Yellow River Stone Garden

Introducing Yellow River Stone Garden

The Yellow River Stone Garden, one of the most captivating sites on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, is located in Hexi Town, 3 kilometers west of Guide County. Spanning 40 mu (approximately 10 million yuan), the park, built over a decade, boasts a landscape dotted with giant, thousand-year-old rocks and towering, century-old trees. The Stone Garden is divided into three courtyards: the Naked Garden, the Poetry Garden, and the Grinding Garden. The Poetry Garden features poems inscribed on the boulders, skillfully combining the appreciation of the unique rocks with traditional culture for visitors to enjoy.

Climate and best time to travel

Plateau continental climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

In summer, pear and apricot blossoms are in full bloom, fruit trees are shady, and the mountains and rivers are picturesque; in autumn, fruits and vegetables are fragrant; in winter, the water is warm and the springs are boiling.

Regular tourist activities: Pear Blossom Festival and Yellow River Cultural Festival in April and May; "June Laze" Meeting and Tour of Qinghai Lake International Road Cycling Race in July.

Tickets

30 yuan

Attraction opening hours

8:30-17:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Yellow River Stone Garden

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Yellow River Stone Garden, located along the Yellow River in Qinghai Province, is renowned for its stunning natural rock formations and its significance as a cultural and historical site. The area is known for its beautiful stone sculptures, historical relics, and its role in Chinese folklore as the birthplace of ancient Chinese civilization. The site is also an important place for scientific research on geology and erosion.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The Yellow River Stone Garden is located in the central part of Qinghai Province, near the Yellow River. The nearest city to the site is Lanzhou, and from there, visitors can take a bus or taxi to the site. Public transportation is available from nearby towns, but renting a car or booking a guided tour is the most convenient way to reach the destination.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Yellow River Stone Garden is open year-round. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months (April to October) when the weather is pleasant and the landscape is at its most vibrant. The site can get crowded during Chinese national holidays, so visiting during weekdays is recommended for a quieter experience.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee for the Yellow River Stone Garden is around 80 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the park, and there are currently no online booking options available. It's recommended to buy tickets directly at the venue.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for this site. You can purchase tickets upon arrival. However, if visiting during peak tourist seasons, it's a good idea to arrive early to avoid long queues.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to the Yellow River Stone Garden typically takes about 2-3 hours, depending on how much time you spend walking around and taking photos. If you're planning to take a boat ride or enjoy the cultural performances, you may want to allocate additional time for those activities.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The must-see highlights include the Yellow River's dramatic stone cliffs, the unique rock formations that resemble animals and mythical creatures, and the beautiful views of the river. The nearby cultural sites and temples are also worth visiting for their historical and spiritual significance.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available at the Yellow River Stone Garden. English-speaking guides may be available on request, although most tours are in Chinese. It's recommended to arrange for a guide in advance if you prefer an English-speaking tour.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are located along the riverbanks, where you can capture the sweeping views of the stone formations and the Yellow River. For photography, the cliffs and rock sculptures offer dramatic backdrops, especially at sunrise and sunset when the light is softer.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit by walking along the riverbank to explore the stone formations and the rock sculptures. Take time to stop at the viewpoints for photos, then head towards the cultural sites and temples. If available, consider taking a boat ride on the Yellow River for a different perspective of the landscape.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Currently, the Yellow River Stone Garden does not offer night visits or light shows. The site is primarily a daytime attraction, with the best views during daylight hours. However, some cultural performances may be available in the evening during peak tourist seasons.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The Yellow River Stone Garden can get crowded during weekends and holidays. To avoid the crowds, it's best to visit on weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when fewer tourists are around.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities, including toilets, rest areas, and food vendors, are available on-site. There are also small shops selling souvenirs and local products. It’s a good idea to bring your own water, as the park can be quite expansive, and drinking water may be limited in some areas.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The terrain at the Yellow River Stone Garden is uneven and may be challenging for elderly visitors or those with mobility issues. Some areas may not be fully accessible for disabled visitors. However, the main pathways are suitable for children and can be easily navigated by most visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted at the entrance and for purchases within the park, but mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used. It's advisable to bring a mobile payment method or enough cash for minor purchases.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few restaurants and local eateries near the Yellow River Stone Garden offering traditional Chinese dishes, particularly those from the Qinghai region. For more dining options, you may want to explore the nearby town of Xining.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at some of the local restaurants near the attraction. However, vegan and halal food options may be limited, so it’s advisable to check with the restaurants beforehand.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several guesthouses and hotels in the nearby area, particularly in the city of Xining, which offers a variety of accommodations ranging from budget to mid-range options. For luxury stays, you can find higher-end hotels in the city center of Xining.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Ta’er Monastery (a major Tibetan Buddhist monastery) and the Xining Old Town. Both are easily accessible from the Yellow River Stone Garden and can be visited within a day trip from Xining.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are souvenir shops at the entrance of the Yellow River Stone Garden selling local handicrafts, textiles, and items such as traditional Tibetan jewelry, stone carvings, and Yellow River-themed gifts.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting, the best transportation options are to take a taxi or private car back to Xining or other nearby towns. Public buses are also available but may take longer. Renting a car or booking a guided tour is the most convenient way to continue the trip.