origin 🛫 and fly to Tianshui to begin a panoramic tour of beautiful Gannan. Rest and adjust after arrival. Day 3: Depart from Tianshui and drive to Guanegou 🏞️, enjoying the scenery along the way. Day 4: Continue the journey from Guanegou to Diebu, and finally arrive at Langmusi 🏯 to experience the mystical atmosphere of Tibetan Buddhism. Day 5: After visiting Langmusi, head to Flower Lake and the First Bend of the Yellow River 🌊 to appreciate the magnificent natural scenery. Stay overnight in Tangke. Days 6-7: Depart from Tangke and explore the mystical Lianbao Yeze 🌺 and Namo Monastery 🕍. Then, traverse the Awacang Wetland and Sangke Grassland 🌾, experiencing the vastness and beauty of the Chinese grasslands. Stay overnight in Xiahe or Hezuo. Day 8: Depart from Xiahe or Hezuo and travel to Liujiaxia and Lanzhou 🏙️, experiencing the grandeur of the Yellow River and the prosperity of the city. Days 9-10: Depart from Lanzhou and return to your origin 🛬, concluding this unforgettable Gannan journey. -------- 🎒 Travel Preparations: 👗 Clothing: The temperature difference between day and night in Tianshui in March is significant. It is recommended to bring light jackets, long-sleeved T-shirts, hats, and sunglasses for both sun protection and style. 📄 Documents: ID card, driver's license, student ID, etc. Don't forget any discount-eligible IDs to ensure smooth entry and enjoy discounts. 🍫 Food: Bring some dry food and water, snacks such as chocolate and energy bars, to replenish energy without delaying your trip. 📷 Accessories: Camera, power bank, waterproof shoes. Record the beautiful scenery, preserve memories, and ensure your devices don't run out of power. 💊 Medicine: Cold medicine, stomach medicine, motion sickness medicine, and sunscreen will keep you healthy and comfortable during your trip to Tianshui. -------- This concludes the Tianshui journey, but the beautiful memories will last forever! Don't forget to like and save this post so that more friends can explore this mystical land! 🌄✨

💫Lanzhou's Secret "Moonlight over the Lotus Pond"🏡 🌃Hey friends, hidden within the Taiji Island Scenic Area in Yongjing, Gansu, is a place resembling a dreamlike wonderland. 🌅In the early morning, as the first rays of light descend, open your eyes to a scene of mountains and sunrise in the same frame; in the evening, the setting sun drapes the lotus pond in colorful gauze, a beauty beyond words. 🌙The night is even more breathtaking, with hazy moonlight blending seamlessly with the water and sky, just like a fairyland on earth. 🛏There are only 8️⃣ rooms here, triangular wooden houses hidden in the corner of the village, standing above the water. Inside, the pine and leather furniture exudes a luxurious feel, and the panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows allow you to greet the morning sun🌞 from your bed. On the outdoor terrace, enjoy tea while admiring the scenery, with the sunset reflected in the water, every frame is wallpaper-worthy. 🍽A reception hall and dining room are available, along with a water-view terrace. The B&B provides breakfast and simple meals, and Zaoyuan New Village, 500 meters away, is a food paradise with numerous farm-to-table restaurants. 🎣The fish pond at the entrance is always open for fishing, offering unexpected surprises. Enjoy daily cycling, strolling, and embracing nature with all your senses. Escape the hustle and bustle, come here for the weekend, and give your soul a break💖. Limited availability, come and check in quickly!

The short holiday is here! Want to experience a unique Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture? Come here, enjoy a leisurely hike, stop as you wish, and take photos at will. Every step is a scenic view. A four-day itinerary to explore Linxia. Save this guide now! 🚗Suggested Route: In-depth Tour of Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture Day 1️⃣: Huang-Tao Rivers Confluence Viewing Platform - Ganjia Secret Realm - Labrang Monastery On the first day, we will head to the Huang-Tao Rivers Confluence Viewing Platform to admire the spectacular confluence of the rivers. Next, we will explore the magical Ganjia Secret Realm and experience the wonders of nature. Finally, we will visit the historic Labrang Monastery and appreciate the profound culture of Tibetan Buddhism. One day's journey, enjoying the beauty of both nature and culture. Day 2️⃣: Sangke Grassland - Gansu Gahai-Zecha Nature Reserve-Gahai Lake - Langmusi Town On the second day, we will stroll through the Sangke Grassland and enjoy the freedom and comfort of a leisurely hike. Afterwards, we will head to the Gansu Gahai-Zecha Nature Reserve to visit the beautiful Gahai Lake and experience the tranquility and mystery of the plateau lake. In the evening, we will arrive at Langmusi Town and experience the unique charm of the Tibetan town. Day 3️⃣: Zoige Flower Lake Ecological Tourism Zone On the third day, we will go to the Zoige Flower Lake Ecological Tourism Zone, where the sea of flowers and the lake complement each other, forming a beautiful picture. We will spend a leisurely afternoon here, stopping and taking photos as we go, capturing every touching moment. Day 4️⃣: Zhagana - Maitreya Buddha Pavilion of Ando Hezuo Monastery On the last day, we will go to Zhagana to admire the magnificent scenery of the plateau mountains. Afterwards, we will visit the Maitreya Buddha Pavilion of Ando Hezuo Monastery and experience the exquisite craftsmanship and profound heritage of Tibetan Buddhist architecture. The four-day trip comes to a successful end, and we embark on our return journey with full memories and gains. **Things to Note**: - Local Customs: Respect Hui customs and avoid bringing outside food into halal restaurants.～🕌 - March Climate: There is a large temperature difference between day and night, so remember to bring a thick coat and warm clothing!🧣 - Souvenir Prices: Linxia is rich in local specialties. Compare prices when purchasing and choose products with good value for money.💰 - Food: Be sure to try Linxia's lamb skewers and hand-grabbed mutton. They are super delicious!🍖 Come to Linxia and experience the unique ethnic customs and food culture!✨ Alright, that's all for sharing! I hope this helps you plan your group tour to Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture and other places~ Remember to like and save this post. Have a great trip!

