Zhangye

Things to do in Zhangye

Search attractions or local attractions & tours
Search

Explore top experiences

Top 10 attractions in Zhangye

View all Attractions
The Danxiakou Town
No. 3 of Night Attractions in Zhangye

The Danxiakou Town

4.4
4.9/5
228 reviews
Danxiakou Tourism Resort Town is one of the filming locations of CCTV's poverty alleviation drama "No One Can Be Left Behind". It is the prototype of the "Stone City" in the drama and a comprehensive tourism resort town with a high degree of cultural experience and Jiangnan charm on the Silk Road. Stepping into it, there are many restaurants and wine shops, small bridges and flowing water, fences and paths, which are simple and elegant and fresh and bright. Everywhere can be painted. The town integrates Hexi specialty food, boutique homestays, street atmosphere performances, and folk customs displays of the Song, Ming and Qing dynasties, bringing you a unique one-stop experience. There is also a national indoor real-life sand show - a large-scale historical situational drama "Return to Zhangye", which interprets the changes of Zhangye and the prosperity of the ancient Silk Road.Linze · 19km from downtown
Matisi Grottoes

Matisi Grottoes

4.3
Matisi Grottoes, located in Sunan County, Zhangye City, Gansu Province, is a Buddhist grotto complex with a long history and rich cultural heritage. The grottoes are built into the mountainside in a terraced layout and are named after the main cave, which resembles a horse's hoof. First established during the Northern Liang period, they have undergone continuous renovation and expansion throughout various dynasties, blending Buddhist artistic styles from the Northern Dynasties, Sui and Tang dynasties, and the Western Xia period. The grottoes preserve exquisite murals and Buddhist sculptures, with themes covering classic Buddhist stories, bodhisattva figures, and historical figures, showcasing the superb carving and painting skills of ancient artisans. The entire grotto complex cleverly utilizes the mountain terrain, creating a unique layout that combines architecture with the natural landscape, reflecting both the solemnity of religious belief and aesthetic appeal. Matisi Grottoes are not only an important relic of Buddhist art but also provide valuable data for the study of ancient religion, architecture, and social history in Northwest China.Sunan · 80km from downtown
Thousand Buddha Grottoes

Thousand Buddha Grottoes

4.2
4.6/5
44 reviews
The Horse-Tied Temple is located in the Sunan Yugur Autonomous County of Gansu Province (the Yugur people are a minority ethnic group unique to Zhangye, Gansu Province); 65 kilometers north of the urban area of ​​Zhangye City, it is a tourist area integrating grotto art, Qilian Mountain scenery and Yugur customs. The grottoes consist of seven parts: Shengguo Temple, Puguang Temple, Thousand Buddha Caves, Jinta Temple, Upper, Middle and Lower Guanyin Caves, with a total of more than 70 caves and niches, which were first built in the Northern Liang Dynasty. The Horse-Tied Temple is named after the legendary celestial horse that left a horseshoe print when drinking water here. The legendary horseshoe prints are now preserved in the Horse-Tied Hall of Puguang Temple and have become the treasure of the temple.Sunan · 79.6km from downtown
Kangle Grassland

Kangle Grassland

4.1
1.0/5
1 reviews
Kangle Grassland is located in Zhangye City, Gansu Province, with an average altitude of approx. 3,000 m and a total area of 2.68 million mu. It is known as the "Grassland in the Sky" and is a natural pasture with beautiful scenery. It is renowned for its diverse landforms, combining glaciers and snow-capped mountains, primeval forests, alpine meadows, deep canyons, and Danxia landforms, which is rare among grassland scenic areas in China. From the observation deck, you can take in the boundless meadows, grazing cattle and sheep, and towering snow-capped mountains. The area is rich in ethnic customs. Visitors can taste authentic butter tea and hand-grabbed mutton, and admire colorful ethnic costumes. Summer and fall are the best times to visit. In midsummer, the average temperature is only around 20°C, making it a great summer retreat; in the fall, the meadows turn golden and the forests are painted in vibrant colors, offering a magnificent autumn landscape that allows you to relax your body and mind amidst the snow-capped mountains and grassland.Sunan · 29.5km from downtown
Zhangye Colorful Danxia Scenic Spot - Little Potala Palace

