Things To Do
in Zhangye
Zhangye is a mesmerizing city located in Gansu Province, China, known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. It is famous for the Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park, which features uniquely colored rock formations resembling a painter's palette. The city is also home to historical sites such as the Giant Buddha Temple and the ancient Silk Road routes.
Zhangye serves as a gateway to the diverse natural beauty and cultural experiences of northwestern China.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Giant Buddha Temple, home to a magnificent reclining Buddha statue and beautiful ancient architecture.
Explore the Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park, where you can hike among the vibrant, rainbow-colored rock formations and enjoy breathtaking views.
Dine at a local restaurant and experience authentic Zhangye cuisine, followed by a leisurely stroll through the city center to enjoy the local nightlife.
Visit the Zhangye National Wetland Park, where you can walk along scenic trails and observe the diverse wildlife.
Head to the nearby Mati Temple Grottoes, an ancient site featuring stunning rock-cut temples and Buddhist carvings.
Enjoy a traditional hot pot dinner at a popular restaurant and explore local shops for souvenirs.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Bowl of noodles | $2 |
| 🍵Tea | $1 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two | $20 |
| 🚌Local bus fare | $0.50 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural landscapes and geological formations.
- Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
- Affordable cost of living and dining.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
- Language barrier for non-Chinese speakers.
- Public transportation may be less frequent.
- "你好" - Hello
- "谢谢" - Thank you
- "请问厕所在哪里?" - Where is the restroom?
- "我想要这个" - I would like this
- "多少钱?" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Zhangye
Visit one of these nice places.
Famous for its uniquely colored rock formations, this park is a photographer's paradise, especially during sunrise and sunset.
An ancient site with intricate carvings and stunning backdrops, providing excellent opportunities for cultural photography.
The impressive reclining Buddha statue and surrounding architecture make for captivating photographs.
Food in Zhangye
Zhangye Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Hand-pulled noodles served with various toppings, a staple dish in the region.
Must-Try!
A flavorful beef broth served with handmade noodles, garnished with fresh herbs and chili oil.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market offering a variety of street food, snacks, and local delicacies to sample.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Showing respect to elders is important in Chinese culture; greet them first and use polite language.
When dining, wait for the host to begin eating before you start, and avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice.
Dressing modestly is appreciated, especially when visiting religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Zhangye
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Zhangye, but rounding up the bill is appreciated in restaurants.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted, making transactions convenient.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is mild, with blooming flowers and pleasant weather, ideal for outdoor activities.
Summer (June to August) can be hot, particularly in July, but is a great time for exploring the natural parks.
Autumn (September to November) brings cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage, perfect for photography.
Winter (December to February) can be cold with occasional snow, but the landscape's tranquility offers a unique charm.
Zhangye at Night
Hiking in Zhangye
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail through the Danxia Landform, allowing hikers to experience the vibrant landscapes up close.
A moderate hike leading to the Mati Temple, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Airports
How to reach Zhangye by plane.
Located about 30 kilometers from the city center, this airport serves domestic flights and is the main gateway for travelers visiting Zhangye.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Zhangye, making up about 90% of the population, with a rich cultural influence.
A significant minority group, particularly the Hui people, who contribute to the cultural diversity and culinary scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is immensely popular among the youth in Zhangye, with many public courts available for play.
Soccer is widely played and followed, with local teams competing in various leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Zhangye.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; however, it's advisable to inform the staff about dietary needs.
As the region has a significant Muslim population, halal food is widely available.