Liupan Mountain National Forest Park6.2
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Liupanshan National Forest Park is located in Jingheyuan Town in Jingyuan County, Guyuan City…
Jingyuan, Guyuan, Ningxia, China
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Ningxia attraction deals, half-price/free at Shapotou Scenic Area@Xixia Imperial Tombs
Jingyuan's Liupan Mountain, cool forested canyons and Jing River headwaters@Liupan Mountain National Forest Park
Liupan Mountain ablaze with late fall colors, hike Xiaonanchuan@Liupan Mountain National Forest Park
Hanfu-themed free admission at Huoshizhai scenic area@Huoshizhai National Geological (Forest) Park
Liupan Mountain ablaze with fall colors, bathed in sunset glow@Liupan Mountain
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The ultimate autumn hiking spot in Jingyuan
Autumn in Guyuan is truly breathtaking✨ Liupanshan National Forest Park turns into a golden fairy tale world as soon as autumn arrives The mountains are covered in layers of colorful forests Golden larches and orange-red maple leaves are interspersed with lush green pines and cypresses Sunlight filters through the trees, scattering golden flecks across the entire forest🌞 Streams babble through the canyons, and waterfalls cascade down the rocks The mountain streams are crystal clear, with pebbles visible at the bottom Small bridges span the creeks, with every step revealing poetic mountain scenery Walking along the forest trails, you hear the sound of flowing water and see vibrant autumn colors before your eyes It's not just the forests; the whole city is gilded with ginkgo leaves. Blue skies paired with yellow leaves create an incredibly atmospheric vibe Autumn in the Northwest has both the grandeur of mountains and rivers and the gentle romance of the wild As the autumn breeze blows and leaves flutter, immerse yourself in the magnificent autumn scenery of Liupanshan 📍Location: Guyuan · Liupanshan National Forest Park 💡Tips: ✅Best viewing period: Early October, when the colorful forests are at their peak ✅Light-colored clothing is recommended for great photos ✅There is a large temperature difference in the mountains, so remember to bring a light jacket ✅You can hike through the canyons to see streams and waterfalls, or use a drone to overlook the mountains
Jingyuan 2 days 1 night | A hidden gem in Ningxia
Found a treasure for a short trip around Xi'an! Jingyuan, Ningxia, is a one-stop destination for nature and culture. 2 days 1 night is just enough to explore at a relaxed pace without rushing. ✅ Itinerary overview Day 1: Nature and scenery route | Day 2: Folk culture and food route 📅 Day 1: A healing journey in the mountains ▫️ Morning: Observation decks around Liupan Mountain Overlook the valleys from above; the yellow and green mountains and winding river valleys are perfect for photos. In autumn, the mountains are covered in colorful forests, creating a perfect atmosphere. ▫️ Noon: Local farmhouse restaurant. Try the Jingyuan yellow beef—it is tender and not gamey. ▫️ Afternoon: Photogenic wooden boardwalk + suspension bridge The red boardwalk extends along the mountain. Standing on the suspension bridge when the wind blows, looking at the mountains covered in colorful prayer flags, is perfect for photos. ▫️ Evening: Check into a hotel in Jingyuan County to rest and recharge. 📅 Day 2: Folk culture check-in ▫️ Morning: Ancient Pottery Exhibition Hall Lots of unique pottery exhibits, stone houses, and yellow arched architecture—very exotic and great for portraits. ▫️ Afternoon: Jingyuan Beef Street A lively folk culture district with red lanterns creating a great atmosphere. You might even encounter folk song and dance performances. Browse the unique shops and experience the local Hui culture. ▫️ Evening: Return trip ✅ Travel tips ▪️ Clothing: There is a large temperature difference between day and night in the mountains, so bring a light jacket. Long boots are great for mountain paths and photos. ▪️ Transport: Self-driving is recommended as the attractions are far apart, and parking is convenient. ▪️ Food: You must try the Jingyuan yellow beef. ▪️ Season: Autumn is the best time to visit, with the mountains covered in colorful foliage and stunning scenery.
