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Explore the unique desert landscape, take a jeep tour to see the rock formations, enjoy a camel ride, and capture stunning photos of the natural beauty.
The floating yardang is a unique landform. A subtype of the yardang landform, it not only possesses all the characteristics of terrestrial yardangs, but also possesses a distinct charm. Located in Dongtaijinaier Lake, Haixi Prefecture, Qinghai Province, China, the floating yardang is now known as China's "Devil's City of Floating Yardangs.
" The yardang is a typical wind-eroded landform. "Yardang" means "small hill with steep walls" in Uyghur. It generally refers to a type of wind-eroded landform in arid regions. Formed by fluvial and lacustrine earthen sediments, the ground is transformed through weathering, intermittent water erosion, and wind erosion, resulting in alternating wind-eroded mounds and wind-eroded depressions (troughs) parallel to the prevailing wind direction.
The Chaidanmu water-based yardang is unique in China. Due to atmospheric thermal effects, the salt lake gradually expanded and submerged the surrounding yardangs, creating a spectacular water-based yardang. Overgrown aquatic plants smear the lake's surface in azure and clear green, contrasting with the golden reeds and desert on the shore, creating a sense of antiquity and mystery.
The plateau climate is mainly continental, with drought throughout the year; the daily and annual temperature differences are large
Therefore, it is recommended to go during the day, not too early or too late, so as not to catch a cold.
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Water Yadan is a remarkable natural landscape formed by wind erosion over millions of years. It’s known for its unique rock formations, which resemble figures and animals, earning it the name "Yadan" (which means "the city of ruins" in Chinese).
Water Yadan is located in the Ulan area of Qinghai province. It can be accessed by car or taxi from the nearest town or from the city of Xining. Public transport is limited, so a taxi or rented car is recommended.
The attraction is open year-round. The best time to visit is during the cooler months from April to October, avoiding the extreme heat of summer.
The entrance fee typically ranges from 30-50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site or at local ticket booths in nearby towns. Online booking may also be available during peak seasons.
Booking in advance is not required but recommended during peak tourist seasons (May to October), especially for tours or group activities.
You can explore the area in about 2-3 hours. If you wish to take a camel ride or a guided tour, you may need 4-5 hours to enjoy the experience fully.
The main highlights are the rock formations that resemble animals and figures. The shifting sands and unique shapes of the Yadan formations provide great photo opportunities.
Guided tours are available, and they typically offer services in Chinese. Some tours may provide English-speaking guides, but it's best to arrange in advance.
The best viewpoints are along the top ridges where the sand dunes and formations can be captured in the light of the sunrise or sunset. The camel ride routes also offer excellent photo ops.
Start with a jeep or camel ride to the main formation area, then explore the nearby hills for panoramic views. Follow marked paths to avoid getting lost in the vast desert.
Night visits and light shows are not typically available, but the desert landscape at sunset is breathtaking, and a late afternoon visit can offer stunning views.
Water Yadan is less crowded during weekdays in the off-season (March-April or November-December). The area tends to be crowded on weekends and during holidays.
Basic facilities such as toilets, food stalls, and shops selling snacks and souvenirs are available at the entrance. Water is sold, but it’s recommended to bring your own supplies.
While the main areas are accessible to elderly and children, some paths and the terrain may be challenging. Visitors with disabilities may find it difficult to navigate the sand dunes.
Cash is still widely accepted, but mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly used in the area for purchases.
There are no major restaurants or cafes inside the site, but nearby towns offer simple eateries serving local Chinese food.
Vegetarian options are available in local eateries, but halal food may be difficult to find. It is recommended to bring your own if you have specific dietary needs.
There are basic guesthouses and hotels in the nearby Ulan area, as well as more luxurious accommodations in Xining, about a 2-3 hour drive away.
Nearby attractions include the Kumbum Monastery and Qinghai Lake, both of which can be visited in the same trip.
Souvenir shops are available near the entrance. Popular items include local handicrafts, postcards, and traditional Tibetan items like jewelry and textiles.
To continue your trip, taxis, buses, and rented cars are available to take you back to Xining or to other scenic areas in Qinghai.