Zhangye Colorful Danxia Scenic Spot - Little Potala Palace

4.1
4.4/5
37 reviews
The towering, upright sandstone resembles the ruins of a deep, ancient castle, standing abruptly on the land, known as the "Zhangye Colorful Danxia Scenic Spot - Little Potala Palace". This formation was developed through the combined effects of water and wind erosion. Due to the varying hardness of the rock, differential wind erosion occurred, resulting in many layered mounds with a relative height of 10–30m, creating a fantastical castle-like appearance. Due to the arid climate, there is little vegetation covering the rocks, making them appear even more rugged and imposing.Linze · 23.1km from downtown
Zhangye Pingshan Lake National Geopark

Zhangye Pingshan Lake National Geopark

4
Zhangye Pingshan Lake National Geopark is located in Pingshanhu Mongolian Ethnic Township, Ganzhou District, Zhangye City, Gansu Province. Situated in the heart of the Hexi Corridor, it is a tourist destination that combines geological wonders, canyon scenery, and ethnic customs. The area is dominated by red bed landforms. Long-term erosion by wind and water, combined with tectonic movements, has sculpted the red conglomerate into a magnificent landscape of intertwined Danxia, Yardang, and canyons. The rock layers are rich in color and clearly textured, resembling an unfolding geological scroll. Upon entering the scenic area, you can follow the boardwalk deep into the canyon toview distinctive rock formations such as "Nine Dragons Converging into the Sea," "General Rock," "Lovers' Peak," and "Divine Turtle Asking the Beast", and experience nature's masterful craftsmanship. The colorful hills roll and stretch, displaying different hues as the light and shadows shift, making it perfect for photography and leisurely walks. The scenic area's service facilities are gradually improving, and there are diverse tour routes, making it suitable for family trips, outings with friends, and photography enthusiasts. Come here to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, appreciate the grandeur and tranquility of the Northwest, and create unforgettable memories.Zhangye · 42.4km from downtown
China Yugu Style Corridor

China Yugu Style Corridor

3.9
4.4/5
110 reviews
"Saihantala" means beautiful grassland. Under the Qilian Snow Peak, next to the mountains and mountains, the green grass and flowers are like brocade. Two tourist reception points integrating entertainment, sightseeing and catering have been built in the scenic area. In front of the viewing platform, there is the famous Jiupaisong scenic spot. In order to pray for the protection of the mountain gods, people have activities to worship the mountain gods in Obo. To sacrifice to Obo, it is necessary to invite eminent monks to chant scriptures, simmer mulberries, blow white conch shells, throw "wind horses", and offer wooden swords and spears. At an altitude of 3,700 meters, you can overlook the mountains and rivers in a radius of hundreds of miles, such as the "Lan Shaoergang" mountain. It is said that the mountain was transformed by the Tengger Mountain God who subdued demons with monk clothes. In the distance, the pine forests are green, and the clouds and mist are lingering; the flowers and plants under the feet are undulating, like colorful brocades dancing between the sky and the earth, which is known as the "Hundred Flowers Beach".Sunan · 18.5km from downtown
Colorful Danxia Scenic Spot - Tethered Hot Air Balloon Flight Experience Area

Colorful Danxia Scenic Spot - Tethered Hot Air Balloon Flight Experience Area

3.9
3.5/5
4 reviews
Linze · 23.2km from downtown
Daduma River

Daduma River

3.9
Sunan · 88km from downtown
Jinta Temple

Jinta Temple

3.8
3.8/5
27 reviews
The Jinta Temple is located in the southeast of the Horseshoe Temple. The grottoes were excavated in the Northern Liang Dynasty. There are more than 200 statues in total. Among them, the precious high-flesh Feitian is unique in China. Dadu Ma Village, where the grottoes are located, is picturesque in four seasons and is a good place to visit.Sunan · 87km from downtown