Stay in a 180° full lake view standalone villa with a terrace in Liujiaxia Look through the room's windows to see the clear, blue waters of the Yellow River. Are you wondering why the Yellow River isn't yellow here? The answer lies at the Huangtao Confluence Viewing Platform, sixteen kilometers away from the villa. From the villa, you can enjoy panoramic views of the azure lake, the Liujiaxia Bridge, and the Danxia landforms. ◽️Room Types The villa offers three room types: Double Room, Superior Suite, and Deluxe Suite, all with lake views. ◽️Room Amenities Rooms are equipped with viewing terraces, outdoor tables and chairs, parasols, and more. Inside, the rooms are meticulously detailed and fully equipped with air conditioning, TVs, refrigerators, bathtubs, and other amenities for a comfortable stay. ◽️Facilities Lobby lounge area, lake-view restaurant, outdoor public pool, and sunset viewing platform. ◽️Restaurant The restaurant serves local delicacies, including Yellow River carp, salmon, golden trout, rainbow trout, and other local specialties.

**Super Practical 3-Day Lazy Person's Guide to Lanzhou** **Day 1: Culture and Nature**✔️ * Morning: Explore the Gansu Provincial Museum and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Lanzhou and Gansu Province. * Lunch: Savor a bowl of authentic Lanzhou Beef Noodles. 🥢 * Afternoon: Visit the Mother Yellow River Statue and marvel at the wonders of nature. * Evening: Ascend Baitashan Park for panoramic city views. 🌅 * Night: Enjoy a relaxing stroll along the Yellow River and admire the nightscape. **Day 2: In-Depth Exploration and Adventure**✔️ * Morning: Visit Zhongshan Bridge and delve into its historical significance. * Lunch: Sample Lanzhou's unique local snacks. * Afternoon: Take a boat trip to the Liujiaxia Dam and explore the Bingling Temple Grottoes. ㊙️ * Evening: Head to the Liujiaxia Bridge and admire this magnificent structure spanning the Yellow River. * Night: Witness a breathtaking sunset from the Benzhigou Viewing Platform and experience the magic and grandeur of nature. **Day 3: Leisure, Shopping, and Reminiscing**✔️ * Morning: Explore Lanzhou's characteristic markets and pick up some souvenirs. * Lunch: Try some local Lanzhou specialties. 🍒 * Afternoon: Wander through the city center, experiencing both its bustling energy and tranquil corners. * Evening: Return to your hotel, relax, and pack your bags. * Night: Conclude your delightful Lanzhou trip, ready for your return journey or your next destination. ✈️ **Accommodation Recommendations**: 📣 We recommend choosing a hotel or homestay in the city center for convenient access to transportation, dining, and shopping. **Food Recommendations**: Besides Lanzhou Beef Noodles, don't miss out on local treats like Tianpeizi (sweet fermented glutinous rice), Huidouzi (grey bean soup), and Niangpi (cold noodles). 🌽 📸Lanzhou, 🌈a city brimming with charm, awaits your exploration and discovery. Whether you're a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or a foodie, you'll find something to love in Lanzhou. Embark on a spontaneous adventure today! 🎈

Weekend sunlight streamed through the curtains, gently waking us from our slumber. As we drew back the curtains, the view before us banished any lingering sleepiness—Yongjing's morning, serene and beautiful, with the Yellow River shimmering in the distance, complementing the blue sky and white clouds. Such a morning is perfect for spending quality time with your loved one at the Yongjing Yellow River Hotel. 🏡 Home Away from Home Stepping into the Yongjing Yellow River Hotel feels like coming home. Every corner exudes warmth and hospitality. The rooms are spacious and bright, decorated in a simple yet elegant style. Wooden furniture and soft lighting create a cozy atmosphere. The large, soft bed is especially inviting. 🌳 Embrace Nature Nestled amidst the mountains, the hotel is surrounded by lush greenery and fresh air. Strolling through the hotel gardens is like stepping into a natural oxygen bar. The hotel boasts orchards and dedicated cherry picking gardens, as well as soilless cultivation greenhouses, allowing you to pick fresh fruit and experience the joys of rural life. 🚗 Convenient Transportation Yongjing Yellow River Hotel offers easy access to both Liujiaxia Bus Station and Yongjing Bus Station. If you plan to explore the beauty of Gannan, the convenient transportation around the hotel will get you to your destination with ease. It's an ideal base, especially for road trips. 🍽️ Local Cuisine While the breakfast selection is somewhat limited, the hotel's other dining options are sure to satisfy. The buffet restaurant offers dishes infused with local flavors, each one a culinary delight. The dinner buffet is particularly recommended, offering a wide variety of dishes and authentic northwestern flavors. At Yongjing Yellow River Hotel, you can fully embrace the beauty of slow living. Bring your loved one and spend an unforgettable holiday here!

