Zhangye Danxia is hailed as the "palette of God." For three days and two nights, among colorful mountains and grottoes, you can read the geological poems of the earth.
The hills of the colorful Danxia look as if they've been splashed with paint, with layers of red, yellow, white, and green layered into wave-like patterns. The colors are most vivid when the light slants in the morning and at dusk, and the 'Colorful Screen' at Observation Deck 4 is a must-photograph location.
Binggou Danxia is renowned for its unique castle-like landforms, with stone pillars resembling palaces and human figures, solemn and magical against the blue sky, complementing the "color" of the colorful Danxia in form.
Mati Temple is carved into the cliffs of the Qilian Mountains, with a suspended plank road running along the wall. Yugur ethnic customs coexist with grotto art, and after reaching the summit, the snowy peaks of Qilian are fully visible.
The Great Buddha Temple in the city has the largest indoor reclining Buddha in China, a Western Xia relic lying quietly for a thousand years. Sitting beneath the ancient tree in front of the hall, contemplative, the heaviness of the Hexi Corridor greets you deeply.
The wonder of Zhangye lies in the painting of the land itself. When you stand on the viewing platform watching the sunset and brush the mountains with gold, you'll understand: the most beautiful art never needs a brush.
Route fragment
3 days and 2 nights
- Day 1 Zhangye, colorful Danxia
- Day 2: Binggou Danxia, Mati Temple
- Day 3 Great Buddha Temple, return trip