Explore Liupanshan in Guyuan, an immersive visit to the plateau's "green island"
📍Basic info 📍Address: Liupanshan National Forest Park, Jingyuan County, Guyuan City, Ningxia ⏰Best time to visit · June–August: A summer retreat with lush forests and cool, comfortable weather · September–October: Autumn foliage, mountains covered in red leaves, perfect for photos 🕒Recommended duration: 1–2 days 🚗Transportation · Driving: About 1 hour from downtown Guyuan. The scenic area has parking, making driving the most convenient option · Public transport: Take a bus from Guyuan Bus Station to Jingyuan, then take a taxi to the scenic area The attractions within the scenic area are far apart, so driving is the best way to get around. 🎫Ticket info · Liupanshan National Forest Park: CNY 65 · Sightseeing bus: CNY 20. The park is large, so we recommend taking it · Red Army Long March Memorial Hall: Free admission · Discounts: Half-price for students; free admission for seniors aged 60 and over (sightseeing bus not included) 🚶Itinerary One-day highlights Visitor Center > Sightseeing bus > Xiaonanchuan Canyon (stream boardwalk) > Botanical Garden > Liangdianxia > Red Army Long March Memorial Pavilion Two-day in-depth Day 1: Liupanshan National Forest Park, explore the canyon and forest, stay in Jingyuan County Day 2: Red Army Long March Memorial Hall > Yehe Valley, then return 🍜Must-try local food ✅Guyuan lamb: Tender meat, a Northwest specialty ✅Jingyuan yellow beef: Prepared in various ways, flavorful and delicious ✅Buckwheat noodles (he-le), shredded potato stir-fry (yangyu chacha): Authentic Northwest pasta dishes ✅Steamed chicken, jiangshui snacks: Local farmhouse flavors 💰Budget · Accommodation: Hotels in Jingyuan County, CNY 130–220 in low season, CNY 200–350 in peak season · One-day trip per person (excluding long-distance transport): CNY 200–350 ⚠Tips 1. Liupanshan has a high altitude, and summer temperatures are relatively low. Bring a light jacket when entering the mountains 2. The forest is rainy and humid. Bring rain gear and wear non-slip sneakers 3. Be careful with fire in the forest area. Open flames are prohibited, and smoking is not allowed 4. There is a large temperature difference between day and night in autumn. Remember to add layers in the morning and evening 5. Some sections require hiking and can be physically demanding. Know your limits and bring drinking water 6. Please observe proper etiquette when visiting the Red Army memorial sites
Liupan Mountain has gone crazy! 800,000 mu of flower sea stretching into the clouds—if you don’t go now, you’ll have to wait until next year
Guyuan Liupan Mountain has gone wild! 800,000 mu of mountain flowers piled like a sea, free to see and you can even stay in cave dwellings “Ningxia hides a ‘pink waterfall,’ if you don’t go now, it’ll be gone!” The spring of the Liupan Mountain Flower Festival is explosive—380,000 mu of mountain peach blossoms dazzlingly pink, 350,000 mu of mountain apricot blossoms as white as snow, 80,000 mu of red plum and apricot flowers crowding the loess slopes. From the air, the entire Pengyang County looks like a spilled palette. During the Qingming holiday, 570,000 people flocked here just to walk through the sea of flowers. Even locals say, “I’ve never seen so many flowers in my life!” If you go now, not only can you see 800,000 mu of flowers for free, but you can also stay in cave dwelling homestays. At night, lie on the kang bed and count the stars—this kind of “romance of the Loess Plateau” will be gone after late April, so don’t miss it! 🌸 【Must-visit list: 4 spots to fully enjoy the flower sea】 📍 Guyuan Pengyang County | Late April last golden period, flowers at their fullest + moderate crowds Follow this route to fully experience “spring on the loess slopes” in 2 days: · Jinji Ping Terraced Fields Park · Romantic view from the god’s perspective (Recommended ★★★★★): Standing on the viewing platform looking down, the loess terraces look like a layered cake, each layer piled with pink mountain peach and white mountain apricot blossoms. When tractors drive through the flower sea, the dust they raise carries the scent of flowers. Fly a drone here (drones are allowed!), and the camera captures the terraces’ curves cutting the flower sea into patches, with cave dwellings in the distance like black gems embedded in a painting. Stand at the edge of the platform wearing a red jacket for photos—between the flowers and blue sky, caption it “In Ningxia, stepping on spring,” and your friends will ask, “Is this in Yunnan?” · No. 77 Malawan Rainbow Road · Drive into a fairy tale (Recommended ★★★★★): The colorful road winds like ribbons through the flower sea, with red, yellow, and blue stripes colliding with pink mountain peach blossoms. Driving forward, the car window frames a flowing spring scene. Stop safely by the roadside, stand in the middle of the road for photos, with endless flowers behind and the colorful road stretching ahead. When the wind blows, petals fall on the car roof, and even the GPS says, “Beautiful road ahead, please drive slowly.” · Baicha Old Apricot Forest · Date with century-old trees (Recommended ★★★★☆): The old apricot trees here are wrinkled—the trunks crooked, but the branches piled with snow-white flowers. The largest tree needs two people to hug around it, and you can still see “Visited in 2018” carved by tourists on the bark (don’t copy that!). Sit on a stone under the old tree, petals falling on your shoulders, take a side profile photo—the wrinkled tree and youthful you look like spring has traveled through a hundred years. · Qingyun Bay · Happiness drowned in pink (Recommended ★★★★★): 380,000 mu of mountain peach blossoms bloom wildly here! Pink covers the slopes up and down. Walking on the flower path, the branches on both sides touch overhead. Take a deep breath filled with sweet fragrance, bees buzz by your ears as if saying “Don’t touch my flowers.” Wear a straw hat for photos, petals fall on the brim, the wind lifts your skirt, every shot looks like “lost in a sea of flowers,” even your mom will praise, “This one looks great.” 