8 Days Silk Road Tour from Lanzhou to Urumqi: Yellow River to Karez Wells

Welcome to Lanzhou, the Capital City of Gansu Province! Upon arrival in Lanzhou, your guide will meet you at the airport/train station and escort you to your hotel. You can explore on your own based on your arrival time. Feel free to seek travel ideas from your tour guide.

Lanzhou is China's only provincial capital city with the Yellow River flowing through its heart. It was also a crucial node city on the Ancient Silk Road. Known as the Jincheng (Golden City; 金城), Lanzhou has a history of over 2,200 years. The Chinese idiom "As Solid As A Rock" (固若金汤) refers to Lanzhou. Moreover, the renowned Western Han Dynasty hero Huo Qubing (霍去病, ever-victorious general) is also known as the "Father of Lanzhou." In 121 BC, commissioned by Emperor Liuche (汉武帝刘彻) of Western Han Dynasty, Huo Qubing led his troops to defeat the Xiongnu (匈奴) and opened up the Hexi Corridor (河西走廊; Gansu Corridor). Upon his return, he ordered Li Xi (李息) to build a city on the banks of the Yellow River, naming it Jincheng. Spanning both sides of the Yellow River (Lanzhou's Mother River), with Gao Lan Mountain (Lanzhou's Mother Mountain) to the south, Jincheng was surrounded by natural geographical advantages and man-made walls that could accommodate a million troops, forming "an unassailable fortress" (as solid as a rock). It served as a frontline strategic city to defend against Xiongnu attacks. In 583 AD (Sui Dynasty), "Jincheng" was renamed "Lanzhou," named after Gao Lan Mountain (皋兰山; meaning "riverside mountain" in the Xiongnu language). Today, statues of Huo Qubing riding a horse into battle can be seen in Wuquanshan Park (五泉山公园) and Huo Qubing Theme Park (霍去病主题公园) in Lanzhou. These statues witness the changes and transformations of the Silk Road and the city of Lanzhou.

As the "Pearl of the Yellow River黄河明珠", Lanzhou is not only the “Crossroads of Northwest China” but also a core node of the Belt and Road Initiative (一带一路) and a major international transportation corridor and land port connecting the New Eurasian Continental Bridge (新亚欧大陆桥) to Central Asia, West Asia, and Europe. The long-standing Yellow River Culture (黄河文化), Silk Road Culture(丝路文化), Central Plains Culture (中原文化), and Western Regions Culture (西域文化) converge here. Additionally, it is one of the Top 10 Most Popular Summer Destinations in China and one of the Top 10 Internet Celebrity Cities with the fastest-growing number of tourists.

When arrive in Lanzhou, you should not miss the chance to visit the landmarks of Lanzhou such as the First Bridge of Yellow River (天下黄河第一桥; Zhongshan Bridge; Named in memory of Dr. Sun Yat-sen/孙中山; Over 100-year-old Iron Bridge; Sheepskin Raft), White Pagoda Park (White Pagoda Mountain; Ancient Architectural Complex; Panoramic View of Lanzhou City & Zhongshan Bridge), Yellow River Mother Statue (Symbol of Chinese Culture), and Waterwheel Park (Waterwheel, as famous as Dutch windmills). Sample the Lanzhou food at Zhengning Road Night Market such as Lanzhou Beef Noodle (兰州拉面; China's No. 1 Noodle), Pulled Lamb (手抓羊肉), Sweet Barley Wine(甜醅子), Gray Pea Porridge(灰豆子), and more. A cup of Lanzhou Sanpaotai Tea (兰州三炮台/盖碗茶) by the Yellow River to wait for the night view of Zhongshan Bridge & White Pagoda Mountain is also highly recommended as it looks even more beautiful when the lights are turned on at night!

Free Time Ideas:
1. Half-day Classic Lanzhou City Tour: Pay a visit to Zhongshan Iron Bridge (Iron Bridge of Yellow River), White Pagoda Park/Mountain, Statue of Mother Yellow River, Waterwheel Park & Zhengning Road Night Market.
2. Full-day Lanzhou Culture Tour with Museums (Closed on Mondays): Add one more day to explore Lanzhou by visiting Gansu Province Museum (甘肃省博物馆; Flying Horse of Gansu; Need to book ahead of the time; relics from the Silk Road & Gansu Corridor), Dunhuang Art Gallery (敦煌艺术馆; recreated Cave 220 of the Mogao Grottoes), Duzhe Museum (读者博物馆; Museum about Reader magazine, "the recreational reading material for Chinese people" & "No. 1 brand of Chinese periodicals". Since its founding in 1981, the magazine's headquarters is based in Lanzhou), and Lanzhou Old Street.

Arrival Ideas:
With a permanent resident population of 4.4 million, Lanzhou is the largest city in the upper reaches of the Yellow River and serves as a major transportation hub in Northwest China. Besides the airport, railway stations, and highways, Lanzhou is one of the few northwestern cities with a metro system.
1. How to get to Lanzhou By Air: Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport (兰州中川国际机场) is the only airport in Lanzhou & one of the major airports in the northwest of China at the fringe of the Qing-Tibet Plateau. There are about 66 airlines connecting Lanzhou with major cities in China, including Beijing (2hrs), Shanghai (3hrs), Guangzhou (3h 10min), Guilin (2h 25min), Chengdu (1h 35min), Xian (1h 15min), Urumqi (2h 40min), Dunhuang (1h 50min), Jiayuguan (1h 35min), etc. Most continental flights from Europe to Hong Kong have to fly over this airport and several flights to 19 international cities/regions in Japan, Korea, Singapore, and Malaysia.
2. How to get to Lanzhou By High speed Train: There are Lanzhou Railway Station & Lanzhou West Railway Station in downtown Lanzhou. Lanzhou West Railway Station is only the high-speed railway station in Lanzhou city, and it operates only High-speed bullet trains to Beijing (8.5-9.5hrs), Shanghai (11-12hrs), Xian (3-4hrs), Chengdu (7-8hrs), Chongqing (7-7.5hrs), Urumqi (11-11.5h), Xining (1-1.5hrs), Tianshui (1.5hrs), Wuwei (1-2hrs), Jiayuguan (4-5hrs), Zhangye (2-3hrs), Dunhuang (8-9hrs), etc. And Lanzhou Railway Station also operates trains to those cities, but mostly by normal trains.

