ChinaTravel Tips

Transportation and Navigation around Zhangye Danxia Landform

1. How do I get to Zhangye Danxia Landform from the nearest airport?


To get from the nearest airport to Zhangye Danxia Landform, you can take a shuttle bus or taxi to Zhangye Railway Station, which is about 22km from the landform. From there, you can take a bus or hire a car to reach the entrance of the scenic area.

1. If arriving at Zhangye Ganzhou Airport:
– Take a shuttle bus or taxi to Zhangye Railway Station (about 40 minutes).
– From the station, take a public bus (bus no.1) or hire a car/taxi to reach Zhangye Danxia Landform (about 40 minutes).

2. If arriving at Lanzhou Zhongchuan International Airport:
– Take an airport express bus to Lanzhou West Station (~70 minutes) and then take a bullet train to Zhangye Railway Station (~3 hours).
– From the station, take a public bus (bus no.1) or hire a car/taxi to reach Zhangye Danxia Landform (about 40 minutes).

3. If arriving at Jiayuguan Airport:
– Take an airport shuttle bus or taxi to Jiayuguan East Bus Station (~20 minutes).
– From the station, take a long-distance bus directly to Zhangye Danxia Landform Scenic Area (~2 hours). Alternatively, you can hire a car/taxi at the station.

2. Is there a train station near Zhangye Danxia Landform?

Yes, the closest train station to Zhangye Danxia Landform is the Zhangye West Railway Station, which is about an hour’s drive away from the landform.

3. Can I rent a car to explore the landform area or should I use public transportation?

It is possible to rent a car to explore the landform area, but it is not necessary. Public transportation options such as buses and trains are also available and can be more cost-effective. Additionally, there may be restrictions on driving in certain areas of the landform, so it is important to research this before planning any self-driving trips. Guided tours may also be available for exploring the landform area.

4. Are there any tour companies that offer transportation to and from Zhangye Danxia Landform?

Yes, there are several tour companies that offer transportation to and from Zhangye Danxia Landform. Some popular options include Viator, China Highlights, and China Discovery. These tours often include transportation, entrance fees, and a knowledgeable guide to accompany you during your visit to the landform. It is recommended to book in advance to ensure availability and to compare prices and itineraries offered by different tour companies.

5. Are there any shuttle buses that run between different viewing points within the landform area?

I was unable to find information about shuttle buses specifically for viewing points within landform areas. However, some national parks and natural areas may offer shuttle buses for transportation between different sites or trails within the park. It is best to check with the specific park or landform area for more information on transportation options.

6. How long does it take to travel by car from Zhangye city center to the entrance of the landform area?


The travel time by car from Zhangye city center to the entrance of the landform area is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. This can vary depending on traffic conditions and the specific location of the entrance.

7. Are taxis readily available in the area for transportation around Zhangye Danxia Landform?

Yes, taxis are readily available in the area for transportation around Zhangye Danxia Landform. There are taxi stands at major attractions and taxi drivers can also be flagged down on the street. It is best to negotiate the fare with the driver before starting the journey.

8. What is the most scenic route to take when driving to Zhangye Danxia Landform?


The most scenic route to take when driving to Zhangye Danxia Landform is through the G30 (Lianhuo) Expressway, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Alternatively, taking a detour through the nearby Tibetan-style villages and grasslands can also provide picturesque scenery.

9. Can I hire a private driver for a day trip to explore the landform and surrounding areas?

Yes, it is possible to hire a private driver for a day trip to explore the landform and surrounding areas. This can be arranged through a local tour company or by finding a reputable private driver on travel websites such as TripAdvisor or Expedia. Prices may vary depending on the length of the trip, distance traveled, and specific requests. It is recommended to research and compare different options before making a booking.

10. Is it recommended to use GPS or offline maps while driving in this area due to potential language barriers?

Yes, it is recommended to use GPS or offline maps while driving in this area due to potential language barriers. This will help you navigate and get to your destination more easily without having to rely on asking for directions or reading road signs in a foreign language. Additionally, having a GPS or offline maps can also give you information on traffic and alternative routes, which can be helpful when navigating around any potential language obstacles.

