Gansu

Gansu is truly perfect for an autumn outing! 🍂 This trip was absolutely stunning! The murals at Dunhuang's Mogao Grottoes are breathtaking, the sunsets at Crescent Lake are breathtaking, and Zhangye's colorful Danxia formations are a true palette of nature. 🎨 With this guide, you'll easily explore Northwest China~

[Highlights]
🌟 A perfect blend of culture and nature
🌟 Undiscovered adventures away from the crowds
🌟 A collection of must-try foods

🏯 Cultural Tour:
▫ Dunhuang Mogao Grottoes (October 8th - April 30th, 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM)
It's not unreasonable to grab tickets a month in advance! For a special cave, see the Medicine Buddha Sutra Transformation in Cave 220.
▫ Jiayuguan City Tower (8:30 AM - 6:30 PM)
"The Most Magnificent Pass in the World" lives up to its reputation. Wearing Hanfu for photos is recommended.
▫ Maijishan Grottoes (8:30 AM - 5:30 PM)
Less popular than Yungang and Longmen Grottoes, the smiling young monk in Cave 133 is incredibly captivating.

🌄 Natural Wonders:
📍 Zhangye Colorful Danxia (6:30 AM - 6:00 PM in summer / 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM in winter)
The colors are at their most vibrant after rain! Observation Deck 4 offers stunning sunset photos.
📍 Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake (6:00 AM - 7:30 PM)
Remember to enter the scenic area after 4:00 PM. Camel rides are incredibly romantic for photo opportunities.
📍 Zhagana (Open all day)
A hidden village in Gannan, shrouded in mist in the mornings, resembles a fairyland.

🏨Accommodation recommendations:
✔Dunhuang Villa (Dunyue Road, Dunhuang City)
Super close to Mingsha Mountain! Enjoy a star-studded view of the desert sky from the rooftop Star-Picking Pavilion.
✔Zhangye Danxia Pearl Hotel (Danxia Avenue, Linze County)
Open the window to the vibrant colors of the Danxia. The breakfast buffet features local noodle dishes.

🍜Food Radar:
🔥Dunhuang Donkey Meat Yellow Noodles (Shop 6, Shazhou Night Market)
The yellow noodles with donkey meat topping are incredible! Remember to add a spoonful of oil and chili sauce.
🔥Lanzhou Beef Noodles (Wumule Penghui Beef Noodles)
The broth is clear, the chili flavor is fragrant but not overpowering, and a bowl is incredibly satisfying in the morning.
🔥Zhangye Fish Noodles (Ganzhou Market, Area 9)
The handmade fish noodles are incredibly chewy, and the aroma of the braised pork and sauerkraut is intoxicating.

TIPS:
1️⃣After October, the temperature difference between morning and evening is significant! Bring a windproof jacket and thermal underwear.
2️⃣The Northwest climate is dry, so be sure to stock up on lip balm and moisturizing spray.
3️⃣ Scenic areas are far apart, so it's recommended to charter a car or travel with a small group.