Zhangye Colorful Danxia Scenic Area

1. Scenic Area Introduction

Zhangye Colorful Danxia Scenic Area (English name: Colorful Danxia scenic spot) is located in Nantai Village, Nijia Ying Town, Linze County, Zhangye City, Gansu Province. It is 40 kilometers east of Zhangye city center and 20 kilometers north of Linze county town. With a total area of 50 square kilometers, it is the most typical Danxia landform developed in the arid region of northern China and the only highly integrated area in China combining Danxia landform with colorful hilly landscapes.

The Zhangye Colorful Danxia Scenic Area primarily developed from Cretaceous "red beds" dating from 135 million to 65 million years ago, shaped by water and wind erosion. In August 2003, it was first reported and named "Zhangye Danxia" landform by the Lanzhou Evening News, marking the first media release of news about "Zhangye Danxia." On September 25, 2015, Zhangye National Geopark (including the Zhangye Colorful Danxia Scenic Area) was officially inaugurated. Within the Zhangye Colorful Danxia Tourist Area, there are seven main viewing spots: Colorful Cloud Sea, Colorful Immortal Fate, Colorful Brocade, Colorful Rainbow Glow, Crouching Tiger Gorge, Colorful Ao River, and Wanxiang Earth Forest Valley. It also features over 30 scenic landscapes such as Divine Dragon Playing with Fire, Spirit Monkey Viewing the Sea, Monks Worshipping Buddha, Divine Turtle Questioning Heaven, Golden Toad Seeking the Way, Giant Scallop, Colorful Screen, Sleeping Beauty, and Crouching Tiger.

2. Historical Development

In 1984, Cui Shiyuan, a photographer from the Gansu Yumen Petroleum Administration, photographed the Danxia landforms in the Sunan and Linze areas, collected the images, and published them in a pictorial album. At that time, this landform was introduced as a geological feature for investigation, with no concept of tourism yet.

In August 2003, the Gansu Photographers Association was tasked with shooting a special pictorial album for external publicity. While returning from an interview in Sunan, Zhangye, they passed by a peculiar landform landscape. Due to lighting and time constraints, they were unable to photograph it themselves and commissioned military photographer Zheng Fuxin to shoot this scenic spot multiple times. His works were first reported and named "Zhangye Danxia" landform by the Lanzhou Evening News, marking the first media release of news about "Zhangye Danxia."

In 2005, the "Most Beautiful China" campaign by Chinese National Geography magazine ranked Zhangye Danxia as the sixth among the seven major Danxia sites in China. This was the first time Zhangye Danxia received recognition from a national-level professional and authoritative publication. On December 29 of the same year, the master plan for the Gansu Zhangye Danxia Landform Tourist Area passed review.

On July 26, 2006, the 10th National Academic Symposium on Danxia Landform Tourism Development held a special seminar on the tourism development of Zhangye Danxia landform. Zhangye Danxia landform was recommended for application as a National Geopark. The Proposal on the Joint Application of "China Danxia Landform" for World Natural Heritage was adopted as a conference document.

On September 25, 2015, Zhangye National Geopark (including the Zhangye Colorful Danxia Scenic Area) was officially inaugurated.

In June 2021, the Reed Gully scenic spot within the Zhangye Colorful Danxia Scenic Area opened to the public.

On July 29, 2022, the 32nd Meeting of the Standing Committee of the 13th Gansu Provincial People's Congress passed the Zhangye Colorful Danxia Protection Regulations, which were promulgated and implemented by the Standing Committee of the Zhangye Municipal People's Congress.

3. Location and Layout

3.1 Location and Territory

The Zhangye Colorful Danxia Scenic Area is located in Nantai Village, Nijia Ying Town, Linze County, Zhangye City, Gansu Province. It is 40 kilometers east of Zhangye city center and 20 kilometers north of Linze county town, with a total area of 50 square kilometers.

3.2 Topography and Landform

The Zhangye Qilian Mountain Danxia landform group has an altitude ranging from 2,000 to 3,800 meters. It stretches approximately 40 kilometers from east to west and 5 to 10 kilometers from north to south, covering an area of over 300 square kilometers.

3.3 Scenic Area Layout

The Zhangye Colorful Danxia Scenic Area is the most typical Danxia landform developed in the arid region of northern China and the only highly integrated area in China combining Danxia landform with colorful hilly landscapes. It is characterized by vibrant colors, strong visual appeal, vast scale, and integrates grandeur, peril, wonder, seclusion, and beauty. Within the scenic area, there are seven main viewing spots: Colorful Cloud Sea, Colorful Immortal Fate, Colorful Brocade, Colorful Rainbow Glow, Crouching Tiger Gorge, Colorful Ao River, and Wanxiang Earth Forest Valley. It also features over 30 scenic landscapes such as Divine Dragon Playing with Fire, Spirit Monkey Viewing the Sea, Monks Worshipping Buddha, Divine Turtle Questioning Heaven, Golden Toad Seeking the Way, Giant Scallop, Colorful Screen, Sleeping Beauty, and Crouching Tiger.