🚗 【Transportation + Tips to avoid pitfalls, easy flower trip】 ✅ Best way to get there: · Drive 3.5 hours from Yinchuan via Jingzang Expressway then Yinkun Expressway. Service areas along the way sell “Guyuan potato vermicelli” (15 RMB/bag), perfect for stewing meat back home. · Take the high-speed train to Guyuan Station, then taxi 1 hour to Pengyang (about 80 RMB). The driver will show you real-time flower conditions on their phone, more reliable than checking yourself. ✅ Key pitfalls to avoid: · Late April is your last chance! Mountain peach and apricot blossoms will fade in 10 days. Going now means catching the flowers at their peak—don’t miss out. · Staying in cave dwellings is the real experience! Choose “Jinji Ping Cave Dwelling Homestay” (200 RMB/night). The kang bed is warm, at night you can hear insects outside the window. The owner makes “Jiaotuan” (local snack, perfect with pickled vegetables) for 10 RMB/bowl, very filling. · Check flower conditions in advance! Follow the “Pengyang Culture & Tourism” WeChat official account, updated daily on which spots have the best blooms—don’t go in vain (last year someone traveled 300 km for nothing). An old man who plants apricot trees said, “These flowers bloom only 20 days a year. 800,000 mu blooming together is Liupan Mountain catching its breath.” Open Trip.com now to book cave dwellings (choose “with breakfast” to get corn porridge with pickles), comment “Liupan Mountain” in the review section and get the “Best photo time for Rainbow Road” (3 PM, sunlight is soft and colors are vivid)~ This April, go to Guyuan—let 800,000 mu of mountain flowers surround you, let Rainbow Road take you into a fairy tale, and best of all, you can pocket the spring of the Loess Plateau for free. This opportunity only lasts 10 days a year! 📌 Tips: Bring an empty bottle! The mountain spring water at Qingyun Bay is drinkable directly, sweet and refreshing. Fill a bottle to carry with you—when thirsty, a sip is more refreshing than any bottled water.
Standing above the abyss in the red secret realm, I sat dazed and was moved to tears
Who understands, family? I thought I had seen a lot of the world until the moment I stood on a glass suspension bridge over 2,000 meters above sea level and looked down—my legs went weak. But I don’t regret it, because this red secret realm hidden in the northwest loess plateau is worth my legs going weak a thousand times. · 🧭 A few key things you need to know about Huoshi Village "the largest Danxia landform group in northern China"—this isn’t just some small patch of red rocks. It’s over 6,000 hectares of red cliffs and Danxia peaks. From high up, it looks like a sea of burning flame mountains. "altitude 1,800 to 2,500 meters"—which means in July, daytime highs only reach about 26 or 27 degrees. Once the sun sets, temperatures drop to around 15 or 16 degrees, cool enough to need a blanket at night. "dual certification as a national geological park and national forest park"—a geological wonder combined with forest ecology. Every step reveals a new scene, so you won’t get tired of the views. · 🎯 My two-day, one-night deep itinerary (don’t do a one-day trip, it’s not enough) ‘Day 1: power hike day’ Morning | Head straight to the glass suspension bridge after entering the park This bridge, renovated a couple of years ago, spans between two Danxia peaks. It’s 180 meters long, with a hundred-meter-deep valley below. The glass floor is spotless. When you look down, only two words come to mind: help me. But once you cross and look back, the sense of accomplishment is huge. Noon | Picnic in the core Danxia area Bring your own sandwiches and fruit! There aren’t many dining options inside the park, and they’re expensive. Spread out a mat in the rest area beneath the towering red cliffs and enjoy lunch surrounded by the red rock walls. The atmosphere is perfect. Afternoon | Climb to the top of Yuntai Mountain It’s about a 40-minute walk up stairs. At the top, there are Buddhist grotto ruins. From the highest point, you get a 360-degree view of the entire Danxia landform. At sunset, the cliffs change color from dark red to orange-red to deep purple. I stared at that gradient for half an hour, reluctant to leave. Evening | Return to your mountain lodging for a hot bath I chose a small inn halfway up the mountain with a large floor-to-ceiling window facing the canyon. After the bath, I curled up by the window and watched the mountain outlines slowly blend into dusk. It was so quiet, only the wind and my heartbeat could be heard. ‘Day 2: slow travel day’ Morning | Zipline experience The zipline crosses the canyon and is about 300 meters long. It’s not super fast, but the canyon wind makes you spin around. It’s thrilling and fun. On weekdays, the wait is under 20 minutes; on weekends, it can be 40 minutes or more. Noon | Eat authentic northwest food at a farmhouse outside the park Potato noodles, buckwheat noodles, hand-pulled lamb—you can eat your fill for about 40 to 50 yuan per person. Especially the freshly ground buckwheat noodles, which are chewy and firm. Paired with sour soup, I ate two bowls. Afternoon | Explore the natural stone city This area has fewer visitors. The weathered stone pillars and walls form a maze. Any angle you choose for photos looks like a sci-fi movie set. Elephant Trunk Mountain is nearby, where the Danxia rock has been naturally carved into a giant elephant drinking water, lifelike and vivid. · 📸 Photo tips—just the essentials ✅ Red cliffs—best light from 9 AM to 11 AM, colors are most saturated ✅ Glass suspension bridge—wear solid colors (white, black, or red work best), use a wide-angle lens for full-body shots ✅ One-line sky—shoot upward at the narrow sky gap, vertical phone shots work well ✅ Yuntai Mountain summit—arrive 40 minutes before sunset, use a telephoto lens to capture layered mountain silhouettes ✅ Natural stone city—after 3 PM, side backlighting creates long shadows from the stone pillars, enhancing the atmosphere · 🗒 Practical checklist ◽ It’s recommended to buy the 110 yuan pass two (includes shuttle bus plus choice of glass bridge or zipline) ◽ If you enter the park both days, you don’t need to buy a ticket again on day two. Tickets are valid for 48 hours ◽ The park is at high altitude. Don’t do intense exercise on the first day to let your body adjust ◽ Mosquitoes are few in July but bring insect repellent, especially for evenings outdoors ◽ Bring a power bank. Your phone battery won’t last a full day of shooting in the mountains Honestly, if you’re tired of the same old popular spots, this red valley deep in the northwest offers something completely different. It’s not beauty created by filters, but the grandeur and gentleness carved by hundreds of millions of years of geological movement.
