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Yellow River Forest Park in Sanmenxia offers a variety of activities for visitors:
Located near the Sanmenxia Dam, the Yellow River Forest Park boasts one of Sanmenxia's most stunning natural landscapes. Utilizing the ancient Yellow River, the park boasts extensive plantings of trees and flowers, creating a picturesque scene. The Yellow River, once turbid and muddy, now appears clear after being cleansed by the dam. Visitors can ascend to overlook the Yellow River and watch swans in the lake. Several fishing lodges line the riverbanks, offering fresh river food and authentic local delicacies like the Eight Great Bowls. While the park isn't very large, it's well worth a visit.
Temperate continental monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons
It is recommended to play for 2 to 3 hours
free
All day
Sanmenxia, located in the western part of Henan Province, is historically significant as the site of the first dam on the Yellow River, established in 1957. The city's name, meaning "Three Gate Gorges," is derived from a legend where King Yu tamed the flood by hacking the mountain into three gorges: human gate, god gate, and ghost gate.
Sanmenxia is situated in the western part of Henan Province, China. It is accessible by train, bus, or car. The city is approximately 200 kilometers east of Xi'an and about 3 hours east by car from Zhengzhou.
The Yellow River Forest Park is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant.
General admission to the scenic areas ranges from $12 to $25 USD, with discounts available for students and seniors. Tickets can be purchased online through travel platforms or at the entrance.
It is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Booking at least 1–2 days prior is advisable to secure entry.
To fully explore the main attractions, allocate approximately 4–6 hours. For a more leisurely experience, consider spending a full day.
Key highlights include the Yellow River Dam Scenic Area, Shan Zhou Scenic Area with Swan Lake and Baolun Pagoda, and the Guo State Museum.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin Chinese. Audio guides in English may be limited; it's advisable to check availability in advance.
The Yellow River Dam offers panoramic views, especially at sunset. The Baolun Pagoda provides elevated views of the surrounding landscape.
Begin at the Yellow River Dam Scenic Area, then proceed to the Shan Zhou Scenic Area to visit Swan Lake and Baolun Pagoda. Conclude with a visit to the Guo State Museum.
Currently, there are no official night visits or light shows. However, the sunset views at the Yellow River Dam are particularly stunning.
Weekdays, especially Tuesday through Thursday, tend to be less crowded. Early mornings right after opening hours are also ideal for avoiding crowds.
The park is equipped with rest areas, shops, and food vendors. Toilets are available at various points throughout the park.
The park is generally accessible, with paved paths suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. However, some areas may have uneven terrain; it's advisable to check specific locations in advance.
Mobile payments (e.g., Alipay, WeChat Pay) are widely accepted. It's advisable to carry some cash as a backup, especially in more remote areas.
There are several local restaurants near the park offering traditional Henan cuisine. It's recommended to try local dishes such as "Sanmenxia mutton" and "Yellow River carp."
Halal food options are available, particularly in areas with a significant Hui Muslim population. Vegetarian dishes are also commonly offered.
There are various hotels ranging from budget to mid-range near the park. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Nearby attractions include the Sanmenxia Dam Scenic Area, Guo State Museum, and Ganshan National Forest Park. These can be visited in a day trip.
Souvenir shops are available near the park selling items such as Yellow River-themed crafts, local snacks, and traditional Chinese souvenirs.
After visiting, taxis and local buses are available to continue your journey. For longer trips, the Sanmenxia Railway Station offers connections to other cities.