This early morning, drive 75 km (about 2 hours) to Liujiaxia Reservoir (刘家峡水库), which is famed as “A Shining Gem of the Highlands高原明珠” & "Little Erhai Lake" of Gansu. You will take a speedboat (about 2 hours round-trip on the boat: 108 km) at Liujiaxia Dam (刘家峡大坝) to visit Bingling Temple Grottoes (炳灵寺; about 1.5 hours of visit), a World Heritage Site. After exploring Bingling Grottoes (炳灵寺石窟), you will return to Lanzhou for your High-Speed Train to Zhangye (3 hours).

On the speedboat, you will enjoy the beautiful scenery of Liujiaxia Gorge (刘家峡), a canyon landscape shaped by water erosion & one of the Yellow River Three Gorges (黄河三峡; story background of the tale "Yu and the Flood 大禹治水"). As your boat goes through the Liujiaxia Reservoir (altitude of 1,560-2,851m, famed as "China's Pokhara" by high-altitude paragliding community), you will witness a wondrous sight - the Yellow River (green one) and the Tao River (yellow one) converge in a 'Y' shape in front of Long Hui Mountain (龙汇山). One clear, one turbid, one green, one yellow, the two rivers meet, forming a clear boundary. This is the famous "convergence of the Yellow River and Tao River" (黄洮交汇). You see that the Yellow River is not yellow until it joins with the Tao River (洮河), the second largest tributary of the upper Yellow River, which becomes muddy after passing through the Loess Plateau (黄土高原). Stretching about 5,464 km, the Yellow River is China's second longest river. Its name, "Yellow," comes from the immense amount of sediment it carries, making it the world's muddiest river. Your boat trip on the Yellow River may help you to get a better understanding of this "Mother River" of the Chinese people (the birthplace of Chinese civilization). You can also admire the Liujiaxia Bridge (刘家峡大桥; 568 m) & Danxia landscape on the way to Binglingsi Temple, which is located on the bank of the Yellow River.

With a history of 1,600 years, Bingling Temple Grottoes (Bingling Cave-Temple Complex) is 100 years older than Mogao Grottoes. Bingling Grottoes is not only the first Yellow River grotto on the Silk Road but also one of the earliest dated grottoes in China which was initially carved during the Western Qin period (414-431 AD; 西秦). Bingling Grottoes, following the Mogao Grottoes and the Maijishan Grottoes, is the third-largest grotto in Gansu. While the Mogao Grottoes are renowned for their murals and the Maijishan Grottoes for their clay sculptures, Bingling Temple (Bingling Thousand Buddha Caves) is famous for its stone carvings. "Bingling" is a transliteration from Tibetan meaning "a hundred thousand Buddhas." Currently, there are 183 alcoves, 694 stone carvings, 82 clay sculptures, and a large number of murals (about 900 ㎡) in Bingling Temple Grottoes, which, due to their rich content and wide range of subjects, are hailed as the "Encyclopedia of Chinese Grottoes中国石窟的百科全书". Here, you can witness various artistic styles and cultural elements from different historical periods, including Gandhara art and Mathura art from West Asia, as well as the Kucha art that developed and evolved after Buddhism entered Xinjiang from India, Central Plains Buddhist art, Southern Dynasties Buddhist art, and Tibetan Buddhist art.

At Bingling Temple, be sure to visit the magnificent 27-meter-tall Seated Clay Maitreya Buddha Statue dating back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907) in Cave 171, a remarkable Landmark of Bingling Temple and the fifth largest Buddha statue in China, ranking ninth globally. When standing at this iconic statue alongside numerous grottoes and murals, you can sense that they seem to be silently contemplating or meditating with great compassion. Standing atop the grotto and gazing out over the surrounding mountains and canyons, you might truly feel transported to a fairyland.

Notes:
1. Liujiaxia Dam Speedboat: There might be a wait for enough passengers to share a speedboat before departure. Alternatively, you have the option to charter a speedboat (at your own expense) to skip the wait. Given the strong winds and lower temperatures in the valley, it's essential to dress warmly and stay comfortable.
2. Please note that the time limit for visiting the Bingling Temple grottoes is 1.5 hours when taking the round-trip speedboat. Visitors must return to the boat on time to go back to the dam. Typically, 1.5 hours is sufficient for a tour if you are not visiting the special grottoes. For enthusiasts of grotto art, it is recommended to either take the land route (though the mountain road can be challenging) or charter a boat (faster than the land route but more expensive) to ensure you have enough time to explore the site.
3. Photography is allowed in the main grotto of Bingling Temple, while photography is not permitted in the other 5 special grottoes (Caves 169, 172, 126, 128, 132). You can bring your binoculars to view the details. There is an additional fee for the special grottoes, which includes the cost of a local guide. If you are particularly interested in the sculptures from the Western Qin period and the Tang Dynasty, you can pay to visit Caves 169 and 172 (located above Cave 171, where the large Buddha statue is).
4. There are limited dining options within the scenic area, and the journey can be tiring, so it is advisable to prepare some food in advance (such as packed lunches) to bring with you.

Optional Visiting Spots: (If time permits)
1. Yellow River and Tao River Confluence Viewpoint (黄洮交汇观景平台,self-pay). With a bird’s eye view of the Tao River and the Yellow River, it appears as if a yellow dragon and a green dragon are engaged in a battle for treasure (two dragons playing with a pearl). In Chinese culture, mountains and rivers often symbolize "dragons." In this setting, the mountains and rivers complement each other like dragons converging, creating an exceptionally magnificent scenery.
2. Yellow River Cultural Museum (黄河文化博物馆; self-pay), located right next to Liujiaxia Dam, is the first specialized museum on the Yellow River (the nation's only water management culture theme park and hydropower exhibition center). The museum is divided into 4 floors with 4 exhibition halls, showcasing Yellow River culture,/management/hydropower/scenery, and more. It takes you through a time tunnel of Yellow River culture, providing insights into the source and historical culture of China's mother river.

