Zhangye Travel Guide

Zhangye is located in the middle section of the Hexi Corridor. Emperor Wu of Han established the "Zhangye Commandery," meaning "supporting the Zhang State." The most famous attraction is the colorful Danxia Landform to the north of the city, while the city itself has the largest indoor reclining Buddha in Asia.

Main Highlights

Colorful Danxia

The sandstone layers look most vibrant at sunset. The park has four viewing platforms, with Platform 2 being the most stable for a full view.

Giant Buddha Temple

Originally built during Western Xia, the hall houses a wooden-core clay reclining Buddha about 35 meters long, the largest indoor reclining Buddha in the country.

Wooden Pagoda Temple and Zhenyuan Tower

Located in the old city center of Zhangye, it’s great for evening walks to observe local life.

Horseshoe Temple

A grotto complex at the foot of the Qilian Mountains south of the city. The Thirty-Three Heavens Caves are carved along the cliffside, with far fewer people than the Danxia.

Suggested Stay and Itinerary

• Recommended stay: 1-2 days.
• Morning at the Danxia, afternoon at the Giant Buddha Temple is just right for one day; stay an extra day to visit the Horseshoe Temple.
• It’s more efficient to connect with other cities on the same theme. See the "Extended Routes" below for reference.

Best Season

June to September; the Danxia colors are more saturated after rain.

How to Get There and Intercity Transport

High-speed train from Lanzhou to Zhangye takes about 3 hours; buses from Zhangye West Station go directly to the Danxia scenic area.

Local Food

Shao noodles, twisted fish noodles, mutton soup, and spicy rice.

Local Tips

• Stepping on the rock layers is prohibited inside the Danxia park; stay on the boardwalk at all times. Entering the park one hour before sunset is most cost-effective.

Province

This entry belongs to Gansu (2 ready-made routes are available). You can compare all routes within the province on the province page.