"Liu Jiaxia: A Natural and Cultural Treasure by the Yellow River"

In the vast northwest of our motherland, there is a place that boasts the majestic grandeur of the Yellow River, unique cultural relics, and picturesque scenery reminiscent of Jiangnan beyond the Great Wall—this is Liu Jiaxia. Liu Jiaxia is located in Yongjing County, Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu Province. Here you will find the spectacular Yellow River Gorge, clear high gorge lakes, ancient grotto art, and a rich and colorful ethnic culture. It is a tourist destination where natural and cultural landscapes perfectly blend. Recommended Attractions 1. Huangtao Confluence Viewing Platform: The Yellow River and Tao River converge here, forming a "Y"-shaped spectacle with distinctly clear and turbid waters. The blue and yellow waters collide yet flow side by side. The aerial view is even more stunning; it is recommended to bring a drone. Free admission. 2. Bingling Temple Grottoes: A World Cultural Heritage site housing Buddhist art from the Northern Wei to Ming and Qing dynasties. Cave No. 169 requires a guided tour reservation. You can take a speedboat from the dam pier round-trip (about 3 hours, 140 RMB/person) or reach by land. Tickets cost around 80 RMB. 3. Taiji Island Wetland Park: Known as the "Jiangnan beyond the Great Wall," it offers cycling, camping, and birdwatching. The autumn reed marsh scenery is breathtaking, and the popular internet-famous bridge is perfect for photos. Free entry. 4. Liu Jiaxia Dinosaur National Geopark: Explore the Cretaceous dinosaur footprint fossil group and enjoy an immersive experience in the 5D cinema (20 RMB/person). It is an ideal choice for family trips. 5. Weijiapo & Huanhai Highway: Known as the "Little Erhai Lake" of Gansu, with clear water reflecting the Danxia landform. You can experience bamboo raft drifting (30 RMB/person), camping, and barbecues. The scenic Huanhai Highway offers beautiful views perfect for photography. 6. Liu Jiaxia Hydropower Station: A million-kilowatt-level hydropower station. Standing on the dam, you can see the Yellow River being cut off in the middle—a truly spectacular sight. You can also learn about the principles of hydropower generation. Free admission. Food Experience 1. Yellow River Carp: Firm meat best enjoyed steamed or stir-fried with fresh chili, very delicious. Recommended to try at Xiakou Fishing Village. 2. Hand-Pulled Mutton: A signature dish of Linxia, tender and without any gamey taste, served with garlic cloves and pepper salt. Wensheng Hand-Pulled’s "Ice Grab" is a specialty. 3. Fazimen Pian (Sour and Spicy Noodles): A local Hui ethnic snack with a sour and spicy flavor, appetizing and refreshing. 4. Fried Sanzi with Eight-Treasure Tea: Crispy fried Sanzi paired with sweet and rich Eight-Treasure Tea, an authentic northwest flavor. 5. Niangpi (Cold Skin Noodles): Smooth and chewy, served with a tangy and spicy sauce, very appetizing. Accommodation Recommendations 1. Yongjing Liu Jiaxia Public Aviation Hotel · Yellow River Pearl International Hotel: Excellent environment with immersive garden scenery, located at No. 18 Taiji South Road, Taiji Town. Prices range from 500-800 RMB/night. 2. Gansu Stay · Jinghu Wild Luxury Lake View Detached Terrace Homestay: Enjoy stunning lake sunset views, located 800 meters south of Qiyangjia on Huanhu North Road, Sanyuan Town. Prices range from 300-600 RMB/night. 3. Gansu Stay · Lotus Pond Moonlight | Quiet Detached Waterside Wooden House: Beautiful and tranquil environment facing the lake with green grass behind, located 500 meters northwest of the Taiji Island Scenic Area Pier on Huanhu Road. 4. Yongjing Fumen Kaiyuan Grand Hotel: Some rooms offer park views, located on Chunming Road in the Ancient City New District. Prices are moderate. Travel Tips 1. Best Travel Time: May to October, when the climate is suitable, making it a great summer retreat and a chance to enjoy beautiful autumn colors; April to May is ideal for viewing tulip flower seas. 2. Transportation - Self-driving: About 1.5 hours from Lanzhou with beautiful scenery along the way and plenty of spots to stop for photos. - Public Transport: First arrive at Lanzhou Zhongchuan International Airport, then take a bus to Liu Jiaxia, about 2 hours, ticket around 50 RMB; alternatively, take a bus to Yongjing County and then a taxi to the scenic area. Car rentals are also available, costing about 100-120 RMB per person. 3. Precautions - Confirm weather conditions for boat trips in advance and wear life jackets when boarding. - Respect local ethnic customs, especially Hui customs; do not bring non-halal food into restaurants. - Strong UV rays at high altitude require sun protection such as hats and sunglasses. - Mountain roads have many curves; drive carefully when self-driving. Liu Jiaxia, this pearl by the Yellow River, with its unique natural scenery and profound cultural heritage, brings endless surprises and emotions to visitors.