In the afternoon, head back to Lanzhou for your High-Speed Train to Zhangye (for example: take a bullet train depart at 17:20). Taking a bullet train to Zhangye, you will pass through the oasis plains between the Qilian Mountains (祁连山) and the Longshou Mountains (龙首山), experiencing its unique geographical position as the vital gateway of the "Hexi Corridor." Zhangye is situated in the narrowest section of this ancient trading route, spanning just 50 km, yet it boasts fertile soil and pleasant scenery. This is why there is a poetic praise saying, "Not seeing snow on the Qilian Mountains, mistaking Zhangye for Jiangnan 不望祁连山顶雪，错把张掖当江南," and it is also renowned as the "Jiangnan Watertown of Abundance in the Frontier Region 塞上江南" and the "Golden Zhangye金张掖." Formerly known as Ganzhou (甘州, Ganzhou is the place of origin of the "Gan" character in Gansu Province甘肃的“甘”), Zhangye was renamed due to Emperor Wu (汉武帝) of the Han Dynasty's decision to "extend the reach of Zhangye to facilitate connections with the Western Regions 张国臂掖，以通西域," making it a crucial node along the Silk Road and a mandatory stop for the propagation of Buddhist teachings from the East. And you see the airport in Zhangye is called Zhangye Ganzhou Airport (张掖甘州机场).

Zhangye not only served as a pivotal point for the Tang Dynasty monk Xuanzang's journey (玄奘西行) to the West in search of Buddhist scriptures but is also considered the legendary birthplace of "Journey to the West " (西游记 Wukong). In the evening, Zhangye's night market awaits you, offering a chance to savor authentic donkey meat (驴肉) and apricot skin tea (杏皮茶), allowing you to indulge in a culinary adventure. Overnight in Zhangye.

Today, you will explore Zhangye City through Dafo Temple (1-2 hours) & Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park (3-4 hours) before heading to Jiayuguan (260 km, 4 hrs). It is a long day trip, when reach Jiayuguan, you can have a good rest at your hotel.

Dafo Temple (大佛寺; Big Buddha Temple) is a must-visit place in Zhangye if you are particularly interested in Buddhist culture and ancient architecture. The Big Buddha Temple is the iconic building of Zhangye, known for housing a 34.5-meter-long statue of the reclining Buddha, commonly called the "Reclining Buddha Temple 卧佛寺" by locals. Built in the year 1098, the Giant Buddha Temple was a royal temple built by the Western Xia Dynasty (西夏；1038-1227), making it one of the Four Remaining Royal Temples in China (the other three being the Lama Temple in Beijing, the Famen Temple in Baoji Of Shaanxi, and the Chongsheng Temple in Dali Of Yunnan). Legend has it that Kublai Khan (忽必烈), the founder of the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368), was born in the Big Buddha Temple in Zhangye. The Italian traveler Marco Polo was captivated by the magnificent architecture of the Giant Buddha Temple and the prosperity of Zhangye, leading him to stay there for a year. Covering an area of over 60,000 m², the temple could accommodate 5,000 worshipers simultaneously in the 16th century.

Visit Big Buddha Temple in Zhangye to explore the only surviving Western Xia temple in China, the largest indoor reclining Buddha in Asia, and the complete Yongle Canon and Prajna Paramita Sutra (《永乐北藏》). It is a Buddhist art museum that integrates architecture, sculpture, murals, carvings, scriptures, calligraphy, and cultural relics. When you step into the temple, you'll see the Grand Buddha Hall which has maintained its original appearance from over 900 years ago. Besides the reclining Buddha, the walls on the east and west sides of the hall feature murals inspired by "Journey to the West西游记," "Investiture of the Gods封神演义," and the "Classic of Mountains and Seas山海经." Among these, the "Journey to the West" mural is said to predate the novel by approximately 200 years, depicting the story of Tang Dynasty Monk Xuanzang (唐僧) and his disciples embarking on their journey to the West in a comic strip format, showcasing episodes like "Fetching Water from the Motherhood River‌," "A Battle with Red Boy," "Obstacle at Flaming Mountain," "The Monkey King: Uproar in Heaven," and "Expulsion of the Monkey King/Wukong" (取水子母河、大战红孩儿、路阻火焰山、大圣闹天宫、恨逐美猴王). Interestingly, the character Zhu Bajie (猪八戒) in the mural is portrayed as simple, honest, and hardworking, in stark contrast to the Zhu Bajie character in the novel Journey to the West. Even today, within the Zhangye region, one can find many place names from the novel Journey to the West, such as Gaolaozhuang (高老庄Bajie's hometown), Liusha River (流沙河), Liangjintai (晾金台), Bull Demon King's Cave (牛魔王洞), and the Eight Thousand Ruoshui River(八千里弱水).

A pair of Chinese characters written on a couplet outside the Grand Buddha Hall reads, "The Sleeping Buddha slumbers a thousand years without awakening, those who inquire will forever question, the answer remains elusive睡佛长睡睡千年长眠不醒，问者永问问百世永问难明," provoking deep contemplation and worth a look. Remember to ask the guide to show you another pair of couplets written in the Western Xia script with the same content. Additionally, the scripture hall of the reclining Buddha temple houses a Buddhist art exhibition hall and a Buddhist scripture exhibition hall, showcasing Buddhist artifacts extracted from the Buddha's abdomen. Among them, the "Mahaprajnaparamita Sutra《大般若波罗蜜多经》" written in gold and silver ink is a treasured artifact. Rare and exquisite Persian silver coins have been discovered in this temple, serving as compelling evidence of the bustling foreign trade along the Silk Road.

