Jungar Banner

Introducing Jungar Banner

Zhungeer Banner (meaning "left wing, left hand" in Mongolian), formerly known as Ordos Left Front Banner, is located in southwestern Inner Mongolia, east of Ordos City. Surrounded by the Yellow River to the east and north, the banner faces Shanxi Province, Hohhot City, and Baotou City across the river. To the south, it borders Shaanxi Province, bordered by the ancient Great Wall. To the west, it shares borders with Dalat Banner, Dongsheng District, and Ejin Horo Banner. It is known as the "Three Provinces of Chicken Crowing." The Great Wall and the Yellow River meet at Laoniuwan, making this area one of China's ten most beautiful canyons. As the home of the "Manhan Diao," the locals skillfully blend Mongolian folk songs with Han Chinese singing techniques to create a unique Ordos song. Festivals bring people together with singing and dancing, brimming with the charm of the northern frontier.

---

Most Popular FAQs for Jungar Banner

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

Jungar Banner (准格尔旗) is a banner of Ordos, Inner Mongolia. It lies on the western bank of the Yellow River and borders Shanxi and Shaanxi provinces. It has importance both for natural landscapes (river canyon, desert, danxia landforms), and cultural/religious heritage: temples, local Mongolian culture, intangible cultural heritage like local music (“Manhkhnii Ay”) etc. Also economically significant as an energy base (coal, mining), and increasingly pushing ecological restoration and industrial-tourism.

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

The banner seat is Xuejiawan. Jungar Banner is in Ordos, Inner Mongolia, located on the western bank of the Yellow River, bordering Shanxi and Shaanxi to the southeast & southwest. To get there: one typically travels via Ordos city as gateway. From Ordos, local buses, taxis or private vehicles can reach the various tourist spots in Jungar Banner. Some sites are remote (e.g. danxia area, canyon), so using car/taxi or joining a day tour helps. There is no metro. Walking is only practical once you are in a site or village.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Specific opening hours are not always clearly published for many natural sites; many are open daylight hours. For sites like the Yellow River Grand Canyon and Jungar Temple, typical daylight access is expected. Best times of year: late spring through early autumn (May-October) for good weather, greenery, and pleasant temperatures. Early morning or late afternoon are best for photography. Avoid middle of winter if you want comfortable conditions.

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

For many natural scenic and temple areas, there *are* ticketed fees. For example, the Huanghe (Yellow River) Grand Canyon area is a 4A-level scenic area which implies there is some entrance fee. The exact ticket prices vary by attraction; some sites may offer on-site ticket purchase, others online via local tourism websites or platforms. Since data is not uniform, checking current local sources is advised.

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

For popular tourist sites or during peak holiday periods, it is wise to book in advance (a few days ahead) especially for transportation or guided tours. For more remote natural areas, you may not need advance booking, but logistical arrangements (transport, accommodation) benefit from planning.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To see the main highlights (one major natural area + one cultural site) you would need 1-2 full days. If exploring more: danxia landforms, canyon, temple, desert forest, etc., allow 3-4 days for a richer experience.

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

• Yellow River Grand Canyon: Baozita, Wanjiazhai Reservoir, Chengpo Ancient Town, Taiji Bay.
• Jungar Temple (Xizhao Temple) complex.
• Danxia landform area: Lianhuachan and red cliffs.
• Ulaanbulag Forest Farm in Kubuqi Desert.
• Industrial tourism zone: reclaimed mines, ecological displays.

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

I found no strong evidence of widespread audio-guides in multiple languages. Guided tours may be offered locally (in Chinese; possibly Mongolian) especially for temple and scenic area tours. If you prefer English or other languages, arranging a private guide may be necessary.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Cliffs of the Yellow River Grand Canyon, especially narrow sections and viewpoints over water.
• Danxia cliffs in Lianhuachan: red rock cliffs, lotus-shaped stones, at sunrise/sunset for dramatic light.
• Temple rooftops or elevated walkways at Jungar Temple for views of surrounding landscape and temple architecture.
• Desert-oasis contrast at Ulaanbulag Forest Farm: looks especially striking where green meets desert.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A possible itinerary:

• Day 1: Arrive Xuejiawan / Jungar Banner seat; visit Jungar Temple in morning, then head to nearby countryside or forest farm in afternoon.
• Day 2: Full day at Yellow River Grand Canyon—see reservoir, ancient town, river views, possibly ropeway/trails.
• Day 3: Travel to danxia landforms; take photos and hike trails there; then return or combine with desert ecology/rested stops.

Adjust depending on transport time and lodging.

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

I did not find specific nighttime light shows mentioned in sources. Some cultural activities or local festivals may occur seasonally. Visiting temples or canyon at dusk/dawn may offer special photo effects. For desert sites, stargazing might be quite rewarding.

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

Jungar Banner is less crowded than major cities or very famous tourist centers. However, popular scenic spots like the Yellow River Grand Canyon, danxia lands, temples will have more visitors during Chinese holidays (Golden Week, National Day), summer weekends. The least crowded times are weekdays, early/late season (spring before heat, autumn after heat), and early morning.

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

Facilities exist at major tourist areas: temples have halls, restrooms; scenic area visitor centers; some food stalls/restaurants in nearby villages or towns; some lodging. Infrastructure may be more basic in remote geological sites (danxia, forest farm). Bring water, snacks, and essentials when going remote.

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

Many spots are moderately accessible: temples have paved paths; canyon viewpoints reachable by roads. But remote, rugged terrain (steep cliffs, unpaved trails) may be difficult for those with mobility issues. Children will enjoy nature, temples, shorter walks; elders may need pacing.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is likely accepted in many places, especially smaller villages, food stalls. Larger sites/restaurants likely accept cards, mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay). But in remote areas, mobile payments may be more reliable than card machines. Always good to carry some cash.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

In the banner seat (Xuejiawan) and larger towns, there are local Inner Mongolian / Chinese restaurants, often serving lamb, dairy, noodles etc. Near temples or tourist centers there may be cafes or snack shops. Remote scenic areas may have basic food stands. It’s advisable to eat in town before heading into remote sites.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Inner Mongolia cuisine is heavy on meat, dairy, but many restaurants will also serve vegetable dishes. Halal options may be available due to presence of Muslim communities or restaurants; check locally. For vegan/strict diets, bringing snacks or confirming ahead is useful.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

In Xuejiawan (banner seat) and larger towns you’ll find hotels of various levels. For major scenic areas, there may be guesthouses, inns, or more rural lodging nearby. In more remote geological/forest/desert areas, lodging is more limited. Booking ahead helps.

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

• The danxia landforms in Lianhuachan / Nuanshui town.
• Shuijing Lake Tourist Resort.
• Desert-forest farm (Ulaanbulag) in Kubuqi Desert edge.
• Industrial tourism zones near mining areas / ecological reclamation sites.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, in tourist centres and temple areas there are shops selling local crafts, religious items (temple souvenirs, prayer flags, statues), handicrafts made by Mongolian herders, leather, embroidered goods, local incense, maybe local agricultural or dairy products.

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

After visiting Jungar Banner, one can travel onward to other parts of Ordos region, or toward Shanxi / Shaanxi via regional buses or private car. If you have more time, combine trips with other banners or scenic towns in Ordos. For longer travel, return to a major hub (Ordos city) for train or bus connections.