Experiences you can't miss in Zhangye

Featured Outdoor experiences in Zhangye

View all Outdoor experiences
Zhangye Colorful Danxia Scenic Spot & Pingshan Lake Grand Canyon Day Tour
󱌍
4.8/5
· 12 reviews· 90 booked
Duration: 8 hrs
English
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
Book now for tomorrow
From€ 72.28
One-Day Tour of Zhangye Danxia Rainbow Mountains & Mati Temple (Explore Geological Wonders, Discover Millennia-Old Buddhist Grottoes)
󱌍
4.4/5
· 10 reviews· 78 booked
Duration: 7 hrs
English
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
Book now for tomorrow
From€ 63.46
Hotel Pickup & Drop-off | Zhangye Two Scenic Spots Day Tour | Pingshanhu Grand Canyon + Zhangye Rainbow Danxia | Pure Sightseeing
󱌍
5.0/5
· 3 reviews· 48 booked
Duration: 7.8 hrs
English
Free cancellation
Book now for tomorrow
From€ 32.01
Zhangye Private Day Tour: Pingshan Lake Grand Canyon & Zhangye Colorful Danxia Scenic Spot
󱌍
5.0/5
· 1 review· 39 booked
Duration: 6.5 hrs
English
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
Book now for tomorrow
From€ 41.09
1-day tour to Zhangye Colorful Danxia Scenic Spot and Pingshan Lake Grand Canyon (private tour)
󱌍
5.0/5
· 3 reviews· 21 booked
Duration: 8 hrs
English
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
Save € 3.65
From€ 69.39€ 73.04
Zhangye Colorful Danxia Scenic Spot + Mati Temple 1-day Tour (Private Tour)
󱌍
Duration: 8 hrs
English
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
5% off
Limited-time sale
From€ 66.50€ 70
Zhangye Danxia and Pingshan Lake Grand Canyon Chartered tour
󱌍
5.0/5
· 1 review
Duration: 6 hrs
English
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
Book now for tomorrow
9% off
Limited-time sale
From€ 64.25€ 71.38

More things to do

Private Tours in Zhangye

View More Private Tours in Zhangye

Group Tours in Zhangye

View More Group Tours in Zhangye
8D7N • 'Millennium Silk Road · Magnificent Qinghai' 8 Days, 7 Nights on the Grand Gansu–Qinghai Loop & Excellent Chinese-speaking guide throughout, all-inclusive price & Visit all 6 major Northwest landmarks in one trip & Travel comfortably by luxury coach & Aerial photography at Chaka

Level 48D7N • 'Millennium Silk Road · Magnificent Qinghai' 8 Days, 7 Nights on the Grand Gansu–Qinghai Loop & Excellent Chinese-speaking guide throughout, all-inclusive price & Visit all 6 major Northwest landmarks in one trip & Travel comfortably by luxury coach & Aerial photography at Chaka

Max. 25 peopleMandarinNo mandatory shoppingTour guide includedFree cancellationArr. & dep. transfers incl.Portable Wi-Fi includedDeposit acceptedGroup Tours
Explore the Grand Qinghai-Gansu Loop and visit all the highlights in one trip | Standard 2 + 1 luxury coach with spacious, comfortable seats | Stay in 4-star + hotels throughout, quality guaranteed | Excellent Chinese-speaking tour guide service throughout, all-inclusive price | Classic loop route with no backtracking, for an in-depth experience of Northwest China's magnificent scenery and culture. · Meals upgraded to 7 breakfasts and 11 main meals, with lunch at a high standard of RMB 60 and dinner at RMB 80; all meals at local restaurants. Special arrangements include a desert dinner, hand-grabbed lamb, Jiayuguan Nine-Bowl Noodles, Dunhuang shared dishes, Ganzhou snacks, a Tibetan-style banquet, and Lanzhou beef noodles—every meal is distinctive. · Exclusive complimentary Chaka Salt Lake boat ride, drone aerial photography, viral mini train, and shoe covers for dreamy photo shoots | Complimentary Mogao Grottoes 3D dome film for an immersive viewing experience | Complimentary desert dinner and a romantic stargazing experience
From EUR 695