Here is an optimized six-day self-drive tour route in Gannan, with practical advice and tips to make your trip smoother: D1: Lanzhou → Huangtao Confluence → Liujiaxia Bridge → Hezuo City Highlights Huangtao Confluence: Recommended for drone photography, a spectacular confluence of two rivers (navigate to 'Longhui World' viewing platform). Liujiaxia Bridge: Stop at the viewing platforms along the way for photos, and pay attention to safety. Tips Hezuo City is at an altitude of about 3000 meters, avoid strenuous exercise upon arrival. For dinner, try Tibetan cuisine, such as Tsampa or Yak Meat Hotpot. Accommodation: Stay in Hezuo City. D2: Hezuo → Milarepa Buddha Pavilion → Rock Road → Zhagana Highlights Milarepa Buddha Pavilion: The only nine-story pavilion dedicated to the founders of various Tibetan Buddhist sects, shoes must be removed to enter. Rock Road (G248): The journey takes 5-6 hours, with the best section from 'Guanggaishan' to Zhagana, mostly gravel roads, SUVs are preferred. Tips Book accommodation in Zhagana in advance, recommended in Yeri Village or Dari Village scenic homestays. There is no signal on Rock Road, download offline maps in advance and bring enough food. D3: Zhagana → Xiao Duku → Ruoergai Flower Lake → First Bend of the Yellow River → Tangke Highlights Zhagana Sunrise: Capture the morning light at Dari Viewing Platform. Xiao Duku (550 County Road): Traverse canyon pastures, be cautious on narrow sections. First Bend of the Yellow River Sunset: Take the elevator to the viewing platform (ticket + elevator 105 yuan). Tips Ruoergai Flower Lake is most beautiful in summer (June-August), scenery is less impressive in other seasons, adjust stop time accordingly. Tangke Town is at an altitude of 3500 meters, choose a hotel with oxygen supply. D4: Tangke → Lianbaoyeze → Gemo Temple → Jiuzhi County Highlights Lianbaoyeze: A magical stone mountain scenic area, drive to 'Zhagaer Lake' entrance, hike 20 minutes (altitude 4200 meters, bring oxygen tank). Gemo Temple: Houses the world's largest indoor Maitreya Buddha statue (37 meters), free admission. Tips Weather in Lianbaoyeze is unpredictable, bring windproof jackets and rain gear. Accommodation in Jiuzhi County is limited, recommended hotels in Zhiqingsongduo Town. D5: Jiuzhi → Niangma Temple → Langmu Temple → Gahai Lake → Xiahe Highlights Niangma Temple: The world's largest prayer wheel (50 meters high), you can participate in turning the wheel. Langmu Temple: Divided into Sichuan (Gerti Temple) and Gansu (Saichi Temple), you can hike Namo Canyon from the Sichuan temple. Gahai Lake: If the reserve is closed, you can view the wetland scenery from G213. Tips Stay near Labrang Monastery in Xiahe. D6: Xiahe → Labrang Monastery → Ganga Secret Land → Lanzhou Highlights Labrang Monastery: The world's longest prayer corridor (3.5 kilometers), the best experience is during morning prayers. Ganga Secret Land: Baishiya Canyon + Bajiao Ancient City, drone photography is more impressive. Tips Labrang Monastery guide fee is about 50 yuan per group, for an in-depth understanding of Tibetan culture. Ganga Secret Land has narrow and winding roads, drive carefully, return to Lanzhou before dusk. ⚠️ General Tips 1. Vehicle: Preferably SUV/off-road vehicle, bring snow chains (rainy season/winter). 2. Altitude Sickness: High altitudes in Lianbaoyeze, Tangke, etc., avoid running, bring Rhodiola. 3. Road Conditions: Check with local hotels or 'Gansu Traffic' WeChat public account before departure to confirm if Rock Road is passable. 4. Cultural Respect: No photography inside temples, turn prayer wheels clockwise. 5. Environmental Protection: Do not litter, protect the grassland ecosystem. Alternative Plan If Rock Road is closed, take G316 via Min County to Zhagana. If time permits, add a short stop at 'Guomang Wetland' on D5. This route balances nature and culture, and can be adjusted flexibly to cope with weather changes. Have a pleasant trip! If you have any other needs, feel free to ask.

