Things To Do
in Zhangye
Nestled in the heart of Gansu province, this city is renowned for its captivating Danxia landforms, which present an extraordinary palette of colors, often compared to a canvas of art. Zhangye marks a significant historical point along the ancient Silk Road, linking cultures and facilitating trade across continents for centuries.
It beckons travelers with its unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural depth, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Chinese heritage.
- "Ni hao" - Hello
- "Xie xie" - Thank you
- "Zao an" - Good morning
- "Zai jian" - Goodbye
- "Shen me" - What?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the Zhangye Danxia National Geopark. Witness the stunning rainbow-like rock formations and take plenty of photos.
Enjoy lunch in Zhangye city before heading to the Giant Buddha Temple. Explore the intricate details and history of this ancient site.
Stroll around the local night markets. Sample street food and shop for unique souvenirs.
Take a morning hike through the Sunan Danxia. The breathtaking landscapes are perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Visit the nearby Mingsha Shan (Singing Sand Dunes) for an afternoon of fun. Experience sandboarding or camel riding.
Relax at your hotel or enjoy a local restaurant. Sample traditional dishes like hand-pulled noodles.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural landscapes, including the Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park known for its colorful rock formations.
- Rich cultural heritage with historical sites such as ancient temples and the Great Wall.
- Pleasant climate with distinct seasons, making it suitable for outdoor activities.
- Less crowded than other tourist destinations in China, providing a more relaxed experience.
- Limited English-speaking infrastructure which may pose challenges for international tourists.
- Transportation options to and from Zhangye can be less frequent compared to larger cities.
- Fewer modern amenities and international dining options in comparison to bigger urban centers.
- Some attractions may require travel to remote areas, making access difficult without a vehicle.
Best Activities in Zhangye
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
This park features unique, colorful rock formations and offers hiking and photography opportunities.
Explore the beautiful natural scenery of Zhangye on horseback, allowing for a unique perspective of the area.
Experience the stunning views and serene atmosphere of the Tiantishan Mountains by camping in the area.
Tours
Uncover the best of Zhangye with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Zhangye
Visit one of these nice places.
The colorful rock formations and striations of the Zhangye Danxia Landform Geological Park offer stunning and unique photo opportunities.
Situated in the middle of the desert, the Mati Temple provides a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape, making it an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts.
The contrast between the golden sand dunes and the serene crescent-shaped lake makes for an exquisite view, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Food in Zhangye
Zhangye Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Hand-pulled noodles are a staple in Zhangye, often served in rich and flavorful broths with various toppings. Be sure to try the spicy beef noodle soup at Xiao Hei Noodle House, located at 88 Dongda Street.
Must-Try!
Zhangye is renowned for its succulent, tender baked lamb dishes. A must-try is the cumin-spiced baked lamb ribs at Lao Ma's Lamb Restaurant, situated at 23 Xiguan Street.
These iconic noodles are a local favorite, typically served in a savory, aromatic beef broth. Visit Zhangye Xinya Restaurant on East Ring Road for an exceptional rendition.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Zhangye better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant market is a haven for street food enthusiasts, offering an array of local delicacies such as skewered lamb kebabs, steamed buns, and sesame pancakes. Don't miss the opportunity to sample these delights while immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere of the market.
Located in the city center, Changle Food Street boasts an assortment of stalls and small eateries serving up an assortment of authentic Gansu-style street food. Be sure to try the aromatic lamb skewers and hand-pulled noodles made right before your eyes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Zhangye, it is important to show respect for elders by addressing them with proper titles and using polite language.
Cultural norms in Zhangye emphasize the value of maintaining social harmony. It is important to avoid confrontation and strive for peaceful interactions.
Hospitality is highly regarded in Zhangye, and offering gifts as a token of appreciation is a common practice when visiting someone's home.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Zhangye with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Zhangye
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Zhangye, China. It is generally not expected in restaurants, hotels, or for other services.
In Zhangye, China, cash is still widely used for most transactions. However, major hotels, restaurants, and stores in tourist areas may accept credit cards. It is always a good idea to carry some cash in local currency for smaller establishments and street vendors.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Zhangye.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is considered a good time to visit Zhangye as the weather is pleasant and the famous Zhangye Danxia Landform is complemented by blooming wildflowers.
Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season in Zhangye due to warm weather and clear skies, making it the best time to visit for outdoor activities and exploration.
Autumn (September to November) is another popular time to visit Zhangye as the weather is mild and the Danxia Landform is enhanced by the rich colors of the changing leaves.
Winter (December to February) is the low season with cold temperatures, but it is a great time for experiencing the unique beauty of the Danxia Landform covered in snow.
Zhangye at Night
Hiking in Zhangye
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Famous for its colorful rock formations, this park offers various hiking trails that showcase the stunning landscape and unique geological features.
Located about 50 km from Zhangye, this historical site offers hiking paths that lead to ancient caves and temples set against beautiful mountainous scenery.
A range located to the south of Zhangye, offering numerous hiking opportunities with breathtaking views, rich biodiversity, and the chance to see diverse wildlife.
A scenic area with vineyards, offering trails that allow visitors to explore the lush landscape and enjoy the local grape products.
A less frequented area that features sand dunes and unique desert flora and fauna, providing an adventurous hiking experience.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Zhangye through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Zhangye by plane.
The nearest airport serving Zhangye with domestic flights and limited international connections.
Located approximately 400 kilometers from Zhangye, this is the largest international airport in Gansu Province.
About 500 kilometers away, this airport serves international and domestic routes and is a significant hub in Qinghai Province.
Located around 1300 kilometers from Zhangye, this is one of the major international airports in the Xinjiang region.
Approximately 150 kilometers from Zhangye, this airport offers limited domestic flights and is closer than larger international airports.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Zhangye, making up a significant majority of the population.
A Muslim ethnic group, the Hui people have a notable presence in Zhangye and contribute to its cultural diversity.
An ethnic group with a smaller population in Zhangye, the Tujia are known for their distinct culture and traditions.
Mongolian communities can be found in Zhangye, reflecting the region's historical ties to Mongol populations.
This includes various other groups such as Tibetans, Salar, and others, who collectively make up a smaller fraction of the demographic.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is highly popular among the youth in Zhangye, with various local competitions and schools actively promoting the sport.
Soccer enjoys a significant following in Zhangye, fueled by school programs and local clubs that engage young players.
Table tennis is a widely played sport in Zhangye, with many community centers and schools offering facilities and coaching.
Badminton is commonly played in Zhangye, both recreationally and competitively, with many people enjoying it in parks and sports halls.
Running, particularly in the beautiful natural settings around Zhangye, is a favored pastime for fitness enthusiasts.
Cycling is popular in Zhangye, both for leisure and as a means of transportation, with scenic routes attracting cyclists.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Zhangye.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat-heavy dishes dominate the local cuisine, many restaurants and cafes in Zhangye offer vegetarian and vegan menu items, such as flavorful stir-fried vegetables, tofu dishes, and fresh fruit bowls. Pine Cone Coffee is a recommended spot for plant-based options.
Travelers with gluten-free dietary requirements will find several eateries in Zhangye that accommodate this need. Dishes like steamed rice, grilled fish, and fruit-based desserts are often safe choices, and it's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly when dining out.