Optional Visiting Place: (If Time Permits)
1. Shanxi Guild Hall (山西会馆) : Located next to the Big Buddha Temple, the Shanxi Guild Hall was constructed by Shanxi merchants (晋商) in 1724 with a history of over 300 years for their commercial activities in Zhangye. It is said that "where there is prosperous trade, there are Shanxi merchants; where there are Shanxi merchants, there are guild halls凡商贸繁华处必有晋商，有晋商居处，必有会馆." During the Ming and Qing dynasties, Shanxi merchants built around 400 Shanxi Guild Halls across the country, all characterized by the presence of a Guan Gong Temple (关帝庙; dedicated to Guan Yu拜关羽) and an Opera Stage (西楼).
2. Zhangye Museum (张掖博物馆Closed on Mondays): Located opposite the Zhangye Big Buddha Temple, the Zhangye City Museum houses over 10,000 cultural relics spanning various historical periods from the Neolithic Age to the Ming and Qing Dynasties. These relics are diverse and include bronze ware, pottery, jade artifacts, as well as cultural remnants from the Silk Road. You can admire a 1:1 replica of the Golden Tower Temple grottoes (金塔寺1:1复制石窟) in this museum.

Note:
Currently, the reclining Buddha statue in Zhangye Giant Buddha Temple is undergoing digital restoration, covered by scaffolding. The project is expected to be completed by June 2025.

After lunch, head to visit Zhangye National Geopark (Zhangye Colorful Danxia Scenic Spot七彩丹霞景区) which is renowned for its strikingly colorful rock formations, often referred to as Rainbow Mountains. Zhangye is famous worldwide for its colorful Danxia landforms, a must-visit attraction for people traveling to Zhangye. This is a paradise for geologist & photography enthusiasts, and a great place to experience the marvelous work of nature. The Zhangye Colorful Danxia Scenic Spot (七彩丹霞景区), part of the Zhangye National Geopark, is China's only highly composite area that combines Danxia landforms with colorful hilly landscapes. Zhangye Danxia has been honored as one of the world's top ten geographical wonders, one of the 22 most unforgettable landscapes worldwide, and the most beautiful exterior filming location at the 74th Venice Film Festival. This location served as a filming site for the movie The Great Wall《长城》 directed by Zhang Yimou and Disney's Mulan《花木兰》. The Rainbow Mountains featured on the cover of high school English textbooks are not only geological relics of special scientific significance, rarity, and aesthetic value but also hold archaeological, ecological, historical, and cultural significance.

During the Cretaceous period, approximately 135 to 65 million years ago, the Zhangye region underwent the Himalayan orogeny, multiple erosions by water and wind, and long-term weathering processes, leading to the formation of the current Danxia landforms. The strata are mainly composed of sandstone and mudstone, formed in a dry and hot environment, where divalent iron in minerals oxidized to trivalent iron, giving the strata a red hue. As the environment gradually became wetter, the high-priced iron was reduced, causing a change in strata color to shades of brown, yellow-green, and bluish-gray, creating a palette resembling that of an overturned divine paintbox. The term "Danxia (丹霞)" originates from Cao Pi's poem (曹丕) "Danxia surrounded by the bright moon, with splendid stars emerging amidst the clouds (丹霞夹明月，华星出云间)." "Danxia," literally means the sacred or auspicious celestial sight - the rosy clouds illuminated by light. When geologists first discovered the cinnabar-colored landform, the romantic scientists named it the "Danxia landscape," leading to the coinage of the geographical term "Danxia landform (丹霞地貌)."

The scenic area comprises five Observation Decks (No. 3 and No. 2 have been merged). Shuttle buses connect each Observation Deck (entering and exiting at the north gate, with shuttle stops at four points in the order of Observation Deck #2-1-5-4). Observation Deck #1 and Observation Deck #4 are the most recommended. Yunhai Platform (云海台 No. 1) is where the image was taken on the ticket and the largest viewing platform, offering a panoramic view of the entire Danxia landscape, including the winding S-shaped road. Hongxia Platform (虹霞台 No. 4), highly popular and considered the most beautiful spot with the most vibrant colors, is the best place to watch the sunset. In the eyes of the Chinese people, the Rainbow Mountains here resemble delicious Pork Belly or Strawberry Cake layers.

At the Zhangye Rainbow Mountains, you can admire unique features like the Rainbow Screen, Sleeping Beauty, Giant Scallop, Monks Worshiping Buddha, Monkey Gazing at the Sea, Turtle Asking the Heavens, and the Red Cliff Great Wall (七彩屏、睡美人，大扇贝、众僧拜佛、灵猴观海、神龟问天、赤壁长城). Standing at the mountaintop, one can witness the colorful watercolor-like mountain ranges, feeling as if stepping into a painting.

After visiting Zhanghe, head to Jiayuguan (210km, 3hrs) via Jiuquan City (酒泉). If time permits, you can arrive at the Great Wall on the Cliff before 17:00 to hike and witness the sunset at Great Wall of Jiayuguan. Jiayuguan is a good place to grasp the essence of a famous Chinese poem that goes, 'In the boundless desert, lonely smoke rises straight; Over the endless river, the sun sinks round大漠孤烟直，长河落日圆'. Overnight stay in Jiayuguan.

Optional Visiting Place:
Zhangye UNESCO Global Geopark Museum (张掖地质公园博物馆 Closed on Mondays): You can enter from the North Gate (北门) as it is where the Zhangye UNESCO Global Geopark Museum (Closed on Monday) located. With a visit to the museum that serving as a popular science base for understanding the professional knowledge of Zhangye Danxia Landform, you may gain deeper understanding of this Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park (Zhangye Danxia Geopark张掖国家地质公园).

Notes:
1. The best time for photography is at sunrise when the light is soft, colors are vivid, and there is a strong contrast, ideal for capturing both the panoramic view and detailed textures of the Rainbow Mountains. Sunset, with the setting sun casting its warm glow on the hills, creating golden silhouettes, is also an excellent time to capture the beauty of the Rainbow Mountains. If you want to capture the sunrise, do double check with your travel consultant to overnight at the hotel near the Rainbow Mountains.
2. Another optimal time to appreciate the Danxia landforms is after rainfall when the colors become even more vibrant and captivating due to the moisture.
3. Comfortable shoes are essential as climbing uphill sections may occur.
4. The scenic area also offers entertainment options such as camel rides, hot air balloons, gliders, helicopters, and other activities (at an additional cost).