💃🏻If the Yellow River has islands It will stop for Liujiaxia〰️ 💌Liujiaxia〰️Gansu's own sea Liujiaxia Bridge The sky city on the banks of the Yellow River A unique landscape of red rocks and green water Total length of 568 meters The largest suspension bridge in the northwest Huangtao Confluence Viewing Platform CNY 10/person The distinct yellow and blue The Yellow River flows into the world from here Best viewing season: May to October Bingling Temple Grottoes Ticket CNY 50/person World Cultural Heritage Excavated in the early Western Jin Dynasty One of the three major grottoes in Gansu, along with Mogao Grottoes and Maijishan Grottoes Depart from Lanzhou by car, arrive at Donggan Wharf and take a boat to Bingling Temple (boat fare not included) ❤️‍🔥Tips: The boat fare at Donggan Wharf is generally CNY 80/person, and it increases to CNY 170-180 during holidays and the peak season in July and August 🕐The waiting time for the boat at Bingling Temple is 90 minutes, so please plan your time accordingly!

New Year travel destination 📍 Gannan in winter｜3 days and 2 nights in Tibet|||Not Tibet Not Western Sichuan 📍Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu This place is full of natural beauty At an altitude of about 3,000 meters Perfect for those who want to visit Tibet But are afraid of altitude sickness —————————————— 【Attractions】 Labrang Monastery Rock Road Zagana Langmu Temple Sangke Grassland —————————————— Day 1: Lanzhou - Labrang Monastery - Sangke Grassland - Gahai Lake - Langmu Temple Day 2: Langmu Temple - Namo Grand Canyon - Zagana Day 3: Zagana - (Rock Road, weather permitting) - Lanzhou ————————————— If you visit Gannan in winter Be sure to wear warm clothes Wear a hat, it's cost-effective Snow-capped mountains Blue sky, white clouds, cattle and sheep Every photo will be a hit on social media 📸

Winter vacation is coming! Join us on a 3-day tour of Gannan and Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture to experience the unique ethnic customs and the warmth and tranquility of winter! -------- 🛣️Itinerary: Day 1️⃣: Liujiaxia We will set off for Liujiaxia in the morning. Surrounded by mountains and rivers, Liujiaxia is a picturesque place. We will immerse ourselves in the embrace of nature and enjoy the peace and beauty. Day 2️⃣: Zhagana On the second day, we will visit the mysterious Zhagana, which boasts rich natural landscapes and profound cultural heritage. You will be reluctant to leave. Day 3️⃣: Gahai-Zechawa Nature Reserve, Gansu Province -> Gahai Lake On the last day, we will head to Gahai-Zechawa Nature Reserve, Gansu Province, to explore this primitive natural treasure. Then, we will stroll along Gahai Lake and enjoy the tranquility and comfort of the lake and mountains. 🔚After the 3-day tour, we will return home with fond memories and gains. -------- Recommended attractions: 🌟 Zhagana 🌟🌟 - Address: X412 (Niza Section), Diebu County, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu Province - Opening hours: All day - Duration: 1-2 days - The scenery is fantastic. The wooden houses of Tibetan villages are built along the mountains, showing a simple pastoral style. 🌊 Liujiaxia 🌊 - Address: Taiji Island, Liujiaxia, Yongjing County, Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture - Opening hours: All day - Duration: 1 day - The blue sky and clear water complement each other. The natural scenery of the canyon and the scenery of the plateau pearl are integrated, which is breathtaking. 🌸 Gahai-Zechawa Nature Reserve, Gansu Province - Gahai Lake 🌸 - Address: Gahai Township, Luqu County, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture - Opening hours: No restrictions - Duration: 1-2 hours - As a bird sanctuary, the blue sky forms a beautiful reflection on the lake on sunny days. Wildflowers bloom on the lakeside, and the scenery is picturesque. -------- Tips: - Food: The Hezhou buns and Niangpi in Linxia are amazing. Don't miss them! 😋 - Airport transportation: There are direct buses from Gannan Airport to Linxia, which are convenient and fast. 😊 - January climate: It is cold in Linxia in January. Remember to wear more clothes to keep warm! 🧣 - Specialty prices: In Linxia, various specialties are affordable, so you can shop to your heart's content! 🛍️ -------- Gannan and Linxia boast beautiful scenery and unforgettable food. I will come again next time! 🌄✨Remember to like and save this post, and share your travel stories!

Bingling Temple Grottoes are carved into the Danxia cliffs. When visiting the grottoes, you can see the red Danxia on both sides of the Yellow River. The Danxia peaks here are towering, and in winter, the withered plants make the distant view look like a wonderful landscape painting, which is a pleasant surprise on this trip.

