Hexi Corridor
China
The narrow land corridor that connected China to Central Asia for 2,000 years of Silk Road trade, from Lanzhou through the Zhangye rainbow mountains and the desert fortress of Jiayuguan to the sacred cave libraries of Dunhuang, where the road meets the Gobi.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Lanzhou
Gateway to the Hexi Corridor where the Yellow River cuts through loess. Lanzhou beef lamian, pulled fresh at street stalls, is the Silk Road's essential fuel.
- Zhangye Danxia Landform
Sandstone striped in 24 shades of red, yellow and green by minerals over 24 million years. Colours intensify dramatically after rain.
- Mati Temple
Buddhist cave temples carved into Qilian Mountain cliffs, home to the Yugur ethnic minority since the Tang dynasty. Rock-cut chapels stack five stories high.
- Jiayuguan Fort
The western terminus of the Great Wall, the last Ming-dynasty gate before the Gobi. Beyond it was considered the edge of the known Chinese world.
- Mingsha Singing Sand Dunes
Gobi dunes rising 250 m that hum like thunder in the wind, sheltering Crescent Moon Spring, an oasis pool defying the desert for 2,000 years.
- Mogao Caves
492 cave temples painted by Buddhist pilgrims from the 4th to 14th century. With 45,000 sq m of murals, it is the greatest medieval art repository on Earth.
Where to Eat
- Lanzhou Beef NoodlesNoodles
A traditional dish featuring hand-pulled noodles in a flavorful beef broth, garnished with herbs and spices.
- Zhangye Night MarketStreet Food
A bustling market offering a variety of local snacks and delicacies, perfect for an evening culinary adventure.
- Jiayuguan Roast LambBarbecue
Succulent roast lamb seasoned with local spices, a specialty of the Jiayuguan region.
- Dunhuang Night MarketStreet Food
A vibrant market known for its array of local dishes, including hand-made dumplings and sweet treats.
- Mogao Caves Tea HouseTea House
A serene spot to enjoy traditional Chinese teas and light snacks after exploring the Mogao Caves.
Things to Do
- Lanzhou Waterwheel ParkPark
A scenic park featuring traditional waterwheels along the Yellow River, showcasing ancient irrigation techniques.
- Zhangye Giant Buddha TempleHistoric Site
Home to China's largest reclining Buddha statue, this temple offers a glimpse into ancient Buddhist art.
- Jiayuguan Great Wall MuseumMuseum
An informative museum detailing the history and construction of the Great Wall's westernmost fort.
- Dunhuang MuseumMuseum
Exhibits artifacts and relics from the Silk Road era, providing context to the region's rich history.
- Crescent LakeNature
An oasis nestled amidst towering sand dunes, offering camel rides and picturesque views.