Ultimate Guide to Water Yadan

Location: West Tai area, Dachaidan Administrative Committee, Golmud City, Haixi Prefecture, Qinghai Province, next to G315 National Highway
🎫 Tickets: ¥60 | Sightseeing Bus Ticket: ¥60 (mandatory, as the distance is quite far)

1. How to Get There?
Water Yadan is located in the western section of the Qinghai-Gansu Grand Loop (Qing-Gan Grand Loop). Here are the main ways to reach it:

Self-driving/Car Rental (Highly Recommended):
Route: Start from Dachaidan Town, drive west along G315 National Highway for about 220 kilometers, approximately 2.5-3 hours.
Highlights Along the Way: You’ll pass the famous U-shaped road and the two-colored lake (Xitai Jinel Lake), making it a scenic journey.
Advantages of Car Rental: Local drivers are familiar with the road conditions and can safely stop at the U-shaped road for photos.

Group Tours:
Some Qing-Gan loop tours departing from Golmud or Dachaidan include this attraction, but they offer less flexibility.

2. What to Do? How to Explore?
Core Experience: Take the sightseeing bus deep into the scenic area to admire the unique Water Yadan landforms.

Sightseeing Bus Route (Tour Sequence):
Scenic Area Entrance → (by bus) → Final Stop: Wanghaitai → (walk or take the bus back) → Penglai Fairy Island → West Sea Fleet → Scenic Area Entrance

Essential Itinerary:
Direct to the Final Stop: First, take the bus directly to Wanghaitai, the innermost stop with the most expansive views and concentrated Yadan formations.
In-depth Exploration: From Wanghaitai, you can walk or take the return bus to Penglai Fairy Island and other stops for closer encounters with Yadan clusters. Fewer people here allow for better photo angles.
Panoramic Views: Be sure to climb the observation deck at Wanghaitai for a bird’s-eye view of the magnificent “thousand sails racing” scene. This is the best spot for viewing and photography.

Optional Activities: The scenic area offers camel riding, sand motorcycling, and gliding experiences for a different perspective. Additional fees apply.

3. Photography Tips
Best Time:
Sunny mornings (before 10 AM) or afternoons (after 4 PM): Soft lighting enhances the three-dimensionality of Yadan formations and the blue-green hues of the lake.
Sunset: Golden light creates the most spectacular scenery, but plan for subsequent travel and accommodation (usually staying nearby or returning to Dachaidan).

Best Spots:
Wanghaitai Observation Deck: A classic panoramic spot, a must-shoot.
At the foot of Yadan by the lake: Find Yadan formations near the water for low-angle shots that highlight the lake’s clarity and Yadan’s grandeur.
Near Penglai Fairy Island: Fewer people here allow you to find uniquely shaped Yadan formations as foregrounds.

Outfit Suggestions:
Bright/solid-colored clothing: Red, white, and yellow dresses stand out beautifully against the blue-green water and yellow Yadan.
Cool styles: Denim, workwear, and leather jackets can create a stylish vibe.
Essential Accessories: Sunglasses, hats, and shawls (both as props and for wind/sun protection).

4. Practical Information and Tips
Accommodation Options:
Inside the Scenic Area: There are RV campsites/hotels, which are pricier but offer unique experiences like stargazing and sunrise/sunset views.
Outside the Scenic Area: There are some basic guesthouses along G315 National Highway.
Mainstream Choice: Most visitors choose to drive 2.5 hours back to Dachaidan Town for better accommodations and more options.

Dining:
The scenic area visitor center has a restaurant, but prices are high and choices are limited.
Strongly recommend bringing your own snacks and water or eating on the way back to Dachaidan.

⚠️ Important Tips:
Sun Protection! Sun Protection! Sun Protection! UV rays are extremely strong; apply high-SPF sunscreen and use physical sun protection (hats, scarves, sleeves).
Wind Protection: Located in the desert, the wind is very strong. Bring a windproof jacket and protect your camera equipment from sand.
Altitude Sickness: The altitude is about 2,800 meters—not too high, but avoid strenuous activities.
Environmental Protection: Please take all your trash with you to preserve this fragile and precious natural wonder.