Travel with Trip.com Season 16 - Gansu-Qinghai-Ningxia Road Trip (19) World Heritage Site - Bingling Temple Grottoes Haidong, Qinghai - Huangnan - Linxia, Gansu Sep 14, 2023 Sunny to cloudy, 8-30°C, max altitude 2,300m. Today we bid farewell to Qinghai after 8 days of sightseeing and return to Gansu. The Yellow River, the mother river of the Chinese nation, meanders eastward through the northwest. To attract tourists and develop tourism, many places have claimed to be the "First Bend of the Yellow River". The place we stayed last night, Hualong County, also claims to be the "First Bend". We took off and filmed a section of the river at a suitable location along the way (Pic 1). The Yellow River here is even clearer than what we saw in Guide the day before yesterday. The Yellow River flows slowly here, as smooth as a mirror (Pic 2). We set off for Bingling Temple in Linxia Prefecture. We drove on a winding road for nearly 25 km, which was quite tiring, but we saw some nice scenery (Pic 3). We arrived at Bingling Temple in the afternoon. Bingling Temple Grottoes (World Heritage Site, 5A) (Pic 4) is located in Yongjing County. It was first built in the first year of Jianhong in the Western Qin Dynasty (420 AD), with a history of more than 1,600 years. On the steep red sandstone cliffs, which are 2 km long from north to south, the grottoes and niches are lined up, and the statues are well preserved and lifelike (Pic 5, Cave 70, Eleven-faced Avalokitesvara with Eight Arms). Niche 171 is the third largest Maitreya Buddha statue in Gansu (Pic 6). The relief pagodas and esoteric murals of Bingling Temple are as famous as the Mogao Grottoes and Maijishan Grottoes. Compared with other famous grottoes, it has a bay of clear water (downstream of Liujiaxia Reservoir, which has been turbid due to rain in the past two days), which adds to its aura; it has a cluster of peaks, which makes it more beautiful (Pic 7). The "Sister Peaks" at the entrance are one of the main symbols of Bingling Temple (Pic 8). We left Bingling Temple and passed by Lijiaxia Reservoir, where China's first million-kilowatt hydropower station was built, known as the "Blue Yellow River" (Pic 9). We arrived at our destination in the evening, a beautiful small town - Yongjing County. Tomorrow we will head to Gannan.

Called "China's Cool Capital" by CCTV, its scenery is even more beautiful than Gannan! |||Gansu’s summer is not only fun in Dunhuang and Gannan. Linxia, ​​which was rated as the "Cool Capital of China" by CCTV, is located in the northwest, but the average temperature in summer is only 22°C. It is a small place to escape the high temperature! 👇👇 Linxia, ​​Gansu Located in the south-central part of Gansu Province, it is located in the transition zone between the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and the Loess Plateau. It has a profound history and is known as the "Hehuang Hero Town". It has spectacular landforms and a long history of culture. If you have the opportunity to travel to Gannan, remember to include Linxia in your itinerary! : : : : : : : : : : : : : : :

⛱️Must-see attractions: Bingling Temple Grottoes The Bingling Temple Grottoes were first built during the Sixteen Kingdoms period and continued to be built until the Tang Dynasty. The grottoes are located on a cliff face overlooking a small tributary of the Yellow River, and most of them are more than ten meters above the ground, so they have not been seriously damaged by theft. The construction of the Liujiaxia Reservoir has buried some of the caves underwater, but it has also raised the viewing platform to the best viewing point. "A mountain is famous if it has a fairy, and water is spiritual if it has a dragon." Here you will find the Yellow River Stone Forest and the Liujiaxia Reservoir, with both mountains and water, high mountains and deep water; here you will also find Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, sitting, standing, or lying, each in their own concentration; the Yellow River itself is a giant dragon, a hidden dragon in the abyss. It is a famous mountain and a beautiful water, with a lively spirit. After the tour, I am very happy! 🍜Food guide: Liu's Courtyard in Yongjing County, braised Yellow River carp. 🏨Accommodation guide: Gonghang Travel Yellow River Pearl Hotel 🚄Transportation guide: Self-drive 💗Other tips: The road from Yongjing County to Bingling Temple Grottoes is in good condition, with a winding mountain road that is fun to drive, and there are several mountain top viewing platforms along the way that are worth stopping to take a break and enjoy the view.

Lotus Pond Moonlight B&B in Liujiaxia Located on Taiji Island, you can fish, rent a car and ride a bike in the surrounding area. The scenery is pleasant and very suitable for taking pictures. The accommodation is a stand-alone house, private and comfortable, very suitable for weekend relaxation. The beautiful environment gives people a sense of freedom and relaxation away from the hustle and bustle of the city The only drawback is that there is no chef and no meals, and the included breakfast is very simple. You can bring your own food or eat at nearby farmhouses. Relax

1.5 hours’ drive from Lanzhou, there is a beautiful and smart town - Yongjing, Gansu. In addition to the scenery of the Yellow River, it also has the world cultural heritage of Bingling Temple Grottoes, which is known as one of the five largest grottoes in China. ️ ✅The Bingling Temple Grottoes have a history of more than 1,000 years, and were excavated about 100 years earlier than the Mogao Grottoes. It is a must-pass place on the ancient Silk Road heading south to Tubo, and is also one of the earliest dated grottoes in China. ✅The excavation of the entire grottoes spanned a long period of time, starting from the Western Qin Dynasty, and going through the Northern Wei, Northern Zhou, Sui, Tang, Song, Western Xia, Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties. It has been continuously expanded and repaired in various dynasties to reach its current scale. ✅Here you can see the Gandhara art of West Asia, the Mathura art of India, the Kucha art, the Northern Liang art, the Chang'an art and the Tibetan Buddhist art... ✅Bingling Stone Forest is very suitable for light hiking, the trail is flat, and there is no pressure for the elderly and children ✅The ticket is 50 yuan, and children are half price; there are also tickets for the ticket and the stone forest. We drove there by ourselves and the parking fee was 5 yuan; you can also take a speedboat from Liujiaxia to Bingling Temple Grottoes. The manual explanation is at the ticket gate, about 10 yuan per person. The tour guide is waiting for us in Cave No. 3. The whole explanation takes about 30 minutes.