4. Important Scenic Spots

4.1 Colorful Cloud Sea Platform

The Colorful Cloud Sea Platform is an excellent spot within the Zhangye Colorful Danxia Scenic Area for viewing sunrise and sea of clouds wonders. It is also an ideal viewing platform to appreciate the magnificent panoramic view of the Danxia landform.

When the first rays of morning sunlight touch this land, the Colorful Cloud Sea Platform is endowed with magical colors and vitality. Gazing into the distance from the viewing platform, the undulating Danxia mountain range unfolds like a giant scroll painting before one's eyes. Under the sunlight, the colors of the Danxia landform are distinctly layered, with red, orange, yellow, green, cyan, blue, and purple interweaving and blending, as if meticulously painted by nature with the most brilliant brush. At this moment, if a sea of clouds happens to be rolling among the mountains, the scene becomes even more dreamlike and illusory. The pure white mist and clouds flow gently among the Danxia peaks like soft veils, sometimes concealing the mountain tops, sometimes revealing their colorful forms, resembling the faintly visible jade palaces and towers of a fairyland.

The landforms here are rich and diverse: some resemble towering castles with majestic outlines and solid ramparts; some are like camels lying quietly on this magical land, as if waiting for distant visitors; others are like smooth silk ribbons winding and stretching into the distance, connecting different peaks. Visitors can stroll along the walkways around the viewing platform, admiring the breathtaking scenery from various angles. With each step, the view changes subtly, making people pause to take photos, wishing to capture this momentary beauty forever.

4.2 Colorful Immortal Fate Platform

The Colorful Immortal Fate Platform, just hearing its name, is full of romantic and mysterious charm. It resembles a fairyland left behind in the mortal world, telling ancient and moving legends.

Legend has it that this is where fairies descended to earth to form bonds with mortals, imbuing the entire scenic area with a romantic atmosphere. Upon entering the Colorful Immortal Fate Platform scenic area, the first sight is a collection of peculiarly shaped Danxia landscapes. Those Danxia cliffs and red walls, carved by time, have formed various lifelike shapes, as if characters and scenes from mythology have reappeared here. Some rocks resemble the flowing skirts of fairies, seemingly swaying gently in the breeze; others look like handsome young men, standing tall as if waiting for an encounter with a fairy.

Walking along the winding paths, one can see a naturally formed "Lovers' Peak." Two closely nestled peaks resemble a pair of lovers in love gazing at each other and whispering sweet nothings. Their lifelike forms inspire admiration for nature's exquisite craftsmanship. Under the sunlight, the colors of Lovers' Peak become even more vivid and dazzling. The red mountain bodies symbolize their passionate love, adding warmth and sweetness to this scenic area. The surrounding mountains also have their own unique features: some resemble blooming flowers, delicate and charming; others are like phoenixes spreading their wings, ready to soar into the sky. Visitors strolling here feel as if they are immersed in a romantic love story, experiencing great pleasure and relaxation for both body and mind.

4.3 Colorful Brocade Platform

The Colorful Brocade Platform is renowned for its rich, brilliant colors and brocade-like landform textures. It is one of the core areas showcasing the unique charm of the Colorful Danxia.

Ascending the Colorful Brocade Platform feels like stepping into a colorful world. The Danxia landform before one's eyes resembles a giant piece of colorful brocade spread between heaven and earth. The colors here are bright and intense, with each rock layer appearing as if meticulously painted by nature with pigments. From golden yellow to fiery red, from azure blue to emerald green, the various colors transition naturally and harmoniously, creating a stunning visual feast.

Upon closer observation, one finds that the landform textures here are extremely delicate, like carefully woven brocade patterns. Some areas exhibit wave-like textures, as if the surging waves of the Yellow River were instantly frozen; others have spiral patterns, resembling vortices of time deeply engraving the traces of years onto the rocks. At different times of the day, as the angle and intensity of sunlight change, the colors of the Colorful Brocade Platform also transform. At noon, with direct sunlight, the entire scenic area is bright and dazzling, the colors more vivid and striking; in the evening, the afterglow of the sunset casts a golden veil over the Danxia, making it appear even more gentle and charming.

In addition to enjoying the scenery, there are some science exhibition areas around the Colorful Brocade Platform. Visitors can learn about the formation reasons, geological changes, and other knowledge related to the Colorful Danxia here. While admiring the beautiful scenery, they can also gain insights and deeply feel the wonder and greatness of nature.

