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Itinerary
Welcome to Lanzhou! After arriving in the city—whether in the afternoon or evening—Our local guide and driver will greet and transferr to your hotel for check-in. Once you’re settled in, your journey begins with a taste of local culture.
As the sun sets, follow your guide to Nanguan Ethnic/Nationality Favor Street(Nanguan Night Market), a vibrant pedestrian street that comes alive with the aroma of sizzling skewers and the sounds of local chatter. Here, you’ll find a lively mix of Muslim, Hui, and traditional Gansu cuisines—from hand-pulled Lanzhou beef noodles and spicy lamb skewers to sweet fermented glutinous rice desserts. It’s the perfect place to dive into the local culinary scene, try something adventurous, and even pick up a few snacks or souvenirs.
The rest of the evening is yours to explore at your own pace. Whether you stroll along the streets, sip local milk tea, or relax back at the hotel, our guide is always ready to offer tips or recommendations.
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Stay in Lanzhou
After breakfast, we depart from Lanzhou and journey northwest across the Hexi Corridor, driving approximately 260 kilometers to Wuwei (3-3.5 hours), once a key military and cultural hub of the ancient Silk Road.
Our first stop is the Leitai Tomb of Han Dynasty, where history comes alive. This underground tomb, dating back to the Eastern Han Dynasty, is famous for the discovery of the bronze “Galloping Horse Treading on a Flying Swallow”, now a symbol of Chinese tourism. Walking through the dim-lit corridors of the tomb, you’ll feel transported to the Han era, surrounded by relics that whisper tales of imperial grandeur and Silk Road exchanges.
After lunch and have a short break. Next, we visit the Wuwei Confucian Temple (Wen Miao), one of the largest and best-preserved Confucian temples in Northwest China. Strolling through its solemn courtyards and ancient cypresses, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of traditional Chinese education and philosophy.
Next, continue our scenic drive Zhangye (around 3 hours), a city famed for its natural beauty and cultural heritage. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening. Transportation is by comfortable private vehicle, with rest stops along the way.
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Stay in Zhangye
This morning, we begin our day in Zhangye with a visit to the Big Buddha Temple, home to China’s largest indoor reclining Buddha. As you enter the tranquil halls of this ancient temple, originally built in the Western Xia Dynasty, you’ll be struck by the serene expression of the massive clay Buddha and the vivid murals that reflect centuries of Buddhist culture and Silk Road history. It’s a peaceful, spiritual start to the day.
Next, we head to the spectacular Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park, renowned for its Rainbow Mountains. These colorful, layered rock formations stretch across the landscape like a natural oil painting. Walking along the viewing platforms, visitors can marvel at the surreal scenery—perfect for photography and awe-inspiring moments.
In the afternoon, we take high-speed train to Jiayuguan(1.5-2 hours). The comfortable ride allows time to rest, take in the views, or chat with your guide about the region’s rich stories.
Dinner features local northwestern flavors, and the evening is free for you to explore Jiayuguan or relax at the hotel.
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Stay in Jiayuguan
Today begins with a deep dive into the westernmost stronghold of the Great Wall—Jiayuguan Pass. Standing at the edge of the vast Gobi Desert, this imposing fortress once marked the final gateway of imperial China. Walking along its ancient ramparts, you’ll feel the weight of history where Silk Road travelers once passed and exiles bade farewell to the empire.
Next, visit the Great Wall Museum, where well-curated exhibits tell the story of the wall’s strategic importance and the people who lived and fought along its length. Afterwards, head to the Overhanging Great Wall (Xuanbi Great Wall), a dramatic section of the Ming-era wall built into the mountainside. Climbing up its steep path rewards you with sweeping views of the desert plains below—a striking blend of natural and man-made wonder.
In the afternoon, embark on a comfortable train to Dunhuang (3-4 hours). The route offers ever-changing views. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening in Dunhuang. Dinner options include local specialties.
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Stay in Dunhuang
Today, you’ll explore the rugged beauty and ancient frontier spirit of Dunhuang. The journey begins with a visit to Yumen Pass (Jade Gate Pass), once a vital checkpoint on the Silk Road. As you walk through its weathered ruins, surrounded by the vast Gobi Desert, it’s easy to imagine the camel caravans that once passed through, carrying jade, silk, and spices to the West.
