3 Budget-Friendly Solo Travel Spots in Jiayuguan, Gansu!!

Traveling solo on a budget in Jiayuguan is totally doable! This city not only boasts a rich history but also offers many free and poetic spots, perfect for you to quietly explore at your own pace. Here are 3 free and photogenic places—grab this exclusive guide now! ✨

🏞️ Complete Guide to Attractions

1️⃣ Tailai River Scenic Area · A Geological Wonder of Gobi and Clear Waters

· Why visit: This is the perfect place to experience Jiayuguan’s gentle side. The spring waters of Tailai River flow from deep within the Qilian Mountains, with the emerald-green lake surface shining like a gem under the morning sun. It contrasts sharply with the surrounding Gobi landscape, creating a unique beauty where desolation and vitality coexist.
· How to enjoy solo:
🌊 Stroll slowly along the riverbank, watch the river meander, and see the willow branches by the shore turn the color of spring.
📸 Capture the layers of Gobi, clear water, and blue sky with your camera—this open scenery is ideal for wide-angle landscape shots.
🧘 Find a quiet corner to sit, daydream, read, or quietly listen to the wind and water sounds, enjoying peaceful solitude.
· 📝 Practical info
Address: Tailai River Scenic Water Area, Nanhu, Jiayuguan City.
Transportation: Accessible by city bus; taxis or biking are also convenient.

2️⃣ Caohu National Wetland Park · An Ecological Canvas of Migratory Birds

· Why visit: If you want to see a different side of Northwest China, Caohu is a must. With spring’s arrival, not only do migratory birds like Saunders’s gulls dance in the air, but the reeds by the river sway with the breeze, full of watery tenderness and dreamlike tranquility.
· How to enjoy solo:
🦢 At the Tailai River Scenic Water Area in Nanhu, quietly watch dozens of white “elves,” the Saunders’s gulls, leisurely floating or fluttering over the water.
🌾 Walk into the park, breathe in the fresh air and the fragrance of aquatic plants, and let the beautiful scenery make your day joyful.
🤫 Stay quiet and don’t disturb the wildlife—be a respectful “lone ranger.”
· 📝 Practical info
Address: Caohu National Wetland Park, Jiayuguan.
Transportation: Recommended to bike or take a taxi.

3️⃣ Donghu Tourist Area · A Healing Space for Lake Views and Heights

· Why visit: (Except for the meteorological tower) the scenic area is free to enter. This is a favorite leisure spot for locals, perfect for solo relaxation. You can bike around the lake to enjoy the sunset or climb to a high point for a panoramic view of the lake—the view is very expansive.
· How to enjoy solo:
🚴‍♀️ Bike around the lake, feel the breeze on your face, and admire the sunset’s glow on the water.
🏞️ Find a vantage point to overlook the entire lake and city skyline, savoring the pleasure of “seeing all the mountains as small.”
🌅 At dusk, this is an excellent spot for shooting sunset and lake photos, easily capturing soothing profile pictures.
· 📝 Practical info
Address: Donghu Tourist Area, Jiayuguan.
Transportation: Accessible by city bus.
Note: Climbing the meteorological tower requires a separate ticket; the outer park area is free.

🗺️ Itinerary and Gear Suggestions

🚲 Recommended One-Day Route
Start your morning with a bike ride and walk around Donghu to feel the city’s tranquility; in the afternoon, head to Caohu Wetland Park to enjoy quiet moments with migratory birds and reeds; by evening, arrive at Tailai River Scenic Area to watch the sunset drape the Gobi and clear waters in golden light.

🎒 Budget Travel Gear List

· Essentials: Jiayuguan has strong sunlight and a dry climate, so sunscreen, a sun hat, and sunglasses are must-haves.
· Clothing: With big temperature differences between day and night, bring a windbreaker for the cooler evenings.
· Others: Carry a water bottle to stay hydrated and a power bank to keep your devices charged, ensuring a worry-free trip.

Hope this guide helps you have a unique and wonderful solo experience in Jiayuguan! If you still want more, the Jiayuguan City Museum is also free to visit and a great place to decode the history of the Hexi Corridor.