‹ JourneysDetail

9 Days Northwest China Tour from Xinjiang to Gansu by High-speed Train

Nature · 9 days · from $5856 USD

Heritage · History · Culture · Mountains

Step into the “underground military museum,” witness the marvel of Terracotta Warriors and be awe-inspired by the thousands of meticulously crafted terracotta soldiers, horses, and chariots that have stood guard for over 2,000 years.

Itinerary

  • Day 1: Urumqi Arrival — Airport Pick-up and Hotel Check-in Ni Hao! Welcome to Urumqi , the capital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region! Upon your arrival at Urumqi airport, your tour guide and driver will greet you at the exit. They’ll then escort you directly to the downtown area and assist you with checking in at your hotel. 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. Urumqi (乌鲁木齐) , the capital of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region in China, is notable for being the largest city in the world that is furthest from the ocean, with a distance of over 2,500 kilometers 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. Arrival Ideas: Urumqi Diwopu International Airport (IATA: URC) serves as the main airport for Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region in China. Urumqi Diwopu International Airport offers flights to many major cities across China like Beijing (about 4 hours), Xi’an (about 3.5 hours), Shanghai (about 5.5 hours), Guangzhou (about 5 hours), Shenzhen (about 5.5hours), Chengdu (about 3.5 hours), Chongqing (about 4 hours), Lanzhou (about 2.5 hours), Kunming (about 4.5 hours), Zhengzhou (about 5 hours), etc. It also serves as an important air hub for routes to Central Asia, with connections to cities such as Islamabad, Almaty, Astana (now Nur-Sultan), Dushanbe, Istanbul, and Tehran.
  • Day 2: Urumqi Tour — Heavenly Lake of Tianshan (World Heritage), Xinjiang Regional Museum (Closed on Mondays) 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 Beaut y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: If it is Monday, we will visit the Urumqi Grand Bazaar (新疆国际大巴扎) instead of the Xinjiang Regional Museum (Closed on Mondays). 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.
  • Day 3: Urumqi to Turpan — Jiaohe Ancient City Ruins (World Heritage), Karez Irrigation System (World Irrigation Project Heritage), Emin Minaret After breakfast, embark on a scenic 3-hour drive (180 km) from Urumqi to Turpan . Along the way, you’ll pass the striking Salt Lake and the impressive wind power station, the largest in Asia, at the foot of the Tianshan Mountains. Upon arrival in Turpan, you can explore 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 ). Turpan (吐鲁番) is located in the eastern part of Xinjiang. Situated in the Turpan Depression at 154 m below sea level, it’s the second-lowest depression in the world and the hottest spot in China, earning it the nickname “Fire Land.” Despite its arid climate, the ingenious Karez irrigation system has transformed this desert region into a fertile oasis, renowned for its agriculture, especially grape production. As a crucial stop on the ancient Silk Road, Turpan served as a hub for trade and cultural exchange between East and West. The area is dotted with historical sites – ancient city ruins, remnants of fortifications, and Buddhist cave complexes – testifying to its rich cultural roots. Pay a 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 . After the tour, be escorted to your hotel in Turpan.
  • Day 4: Turpan to Dunhuang by High-speed Train — Train Station Transfers, Free Time Explore Today, you will catch the high-speed train to Dunhuang (3.5 hours). Welcome to Dunhuang , a must-visit city located in the Gansu province of China! Upon arrival in Dunhang, your guide will meet you at the Liuyuan 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. Dunhuang, a city in Jiuquan (酒泉市), which was formerly known as Suzhou (肃州), is the birthplace of the “su” character in Gansu Province (甘肃的“肃”). Dunhuang is a desert oasis of ancient wonders. Discover the hidden gems of China’s western frontier. Explore the breathtaking Mogao Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site adorned with vibrant murals and intricate sculptures. Trek through the Gobi Desert, marveling at the Crescent Lake’s turquoise waters and towering sand dunes. From stargazing under pristine skies to experiencing the thrill of sandboarding, and camel riding, Dunhuang offers a captivating journey through time and nature. Dunhuang is also famous for Tunhuangology (敦煌学), a specialized field of study dedicated to exploring and interpreting the vast cultural and historical treasures in the Mogao Caves. Free Time Ideas: 1. Dunhuang Museum (敦煌博物馆; Closed on Mondays; Reservation Required): It has distinctive architecture, blending cultural symbols such as the Great Wall, beacon towers, and ancient castle-style buildings in its exterior and color scheme. It houses over 13,355 cultural relics from the Neolithic period to the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The most treasured items include ink writings on hemp paper from the Western Han Dynasty (8 BC), a torch made of reeds from the Han Dynasty, and the Beiliang Stone Pagoda. Additionally, there is a 1:1 replica cave of Cave 45 (Tang Dynasty; 8th century) from the Mogao Caves, allowing you more time to admire and photograph the replicas up close. 2. Dunhuang Shazhou Night Market (敦煌沙洲夜市) 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.
