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The Jingtai Yellow River Stone Forest is a beautiful natural formation that attracts visitors for its striking rock formations and serene landscapes. Some top things to do here include:
The Jingtai Yellow River Stone Forest is located in Jingtai County, Baiyin City, Gansu Province, in the southeastern part of the county, adjacent to Longwan Village in Zhongquan Township. Its tranquil environment and beautiful scenery, where the stone forest and the meandering Yellow River intertwine, create a natural garden-like charm. The area's unique and captivating combination of diverse resources—desert, oasis, Yellow River, and stone forest—has earned it the distinction of being one of China's "50 Scenic Spots of the Yellow River." Even more captivating is its use as a filming location for westerns and science fiction films. Films such as "Blood Horse," "Great Dunhuang," and "The Legend of the Heavens" were filmed here.
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The Jingtai Yellow River Stone Forest, located in Gansu Province, is known for its spectacular and unusual rock formations, shaped over millions of years by the erosion of the Yellow River. It holds geological and cultural significance as one of the natural wonders of China. The site also represents the delicate balance of nature and human history in this region.
The Jingtai Yellow River Stone Forest is located in Jingtai County, Gansu Province, China, near the Yellow River. It can be reached by taking a bus or taxi from the nearest major city, Lanzhou, which is about 100 km away. There is no metro access to this area, so traveling by car or public transportation is recommended.
The stone forest is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild, and the natural beauty of the surroundings is at its peak.
The entrance fee to the Jingtai Yellow River Stone Forest is approximately 80-100 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, and some tour operators may offer packages that include transport and a guided tour. It is advisable to check online for any discounts or group offers.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons (such as Chinese holidays) to ensure entry, especially for group tours. Tickets can usually be booked a few days before the visit.
You will need approximately 3 to 4 hours to explore the Jingtai Yellow River Stone Forest, depending on how much time you spend hiking and photographing the landscape.
The must-see highlights include:
Guided tours are available, and they are typically offered in Mandarin. Audio guides may be available in English and Chinese. It's advisable to inquire about availability at the entrance or book in advance through a tour operator.
The best viewpoints are from the observation platforms on elevated areas of the stone forest, which provide sweeping views of the landscape. The Yellow River itself offers excellent opportunities for sunset photography, and you can also capture unique rock formations from different angles along the hiking paths.
The recommended itinerary is to start at the entrance and follow the main trail to the central area of the stone forest. You can then hike up to the observation platforms for panoramic views before exploring the river’s edge and concluding with a visit to the riverbank for a relaxing view of the water.
Night visits and light shows are not typically available at the Jingtai Yellow River Stone Forest, as it is a natural park mainly visited during the day. However, there may be special tours during festivals or peak seasons, so it's worth checking in advance.
The site can become crowded during holidays or weekends, especially in summer. The least crowded times are weekdays outside of the Chinese holidays, and visiting in the early morning or late afternoon may also help avoid crowds.
The site has basic facilities such as restrooms and drinking water stations. Food options are limited, so it is advisable to bring snacks or meals, especially if you plan on staying for an extended period. There are a few souvenir shops selling local crafts and items.
The terrain in the Jingtai Yellow River Stone Forest can be rugged and uneven, so it may not be fully accessible for elderly or disabled visitors. Children may enjoy the trails but should be supervised closely due to the terrain.
Cash is generally accepted, but many vendors and the ticket office now accept mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay. It's a good idea to have cash on hand if you're visiting remote areas or smaller shops.
There are no major restaurants directly inside the park, but there are local eateries nearby offering traditional Chinese meals. You can find more options in the nearby city of Baiyin, approximately 40 km away.
Vegetarian and vegan food options are available at local eateries, though they may be more limited compared to larger cities. Halal food is not commonly found in the region, but some vegetarian dishes may be suitable.
Nearby accommodation options include budget hotels and guesthouses in the city of Baiyin. For more luxurious options, travelers can head to Lanzhou, which offers a wider variety of hotels and resorts.
Nearby attractions include the Bingling Temple, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Yellow River Stone Forest in Lanzhou. Both of these sites offer cultural and natural experiences that are perfect for a day trip.
Yes, there are souvenir shops around the park selling local crafts such as traditional ceramics, jewelry, and small figurines made from local stones. These are great keepsakes to bring home from your visit.
After visiting the Jingtai Yellow River Stone Forest, the best way to continue your trip is by taxi or private car, especially if you wish to visit nearby attractions or head to Lanzhou or Baiyin for further exploration.
