Things to do in Hexi Corridor
Discover the best attractions and experiences Hexi Corridor has to offer
Historic Monuments
Hexi Corridor is home to ancient passes and monumental fortifications that tell the story of Silk Road travel and defense.
Jiayuguan Pass
The western terminus of the Great Wall, a fortress perched at the edge of the desert with imposing gates and towers.
Yangguan Pass
Historic Silk Road pass offering ruins, pavilions, and panoramic desert views.
Mogao Caves
Famed Buddhist grotto complex with thousands of murals and statues spanning a millennium.
Museums
Museums along the corridor showcase Silk Road archaeology, regional history, and desert cultures.
Gansu Provincial Museum
Extensive collection of Silk Road artifacts, natural history, and regional heritage.
Dunhuang Museum
Exhibits on Dunhuang’s grottoes and desert civilizations.
Zhangye City Museum
Displays on regional history from ancient to modern times.
Religious Monuments
Religious sites along the corridor reflect Buddhist, Islamic, and other traditions that have shaped the region.
Mogao Caves
A major Buddhist grotto complex with murals and sculptures significant to Buddhist art.
Bingling Si Caves
Cliff-carved Buddhist temple caves reached by boat and stairs along the Liujiaxia site.
Lanzhou Great Mosque
Historic Hui mosques that illustrate Islamic architecture and community life in the region.
National & Theme Parks
Stunning landscapes and geological wonders unfold in the region’s standout parks.
Zhangye Danxia Geopark
Rainbow-colored rock formations create surreal, photo-worthy scenery.
Mingsha Mountain & Crescent Lake Scenic Area
Desert dunes with a crescent-shaped lake, famous for wind-carved sands.
Jiayuguan Pass Scenic Area
Fortress and surrounding ruins offering sweeping desert vistas.
Neighborhoods
Walkable districts where you can catch the rhythm of local life and lantern-lit streets.
Lanzhou Old Street
Historic lanes with snack stalls, shops, and riverfront views.
Dunhuang Old Town
Reconstructed ancient streets with traditional architecture and tea houses.
Jiayuguan Old Town
Historic lanes around the pass area that evoke classic Silk Road towns.
Free Things to Do
Experience the region without spending a dime by enjoying views, walks, and public spaces.
Stroll along Lanzhou's Yellow River Scenic Belt
A peaceful riverside stroll with city views and bridges.
Sunset from White Pagoda Mountain (Baita Mountain)
Elevated city views as daylight fades over the skyline.
Crescent Moon Lake viewpoint near Dunhuang
Outdoor vistas of the lake and surrounding dunes from nearby paths.
Gastronomy
Savory staples and desert flavors define the Silk Road palate here.
Lanzhou Beef Noodles
Iconic hand-cut noodles in a fragrant beef broth.
Dunhuang Date Pastries
Sweet pastries made with local dates and sesame.
Lamb Skewers (Chuanr)
Smoky kebabs widely enjoyed in desert towns along the corridor.
Nightlife
Evenings bring markets, lights, and local flavors after dusk.
Lanzhou Night Markets
Bustling stalls with snacks, crafts, and lively atmosphere.
Dunhuang Night Market
Evening stalls offering treats and souvenirs near desert towns.
Jiayuguan Riverside Walk at Night
Calm riverside views with city lights and cool air.
Entertainment
Cultural performances and stage shows offer a taste of local artistry.
Lanzhou Opera
Traditional performances blending regional music and storytelling.
Dunhuang Cultural Show
Evening productions celebrating Silk Road heritage.
Silk Road Folk Music Sessions
Casual performances by local musicians in cultural spaces.
Sports
Active adventures from deserts to riversides await outdoor enthusiasts.
Camel Rides at Mingsha Mountain
Ride across the dunes with desert-back silhouettes against the sky.
Sandboarding near Dunhuang dunes
Thrilling slides down sun-warmed sands.
Hiking Zhangye Danxia viewpoints
Moderate trails with sweeping canyon and rock formations.
Off the Track
For the curious traveler, these less-trodden experiences reveal a deeper Silk Road story.
Photo Hike along Silk Road Ruins near Jiayuguan
Capture ancient lanes and wind-eroded walls in golden light.
Stargazing in the Gobi Desert near Dunhuang
Clear desert skies for a memorable celestial view.
Cycling along Hexi Corridor rural roads
Half-day rides through small towns and terraced fields.