A Marvel of Northern Shaanxi, the Ultimate Song of the Yellow River

Yan'an Qiankun Bay is located in Yanchuan County, Yan'an City, Shaanxi Province. It is a naturally formed "S"-shaped big bend on the Yellow River Qin-Jin Gorge, known as the "First Bend of the Yellow River." Its shape resembles the Taiji Bagua diagram, hence the name "Qiankun Bay." It combines the grandeur of the Yellow River, the loess culture, and red revolutionary heritage. Legend has it that Fuxi once observed the river here to understand the Bagua, and Mao Zedong also stationed here during the Northern Shaanxi campaigns. The intertwining of natural and cultural heritage makes it a popular destination for photography and study tours.

🕘【Opening Hours】
The scenic area is open year-round. Peak season (April to October) from 8:00 AM to 6:30 PM; off-season (November to March) from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM. Recommended visit duration is 3-4 hours. The best times to visit are at sunrise and sunset for excellent light and shadow effects. Some viewing platforms may close during rain or snow; it is advised to check the weather forecast before your trip.

💴【Ticket Prices】
Current ticket price is 80 RMB per person; sightseeing bus ticket is 30 RMB per person (recommended purchase). No recent price adjustments. Students and seniors with valid ID enjoy half-price discounts; children under 1.2 meters enter free.

⛺【Activities】

Core Viewing Platform: The main viewing platform offers a panoramic view of Qiankun Bay and is recommended as the first stop; the "Taiji Pavilion" is the best spot for panoramic photography.

Yellow River Cableway (optional): Crosses the Yellow River, overlooking the bay’s curves (additional fee, about 60 RMB round trip).

Yellow River Trail: Hike to experience the stunning Yellow River cliff walls, recommended from the viewing platform to Qingshui Pass section (about 2 km, wear non-slip shoes).

Folk Experience: The scenic area features Northern Shaanxi cave dwellings guesthouses and paper-cutting workshops to experience local culture.

Night Light Show (peak season only): Light and shadow projections on the Yellow River bay create Taiji imagery.
Note: The area has many mountain roads; please pay attention to safety. Drone flights without prior approval are prohibited.

🚌【Transportation Guide】

Self-driving: From Yan'an city center, take the Yan-Yan Expressway to Yanchuan exit, then turn onto National Highway 309 directly to the site (about 1.5 hours). Parking fee at the scenic area is 10 RMB/day.

Public Transport: From Yan'an South Bus Station, take the "Yan'an-Yanchuan" shuttle bus (one per hour, ticket 25 RMB), then transfer to the scenic area shuttle bus (about 30 minutes).

Charter: Round trip from Yan'an city costs about 400-500 RMB (suitable for groups of 4-6 people).

👉【Itinerary Suggestions】
One-day tour recommendation: Morning at Qiankun Bay → Afternoon at Huifengzhai (ancient military site) or Qingshui Bay → Return to Yan'an by evening.
Two-day in-depth tour:

Day 1: Qiankun Bay + nearby ancient village (Cheng Family Courtyard) → Overnight in Yanchuan County or cave dwelling guesthouse in the scenic area (about 150-300 RMB/night);

Day 2: Visit Liangjiahe Village (former residence of educated youth) or Hukou Waterfall on the Yellow River (about 2 hours by car).
Accommodation suggestions: Hotels in Yanchuan County offer good value; for a unique experience, choose the Qiankun Bay cave dwelling guesthouse (advance booking required).

🧡【Preparation】

Clothing: Windproof jackets needed in spring and autumn; down jackets in winter; sun protection (hat, sunglasses) in summer.

Footwear: Wear non-slip sports shoes or hiking shoes.

Gear: Power bank (charging is inconvenient in the scenic area), camera (wide-angle lens preferred), some cash (signal may be unstable).

Others: Carry ID, bring motion sickness medicine (due to winding mountain roads), and sufficient drinking water and snacks.

At Qiankun Bay, the roar of the Yellow River coexists with the tranquility of Taiji. A day here lets you deeply understand the vicissitudes of the mountains and rivers—definitely worth a special trip.