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Zhangye, a prefecture-level city in Gansu Province, is named after the phrase "Zhangguo's arm and elbow, connecting to the Western Regions." Located in northwestern Gansu Province, China, in the middle section of the Hexi Corridor, it was formerly known as "Ganzhou," the origin of the "Gan" character in Gansu's name. Known as "a land of mulberry and hemp" and "a land of fish and rice," Zhangye boasts a long history, splendid culture, beautiful natural scenery, and unique cultural landscapes. Since ancient times, it has been known as "Jiangnan on the Frontier" and "Golden Zhangye." As an ancient poet put it, if one does not see the snow on the top of the Qilian Mountains, one would mistake Zhangye for Jiangnan.
Zhangye has a dry continental climate with an average annual temperature of 6°C, with January being the coldest and July being the hottest. June to September is the best time to visit.
Zhangye Danxia National Geopark
Zhangye Danxia landform has a vast area, wide distribution, majestic momentum, spectacular scenes, rich forms, peculiar shapes and bright colors. It is the most typical Danxia landform in my country's arid areas and is rare in the world.
There are also famous places of interest and historical sites in the city, such as the Big Buddha Temple, Wooden Pagoda Temple, Earthen Pagoda Temple, Xilai Temple, Horse-Shoe Temple, Zhenyuan Tower, Shanxi Guild Hall, Minqin Guild Hall, and the ruins of Heishui Kingdom.
Zhangye, located in Gansu Province along the ancient Silk Road, has a rich history as a trading and cultural hub. It is famous for the Danxia landforms, Buddhist grottoes, and historical temples, reflecting centuries of religious and geological significance.
Zhangye is in central Gansu Province. It is accessible by Zhangye Ganzhou Airport, trains from major cities, or long-distance buses. Within the city, taxis and local buses are convenient, and walking is practical for city center attractions.
Booking for Zhangye Danxia is recommended 1–2 weeks in advance during peak season. Other attractions can usually be visited without advance booking.
Guided tours are available at Danxia Park and Mati Temple Grottoes. Mandarin is standard; English guides may be arranged through travel agencies.
Start early at Zhangye Danxia, move to Mati Temple Grottoes mid-morning, then visit Giant Buddha Temple in the afternoon. Finish with a walk through local markets or Shandan Horse Pastures for evening exploration.
Night visits are limited; some areas offer sunset photography tours. Special guided tours are available for cultural experiences and photography.
Peak season is July–August. Visiting early in the morning and on weekdays reduces crowding.
City attractions are generally accessible; cliffside grottoes and Danxia viewpoints may be challenging for those with mobility issues.
Cash is accepted, but Alipay, WeChat Pay, and major credit cards are widely used.
Vegetarian options are available; Halal food is common due to local Muslim communities.