Stepping into the Qingyang Museum, one truly understands the meaning of "high sky and thick earth".
To be honest, I didn't have high expectations for the Qingyang City Museum before visiting, as it's only a national second-level museum, and I hadn't heard of it much before. However, the actual experience completely exceeded my expectations; it's definitely worth a visit among prefecture-level museums. Although the museum isn't large, it has nine permanent exhibition halls covering historical artifacts, paleontological fossils, Buddhist statues, historical figures, revolutionary history, and Qingyang's most representative folk arts—sachets, paper-cutting, shadow puppetry, and calligraphy and painting. It basically outlines Qingyang's history and folk culture from prehistoric times to modern times. A complete tour takes about two hours. If time is limited, focus on the historical artifacts exhibition, as most of the museum's treasures are concentrated in this hall. Speaking of the museum's treasures, the first one to mention is the Shang Dynasty jade dagger-axe, "Zuo Ce Wu," unearthed in 1977 in Yelin Village, Dongzhi Commune, Qingyang County. The jade dagger-axe is made of bluish-white jade, polished throughout, with fine, hair-like patterns. Near the rim, the three characters "Zhao Ce Wu" are engraved in oracle bone script. "Zha Ce" is the same as "Zuo Ce," an official position in the Shang Dynasty responsible for managing court records. "Wu" is a personal name. This jade ge (dagger-axe) is extremely similar in shape to the jade ge unearthed from the tomb of Fu Hao in Yinxu, indicating that Shang Dynasty culture had already spread to the Qingyang area. The discovery of a Shang Dynasty jade ge with oracle bone inscriptions in Gansu is impressive in itself. · Another treasure of the museum is the Han Dynasty "Pengyang" bronze ding (tripod cauldron). The lid is inscribed with "Pengyang, weighing three jin and four liang, holding three sheng," while the rim is inscribed with "Pengyang, weighing seven jin, holding one dou and three sheng." It serves as both a place name and a record of weight and capacity, and is of great value for studying the weights and measures system of the Western Han Dynasty. · In addition to the treasures of the museum, there is also a personal favorite artifact—a Tang Dynasty painted human-faced animal-bodied tomb guardian beast, collected from Ning County. The most striking feature of this tomb guardian beast is its face: arched, upturned eyebrows, glaring eyes, a protruding nose, and a long, curled mustache. Its expression is a mixture of anger and laughter, both eerie and vivid. The painted decorations on its body are still clearly visible, a vibrant tapestry of orange-red, vermilion, and black, lifelike despite the passage of a thousand years. Although it's only a second-class national cultural relic and not considered a museum's crown jewel, the Tang Dynasty artisans' imagination and skill in depicting the boundary between humanity and divinity are vividly displayed in this tomb guardian beast. In addition, the folk art exhibits at the Qingyang Museum are also well worth seeing. Qingyang is a renowned center of Chinese folk culture and art, with its sachets, paper-cutting, and shadow puppetry all being national intangible cultural heritages. We were incredibly lucky; we visited during the Dragon Boat Festival, catching the annual Sachet Festival! The market was fantastic, with a dazzling array of exquisitely crafted sachets. Who could leave empty-handed? I decisively bought several small, elegant sachets for myself and my friends, each one a symbol of status – that's probably the most genuine sense of ritual during a trip. 🏠Name | Qingyang City Museum 🎫Tickets | Free ⏰Hours | Tuesday to Sunday 9:00-17:00 (Closed on Mondays) ⛳Address | No. 4, Honghua West Road, Xifeng District, Qingyang City, Gansu Province
Staying in a cave dwelling homestay in a loess village at the foot of Liupan Mountain was such a surprise
In Longde, 90% of Ningxia locals haven’t even been here themselves! 🤯 At the southernmost tip of Ningxia, tucked beneath Liupan Mountain, lies this hidden gem of a small county town, known as the "Green Gem on the Loess Plateau"✨ Half of it is rugged with deep ravines, the other half lush and verdant with gentle mountain scenery—a striking contrast! 🏡【Hongya Old Alley】· A living ancient village with free entry 📍Address: Hongya Village, Chengguan Town, Longde County Not a trendy tourist spot, but a truly living ancient village! · Step onto the bluestone alley, with chili strings 🌶️ hanging on earthen walls and floral cloth sheets drying, the atmosphere is full of life · I bumped into a Hui elder making nianhua prints, who warmly invited me into his courtyard · The old opera stage hosts weekly Qin opera performances; when I visited, a few elders were gathered around a radio listening to folk songs, the mountain breeze carrying the melodious echoes · Tip: For cultural photos, come early morning—the light is beautiful and you won’t disturb the villagers’ daily life ⛰️【Liupan Mountain Long March Scenic Area】· Happiness covering the whole mountain 📍Address: Yangjiadian Village, Chengguan Town, Longde County ⏰Opening hours: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM A new 5A scenic spot in 2025! Not yet overrun by tourists~ √ The 2.5 km Red Army trail is amazing 