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The first bend of the Yellow River is located in Tangke Town, Ruoergai County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province. It is the junction of Sichuan, Qinghai and Gansu provinces.Located within a national alpine wetland reserve, this area is home to the Hequ Horse, one of China's three most famous horses. As the saying goes, "One can't stop exploring the Yellow River without visiting it." Tourists from China and abroad alike flock to this area to marvel at the breathtaking beauty of the Yellow River's First Bend. The best time to photograph the First Bend is at sunset. Climb a high slope by the roadside, facing west. The S-shaped Yellow River glows red in the setting sun. Once the sun dips below the horizon, the sky is ablaze with crimson clouds, creating the perfect photo opportunity. Also located along the Yellow River are the Tangkesok Tibetan Temple and a Tibetan village, offering opportunities for capturing Tibetan folk customs. Prayer flags line the riverbank, adding a touch of mystery to the beauty of the First Bend.
Summer is the best time to visit, as the sky is clear and the visibility is high. At dusk, as the setting sun gradually turns red and falls towards the mountainside, the entire valley is shrouded in golden light.
Recommended play time: 2-3 hours
100 yuan/person
8:30~18:00
The First Bend of the Nine Bends of the Yellow River is a major geographical and cultural landmark. It marks the point where the Yellow River takes a sharp 90-degree turn, which has earned it significant attention from both tourists and scholars. The area is rich in historical and cultural heritage, with ancient temples and significant local customs tied to the river.
The First Bend of the Yellow River is located in Gannan, Gansu province, China. It is accessible by taxi or private car from the nearby town of Linxia. Public transportation options may be limited, so it’s recommended to use a taxi or hire a local driver.
The attraction is open year-round. The best times to visit are in spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the views are especially beautiful. Avoid the summer months due to the heat and crowds.
The entrance fee is typically around 40-60 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the site directly or via online platforms during peak seasons. Some tour packages may include the cost of entry.
Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory, but it is advisable during peak travel seasons such as national holidays. A few days in advance should be sufficient for online bookings.
You can explore the First Bend of the Yellow River in about 1-2 hours, depending on how much time you spend at the viewing platforms and surrounding areas. If you plan to take a boat ride, add another 30-60 minutes to your visit.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be available for international tourists, but it’s better to check in advance. Audio guides are not commonly offered, but a guide can provide detailed historical and cultural insights.
Night visits are not typically available at this attraction. However, special cultural tours may be arranged during festivals or holidays to provide a deeper understanding of the local customs and history.
The attraction can get crowded during peak tourist seasons, particularly around Chinese New Year and national holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit during weekdays in spring or autumn, outside of public holidays.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available at the attraction. Food stalls and local shops selling souvenirs can also be found near the main viewing areas.
The main viewing areas are accessible, but some of the trails leading to other viewpoints may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors. It's recommended to check the accessibility of specific areas in advance.
Cash is widely accepted, but many vendors and services also accept mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay. It’s still advisable to carry cash for small purchases or in case mobile payment systems are unavailable in remote areas.
There are several small restaurants and food stalls near the entrance, offering local Gansu specialties. For more diverse dining options, head to nearby Linxia or Lanzhou.
Local Gansu cuisine includes many vegetable-based dishes, and there are some halal food options available, especially in nearby Linxia, a predominantly Hui Muslim area.
There are a few guesthouses and small hotels near the First Bend, but for more options, you can stay in Linxia or Lanzhou, both of which are within a 1-2 hour drive from the site.
Souvenir shops near the First Bend sell local handicrafts such as traditional textiles, pottery, and Yellow River-themed products like paintings and decorative items.
After visiting, you can take a taxi or bus back to Linxia or Lanzhou. Both cities are well-connected to other major tourist destinations in Gansu and surrounding regions via train and bus.