❤️Recommendation reason: A Yellow River Grotto on the Silk Road, whether it is its historical origin, or its architecture and landscape, is full of unique charm. Standing on the height of the grotto, overlooking the surrounding mountains and canyons, it seems to be in a fairyland 🎈Bingling Temple Grottoes, located in Jishishan, Yongjing County, Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu Province, is a world cultural heritage. The grottoes were excavated in the early Western Jin Dynasty and can be said to be the ancestor of grottoes. There are 183 caves, 694 stone sculptures, 82 clay sculptures, and murals of about 900 square meters. It is more than 100 years earlier than the Dunhuang Grottoes. The murals and Buddha statues are well preserved and wonderful 🚥 Transportation strategy: 🉑By boat: You can take a boat to Bingling Temple from Liujiaxia Dam, and you can also enjoy the scenery of the Yellow River Three Gorges along the way. The disadvantage is that you can only stay in Bingling Temple for 1.5 hours 🉑Self-driving: All asphalt roads, many mountain roads, there is a parking lot in the scenic area, and it can be reached in 2 minutes on foot . 🎫Tickets: 50 (No. 169 and No. 172 Special Caves 300) 🚗Self-driving: 1.5 hours from Lanzhou 📋Note Tips: The grottoes are divided into the upper temple, the lower temple and the east ditch. Now you can only visit the lower temple. There are general caves and special caves. The ticket for general caves is 50 yuan; there are 5 special caves, 169 and 172 together are 300 yuan per person, Cave 126 is 80 yuan, Cave 128 is 60 yuan, Cave 132 is 90 yuan, Caves 169 and 172 are the earliest caves and murals in Western Qin. The remaining three are all from the Northern Wei Dynasty and have similar shapes. You can choose one of them. Explain the general caves 50-100. Special cave tickets include explanations. 🚗Recommended routes along the way 𝐃𝐚𝐲𝟏: Lanzhou➠Liujiaxia Reservoir➠Dinosaur Geopark➠Yellow River Dividing Line➠Yellow River Flower Dike 𝐃𝐚𝐲𝟐: Yellow River Three Gorges➠Bingling Temple Grottoes➠Luojiadong Temple➠Return trip

On the way from Huangtao Observation Deck to Bingling Temple, I came across a magnificent but deserted temple. I parked the car and took photos and entered the gate. I immediately saw an old lady and a young man coming from different directions. I instinctively thought that it was not open and came to drive me away, but when I came to the front, I was warmly welcomed to visit and took the initiative to explain. The main hall in the middle enshrines three Buddhas. The doors in the middle and the right are closed. Only the hall on the far left enshrines the founder of the Gelug Sect of Tibetan Buddhism, Tsongkhapa. The door is open. There are many cushions for believers to worship in front of the Buddha statue. The Buddha statue is solemn and dare not enter. The two pavilions on both sides of the main hall were suspended due to insufficient funds. The main structure was completed, and the corners and eaves looked very imposing. On the platform on the right side of the main hall, there is a glass-covered wooden wheel car with complicated decorations. The young man in the hall explained that when Princess Wencheng entered Tibet, she was stationed here. The car was built according to the style of the year. Later, when I checked the map, the current driving route from Xi'an to Xining does not pass through Linxia. Maybe the route nearly 1,500 years ago was slightly different!

The motherland is very big, and I have seen so many scenery, but I like this place only. The vastness of the Northwest makes me deeply love this land. It is the wind in Lanzhou, and the cry of Jincheng resounds across the Yellow River. I spent a day visiting here around Lanzhou. This is Yongjing, Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu Province. Hidden here is the Bingling Temple Grottoes, one of the six famous grottoes in China. Here is the "Huang-Tao Intersection" landscape that creates the unique Yellow River. It is located in the Danxia rock pillars with different shapes in the Danxia landform. The Bingling Temple Grottoes were excavated in the early Western Jin Dynasty and were first called Tangshu Grottoes. In the Tang Dynasty, it was called Longxing Temple, in the Song Dynasty, it was called Lingyan Temple, and in the Ming Dynasty, it was called Bingling Temple. The first Yellow River Grottoes on the Silk Road is a world cultural heritage. There are 183 cave niches in existence, and the artistic styles of different historical periods are known as the "Encyclopedia of Chinese Grottoes". It is really a treasure place. TipsBingling Temple Grottoes Strategy Guide 1. "Natural Buddha" of Tang Dynasty The iconic landscape of the Bingling Temple Grottoes, the stone clay sculpture Maitreya Buddha (Cave 171) carved on the mountain in the Tang Dynasty is an attraction that tourists cannot miss. The 27-meter-high Buddha has attracted the attention of countless tourists with its majesty and exquisite craftsmanship. 2. Main grotto groups Visit other major grotto groups in sequence, spanning multiple historical periods, showing the artistic styles and characteristics of different periods, and appreciate works of different styles such as stone sculptures from the Western Qin Dynasty, graceful statues from the Northern Wei Dynasty, and full and magnificent works from the Sui and Tang Dynasties. 3. Murals and stone carvings A large number of murals and stone carvings are preserved in the grottoes, showing the artistic styles and characteristics of different periods. The murals are rich in content, and the stone carvings are vivid with their exquisite skills. 4. Bingling Stone Forest The Danxia landform landscape, with thousands of peaks and ravines, is also an ideal place for hiking enthusiasts. It is a natural landscape that cannot be missed when visiting the grottoes. 5. The intersection of the Yellow River and Tao River When taking a boat from the Bingling Temple Grottoes, you can enjoy the spectacular scene of the intersection of the Yellow River and the Tao River. Where the two rivers meet, the water has distinct colors, forming a unique landscape.