🐾 accompanied by pine and birch forests, with eighteen miniature scenes telling the story of the Long March √ The Poetry Pavilion offers unbeatable views 👀 where the loess plateau and green mountains "clash" in color √ The wind at the summit is strong! Bring a jacket! The June wind might just blow your hat off (not really) 🌄【Beixiang Mountain Easter Egg】· A secret spot only locals know No tourists! No entrance fee! → Climb to Qingliang Temple to watch the sunset 🌇 panoramic views of the county town + Liupan Mountain silhouette are breathtaking → Recommended to come around 6 PM, when golden sunlight spills over the terraced fields like flowing honey 🍜【Foodie Guide】30 RMB per person made me cry ✔️ Cultural Street Potato Noodles: potatoes cooked until melting! The noodles soak up the broth perfectly ✔️ Charcoal Hotpot: piled high with meat and veggies 🥘 so fresh your tongue hurts but you can’t stop ✔️ Night Market Lamb Skewers: Tan sheep yyds! The fatty parts burst with juice 💥 ✔️ Hidden Menu: The front desk lady highly recommends the stuffed skin 🌶️ spicy enough to blow your mind but totally addictive 🚗【Transportation Tips】 · 4-hour self-drive from Yinchuan (the latter half of the route is stunning) · Guyuan Airport → Longde 1-hour drive · Eco-friendly shuttle required inside the scenic area 💤【Accommodation Recommendations】 🏨 Liupan Peak Training Center → Duplex starry sky room! 🌌 The Milky Way right outside your window → Prime location in the scenic area, the concierge will help plan your route 🏨 Longde Huide Hotel → County’s top bedding comparable to five-star hotels → Must praise the warming buffet breakfast ⚠️【Must-know tips】 · Plateau weather changes quickly, bring a light down jacket · Smile and wave first when taking photos in the old alley 👋 · Book Liupan Mountain tickets one day in advance (bring your ID!) · Brick carving experience is super fun❗ Make sure to allow enough time This place is perfect for those wanting to escape the crowds! The wild beauty of the loess plateau combined with an unexpected Jiangnan vibe—every snap is a National Geographic-worthy shot 📸
Stayed in a Danxia view room in Guyuan, absolutely stunning
🔥 Who knew such an incredible Danxia secret spot was hidden in the Great Northwest?! Last time I came to Guyuan, I took the cool route through Liupan Mountain. This time, I switched to a "visual shock" route—Huoshizhai + Xumishan + Qinhan Xiaoguan. After three days, I was completely overwhelmed; the grandeur of the Northwest truly leaves you speechless. No more chit-chat, here’s the good stuff👇 🪨 Huoshizhai National Geopark | China’s most underrated Danxia Before going, I thought Danxia was like Zhangye, but Huoshizhai is totally different! It’s where Danxia landforms meet primeval forest. The red sandstone mountains are covered with green vegetation, and the red-green combo is anything but tacky—it actually has a painterly quality 🎨 I strongly recommend not just sticking to the usual boardwalk! Walk from Yuntai Diecui towards Lover’s Valley. That path is less crowded and beautiful, with red sandstone textures stretching beneath your feet and a canopy of intertwined trees overhead. If you go after rain, you might catch mist rising from the valley, creating a magical atmosphere. Taking the cable car to the summit for a panoramic view left me speechless—the layers of red mountains stretch to the horizon, dotted with dark green ravines. The color impact is so bold, even a painter’s palette wouldn’t dare mix those colors. 📸 Photo tip: The best light is from 3 to 5 PM when the rock faces glow deep red in the sunset, perfect for photos. 🛕 Xumishan Grottoes | Forgotten Buddhist light on the Silk Road Honestly, I didn’t even know Guyuan had grottoes before this trip! Xumishan Grottoes were built during the Northern Wei dynasty, even earlier than some caves in Dunhuang’s Mogao Grottoes, but very few people know about them. The whole mountain is Danxia landform, and the grottoes are carved into the red cliffs, which from afar look like the mountain has grown eyes 👀 The largest Maitreya Buddha statue is over 20 meters tall. Standing at its feet, you feel the solemnity of a thousand years hit you instantly. Very few people!! I went on a Tuesday, and there were fewer than twenty visitors in the entire area. You can quietly stand in front of the caves and feel the wind blowing from a thousand years ago. ⚠️ Xumishan has many steps and some steep spots, so wear comfortable shoes! Bring plenty of water! There are hardly any supplies on the mountain. 🏯 Qinhan Xiaoguan | Standing in the border fortress of ancient poetry "You meet the patrol riders at Xiaoguan, the protector is at Yanran"—you’ve probably memorized this Wang Wei poem, right? That Xiaoguan is right here! The first watchtower on the city wall is the Wangfu Tower. Standing on it and looking into the distance, the vastness of the Loess Plateau hits you. The city walls are engraved with frontier poems, each echoing history. When the wind blows, it almost feels like you’ve traveled back in time. The city walls are surrounded by lush trees, not the desolate borderland I imagined, but very comfortable—perfect for slowly walking and reading those poems. 💡 Practical info summary 🚗 This route is best by car. The distances between spots aren’t too far, but public transport is inconvenient. 🧴 Huoshizhai and Xumishan have little shade, so sunscreen and hats are a must. 