Today, you will explore Jiayuguan City for the Jiayuguan Pass (Jiayuguan Fortress). Then, head to Dunhuang (400 km, 5 hrs) and visit Singing Sand Dunes & Crescent Spring.

Jiayuguan Pass (嘉峪关关城), built in 1372, is known as one of the "Three Great Passes of the Great Wall of China中国长城三大奇观之一" (Shanhaiguan Pass in the east, Zhenbeitai Terrace in the middle, and Jiayuguan Pass in the west). Standing atop the Jiayuguan Pass, a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site "The Great Wall of China", you can feel the magnificence and grandeur of this ancient military defense structure. Jiayuguan is the Westernmost Pass of the Ming Great Wall, in the middle of the Hexi Corridor. "Jiayu" means "beautiful valley." Nestled against mountains and water, with its strategic location and majestic architecture, it is renowned as the "The Impregnable Pass under Heaven天下第一雄关."

From the Jiayuguan Pass walls, you can see the Great Wall traversing the desert and the Gobi, while the beautiful Qilian Mountains (祁连山Snow Mountains) and the Heishan Mountains (黑山) act as natural barriers, stretching across the north and south of Jiayuguan. The magnificent scene described in the elementary school Chinese textbook "The Great Wall《长城》" - "From Shanhaiguan in the east to Jiayuguan in the west, spans over 13,000 li (Chinese miles)从东头的山海关到西头的嘉峪关，有一万三千多里" - finds perfect embodiment here.

You might imagine over 600 years ago when this place was a battleground where the Great Walls were built and met with the Ancient Silk Road, connecting the Central Plains (中原) with the Western Regions (西域), and witnessing numerous commercial exchanges and cultural interactions. During the Western Han Dynasty (202 BC-8 AD), Zhang Qian (张骞) passed through here three times to open up the Western Regions, and General Huo Qubing (霍去病) departed to battle the Huns, or Xiongnu (匈奴). During the Tang Dynasty (618-907), Monk Xuanzang (玄奘) passed through here to retrieve Buddhist scriptures. Marco Polo (马可波罗) traveled through China in the Yuan Dynasty (1206-1368) and visited Jiayuguan. In 1841 (Qing Dynasty), Lin Zexu (林则徐) was sentenced to exile in Yili, Xinjiang for his involvement in the anti-opium campaign. Passing through Jiayuguan, he composed the poem "Southeast, who compares to this mighty pass东南谁比此关雄."

Today, in Jiayuguan Fortress, you can obtain a passage permit (Optional; Self-pay) and experience the process of entering and exiting Jiayuguan as it was centuries ago. This unique experience transports you through time, back to an era where official "passes" (an early form of passport) were required for passage. The Chinese phrase "qing duo guanzhao" (请多关照literally means please take care of me; similar to nice to meet you) originates from the polite language used by people entering and exiting Jiayuguan, symbolizing mutual care and assistance.

Jiayuguan Pass/Fortress is one of the best-preserved gate cities along the Great Wall, making it a popular destination for architecture enthusiasts. It consists of three overlapping defense lines - the inner city, outer city, and moat - forming a military defense system with watchtowers every five li, beacon towers every ten li, fortresses every thirty li, and a city every hundred li. Jiayuguan is not just a city; it's a legendary tale waiting for you to uncover its secrets. Additionally, Jiayuguan is an oasis at the foot of the Qilian Snow Mountains, with numerous lakes and lush greenery, making it a rare summer retreat.

After that, head to Dunhuang. You will visit Mingsha Mountain & Crescent Lake (鸣沙山月牙泉) and even sit on the peak of Singing Sand Dunes (1,715 m) to wait for a stunning sunset in front of the Crescent Spring. The Singing Sand Dunes & Crescent Lake is praised as “one of the Top 5 Most Beautiful Deserts in China," "China's Best Natural Landscape Tourist Destination," and "China's Most Beautiful Moon-watching Spot." It is a geological park known for the unique spectacle of mountains, spring, and sand coexisting in the desert. You can enjoy various activities (self-pay) such as camel riding, sand sliding, desert motorcycles, off-road vehicles, helicopters, gliders... You will meet people in costumes of traditional Han clothing or Flying Apsaras.

The Mingsha Mountain is named for the sound produced by the moving sands, with recorded volumes of the singing reaching up to 83 decibels. This phenomenon of sand-producing sound is one of the Dunhuang Eight Views, known as "ShalingQingming沙岭晴鸣" in the Dunhuang County Chronicles《敦煌县志》, where Dunhuang's ancient name of Shazhou (沙洲) also originates. The Singing Sand Dunes stretches from the Mogao Caves in the east to the Dang River in the west, spanning about 40 km east to west and 20 km north to south. The mountain is formed from deposits of fine sand in five colors (red, yellow, green, black, white). The sand of Mingsha Mountain is carried by the wind from the Gobi Desert and the Kumtag Desert to settle here, gradually accumulating over time. The Crescent Lake is nestled amidst the Mingsha Mountain, named for its crescent moon-like shape. The spring water spans 242 meters from east to west and can reach up to 50 meters wide from north to south, with an average depth of around 1.5 meters. The spring is home to the Ironback Fish (铁背鱼local fish) and Seven Star Grass (七星草; medicinal herb) which is included in the "Three Treasures of Crescent Spring月牙泉三宝" by locals (the third one is Five-colored Sand五色沙), believed to bring good luck to people. So try your luck to find them. Remarkably, the sand has not encroached upon the spring, and the water remains clear and abundant, traversing through time, creating the world wonder of the "First Spring in the Desert沙漠第一泉."

