Yadan National Geopark

Yadan National Geological Park (also known as Dunhuang Ghost City) is located in the Gobi Desert, about 158 ​​kilometers northwest of Dunhuang City. It is dominated by a large area of ​​wind-eroded Yadan landforms, with the Golden Lion Welcoming Guests, Peacock, and Western Fleet formations being the core attractions. A visit of 3 to 4 hours is recommended. Spring and autumn (April-May and September-October) offer the best viewing periods due to comfortable temperatures and less sandstorms. Summer and winter are also possible, but appropriate measures should be taken to avoid the heat and keep warm, respectively. The tour mainly involves using the park's sightseeing bus, which stops at key viewpoints along the way. The most spectacular light and shadow effects are seen in the evening (two hours before sunset), making it an excellent time for taking photos.

The park is approximately 158 kilometers from Dunhuang city, about a 2-hour drive. Recommended ways to get there include: driving (from the city, take National Highway 215 and then Provincial Highway 303 directly, navigate to "Dunhuang Yadan National Geological Park," be sure to fill up your tank in the city before departure, as there are no gas stations along the way); or hiring a car/sharing a ride (local licensed drivers are familiar with the roads, can flexibly plan the itinerary, and offer good value for money). The park has professional astronomical telescopes for stargazing; light pollution in the Gobi Desert is extremely low, and the Milky Way is clearly visible overhead.

The park's facilities are relatively basic. The visitor center is equipped with a ticket office, a 5D cinema, a souvenir shop, a rest area, a casual café, a mother-and-baby room, and an emergency care station. Free hot water and charging stations are also available. Key viewpoints have viewing platforms and public restrooms, but walking activities throughout the park are mainly confined to designated viewing platforms and trails. It is important to note that the Yadan Geological Park lacks dining and accommodation facilities (only some service areas have limited-time cafés), and supplies are scarce once inside the park. It is recommended to bring sufficient drinking water and snacks from the city beforehand and to use the restrooms before your visit.