Zhangye Danxia Geopark

Introducing Zhangye Danxia Geopark

Zhangye Colorful Danxia Geopark, located at the northern foot of the Qilian Mountains, boasts one of the largest and best-developed Danxia landforms in China, boasting the richest variety of landforms. It exemplifies China's colorful Danxia and its lattice-shaped palace-style Danxia. The scenic area primarily comprises the Binggou Danxia Scenic Area and the Colorful Danxia Scenic Area. The Colorful Danxia Scenic Area combines the unique, precipitous, and beautiful cliffs, peaks, and stone pillars of Guangdong's Danxia Mountains with the vibrant colors of Xinjiang's Five-Colored City, making it the most representative Danxia landform in my country's arid regions. Its majestic grandeur, vast expanse, unique shapes, vibrant colors, and stunning spectacle are truly rare and exceptional in China, a true masterpiece of nature.

Films such as "The Sun Also Rises" directed by Jiang Wen, "Three Shots Surprise" directed by Zhang Yimou, and the TV series "Detective Di Renjie (Part 3)" directed by Qian Yanqiu all used this scenic spot as a filming location.

Climate and best time to travel

Spring and autumn are the best time to travel

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: half a day

Tickets

74 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

April 11th - May 4th 6:00-18:00

May 5th - August 31st, 5:30-19:00

September 1st - October 31st, 6:30-18:00

November 1st - December 31st, 7:00-17:00

The scenic spot will adjust its opening hours according to seasonal changes. Please refer to the scenic spot’s announcement on the day for details.

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Most Popular FAQs for Zhangye Danxia Geopark

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

Zhangye Danxia Geopark is a UNESCO Global Geopark famous for its colorful rock formations shaped by red sandstone and mineral deposits over millions of years. It is significant for its geological value, natural beauty, and as a symbol of the unique Danxia landform in China.

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

The park is located in Zhangye, Gansu Province. Visitors can reach it by regional buses or taxis from Zhangye city center. Walking and shuttle buses are used inside the park to move between viewpoints.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Opening hours: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are spring and autumn for clear skies and mild temperatures. Sunrise and sunset provide optimal lighting for photography.

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

The entrance fee is around 90–100 RMB. Tickets can be purchased online via official platforms or at the park entrance.

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

It is recommended to book tickets online at least 1–3 days in advance during peak seasons to avoid long queues.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

3–5 hours is sufficient to visit the main viewpoints and trails; a full day is ideal for photography enthusiasts.

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

• Rainbow Mountains viewing platform
• Yangguan Canyon and surrounding trails
• Danxia landform valleys and rock formations
• Sunrise and sunset observation points

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese; private guides in English or other languages can be arranged. Audio guides are limited.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Rainbow Mountains Platform for wide-angle views
• Sunrise Hill for morning light
• Sunset Observation Deck for golden-hour photography
• Trail overlooks along the main canyon paths

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main entrance, take the shuttle to the Rainbow Mountains platform, walk along trails to Yangguan Canyon, and finish at sunset viewpoints for photography.

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

Night visits are not allowed. Special photography tours or cultural tours may be offered seasonally.

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

The park can be busy during weekends and public holidays. Weekdays, especially early morning, are the least crowded times.

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

Facilities include public toilets, small food stalls, water points, rest areas, and souvenir shops near major viewpoints.

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

Main platforms and shuttle areas are accessible, but some trails are steep and uneven, which may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards and mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted; cash is useful for small vendors.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Park-side restaurants serving local Gansu cuisine
• Cafes and tea houses in Zhangye city
• Small food stalls near major viewpoints

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian dishes are available; halal options are present due to local Muslim communities.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Zhangye city hotels and guesthouses
• Small inns near the park entrance
• Hostels catering to budget travelers

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

• Mazongshan Great Wall
• Zhangye Waterpark
• Zhangye Wooden Pagoda Temple

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenirs include postcards, local handicrafts, minerals, and small Danxia-themed gifts.

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

Travelers can take regional buses, taxis, or hire private cars to reach Zhangye city or continue to nearby attractions like Mazongshan Great Wall.