Notes：
1. Optional activities in the Mingsha Mountain Scenic Area: Shoe covers; Sightseeing vehicle; Camel riding; Motorcycle; Off-road vehicle (seats 3 people); Paragliding; Helicopter (seats 3 people).
2. When participating in desert recreational activities, take care of your photographic equipment and prevent sand from entering the camera. When riding a camel, follow the staff's instructions when mounting and dismounting.

After that, you can pay a visit to Dunhuang Shazhou Night Market (敦煌沙洲夜市; Optional) for Dunhuang food. There are many distinctive snacks that you must try, such as Apricot Skin Water (杏皮水), Donkey Meat Noodles (驴肉黄面), and Bubble Oil Cakes (泡儿油糕). The locals in Dunhuang enjoy eating lamb, chicken, and beef, and they are good at noodle making.

Optional Evening Show: (Reservation Required)
1. "Ancient Sound of Dunhang《乐动敦煌》" (available yearround) is the world's first cave-style immersive theatrical experience, telling the story of a young man from the Western Regions named Bai Xin in the early years of the Tang Dynasty who discovers the essence of music in the dancing murals of Dunhuang. Using modern technology and combining live performances, the performance reproduces cultural elements such as music, dance, poetry, costumes, and paintings from the Dunhuang murals.
2. "Dunhuang Celebration《敦煌盛典》" (peak season only) is the world's first large-scale desert live performance, set against the backdrop of the Crescent Lake in the Mingsha Mountain. The unique feature of a 360-degree rotating and movable audience seat enhances the tragic love story of the young painter and the princess, reimagining the former prosperity of the ancient Silk Road and showcasing the unique cultural and folk customs of Dunhuang (including "Iron Flower").
3. "Encore Dunhuang《又见敦煌》" (peak season only) is a large-scale indoor experiential drama directed by Wang Chaoge王潮歌, one of the chief directors of the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Audience members "journey" through the scripture caves, Mogao Caves, and Silk Road, experiencing Dunhuang culture and the Silk Road firsthand.
4. "Thousand-Handed, Thousand-Eyed《千手千眼》"(peak season only) is a large-scale theatrical production performed by the China Disabled People's Performing Art Troupe, showcasing the folk story of "Wonderful Kindness Saves Father." The dance movements are graceful, with deep cultural significance and extremely high artistic standards.

In the morning, you will enjoy a wonderful Dunhuang Culture Tour by visiting Mogao Grottoes (4-4.5hrs), a UNESCO World Heritage site. In the afternoon, travel from the Mogao Grottoes to Liuyuan South Station (140km, 2.5 hours) to catch the high-speed train to Dunhuang (3.5 hours).

Dunhuang Mogao Grottoes is the must-visit place for a trip to Gansu. You may have read many stories about A. Stein (斯坦因a British archaeologist and explorer) and the vast trove of artifacts (Paintings, Sculptures, Manuscripts) he brought from the Mogao Grottoes in the early 20th century. You may have already seen the artifacts Stein collected in the British Museum in London. Or you may have heard of Paul Pelliot (French archaeologist & Sinologist) who like A. Stein, conducted several expeditions to Dunhuang and collected a large number of artifacts which is primarily housed in the Guimet Museum in Paris, France. Welcome to visit Mogao Grottoes the source of the world famous Dunhuang Manuscripts (Dunhuang Yi shu敦煌遗书; Cave 16-17) and explore valuable insights into the history and culture of the Silk Road.

The Mogao Caves (Mogao Grottoes莫高窟), also known as the Thousand Buddha Grottoes (千佛洞), are acclaimed as the "Treasure House of Eastern Art东方艺术宝库." The remaining 735 caves are dotted along cliffs rising about 15-30 m high and over 1,700 m, forming a magnificent spectacle of this world cultural heritage site. Despite the significant loss of artifacts to oversea museums, the Mogao Caves remain one of the world's largest and most richly endowed repositories of Buddhist art. Spanning sixteen kingdoms, Northern Wei, Western Wei, Northern Zhou, Sui, Tang, Five Dynasties, Song, and Western Xia dynasties, the construction of the Mogao Grottoes lasted for over a thousand years until the Yuan Dynasty, resulting in about 45,000 ㎡ murals and 2,415 clay sculptures. In the year 366 AD, the first cave of the Mogao Caves was carved into the cliff by the Monk Le Zun (乐僔; over 1,650 years ago). In the 7th century, Xuanzang (唐僧) translated numerous Buddhist scriptures at the Mogao Caves. In 1900, Daoist Wang (王圆箓) discovered the Library Cave (藏经洞; Sutra Cave; Cave 16). From 1941 to 1943, Zhang Daqian (张大千), a prodigious Chinese artist of the twentieth century, copied 276 murals here.

At the Mogao Caves, you can explore various types of grottoes (large statue caves, Nirvana caves, central pillar caves, vaulted ceiling caves, hall caves) and learn about the pigments used by ancient artists in painting murals (cinnabar, orpiment, azurite, mica, gamboge, gold leaf, shell powder). You can admire narrative paintings of Buddhist themes (the life of Shakyamuni Buddha, the Nine-Colored Deer Sacrificing Itself to Save Others), diverse clay sculptures (Buddha statues, Bodhisattva figures, guardians, deities), Flying Apsaras (飞天) and Swirling Dances (Sema; 胡旋舞) in the prosperous Tang Dynasty, as well as the attire and customs of patrons from various dynasties. At the Mogao Caves, you can witness the brilliance and charm of the ancient Silk Road and the efforts and achievements of generations of cultural heritage preservation workers and researchers (such as Chang Shuhong常书鸿, a Chinese painter known as the "guardian of Dunhuang"敦煌守护神).