Continue to the stunning Yadan National Geopark, home to dramatic Yardang landforms sculpted by wind and sand over millennia. The surreal, otherworldly shapes—often described as resembling castles, ships, or animals—offer fantastic photo opportunities and a deep sense of nature’s raw power.
In the evening, return to Dunhuang and stroll through the lively Shazhou Night Market. Here, you can browse for unique local crafts, silk scarves, and souvenirs, while savoring street foods like spicy noodles, lamb skewers, and sweet persimmon cakes. It’s the perfect way to unwind and soak up the city’s local flavor.
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Stay in Dunhuang
Your final day in Dunhuang is a true highlight, starting with a visit to the world-renowned Mogao Grottoes. Known as the “Treasure House of Buddhist Art,” these ancient grottoes are filled with vibrant murals and intricate statues dating back over a thousand years. As you walk through the cool, dimly lit caves, you’ll be immersed in the spiritual and artistic richness that once made this a sacred stop on the Silk Road.
Next, head to the iconic Echo Sand Mountain and the serene Crescent Lake. Ride a camel across golden dunes, try sandboarding, or simply admire the magical contrast between the vast desert and the crystal-clear oasis. The views at sunset are especially breathtaking.
After an early dinner featuring local specialties, you’ll transfer to the train station and board an overnight sleeper train bound for Lanzhou. It’s a comfortable and culturally immersive way to travel, with the rhythmic motion of the train offering a peaceful night’s rest.
Sit back, relax, and let the memories of Dunhuang’s deserts, art, and legends lull you to sleep as you journey eastward.
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Stay on the Sleeper Train
Today’s adventure begins with a scenic drive from Lanzhou to Liujiaxia, a peaceful town nestled by the Yellow River. From here, you’ll take a boat ride across the shimmering Liujiaxia Reservoir to reach the remarkable Bingling Temple Grottoes. Carved into the cliffs and dating back over 1,600 years, these caves house a stunning collection of Buddhist statues and murals. The contrast of ancient stone art with the surrounding red rock canyon makes for an awe-inspiring visit.
After returning to Lanzhou in the afternoon, you’ll explore some of the city’s signature landmarks. Stroll along the Yellow River to see the Mother River Statue, a symbol of life and heritage in Gansu. Nearby, the Waterwheel Garden showcases traditional irrigation technology and offers a relaxing riverside atmosphere. End the day at the Zhongshan Bridge, the first permanent bridge across the Yellow River, perfect for sunset photos and people-watching.
Throughout the day, transportation is arranged by private vehicle for comfort and ease. Local dining options feature Lanzhou’s famous hand-pulled noodles and halal specialties. After a full day of culture and scenic beauty, you’ll return to your hotel in Lanzhou for a well-deserved rest.
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Stay in Lanzhou
After a memorable journey through this Gansu tour, today marks the end of your adventure. Depending on your flight schedule, your guide and driver will escort you to Lanzhou International Airport, ensuring a smooth and timely transfer. Safe travels and we look forward to welcoming you back to China again!
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The best time to visit Gansu—especially for the Rainbow Mountains in Zhangye and the deserts of Dunhuang—is from May to October, when the weather is mild and the colorful landscapes are at their most vibrant. Summer months (June to August) offer ideal conditions for sightseeing and photography.
Yes, the Zhangye Danxia Rainbow Mountains are a must-see! The multicolored rock formations are world-famous for their surreal beauty and geological significance, making them one of the top attractions on any Gansu tour.
Most Gansu tours include private vehicles for short distances and high-speed or overnight trains between key cities like Zhangye, Jiayuguan, and Dunhuang. These options ensure comfort while offering scenic views of the Hexi Corridor and Gobi landscapes.
Yes, the Mogao Caves (Mogao Grottoes) are open year-round, but entry is strictly controlled with limited daily tickets to preserve the artwork. Advance booking is strongly recommended, especially during peak travel months (May–October).
Don’t miss Lanzhou beef noodles, spicy lamb skewers, persimmon cakes in Dunhuang, and Muslim-style halal dishes throughout the region. Night markets like Nanguan in Lanzhou and Shazhou in Dunhuang are perfect for sampling local street food.
Absolutely! This Gansu tour is senior-friendly and family-friendly, with manageable walking distances, comfortable transportation, and a rich blend of history, culture, and nature. The itinerary balances active experiences like desert camel rides with relaxed cultural visits.
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