  • Day 5: Dunhuang Tour — Mogao Grottoes (World Heritage), Singing Sand Dunes & Crescent Spring Today, you will enjoy a wonderful Dunhuang Culture Tour by visiting Mogao Grottoes (4-4.5hrs), a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can enjoy the relaxing time in Mingsha Mountain & Crescent Lake, don’t miss the delicious food at the local market. 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 can return to your hotel to rest after lunch. Optional Visiting Place: Coffee Time in Dunhuang Book Center (敦煌书局Reservation required): A popular spot in Dunhuang, a modern lifestyle aesthetic space that combines reading, cultural creativity, coffee, and events. In the afternoon, time to 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.” 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. 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 visitingarrangement 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. 5. 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). 6. 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.
  • Day 6: Dunhuang to Jiayuguan — Overhanging Great Wall, Jiayuguan Pass (World Heritage - Great Wall of China), Great Wall Museum (Optional) Today, you will head to Jiayuguan (400 km, 5hrs) to explore Jiayuguan City for the Great Wall on the Cliff (Overhanging Great Wall) & the Jiayuguan Pass (Jiayuguan Fortress). 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’. You will climb the Great Wall on the Cliff (Overhanging Great Wall悬壁长城) which was acclaimed as the “ end of the Great Wal l”. It was constructed in 1539 (Ming Dynasty) and only 750 meters remain. As the northern extension of the Jiayuguan Pass, it was built following the natural terrain, using local gravel and loess, the steepest section reaches about 45 degrees (over 200 m), earning its name for its appearance of hanging upside down in the air. After renovations in 1987, it consists of parapets, crenellations, and platforms. Two additional platforms were added at both ends, totaling three platforms. Climbing along the Great Wall trail (over 400 steps; kid-friendly ) to the highest watchtower, you can admire the magnificent scenery both inside and outside the Great Wall. From the desert landscapes beside the expressway to the towering chimneys in the oasis, every sight is breathtaking. Here, you can discover the remnants of ancient warfare and beacon fires while marveling at the wisdom of ancient military defense and the rapid development of modern civilization. After that, visit Jiayuguan Pass (嘉峪关关城). Built in 1372, Jiayuguan 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 . Overnight stay in Jiayuguan. Optional Visiting Place: 1. Jiayuguan Museumof The Great Wall (嘉峪关长城博物馆): It is located near the Jiayuguan Pass. As the first museum in China to theme on the Great Wall, established in 1989, its exhibitions are divided into four sections: the history of the Great Wall, the military aspects of the Great Wall, the Hexi Corridor section of the Great Wall and the Silk Road, and the ancient and modern aspects of the Jiayuguan Pass. One of the prized possessions in the museum is the “Wild Boar’s Hoof,” dating back 2,000 years. 2. The First Outpost of the Great Wall (长城第一墩; Self-pay)：Located on the way to Dunhuang, the First Outpost of the Great Wall, standing about 10 m high, rises on a cliff about 56 m high near the Taolai River (讨赖河). It is the westernmost platform of the Ming Dynasty Great Wall (墩台; ancient military communication spot). You can witness the historical relics in their original state. With a little walk, you will discover an ancient military camp by the river valley where you can immerse yourself in the harsh lives of the frontier soldiers of that era.
  • Day 7: Jiayuguan to Zhangye — Dafo Temple (Big Buddha Temple), Zhangye National Geopark (Zhangye Danxia Geological Park) Today, you will head to explore Zhangye City (260km, 4hrs) through Dafo Temple (1-2 hours) & Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park (3-4 hours; for sunset). Zhangye is situated in the narrowest section of Hexi Corridor (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). 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 loca

What's included

  • Guide
  • Service: Professional English-speaking tour guide. Attraction
  • Tickets: All entrance fees to the sites listed in the itinerary. Transportation: Airport transfers on arrival and departure. Private
  • Vehicle for city sightseeing tours. Shinkansen (bullet train) tickets. Accommodation: Hotels are listed in the itinerary. Meals: Daily breakfast at the hotel. Service fee: planning, handling, operational and communication charges