You can start at the Mogao Caves Digital Center (莫高窟数字中心), watch a 40-minute digital film, and then take a shuttle bus to the caves. Guided by the site interpreters, you will visit 8 caves sequentially (Ticket A; no photography allowed inside the caves). You may have the chance to see significant caves like the Library Cave (Caves 16-17; the largest cave), the Nine-Storey Tower (Cave 96; one of Mogao's iconic structures; the largest Buddha statue), the Nirvana Sutra Cave (Cave 148; reclining Buddha), the Early Tang Treasures Cave (Cave 332), and the Northern Wei Masterpieces Cave (Cave 257). The actual eight caves visited may vary based on the site's conditions. If interested, you can visit the Cultural Relics Protection and Display Center (文物保护陈列中心) to see 1:1 replicas of eight special caves, including Caves 275, 249, 285, 419, 220, 217, 25, and 3 (photography allowed).

After the tour, you will head to Liuyuan South Station for the bullet train to Turpan.

Notes：
1. To protect the caves, the Mogao Caves implemented a real-name reservation system for timed visits, implementing a daily limit on the number of visitors. The ticketing system includes A/Regular tickets (6,000 tickets/day) and B/Emergency tickets (12,000 tickets/day; for domestic visitors only). A Ticket includes access to 8 caves and 2 digital movies. B ticket includes access to 4 caves and the Cave Artifacts Conservation and Research Exhibition Center.
2. Visitors must follow the visiting arrangement set by the management of the Mogao Caves on the day of the visit. The visiting order of the Mingsha Mountain and the Mogao Caves is subject to change.
3. If you are particularly interested in the caves, you can also purchase tickets for special caves at the site (may require queuing) to explore more exquisite caves. The special caves (self-pay) are divided into Line 1 (Caves 45, 320, 321, 420, 9) and Line 2 (Caves 275, 45, 156, 158, 159).
4. During the Dunhuang Cultural Expo or in case of inclement weather or other factors affecting the visit, if the Mogao Caves cannot be visited as planned, our company will refund the Mogao Caves tickets according to the actual cost, or arrange a visit to the Western Thousand Buddha Caves as an alternative.

Today, you will delight in a splendid Turpan Culture Tour, exploring the Jiaohe Ancient City Ruins (a World Heritage site), the Karez System (one of China’s three Great Ancient Engineering Projects, alongside the Great Wall & the Grand Canal), and the Emin Minaret (Islamic and Uyghur Buildings) before traveling to Urumqi, a journey of about 210 km (4 hours).

After breakfast, begin your visit to Jiaohe Ancient City (交河故城), one of the best-preserved ruins of ancient cities along the Silk Road and inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List as part of the joint application "Silk Roads: the Routes Network of Chang'an-Tianshan Corridor." Jiaohe Ruins offers a profound glimpse into ancient city planning and the historical complexity of the civilizations on the Silk Road.

Nestled between two deep river valleys, Jiaohe, meaning "the confluence of two rivers," is strategically positioned on a large, steep plateau that provides formidable natural defenses. As a key city connecting the Central Plains (中原) and the vast regions of the Western Regions (西域), Jiaohe Ancient City played a vital role in the transportation network of the Silk Road. It witnessed the bustling trade along the Silk Road and the exchange and integration of Eastern and Western cultures.

Unlike many ancient cities, its structures were not built up from the ground but carved down into the existing plateau of loess soil. Walking through the ruins, you can see the remains of government offices, residential houses, Buddhist stupas, and temples. These remnants not only provide important physical evidence for studying the history and culture of the Silk Road but also offer valuable insights into the social, economic, and religious life that shaped this region. Tips: There is no shelter inside the ruin, so be mindful of sun protection.

The History of Jiaohe Ancient City
The Ancient City of Jiaohe witnessed the development of civilization in the Western Region and the Silk Road. Approximately 2,000 years ago, it was established as the capital of the Jushi Kingdom (车师国), one of the 36 kingdoms in the Western Regions (西域三十六国). Following Zhang Qian's pioneering efforts during the Western Han Dynasty to carve a path through the Western Regions, Jiaohe City emerged as a crucial hub on the Silk Road. In 60 BC, the Han Dynasty central government established the Protectorate of the Western Regions (西域都护府) to administer the various states in the region, officially incorporating the Western Regions into the Chinese domain. During the Northern and Southern Dynasties, Jiaohe became a county under the jurisdiction of Gaochang (高昌). The city reached its zenith during the Tang Dynasty with the establishment of the Anxi Protectorate (安西都护府), marking a new era in the governance of the Western Regions. During this period, Jiaohe was a bustling center of international trade and vibrant cultural exchanges among diverse ethnic groups. From the 19th to the 14th century, due to the impact of wars, Jiaohe gradually declined and eventually became a ruin.

Next, head to the Karez System (坎儿井) to learn about the ancient underground irrigation system a few thousand years ago and how this system has benefited the people along the desert's edge, transforming barren land into a lush oasis. This traditional engineering marvel is considered one of China’s three great ancient engineering projects, alongside the Great Wall and the Grand Canal. It has been recognized in the 2024 World Irrigation Project Heritage list (世界灌溉工程遗产名录).

The origin of the Karez Irrigation System
Turpan, in Xinjiang, is one of China's most arid regions, with annual rainfall of only 16 millimeters and evaporation exceeding 3,000 millimeters. These extreme conditions have led to severe surface water scarcity. To improve their survival prospects, people ingeniously utilized the natural slope of mountains to channel underground rainwater, glacial melt, and snow-melt from spring and summer to the surface for irrigation. This method greatly reduced water loss through surface evaporation, meeting the water needs of this arid region. It’s often said, "Without the Karez, there would be no Turpan; without the Karez, there would be no civilization in Turpan." The Karez has turned extremely arid basins into green havens, making Turpan a crucial corridor for East-West exchanges along the Silk Road and a place where diverse cultures converge and coexist.

The Karez system is often referred to as the "Underground Great Wall". In Xinjiang, there are over 1,700 Karez Wells which, if connected, would stretch over 5,000 kilometers, forming a vast underground river network. It is estimated that the Karez system has a history of over 2,000 years. Imagine centuries ago, without modern measuring tools or mechanical assistance, how ancient people located underground water sources, determined the gradient and direction in complete darkness, and connected such lengthy channels. Today, you have the opportunity to step into the Karez and personally unravel the secrets of this most mysterious hydraulic engineering project, experiencing first-hand how ancient innovation works.