🏘️Room type/layout: Only 10 guest rooms are distributed on the large lawn by the lake, with American retro decoration that is particularly photogenic. You can enjoy the vast lake view lying on the bed. Each guest room is equipped with a terrace and a bathtub, full of vacation vibes 🧹Soundproofing/hygiene: The room is well soundproofed, with no noise at all. The hygiene is also very good, with linens meeting five-star hotel standards, clean and comfortable. 🎯Entertainment facilities: Free use of the outdoor infinity pool, cliff viewing platform, and a lobby bar where you can drink local specialty beverages. 🍽️Restaurant features: The cliff restaurant has a great atmosphere, and the dishes are carefully designed with local ingredients. You can enjoy a full-course meal with a sense of ceremony or order à la carte according to your preferences. 💗Other tips: The hotel is located in the central position by the lake, making it convenient to go anywhere around

Yongjing Binglingju B&B is like living in a painting. It is a quiet B&B located deep in the lakes and mountains. It is the best B&B I have ever stayed in. The owner is warm and thoughtful. She provided us with three meals for free. The first meal had big wild carp from the lake, and she also gave us beer, which she also liked to drink. It was windy and about to rain while we were having dinner, so she brought us an umbrella. The facilities in the house are very new and the layout is very high-end. The glass door at the end of the bed can be opened completely, and it is very comfortable to lie on the bed and enjoy the lake breeze. It has just opened, so there may not be much relevant information on various platforms, but I really strongly recommend friends who are visiting nearby to stay here. You will definitely fall in love with Binglingju with its yellow fallen leaves and cool breeze on hot summer days.

Babies, here comes the Gannan 4-day tour guide! Essential attractions, must-eat delicacies, all in one article, hurry up and collect it! 🌈 -------- Travel Route: DAY1: Huangtao Confluence Viewing Platform - Ganga Secret Realm - Labrang Monastery On the first day of exploration, admire the spectacular confluence of Huangtao, explore the wonders of Ganga Secret Realm, and finally visit the solemn and majestic Labrang Monastery to experience the profound Buddhist culture. DAY2: Sangke Grassland - Gansu Gahai Zecha Nature Reserve - Gahai Lake - Langmu Temple Town On the second day, stroll through Sangke Grassland, appreciate the vastness and natural beauty of the grassland; visit Gahai Lake to feel the tranquility and harmony of nature; arrive at Langmu Temple Town in the evening to experience the unique charm of the Tibetan town. DAY3: Ruoergai Flower Lake Ecotourism Area On the third day, spend the whole day touring Ruoergai Flower Lake, enjoying the beautiful scenery of lakes and mountains, and experiencing the joy of ecotourism and the gifts of nature. DAY4: Zhagana - Anduo Cooperation Temple Milarepa Buddha Pavilion On the last day, explore the mysterious land of Zhagana, appreciate its unique natural scenery and cultural landscape; then visit the Milarepa Buddha Pavilion of the Anduo Cooperation Temple to feel the profound heritage of Tibetan Buddhism and the beauty of architecture. -------- Little tips: - Food: Gannan's Tibetan yogurt and zanba are a must-try, with unique flavors, don't miss them! 🍶🥣 - Airport transportation: Xiahe Airport is close to the scenic spots, but there are few flights, so plan your trip in advance. ✈️🚗 - Specialty prices: When buying specialties in Gannan, compare several stores, as prices may vary. 🛍️💰 - Altitude sickness: Gannan has a high altitude, so be aware of altitude sickness and prepare medicines. 💊🏔️ - Sun protection and warmth: The sunlight is strong and the temperature difference between day and night is large, so be well prepared for sun protection and warmth. ☀️🧣 -------- The secret realm of Gannan is waiting for you to explore, don't miss it! Click to follow for more exciting travel guides, all at your fingertips!

Bingling Temple Grottoes Bingling Temple Grottoes is one of the three major grottoes in Gansu, alongside Mogao Grottoes and Maijishan Grottoes. It is renowned for its relief pagodas and esoteric Buddhist murals, which hold significant artistic value. Huang and Tao River Confluence The confluence of the Huang and Tao rivers creates a unique natural landscape. The distinct color difference between the two rivers is striking, with the Yellow River being muddy and the Tao River being clear, presenting a vivid contrast. Liujiaxia Viewing Platform Known as the 'Pearl of the Plateau Lake,' this spot attracts many tourists who come to enjoy the scenery. It has become a prominent tourist attraction in Yongjing County.