Free things to do in Zhangye

What travellers say about Zhangye

user-avatar
川行自在3 March 2025
5.0
去张掖七彩丹霞要经过丹霞口文旅小镇,小镇的建筑风格独特,充分融入了当地的丹霞地貌元素和民俗文化,别具一格。小镇有很多张掖特色餐饮,有一场《回道张掖》的表演,还有宾馆、民宿。淡季人不多,慢慢吃吃逛逛,拍拍照也挺好

The Danxiakou Town

user-avatar
150***8928 August 2024
5.0
The last part of the journey up to the Medicine Master Hall is very interesting. It is basically vertical. You need to use your hands and feet to go up. Go back the same way. The room can accommodate about ten people. You have to be patient when going up and down. Wait until everyone comes down before going up again.

Thousand Buddha Grottoes

user-avatar
234***584 October 2026
1.0
This so-called tourist attraction is a complete rip-off. As tourists from Chengdu, having hiked over various free mountains like Zheduo Mountain and Jiajin Mountain, and seen countless free grasslands like Hongyuan and Ruoergai, why would anyone pay 90 yuan per person to come here? I wouldn't have come at all if it weren't for bringing my dog. Turns out the entire grassland is fenced off and completely off-limits. Avoid this place!

Kangle Grassland

user-avatar
M88***8024 April 2025
5.0
The Little Potala Palace: A Treasure of Architecture and Culture In my country, there are several places called "Little Potala Palaces", which attract countless tourists with their unique charm, both in terms of architectural art and cultural connotation. The Little Potala Palace in Chengde, officially known as the Putuo Zongcheng Temple, was built by Emperor Qianlong to celebrate his 60th birthday and his mother's 80th birthday. The entire building complex is built on the mountain, magnificent, and covers an area of ​​220,000 square meters. The main building, the Dahongtai, is 43 meters high. The Wanfa Guiyi Hall in the center of the platform is the main hall. Its top is higher than the group of buildings. The roof of the hall is covered with gilded fish scale copper tiles, which shines golden and magnificent under the sun. More than 60 flat-top Diaofang-style white platforms and Fanta white platforms are freely arranged along the mountain, without obvious axes, and are staggered, showing a unique Tibetan architectural style. This place is not only a masterpiece of architectural art, but also a place where the Qing government held important religious ceremonies and conducted political activities, witnessing the national integration and unity during the heyday of the Qing Dynasty.

Zhangye Colorful Danxia Scenic Spot - Little Potala Palace

user-avatar
206***764 July 2025
5.0
Let's review it today. After entering from the west gate, the section to the Yugu Cultural Experience Hall is more wild. On the way, you can see many marmots playing and trotting on the road and grassland. They are all fat and very cute. The flowers on the grassland here are also very beautiful.

China Yugu Style Corridor

user-avatar
飞一个可思考的仔16 July 2025
5.0
This scenic spot is very beautiful, with many natural landscapes and rich historical sites. We all like this scenic spot very much. This scenic spot also has bus travel and buses. We think it is very worthwhile and will come again next time. We think this scenic spot is simply great. We all like it very much.

Colorful Danxia Scenic Spot - Tethered Hot Air Balloon Flight Experience Area

user-avatar
cparissh10 June 2021
5.0
Jintas is a scenic spot in the Mati Temple scenic area, but it is more than 20 kilometers away and takes half an hour to drive. The roads are all mountainous, and advance reservations can only be made if the team has more than 20 people.

Jinta Temple

Popular cities near Zhangye

Frequently asked questions

How can I contact Trip.com customer support?

Get help anytime, anywhere within 30 secondsContact customer support

Change and cancellation policies vary by attractions and tours. Please check the product details page for more information.

Ticket prices may vary between weekdays and weekends, as well as during peak and off-peak seasons. When booking with Trip.com, you can also use Trip Coins to get extra savings. For more tips on booking discounted tickets, please visit Trip.com for the latest information.