4.4 Crouching Tiger Gorge

Crouching Tiger Gorge resembles a giant fierce tiger lying quietly within the Colorful Danxia Scenic Area. It is a breathtaking wonder carved by nature with its divine craftsmanship. Upon entering Crouching Tiger Gorge, one is first struck by its majestic momentum. The peaks on both sides tower into the clouds, with steep cliffs standing almost vertically, as majestic and resolute as a tiger's body. Sunlight洒在峡谷之上, different rock layers refract斑斓的色彩,恰似猛虎身上绚丽的斑纹,红的似火,橙的如霞,黄的若金,在光影交错间更显其威严与神秘. (Sunlight洒在峡谷之上, different rock layers refract斑斓的色彩,恰似猛虎身上绚丽的斑纹,红的似火,橙的如霞,黄的若金,在光影交错间更显其威严与神秘.)Walking slowly along the plank path in the canyon, a babbling stream flows beneath my feet. The clear water weaves through colorful rocks, producing a crisp and pleasant sound, reminiscent of a tiger's low growl. The rocks within the canyon vary in shape—some resemble sharp tiger teeth, jutting out fiercely; others are like tiger claws, gripping the earth with powerful strength. A gentle breeze passes by, causing the vegetation on the cliff walls to sway lightly, as if it were the fur of a tiger moving with the wind. As I venture deeper into the canyon and look up, the sky is reduced to a mere slit, creating a powerful visual impact that makes one deeply feel their own insignificance and the grandeur of nature. Here, every scene can become a stunning shot for photography enthusiasts. Whether capturing the majestic panorama of the canyon or focusing on the intricate textures of the rocks, each moment can be frozen into an awe-inspiring image.

4.5 Wanxiang Earth Forest Valley

Wanxiang Earth Forest Valley is a place within the Qicai Danxia Scenic Area filled with fantasy and boundless imagination. The earth forest landscape here is incredibly diverse, resembling a vast natural sculpture gallery displaying countless artworks of various forms. Entering the Earth Forest Valley feels like stepping into another world, with oddly shaped earth pillars and towers standing tall before your eyes. Some earth pillars are tall and straight, like solemn giants guarding this magical land, while others twist and spiral like graceful dancers showcasing their elegance in the wind.

The Earth Forest is primarily colored in shades of yellow and brown, which, under the sunlight, reveal rich layers and textures. As the light changes, the contrast between light and shadow in the Earth Forest becomes more pronounced. In the soft morning light, the Earth Forest is draped in a hazy veil, making it dreamlike and enchanting. At dusk, as the sun sets, the afterglow dyes the Earth Forest a golden hue, enveloping the entire valley in a warm and magnificent atmosphere. Wandering among the Earth Forest feels like strolling through a tunnel of time, with every step revealing new surprises. Some earth formations resemble animals, such as galloping horses or playful monkeys, while others mimic mythical castles with towering turrets and sturdy walls. This place is not only a visual feast but also a playground that sparks the imagination, leaving visitors in awe of nature's boundless creativity in shaping such diverse and wondrous landscapes.

5. Cultural Activities

5.1 Poetry and Literature

The term "Danxia" originates from Cao Pi's poem "Ode to the Lotus Pond": "Danxia embraces the bright moon, while brilliant stars emerge from the clouds." Later, geologists described Danxia landscapes as "red as cinnabar, radiant as bright clouds," giving rise to the geographical term "Danxia landform." This magical land has inspired countless poets and writers, who used verses and prose to depict the majestic scenery of Danxia and praise the craftsmanship of nature. These literary works have been passed down through generations, becoming an important part of Zhangye's cultural heritage and allowing more people to appreciate the charm of Qicai Danxia through words. Additionally, local folklore adds a mysterious touch to Danxia. Beyond the love legend of the Qicai Xianyuan Terrace mentioned earlier, there are many myths about the formation of Danxia, such as the tale of the colorful stones left by Nüwa when she mended the heavens, which transformed into Danxia. These legends, passed down orally among the locals, reflect people's reverence and love for this land.

5.2 Hot Air Balloon Festival

From 2019 to 2020, the Qicai Danxia Scenic Area in Zhangye City held two consecutive China·Zhangye Qicai Danxia (International) Hot Air Balloon Festivals. Visitors soared into the sky in hot air balloons, experiencing sunrises and sunsets up close. From high above, they overlooked the "Rainbow Mountains of China," marveling at the harmonious blend of colorful hills and Danxia landforms. On August 17, 2023, the third Zhangye Qicai Danxia Hot Air Balloon Carnival commenced, featuring 40 hot air balloon pilots from across China. They took off from the Qicai Danxia Scenic Area, flying over the entire region and creating a beautiful encounter between hot air balloons and the colorful Danxia landscape.

Additionally, Zhangye's traditional festivals are lively and vibrant. During celebrations like the Spring Festival and Lantern Festival, streets and alleys are adorned with lanterns and decorations, hosting various folk activities. Dragon and lion dances are the highlights of these events, with performers dressed in bright costumes dancing to the cheerful beats of drums and gongs, praying for favorable weather, happiness, and well-being in the new year. There are also shehuo performances, where actors wear exaggerated makeup and portray various roles, such as historical figures or mythical beings, parading through the streets to bring joy and blessings to the people. While visiting Qicai Danxia, tourists can participate in these folk activities to deeply experience the local customs and culture, feeling the warmth, hospitality, and simplicity of the people of Zhangye.