Encounter the Rainbow of the Earth

🌄 Introduction to Zhangye Danxia Zhangye Danxia, located in Zhangye City, Gansu Province, is one of China's most stunning Danxia landforms, acclaimed by "China National Geography" as one of the "Seven Most Beautiful Danxia Landscapes in China." Known for its layered, multicolored hills resembling a spilled palette of the gods, the colors become especially vibrant during sunrise and sunset. 📅 Best Time to Visit ✅ May–October: Pleasant weather with frequent sunny days, showcasing the most vivid hues (sun protection is essential in summer). ✅ Sunrise/Sunset: Soft lighting enhances the dramatic colors (arrive 1 hour before sunrise or 2 hours before sunset). ❌ Winter (November–March): Some areas may close, and snow can obscure the colors. 🚗 Transportation Guide - By Air: Zhangye Ganzhou Airport (limited flights); consider flying to Lanzhou/Xining and transferring via high-speed rail. - By High-Speed Rail: Zhangye West Station; taxi to the scenic area takes ~40 minutes (~¥60–80). - Self-Drive/Private Car: ~5–6 hours from Lanzhou, ideal for combining with Hexi Corridor destinations (e.g., Jiayuguan, Dunhuang). - In-Park Transport: Mandatory shuttle buses (included in ticket) follow fixed routes to viewpoints. 🎫 Tickets & Opening Hours - Standard Ticket (1-day): ¥75 (includes shuttle bus). - In-Depth Tour (small group): ¥328 (access to restricted zones with richer colors). - Opening Hours: - Peak Season (May–Oct): 6:30 AM–7:00 PM - Off-Season (Nov–Apr): 7:30 AM–6:00 PM 🗺️ Classic Routes 1️⃣ Standard Route (4 Viewpoints) Sequence: North Entrance → No. 2 (Fairyland Terrace) → No. 1 (Cloud Sea Terrace) → No. 5 (Brocade Terrace) → No. 4 (Rainbow Glow Terrace) → Return. Highlights: Ideal for time-limited visitors (~2–3 hours). 2️⃣ In-Depth Tour (Restricted Zones) Route: Private vehicle to exclusive areas like "Wanxiang Earth Forest Valley" and "Rainbow Aohe." Highlights: More intense colors, fewer crowds; advance booking required (daily quotas). 3️⃣ Photography Enthusiast Route Tips: - Sunrise: No. 4 (Rainbow Glow Terrace). - Sunset: No. 1 (Cloud Sea Terrace). - Aerial Shots: Drone use prohibited in the park (nearby permitted zones require prior approval). 🌟 Must-Visit Viewpoints - Fairyland Terrace (No. 2): Close-up views of colorful hills, great for portraits. - Cloud Sea Terrace (No. 1): Vastest panorama; sunset layers resemble ocean waves. - Rainbow Glow Terrace (No. 4): Iconic filming location for "A Simple Noodle Story." - Brocade Terrace (No. 5): Overlooks "pork belly" formations with striking gradients. 🏠 Accommodation - Near Park: Danxia Pearl Hotel, Gonghanglv Danxia Town (walkable for sunrise). - Zhangye City: Budget-friendly (e.g., Zhangye Hotel), but requires early departure (~40-minute drive). - Glamping: Nearby stargazing tents (summer Milky Way views). ⚠️ Tips 1. Sun/Wind Protection: Strong UV rays—bring sunglasses, hats, sunscreen; spring sandstorms are common. 2. Attire: Avoid white/light colors (reflect glare); red/black outfits photograph best. 3. Conservation: Never step on formations (fragile; fines up to thousands of yuan). 4. Supplies: No restaurants inside; carry water/snacks; food stalls at exits. 📸 Photography Tips - Golden Hours: 1 hour post-sunrise or 2 hours pre-sunset (avoid midday harsh light). - Composition: Wide-angle for landscapes, telephoto for textures; silhouettes/side lighting for portraits. - Gear: Polarizing filter reduces glare and boosts color saturation. 🍜 Local Eats - Cuoyu Noodles: Zhangye specialty, shaped like small fish. - Chao Bolan: Sizzling lamb offal, bold Northwest flavors. - Xingpi Water: Refreshing apricot drink, tangy and appetizing. ✨ Zhangye Danxia is a billion-year-old masterpiece painted by nature. Whether you're a photographer chasing light or a traveler seeking awe, this place will leave you spellbound!