Guide

Introducing Guide

Guide County is located in the eastern part of Qinghai Province and belongs to Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. The most worth seeing here is the nearly 100-kilometer-long Yellow River water in the area, which is incredibly clear.

Guide County is surrounded by mountains. The approach from Xining is marked by the unique and captivating Danxia landforms, a diverse array of peaks stretching for hundreds of kilometers. After passing through marshland wetlands, the county seat of Guide is reached as it enters the Yellow River basin. Besides the crystal-clear Yellow River waters, Guide's most iconic attraction is the Ming Dynasty-era Jade Emperor Pavilion. The annual Pear Blossom Art Festival in April also attracts a large number of visitors.

Climate and best time to travel

The plateau has a continental climate with long sunshine hours, strong solar radiation, drought and little rain.

April is the season when pear blossoms bloom in Guide, and July to August is the season when rape flowers bloom on Laji Mountain. In winter, snow will cover the colorful Danxia landforms, so April to August are both great times to visit Guide.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Laji Mountain

Laji Mountain (Laji Mountain), a branch of the Riyue Mountain range, forms the boundary between Huangzhong and Guide counties, making it a must-go route from Xining to Guide. The Red Mouth Mountain grasslands of Laji Mountain serve as summer pastures for Garang Township in Guide County, producing the renowned Cordyceps sinensis. In summer, the grass is lush and herds of cattle and sheep roam the area. From July to August, vast fields of rapeseed flowers bloom, and in May, crowds of people can be seen digging for Cordyceps sinensis.

Guide National Geopark (Ashigong Colorful Peaks)

Guide National Geopark, as it's commonly known, is the already developed and fee-paying Ashgong Gorge Colorful Peaks Scenic Area, which features seven Danxia canyons of varying colors and shapes. The geopark is relatively small, measuring about 1-2 kilometers from the entrance to the center. Sightseeing buses are available for transportation.

Yellow River Qing Bridge (Guide Yellow River Bridge)

The Yellow River Qing Bridge is currently the largest cable-stayed bridge on the Yellow River in Qinghai. The bridge has a smooth shape and a relatively wide deck. There are not many vehicles passing through. The most important thing is that when you look down from the bridge, you can see the clear water of the Yellow River!

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Most Popular FAQs for Guide

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

Guide is a county in Qinghai Province with a rich mix of Tibetan, Hui, and Han cultures. Historically, it has been an important trade and cultural hub in the region, known for its temples, traditional architecture, and ethnic festivals.

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

Guide County is located in Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai. It can be accessed by regional buses from Xining, or by private car hire. Local transport includes taxis and walking within towns and villages.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Most attractions and temples are open 8:00–18:00.
• Best visiting season is May to October, when the weather is mild and festivals occur.

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

Many local cultural sites are free or have a nominal fee. Tickets for festivals or guided tours are usually purchased offline at local offices or venues.

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

For standard visits, advance booking is not necessary. For festivals or guided cultural tours, 1–2 weeks in advance is recommended.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

• 1 day for the main town and local temples.
• 2–3 days to explore nearby villages, scenic areas, and attend local festivals.

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

• Guide Confucian Temple and other historical religious sites
• Traditional Tibetan and Hui villages
• Local markets and handicraft shops
• Grasslands and scenic viewpoints surrounding the town

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

Guided tours can be arranged locally, mainly in Mandarin. English-speaking guides are limited but can be arranged through travel agencies.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Hilltops overlooking Guide town and surrounding grasslands
• Traditional village streets and markets
• Temples and festival events

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at Guide town center, visit the Confucian Temple, explore local markets, then proceed to nearby villages and scenic viewpoints.

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

Night visits are limited. Festivals may feature evening performances or cultural events.

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

Guide is generally quiet. Festivals attract local and regional visitors; weekdays outside major holidays are least crowded.

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

• Basic public toilets and rest areas in town and villages
• Restaurants and street food vendors
• Shops for handicrafts, textiles, and daily necessities

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

Main town and market areas are accessible. Village and hillside visits may require moderate physical effort.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly used, but Alipay and WeChat Pay are accepted in larger shops and restaurants.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Local Qinghai cuisine restaurants in town
• Street food vendors offering Tibetan and Hui dishes
• Small guesthouse cafes providing simple meals

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at some restaurants; Halal food can be found in Hui-owned eateries.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Local hotels and guesthouses in Guide town
• Homestays in surrounding villages for cultural experiences

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

• Nearby Tibetan villages and monasteries
• Grasslands and scenic hills
• Markets and cultural centers in surrounding towns

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Tibetan handicrafts, jewelry, and textiles
• Local herbs and traditional food products
• Religious items and decorative crafts

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

• Buses to Xining or other towns in Hainan Prefecture
• Private car hire for regional travel
• Taxi services for nearby destinations