Red, Orange, Yellow, and Green Paint the Landscape: Lanzhou Kushi Danxia, an Extraterrestrial Wonder Sculpted Over Billions of Years

1. **Attraction Overview** Kushi Danxia is located in Kushi Town, Yongdeng County, Lanzhou City, Gansu Province. This undeveloped Danxia landform area is renowned for its vibrant canyon landscapes featuring interwoven hues of crimson, orange-yellow, and gray-white, earning it the nickname "Earth's Color Palette." With fewer crowds and stunning scenery, it’s perfect for photography and in-depth exploration. - **Highlights**: - **Crimson Canyons**: The colorful Danxia formations become even more saturated after rain. - **Mirror Reflections**: On clear days, the mountains cast breathtaking reflections in the lakes. - **Rose Countryside**: From May to June, visitors can explore Kushi Town’s vast rose gardens. 2. **Transportation Guide** 1. **Self-Drive (Recommended)**: - From downtown Lanzhou, navigate to "Kushi Danxia Self-Driving Camp" via G312 National Highway or Jingzang Expressway (approx. 1.5-hour drive). Some narrow riverside sections require SUVs or off-road vehicles. 2. **Public Transport**: - Take a bus from Lanzhou Passenger Transport Center to Yongdeng County, then transfer to a local bus to Kushi Town (limited schedules; 2km walk required). - Alternatively, hire a private car (≈¥50/person) or share an off-road vehicle. 3. **Best Time to Visit & Routes** - **Recommended Seasons**: May–June (rose season) or September–October (cool weather). - **Golden Photography Hours**: Sunrise or sunset (especially 4:00–6:30 PM) for soft light and vivid colors. - **Hiking Routes**: - **Easy Route**: Self-Driving Camp → Viewpoint 1 → Rainbow Valley (3km round trip). - **Adventure Route**: Deep into Danxia Canyons (6km; guide required). 4. **Photography & Experience Tips** 1. **Top Photo Spots**: - **Viewpoint 1**: Panoramic views of S-curve river channels. - **Camel Peak**: Silhouette portraits. - **Rainbow Valley**: Extremely saturated colors post-rain. 2. **Gear Suggestions**: - Wide-angle lenses for landscapes; telephoto for textures. Drones limited to 120m (permit required). - Wear solid-color clothing (red/white recommended). 5. **Important Notes** 1. **Admission & Facilities**: Currently free, but amenities are basic—bring water, sun protection, and non-slip shoes. 2. **Safety Tips**: - Loose gravel in some areas; hike cautiously. - Avoid stepping on Danxia formations to preserve the environment. 3. **Sun & Bug Protection**: High UV exposure; use strong sunscreen. Mosquito repellent advised in summer. 6. **Nearby Recommendations** - **Food**: Kushi rose cakes, Lanzhou beef noodles, Yongdeng lamb with rolled pancakes. - **Accommodation**: - **Camping**: Kushi Starry Sky Camp (bring your own gear). - **Lanzhou City**: Dunhuang Villa (desert-themed) or Hyatt Hotel. **Final Thoughts** Kushi Danxia is a hidden yet awe-inspiring natural wonder, ideal for travelers who love raw landscapes and photography. A self-drive trip combined with sunset shoots and seasonal rose garden visits offers a wild yet romantic Northwest China experience.