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Jingbian Wave Valley (also known as Jingbian Longzhou Grand Canyon ) is located in Yanjiazhaizi, Longzhou Township, 22 kilometers southeast of Jingbian County, Shaanxi Province. The rock in Jingbian Wave Valley is called red sandstone, technically known as "arsenic sandstone," and was formed between the Permian period of the Paleozoic Era and the Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous periods of the Mesozoic Era. This was the most geologically active, biologically diverse, and animal-rich era in Earth's history.
Discovered in the 1980s on the border of Arizona and Utah, Wave Valley is considered one of the eight great rock formations of the world. Jingbian's Wave Valley boasts a red sandstone canyon that rivals the iconic Wave Valley in the US.
There is not much difference between China's Jingbian Wave Valley and the United States' Wave Valley. Both are red sandstone landforms. Jingbian Wave Valley is younger, only 60 million years old, and much of the sand has not had time to solidify into rock.
Suitable for all seasons, but best from April to October
Recommended play time: 2-4 hours
100 yuan
08:00-17:00
Wave Valley in Yulin, Shaanxi, is renowned for its unique sandstone formations shaped by wind and water erosion over millions of years. It is a significant geological site, attracting tourists and geologists alike for its dramatic landscapes and scientific value.
Wave Valley is located in Yulin, northern Shaanxi Province. Visitors can reach Yulin city by train or bus, then take a taxi or local tour bus to Wave Valley. Walking tours are possible within the valley itself along designated paths.
The valley is typically open from morning to late afternoon, around 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) when the weather is mild and visibility for photography is excellent.
Entrance fees may vary seasonally. Tickets can often be purchased at the entrance or through local travel agencies. Some attractions may offer online booking through official tourism websites or apps.
Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. Booking a few days ahead ensures availability and allows scheduling of guided tours or photography sessions.
A full visit typically requires 3–5 hours, depending on hiking routes chosen and time spent on photography or learning about the geology.
Guided tours are sometimes available in Chinese, with limited English services. Audio guides may not be commonly available, so hiring a local guide is recommended for detailed geological insights.
Start at the visitor center, follow the main trail through the central sandstone formations, visit key viewpoints for photography, then explore side trails to lesser-known areas before returning to the entrance.
Wave Valley is primarily a daytime attraction; night visits or light shows are generally not available. Special guided tours can sometimes be arranged upon request.
The valley sees moderate crowds during weekends and national holidays. Weekdays, particularly outside of peak tourist season, are less crowded.
Facilities are basic but generally include toilets, some food stalls or kiosks, water points, and rest areas near the main entrance or viewpoints.
Some trails may be challenging due to uneven terrain, so accessibility is limited for the elderly or disabled. Children can visit but should be supervised on steeper paths.
Cash is widely accepted, but mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are increasingly used at entrances and some food stalls. Credit cards may not be accepted in remote areas.
Nearby the valley, small local restaurants serve traditional Shaanxi dishes. In Yulin city, more diverse dining options, including cafes and local snacks, are available.
Vegetarian and halal options are limited within the valley but are more readily available in Yulin city.
Accommodations range from basic guesthouses near the valley to mid-range hotels in Yulin city, which is about 30–50 minutes away by car.
Other nearby attractions include the Yulin Museum, local desert landscapes, and historical sites within Yulin city, making for a combined day trip.
Souvenir shops near the entrance offer local crafts, sandstone-themed trinkets, postcards, and regional snacks.
After visiting Wave Valley, travelers can return to Yulin city by taxi or local bus. From there, trains or buses connect to other cities in Shaanxi province or nearby regions.