💧 Bring enough water; there are few places to buy water inside the parks. 🕐 Allocate half a day for Huoshizhai, 3-4 hours for Xumishan, and just over an hour for Xiaoguan. Honestly, Guyuan is really overlooked by many. When people mention Ningxia, they only think of Yinchuan and Zhongwei’s Shapotou, but Guyuan’s Danxia, grottoes, and ancient passes are all top-tier attractions. The best part—few crowds, no squeezing, affordable tickets, and an amazing experience. July is just perfect—warm days and cool nights, a healing trip tailor-made for working people! Accommodation 🏨 Ningxia Lvtu Liupan Mountain Lodge A cluster of standalone villas deep in Xixia Forest Farm, surrounded 360 degrees by primeval forest. At night, only the sound of wind and streams—truly a hidden retreat. 🏨 Guyuan Museum Xian Deluxe Hotel The top luxury hotel in Guyuan city center. After visiting Huoshizhai, enjoy a good meal here, then head to Xumishan the next day—perfect pace. 🏨 Guyuan Xiyue Hotel (City Government Branch) Fully equipped with gym and laundry facilities, great for resting after a long drive. Located downtown with convenient dining and supplies. 🏨 Yu Family Courtyard A hidden gem mountain-view homestay in Jingheyuan Town, with a terrace facing the Liupan Mountains. The owner’s homemade farmhouse dishes are exceptional, ideal for travelers wanting an authentic local experience.
Stayed in a starry sky tent at Liupan Mountain, truly healing.
Who understands, family! Lying in a tent on the top of Liupan Mountain watching the Milky Way, I was moved to tears✨ It’s been so long since I’ve seen so many stars. The night sky in the city is always gray and hazy. Only at Liupan Mountain did I realize that the summer Milky Way can really be this bright—bright enough to cast shadows. 🌌 The starry sky really leaves one speechless. The tent I stayed in had a huge skylight, so at night I could lie in bed and look directly at the stars. At first, I excitedly tried to count the stars, but soon I lost count—there were just too many, densely packed like scattered diamonds across the sky. Later, I simply went out to the terrace to lie down and watch. The mountain night was very quiet, with only the sounds of insects and the wind. The Milky Way stretched right above my head. At that moment, I truly felt that all worries were insignificant; we are so small in the face of the universe. 💡 Star-gazing Tips: · Best to go at the beginning or end of the lunar month when the moon is small and doesn’t affect viewing the Milky Way · Bring a thin blanket; it gets really cold at night in the mountains, even in July · Use professional mode on your phone for star photos, increase ISO, and lengthen exposure time · Don’t use a flashlight; it ruins dark adaptation. Wait 5 minutes and your eyes will see many more stars 🏞️ The Red Army Long March Scenic Area is surprisingly enjoyable I originally thought a red tourism site would be boring, but after going, I found it really great! The Red Army trail is very thoughtfully designed. It’s 2.5 kilometers long with 18 miniature displays along the way, recreating important events from the Long March. Walking and watching, I finished the trail without realizing it and even learned a lot. At the summit, you can see the sea of clouds over Liupan Mountain. It’s truly spectacular—the continuous mountain ranges faintly visible through the clouds. Standing there, you can really feel the grandeur of the phrase “The sky is high and the clouds are light, watching the southward flying geese disappear.” 💡 Travel Tips: · Go early in the morning for fewer people and a higher chance of seeing the sea of clouds · Wear comfortable shoes; the path isn’t difficult but it’s a long walk · Bring a bottle of water; there are rest spots along the way · The memorial hall has guided explanations, which are quite moving 🌊 The water at Laolongtan is incredibly clear Laolongtan is the source of the Jing River. The water there is unbelievably clear—you can clearly see the stones at the bottom, emerald green like a jade. The scenic area isn’t large; 1-2 hours is enough. There are several pools, each with its own unique features. Walking along the trail, enjoying the water and breeze, it’s very refreshing. It’s said this is also where Wei Zheng dreamed of slaying the old dragon of the Jing River, adding a strong mythical element. Listening to the legend while enjoying the scenery is quite immersive. 🍃 Liupan Mountain’s healing power is truly full-on Honestly, I came to Liupan Mountain with a casual mindset, but after two days, I felt completely relaxed. Every morning I was woken by birdsong. Opening the window revealed mountains full of green. Taking a deep breath, I could smell the scent of plants and trees—a feeling I hadn’t experienced in a long time. After staying in the city for a long time, you really need to recharge in a place like this mountain—no rushing schedules, no work worries, just quietly being, watching the mountains, water, and stars. It’s more healing than anything else. 