Explore the Historic Hexi Corridor: A 5-Day Cultural and Scenic Journey

Day 1: Zhangye Exploration

Zhangye, China on June 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Da Mori Cafe

Start your day with a hearty breakfast featuring local and western options at this popular cafe in Zhangye.
CNY30, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park

Marvel at the spectacular Rainbow Mountains, famous for their vibrant, layered rock formations created over millions of years.
CNY70, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Lao Ma Tou Dumpling Restaurant

Enjoy traditional hand-made dumplings, a local specialty that offers a delicious and authentic taste of Hexi Corridor cuisine.
CNY40, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Giant Buddha Temple (Dafo Si)

See one of the oldest and largest wooden structures in China and admire the huge reclining Buddha statue inside.
CNY40, 1h30m

5:00pm

Evening stroll at Zhangye People's Park

Relax and enjoy the local atmosphere by walking through the People's Park, a great way to mingle with locals and unwind.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Zhangye Xiangcaoju Restaurant

Taste local Gansu dishes such as beef noodles and lamb skewers at this well-regarded restaurant known for its authentic flavors.
CNY60, 1h0m
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Day 2: Jiayuguan Fortress

Jiayuguan, China on June 2, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast with a variety of dishes to fuel your day exploring Jiayuguan.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Jiayuguan Fort

Explore the westernmost fortress of the Great Wall, known for its historic military significance and spectacular architecture.
CNY65, 2h0m

11:30am

Visit Overhanging Great Wall

Hike a section of the Great Wall with a breathtaking view where the Wall clings dramatically to the cliffside.
CNY40, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Jiayuguan Qilian Farmers Restaurant

Enjoy farm-fresh dishes such as hand-pulled noodles and local vegetable specialties.
CNY50, 1h0m

2:30pm

Jiayuguan Museum

Learn more about the history of the Hexi Corridor and Great Wall defenses at this informative museum.
CNY30, 1h0m

5:00pm

Relax in the town square and explore local shops

Browse traditional handicrafts and souvenirs reflecting the culture of Gansu Province.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Yin He Restaurant

Try regional specialties such as Lanzhou beef noodles and Xinjiang lamb dishes in a charming setting.
CNY70, 1h0m
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Day 3: Dunhuang Highlights

Dunhuang, China on June 3, 2025

6:30am

Early Breakfast at hotel

Prepare for a full day with a nutritious breakfast at your accommodation.
Included, 1h0m

8:00am

Explore Mogao Caves

Discover the magical Buddhist cave art spanning over a millennium, with guided tours that reveal historical and artistic significance.
CNY120, 3h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Shun Xin Dao Restaurant

Enjoy a variety of local flavors focusing on freshwater fish and lamb dishes, popular in Dunhuang cuisine.
CNY60, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Dunhuang Museum

Explore exhibits showcasing ancient Silk Road items, local archaeology, and cultural artifacts of the region.
Free, 1h0m

3:00pm

Stroll through the Dunhuang Night Market (early opening)

Experience vibrant stalls selling silk scarves, camel wool products, and local snacks, perfect for afternoon browsing.
Free, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Loutushang Restaurant

Savor authentic Dunhuang specialties with an emphasis on hearty noodle soups and mongoose cheese dishes.
CNY70, 1h0m
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Day 4: Desert and Oasis

Mingsha Mountain, Dunhuang, China on June 4, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Fuel up with a solid breakfast before exploring desert landscapes and oasis sights.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake

Experience camel rides and sandboarding at Mingsha Mountain, followed by a walk around the striking Crescent Lake oasis.
CNY85, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Desert Flower Restaurant

Sample refreshing dishes including fresh vegetable salads and desert-inspired flavors in a serene setting.
CNY50, 1h0m

2:00pm

Relax at Dunhuang Silk Road Park

Take a leisurely stroll in the park highlighting sculptures and gardens themed around the Silk Road heritage.
Free, 1h0m

4:00pm

Visit Dunhuang Art Museum

View contemporary and traditional artworks reflecting the cultural melting pot of the Hexi Corridor.
CNY40, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Silk Road Restaurant

Indulge in a variety of noodle and lamb dishes renowned along the Silk Road, perfect for a satisfying evening meal.
CNY70, 1h0m
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Day 5: Return and Reflect

Zhangye, China on June 5, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel in Dunhuang

Enjoy your last breakfast in Dunhuang with local specialties and fresh fruit.
Included, 1h0m

8:30am

Travel back to Zhangye by train or bus

Travel comfortably back to Zhangye, reflecting on your memorable Hexi Corridor experiences.
CNY100, 4h0m

1:00pm

Lunch in Zhangye at Yongzi Beef Noodle Shop

Enjoy a final taste of Gansu’s famous beef noodles in this well-loved local eatery.
CNY35, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Zhangye Confucius Temple

Explore this serene historical site highlighting traditional Confucian architecture and culture.
CNY30, 1h0m

4:00pm

Leisure time and souvenir shopping

Spend your last afternoon shopping for local handicrafts and souvenirs in Zhangye’s markets.
Variable, 2h0m

7:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Zhangye People’s Restaurant

Relish a farewell dinner featuring a variety of local dishes including lamb skewers and vegetable stews.
CNY70, 1h0m
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