Yongjing is not large but picturesque, with top-notch natural and cultural attractions. The 9 shots taken during our self-driving trip form the hidden gem town in our hearts. Camera Angle ❶ Liujiaxia Dinosaur National Geopark This spot combines a dinosaur footprint in-situ protection site, dinosaur skeleton displays, and the geological landscape of the Yellow River Salt Pot Gorge. It's suitable for family trips. The photo was taken on the geological park's scientific investigation boardwalk. Camera Angle ❷ Bingling Temple Grottoes Natural Buddha This is one of Yongjing's major attractions and a 5A scenic spot in the Bingling Temple World Cultural Tourism Area. The Natural Buddha was built during the Tang Dynasty, and the grottoes were first carved in the Western Jin Dynasty. Bingling Temple currently has 183 grottoes, with numerous exquisite clay sculptures, stone carvings, and murals. Despite this, there are not many tourists, making for a great visiting experience. Highly recommended for friends. The photo was taken on the east bank of Dashigou opposite the Buddha. Camera Angle ❸ Bingling Stone Forest The Bingling Temple Grottoes are carved within the magnificent Bingling Stone Forest. Visitors can enjoy the stone forest while touring the grottoes or take a boat trip to enjoy the scenery. The photo was taken by the Yellow River near the ticket office of the Bingling Temple Grottoes. Camera Angle ❹ Taiji Island Scenic Area This is the Salt Pot Gorge landscape of the Yellow River Three Gorges, where the Yellow River is as calm as a mirror. The colorful landscape of Danxia and green plants along the shore creates a picturesque scene, making it a great place for cycling along the Yellow River. The photo was taken on the viewing platform near Zaoyuan Wharf. Camera Angle ❺ Taiji Island Wetland Park Near the Colorful Pottery Square in Yongjing County. In summer, the colorful flowers and the colorful Danxia mountains form a beautiful scene, making it a great place for leisure trips. The photo was taken near the Colorful Pottery Square. Camera Angle ❻ The First Waterwheel of the Yellow River A large waterwheel, one of the must-visit spots in Yongjing County. The camera angle is on the Yellow River Flower Embankment in Binjiang Park, Yongjing County. Camera Angle ❼ Yellow River Flower Embankment In summer, the Yellow River Flower Embankment is full of vibrant colors. Colorful irises, blooming lilies, and a large area of verbena, with a path running through the purple flower sea, make for great photo opportunities. Camera Angle ❽ Tulip Park Although there are no tulips in Tulip Park in summer, there are many lilies in full bloom. When we visited, the golden lilies were in full bloom, making any spot by the flower clusters a great photo angle. Camera Angle ❾ Yongjing County Museum This is a museum with a great visiting experience. The small venue displays a large number of exquisite Majiayao painted pottery. Naturally, the camera angle is to take pictures of the pottery. Please remember to follow the museum's rules and do not use flash. ▶️ All photos are originally taken and produced by Mr. Dog and Cai Cai Juan Er. ▶️ The above content is summarized based on personal travel experiences. Please forgive any omissions. ▶️ Due to time constraints, some scenes may have changed. Please refer to the current situation. 🔸🔹🔸 Follow Cai Cai Juan Er and Mr. Dog on self-driving tours to deeply explore niche travel destinations.

The location of Binglin Temple is particularly good. It is located in Liujiaxia, and for people who come to Lanzhou for tourism, the distance is not far and they can go back and forth on the same day without worrying about the long journey and feeling stress-free. Binglin Temple is located next to the Liujiaxia Reservoir. The reservoir is very large and you can choose to take a boat to the grottoes, or you can choose to drive yourself. Of course, driving yourself is better because if you take a boat, you have to return after a long time, which makes people feel nervous. If you drive yourself, you can navigate directly to the grottoes and arrive in less than three hours. There is also another route that allows you to add the Three Bays of the Yellow River as a waypoint and choose a route around the lake. The scenery along the way will probably be more beautiful. The grottoes at Binglin Temple are much better preserved than those at Mati Temple in Zhangye. There are grottoes from the Tang, Song and Yuan dynasties with exquisite sculptures. In addition to small grottoes, there are also standing Buddhas and reclining Buddhas. It is more diverse than the Tianti Mountain Grottoes in Wuwei, and the tickets are affordable. It has everything you need for visiting grottoes and touring the lake, but the key is that there are few people and it is less commercialized, which is very important. The only shortcoming is that the explanation in the scenic area is not very professional. It only introduces the origin and simple knowledge of each cave, and does not elaborate. There is definitely a gap compared to the explanation in Mogao Grottoes. The last time I went to Binglin Temple was in April and I caught the annual Dharma Assembly at Binglin Shang Temple deep in the river valley. The people there said that the river valley only gradually dries up after April every year, and in winter the water from the Huangyang River reservoir in Qinghai will backflow into the valley and cars cannot pass (I don't know if he said it the other way around, because logically in summer, there should be a lot of water during the flood season that backflows into the valley). I was really lucky because I chose the time to go purely randomly. The ceremony was spectacular, with many believers from Linxia/Qinghai/Lanzhou and local people from Liujiaxia gathering here. Only then did I know that Binglin Temple is a Tibetan Buddhist temple. Their living Buddha was sitting in the main hall, leading the monks in chanting sutras and praying for blessings. I was fortunate enough to go in and the Living Buddha gave me a small colorful rope.