🎒 My slow-paced two-day trip Day 1: Arrive in the afternoon → Red Army Long March Scenic Area → Watch sunset from the summit → Watch the Milky Way at night Day 2: Wake up naturally → Laolongtan → Leisurely return in the afternoon 💡 Honest advice: · Don’t rush your itinerary! Liupan Mountain is best enjoyed slowly; rushing means missing out on many beautiful moments · Bring a couple of extra clothes; the temperature difference in the mountains is big—short sleeves in the day, jacket at night · Bring some snacks; it’s not very convenient to buy things in the mountains · Definitely stay one night! Without staying overnight, you won’t truly experience how beautiful Liupan Mountain’s night is If you’ve been feeling tired lately and want to find a place to clear your mind, I really recommend spending two days at Liupan Mountain. There are no crowded crowds, no commercial noise—just mountain breeze, starry sky, and a full sense of healing. · -- Accommodation 🏨 Liupan Mountain Starry Sky Tent Hotel A wild luxury tent hotel inside Liupan Mountain National Forest Park, with skylights to watch the Milky Way, forest ranger-led night firefly tours, a unique forest luxury experience 🏨 Ninglv Investment Wanghong Minyao A uniquely styled cave hotel very close to the Long March Scenic Area, featuring the distinctive architecture of the Loess Plateau and authentic northern Shaanxi folk customs 🏨 Jingyuan Fragrant Water Style Castle Boutique Homestay A Hui-style courtyard with antique charm and complete facilities, pet-friendly with barbecue in the courtyard, only 1.5 km from the scenic area 🏨 Longde Old Alley Luxury Wild Courtyard A courtyard hotel in the core area of intangible cultural heritage, with historic blue brick siheyuan architecture, offering private banquets and handmade experiences, the top choice for cultural vacations · --
Northwest's Seriously Underrated Secret! 18°C Summer Under Liupan Mountain, Featuring Caves, Danxia, and Forests All in One
This summer, ticket bookings to Guyuan have surged over 100% year-on-year, making it one of this year's dark horses for summer getaway destinations. However, many still associate Guyuan with the Loess Plateau. Those who have truly visited know that this is a cultural hub on the Silk Road, the last major mountain the Red Army crossed during the Long March, and a summer paradise with a cool 18°C climate. Xumishan Grottoes, Huoshizhai Danxia, and Liupan Mountain Forest—all three landscapes are gathered in this small city. 🚗 How to get there? Take the high-speed train to Guyuan Station (about 3 hours from Xi’an), or fly to Guyuan Liupan Mountain Airport (about 1 hour direct flight from Xi’an). Attractions are quite spread out within the city, so renting a car or hiring a driver (around 300 RMB/day) is recommended. 🎫 Ticket prices reference Xumishan Grottoes: about 50 RMB Huoshizhai National Geopark: about 60 RMB Liupan Mountain National Forest Park: about 65 RMB 🗺️ 3 days 2 nights cool cultural itinerary Day 1: Xumishan Grottoes Arrive in Guyuan in the morning, then visit Xumishan Grottoes in the afternoon—carved starting in the Northern Wei dynasty and flourishing during the Tang dynasty. The 20.6-meter-tall Tang dynasty Maitreya Buddha inside the Great Buddha Hall is the iconic sight of Xumishan Grottoes. Unlike Yungang or Longmen Grottoes, Xumishan’s caves are carved into Danxia landforms, where red sandstone beautifully complements the Buddha statues. Overnight in Guyuan city. Day 2: Huoshizhai Spend the whole day at Huoshizhai National Geopark. This rare Danxia landform in the Northwest features red sandstone that shines brilliantly under the sun, earning it the nickname “Natural Grand Garden.” The castle-shaped and mushroom-shaped red rock formations stretch endlessly, making you feel like you’ve stepped into an alien world. Return to the city in the evening. Day 3: Liupan Mountain National Forest Park + Return In the morning, visit Liupan Mountain National Forest Park—known as the “Green Island of the Northwest” for its dense forest coverage and flowing streams. Hike, breathe fresh air, and listen to the water sounds while enjoying the cool 18°C summer. Return in the afternoon. 🏠 Accommodation reference Hotels in Guyuan city range from 200-400 RMB per night. Book early for the busy July season. 📸 Photo spots Upward shot of the Great Buddha at Xumishan, framing the statue with the Danxia grottoes; hiking along the Huoshizhai Danxia ridge with rolling red sandstone; streams and greenery in Liupan Mountain Forest Park; close-ups of national treasure-level artifacts at Guyuan Museum. 💡 A few tips Guyuan is about 1700 meters above sea level, with large temperature differences between morning and night—bring a light jacket Sunscreen is essential due to strong UV rays in the Northwest Prices in Guyuan are low, offering great value for food and accommodation Huoshizhai and Xumishan both feature Danxia landforms plus grottoes, so plan to visit them on consecutive days
What people are saying about Guyuan
Liupan Mountain National Forest Park
A great place for hiking, with tons of negative ions! Currently, three areas are open to the public, with Xiaonanchuan as the core attraction. The botanical garden is still under construction and not recommended for now. Liangdianxia is Genghis Khan's summer retreat and doesn't require a long visit. PS: A thorough visit to Xiaonanchuan takes about an hour. It's recommended to enter by water. After reaching the end of the path, climb a short flight of stairs and then hike a little further. You can take a shuttle bus back to the bus stop (ticket price is 10 yuan). The walk down to the bus stop without the shuttle bus is 3km. It's best to visit in the morning.