11. What are some popular modes of transportation used by locals in and around Zhangye Danxia Landform?


Some popular modes of transportation used by locals in and around Zhangye Danxia Landform include:
1. Private cars or motorcycles: Many locals have their own vehicles to commute to and from the landform.
2. Tourist buses: There are several tourist buses that operate in the area, offering guided tours of the landform.
3. Electric scooters: These are popular among tourists and locals for exploring the surrounding areas at a leisurely pace.
4. Cable car: A cable car ride is available at the top of the landform, providing a unique way to see the colorful rocks from above.
5. Walking or hiking: Many people opt to explore the landform on foot, as there are numerous trails and pathways that offer stunning views.
6. Horseback riding: Some locals offer horseback riding tours in the area, allowing visitors to experience the landscape in a different way.
7. Cycling: Bike rental shops are available in nearby towns for those who want to cycle through the magnificent scenery.
8. Taxi or hired car: Taxis can be found in larger towns and cities, while some locals also offer hired car services for transportation around the area.

12. Are there any bike or scooter rental options for exploring the landform on two wheels?

It depends on the specific landform you are interested in exploring. Some popular tourist destinations, such as national parks or coastal areas, may have bike or scooter rental options available for visitors. It is recommended to do some research and contact local tourism offices for the most up-to-date information on rental options in the area you plan to visit.

13. How far apart are different landmarks within Zhangye Danxia Landform, and what is the best way to navigate between them?


The distance between different landmarks within Zhangye Danxia Landform varies, but most are within a few kilometers of each other. The best way to navigate between them is by car or organized tour. Some areas also have walkways or viewing platforms for visitors to walk around and take in the scenery. It’s important to follow designated paths or areas and not go off-trail to preserve the delicate landscape. Additionally, some parts of the landform may require hiking or climbing to reach, so proper planning and preparation is needed.

14. Are there any scenic boat tours or waterways in or near Zhangye Danxia Landform for transportation?


There are no boat tours or waterways specifically for transportation within the Zhangye Danxia Landform area. However, there is a nearby lake called Mati Lake which offers boat cruises for scenic sightseeing. The recommended means of transportation within the landform is by foot or via shuttle bus provided by the ticket office.

15. Can I arrange for hot air balloon tours as means of navigating and admiring the landscape from above?


Yes, hot air balloon tours can be arranged for navigation and admiring the landscape from above. Many tour operators offer hot air balloon tours in various areas around the world, allowing visitors to experience the thrill of floating through the air while taking in breathtaking views. However, it is important to note that hot air balloon tours are subject to weather conditions and may not always be available for booking. It is recommended to book in advance and check with the tour operator for any possible restrictions or safety precautions.

16. Does anyone offer horseback riding tours as a unique way of exploring Zhangye Danxia Landform?

I could not find any information about horseback riding tours specifically for exploring the Zhangye Danxia Landform. However, there are several tour companies that offer guided hikes or photography tours of the area, which may include some horseback riding as part of the activities. It may be worth contacting these companies to inquire about incorporating horseback riding into the tour. Additionally, there are local horse rental services in Zhangye where you can rent a horse and explore the surrounding countryside on your own.

17. If I am staying in nearby cities such as Lanzhou or Xining, what is the best mode of transportation to reach Zhangye Danxia Landform?


The best mode of transportation to reach Zhangye Danxia Landform from nearby cities would be via train or bus.
From Lanzhou, you can take a train or bus to Zhangye (about 6-8 hours), and then transfer to a local bus or hire a private car/taxi to the landform (about 40 minutes).
From Xining, you can take a train or bus to Zhangye (about 5-6 hours), and then transfer to a local bus or hire a private car/taxi to the landform (about 40 minutes).
Alternatively, you can also book a tour package that includes transportation from these cities to the landform.

18. Are there any underground transportation options such as cable cars or subways within the landform area?


There are no known underground transportation options within the landform area. However, depending on the location, it is possible that there may be subways or other forms of underground transportation in nearby areas.

19. What is the best time of day to travel around Zhangye Danxia Landform to avoid crowds and enjoy the views peacefully?


The best time of day to travel around Zhangye Danxia Landform is during the early morning or late afternoon. This is when the lighting is soft and provides the most vivid colors, and there are fewer tourists compared to midday. Additionally, weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends. However, it is always recommended to check the weather forecast and plan accordingly as conditions can affect the number of visitors.

20. Are there any restrictions or special permits required for transportation and navigation in and around Zhangye Danxia Landform?


There are no specific restrictions or special permits required for transportation and navigation in and around Zhangye Danxia Landform. However, visitors should follow the designated paths and trails to avoid damaging the fragile landscape. Some areas within the landform may be restricted or closed off for conservation purposes, so it is important to check with local authorities before planning a visit. Additionally, permits may be required for filming or drone photography within the landform.