Next, continue your exploration at the Emin Minaret (额敏塔), the tallest Islamic minaret in Xinjiang. Also known as Sugong Ta (苏公塔), this remarkable structure was erected in 1778 by the local ruler Suleiman, in tribute to his father, Emin Khoja, whose considerable efforts helped maintain national unity.

It stands 44 meters (144 feet) tall and is made from sun-dried bricks, which give it a distinct, earthy color. The tower's cylindrical body tapers elegantly as it rises, topped by an ornate, pointed dome. Uyghur artisans crafted up to 15 different types of brick patterns, including waves, diamonds, floral clusters, and crosses, which create endlessly looping designs around the tower. Gazing up from beneath the tower, you can fully appreciate the simplicity and grandeur of these designs. The accompanying mosque is an integral part of the complex, which you can visit as well. Emin Minaret serves not only as a religious structure but also as a cultural icon for the Uyghur people, embodying a unique blend of Islamic and Uyghur architectural traditions.

Then, head to Urumqi for Overnight. Welcome to Urumqi (乌鲁木齐), the capital of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region in China. It is notable for being the largest city in the world that is furthest from the ocean, with a distance of over 2,500 km from the nearest coastline. Urumqi is located in northwestern China, adjacent to Central Asian countries, and is often referred to as the "Urban Heart of Asia." Historically, Urumqi played a significant role as a major stop on the ancient Silk Road, facilitating trade between China and the West.

This history has left a lasting impact, making Urumqi a melting pot of ethnic groups, including Uyghurs, Han, Kazakhs, and others, which has shaped the unique cultural ambiance of western China. In addition to its rich history, the city is surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Tian Shan Mountains, providing stunning backdrops and opportunities for outdoor activities.

Note: Xinjiang follows the unified Beijing Time, which is UTC+08:00. However, due to its geographical location within the UTC+6 time zone, the actual local sunrise and sunset in Xinjiang occur about two hours later than they would according to Beijing Time.

Today, you'll embark on a full-day tour around Urumqi to explore the breathtaking natural beauty of Tianshan Tianchi Lake (Heavenly Lake of Tianshan) and the enlightening exhibits at the Xinjiang Regional Museum.

In the morning, you'll be driven about 70 km (about 1-1.5 hours) to Heavenly Lake of Tianshan (天山天池), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nestled at an elevation of around 1,980 meters (6,500 feet) above sea level, this serene alpine lake is surrounded by lush forests, snow-capped peaks, and breathtaking landscapes. Renowned for its crystal-clear waters, panoramic Bogda mountain views, and connections to ancient myths and legends, Heavenly Lake is a must-see. One such legend involves the Queen Mother of the West (西王母), who is said to have hosted a banquet for the Eight Immortals here.

Upon arrival, you'll first take 40-minute sightseeing bus ride through the dramatic mountains. Then, enjoy 10-minute walk to the picturesque lake. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around Heavenly Lake, taking in the fresh mountain air and diverse flora and fauna.

Optional Activities (Additional Fee Required):
1. Boat Ride: Cruise across the peaceful waters of the lake, immersing yourself in its beauty and the reflections of the snow-capped mountains.
2. Cableway Ride: Take a cableway up to Mayashan for even more stunning views of Bogda Mountain.

After lunch, return to Urumqi and visit the Xinjiang Regional Museum (新疆维吾尔自治区博物馆). This renowned museum showcases the region's rich history, ethnic cultures, and the ancient Silk Road. Explore extensive collections that include exotic artifacts from the Silk Road, and fascinating displays of traditional ethnic costumes and household items from various cultures such as Uyghur, Kazakh, and Han. The most unique is the exhibit of ancient mummies, which houses some of the world’s best-preserved mummies, including the famous “Loulan Beauty楼兰美女”, one of the 3,800-year-old desert-mummified bodies of Indo-European ancestry. Remember to take a look at the 'Five Stars Rise in the East, Benefit China' Han Dynasty Brocade Armband (”五星出东方利中国”汉代锦护臂), which is one of the first batches of cultural relics in China that were prohibited from being exhibited abroad. It is acclaimed as one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of 20th-century China. Also, the "Fu Xi and Nu Wa Silk Painting (伏羲女娲图)" illustrates the image of human ancestors from ancient Chinese myths and legends, dating back to the Tang Dynasty. The museum’s immersive exhibits will transport you back in time, allowing you to learn about the fascinating history of the Silk Road and the cultural interactions that have shaped Xinjiang.

Note: When the Xinjiang Regional Museum is closed on Monday, we will visit the Urumqi Grand Bazaar (新疆国际大巴扎) instead.

After the tour, return to your hotel in Urumqi.

Free Time Ideas:
The Urumqi Grand Bazaar, also known as the Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar, is a vibrant marketplace and a perfect way to spend your free time. Explore the many shops and stalls offering various local products, including traditional Uyghur clothing, carpets, handmade crafts, silk scarves, jewelry, spices, and dried fruits. Be sure to try local favorites such as lamb kebabs, polu (pilaf), naan bread, and laghman (hand-pulled noodles). Additionally, the architecture of the Grand Bazaar itself is worth admiring with its grand minarets, domes, and intricate Islamic-inspired designs.

Though it is time to end your 8 Days Silk Road Tour from Lanzhou to Urumqi today, you will have some free time in Urumqi and explore more on your own till your guide escorts you to the airport for your flight to next destination.

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your China Tour, and we are always here working for you and hope to see you again for your next trip to Asia. Safe journey!

Extension Ideas:
1. If you wish to extend your trip and explore other highlighted parts of Xinjiang, such as Kuqa, Hotan, Kanas, and Taklimakan Desert, and more, we can help you with the arrangements.
2. If you plan to continue your exploration to other cities in China, such as Xining, Chengdu, Lhasa, Xi'an, Beijing, and Shanghai, please feel free to let us know. We can customize your itinerary and assist you with travel arrangements.