Anonymous userXumishan Grottoes
The Xumishan Grottoes, located on the northern Silk Road route from Guyuan, were first carved during the Northern Wei Dynasty, flourished during the Northern Zhou Dynasty, and continued to be built during the Sui and Tang Dynasties. Along the Danxia cliff face, they are divided into areas such as the Great Buddha Hall, the Descendant Palace, Yuanguang Temple, Xiangguo Temple, and Peach Blossom Cave. This season, there are relatively few people, the sun is shining, and the mountain scenery is beautiful. However, the attractions are scattered, and climbing can be tiring. Supporting services, such as catering, could be improved.
Anonymous userHuoshizhai National Geological (Forest) Park
Huoshizhai in Xiji County is a hidden gem in Northwest China, often overlooked by many! The red cliffs and vast forests create a magnificent and beautiful landscape. The scenic area offers attentive service, a wide variety of activities, and plenty of fun, making for a fantastic overall experience. It's not crowded, quiet, and comfortable – highly recommended!
K-飞子Liupan Mountain Red Army Long March Tourist Area
The sky is high and the clouds are light, I can see the geese flying south. If you don't reach the Great Wall, you are not a hero, I have traveled 20,000 kilometers. On the top of Liupan Mountain, the red flag is fluttering in the west wind. Today, I have the long rope in my hand, when will I tie up the blue dragon? --Mao Zedong's "Qingpingle·Liupan Mountain" Travel with poetry, follow the red footprints, walk the Long March again, and check in the last mountain that the Red Army crossed during the Long March, "Mountain of Victory" Liupan Mountain
juventusloverWild Lotus Valley
The canyon where the Lotus Garden Scenic Area is located is also known as "Fragrant Water Canyon," "Wild Lotus Valley," or "Lotus Garden." Located west of Jingyuan County, the canyon is lush with vegetation, including pines, cypresses, red willows, and birches. The wild lotus, botanically known as *Ligustrum lucidum*, is commonly called wild lotus because its leaves resemble lotus leaves. The abundant wild lotus and flowing streams surrounding Fragrant Water Mountain give it a majestic and beautiful appearance. The grassy gully, about 4 kilometers long, is expansive and spectacular, with lush wild lotus growth and towering, opposing peaks.
135***16Liupanshan Red Army Memorial of Long March Ticketing Office
The Liupanshan Red Army Long March Memorial Hall is located on Liupan Mountain in Longde County, Guyuan City, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region. It was completed on September 18, 2005 and consists of five parts: the memorial hall, the monument, the memorial square, the memorial pavilion and the poetry platform. It is 2,832 meters above sea level, 50 kilometers away from Guyuan City and 14 kilometers away from Longde County. National Highway 312, Provincial Highway 101, and Yin (Chuan) Ping (Liang) Highway pass through the foot of the mountain. It is a red tourist attraction built by the Party Committee and Government of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the victory of the Red Army's Long March over Liupan Mountain. The Vienna 3 Good Hotel where I stayed at night was also very good, the room was very clean, the service was very good, it was in the new district, next to Guyuan No. 1 Middle School, it is worth recommending!
M42***81Guyuan Museum
The location is easy to find, parking is convenient, and you can use the guide for free. It is very user-friendly. The staff are also very enthusiastic, speak quietly, and provide very attentive service. All areas are very clean, and there are rest areas, which is much better than some scenic spots.
陌小妖～Laoxiangzi Sceneic Area
The area has a rich historical atmosphere, but the food court inside is truly indescribable! The restaurant selling "jiaotuan" (a type of porridge) in the picture had terrible service; they were slow to take orders and couldn't remember what to order. I was cut in line twice, and both times I told the staff, but they ignored me. Hopefully, the scenic area can improve its management.
M77***85Laolongtan
Laolongtan Scenic Area is a national AAA-level tourist attraction located in Jingyuan County, Guyuan City, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region. It is the source of the Jing River and is commonly known as "Jinghe Brain." Its geological structure is a fault-line canyon formed during the Yanshan Movement and the Himalayan Orogeny. The scenic area consists of four pools: First Pool, Second Pool, Third Pool, and Fourth Pool. The area is characterized by high mountains, deep gorges, and numerous waterfalls and ravines.
135***16Liupan Mountain
It is worth a visit here, there are glass plank roads and tall jungles
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