Binggou Danxia Scenic Area in Sunan County, Zhangye

Binggou Danxia Scenic Area in Sunan County, Zhangye
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Binggou Danxia Scenic Area (张掖冰沟丹霞景区) is located in Sunan County (肃南县) of Zhangye City (张掖市), Gansu Province (甘肃省), China. The area is 45 kilometers east of Zhangye city and 41 kilometers west of Sunan County. It is a national 4A-level tourist destination and one of the main scenic areas within Zhangye Danxia National Geopark (张掖丹霞国家地质公园).

Binggou Danxia is famous for its unique Danxia landforms, which are characterized by vibrant red, yellow, and orange rocks formed through long-term erosion. It is one of the best-preserved and most beautiful examples of the Danxia landscape in China and is often referred to as “the world’s first wonder.”

The altitude of Binggou Danxia ranges from 1500 meters to 2550 meters above sea level and covers an area of approximately 300 square kilometers. The region is also known for its “palace-like” peaks, towering rock formations, and ridges that extend across the vast desert landscape.

Climate and Location

Climate

The climate in Zhangye is a typical temperate continental arid climate, characterized by long sunshine hours, ample light and heat, cold winters, warm summers, and distinct seasonal changes. The average annual precipitation is around 130 millimeters, and the average temperature is 7°C. The best time to visit is from June to September when the weather is cooler and more comfortable due to the humid air and pleasant temperatures.

Location

The Binggou Danxia Scenic Area is located in Kangle Township (康乐乡) and Baiyin Township (白银乡) in Sunan County. It is about 12 kilometers from the Qicai Danxia Scenic Area (七彩丹霞) in Linze County (临泽县), which is another major attraction within Zhangye Danxia National Geopark.

Main Attractions

Binggou Danxia is renowned for its dramatic and surreal landscape formed by various geological processes, including wind erosion, weathering, and water erosion. The park is a haven for photographers and nature lovers, offering breathtaking views of the landforms.

1. Grand West Sky Scenic Area (大西天景区)

The Grand West Sky Scenic Area is located in the central part of the Binggou Danxia Scenic Area and features three stunning, palace-like mountain bodies made from red sandstone. The scenic area has a 4.5-kilometer circular walking route that includes both a pedestrian path and a road. The key spots here include:

  • Shen Tuo Ying Bin (神驼迎宾) – “The Camel Welcomes Guests”: A formation that resembles a camel with its head facing the valley.

  • Lock Yang God Pillar (锁阳神柱): A pillar resembling a medicinal herb, named after Lock Yang (锁阳), a Chinese herbal medicine.

  • Eagle Head Rock (鹰头岩): A rock formation that looks like the head of an eagle, showcasing nature’s ability to carve out life-like figures from stone.

  • Golden Tortoise Watching the Sunset (金蟾观霞): A rock formation that resembles a golden tortoise sitting in a serene position.

  • Mushroom Rock (蘑菇石): A mushroom-shaped rock, a common sight in Danxia landscapes.

  • Mao Zedong Half Bust (毛主席半身像): A natural stone that has formed to resemble a half bust of Chairman Mao.

2. Small West Sky Scenic Area (小西天景区)

The Small West Sky Scenic Area is located on the eastern side of the Binggou Danxia Scenic Area. It features an 800-meter-long hiking trail through a valley with numerous red rock formations. Highlights of the area include:

  • Shen Tuo Ying Bin (神驼迎宾) – “The Camel Welcomes Guests”

  • Red Layer Landform (红层地貌): Striking red rock formations, one of the most famous sights in the area.

  • Mud Waterfall (泥瀑布): A waterfall made from natural mud, a rare geological feature.

  • Mushroom Rock (蘑菇石)

  • The Seven Maidens Peak (七女峰) – “Seven Maidens Worshiping Buddha”: Seven stone pillars resembling the figures of young women praying in a devout manner.

  • The Earth’s Root (大地之根): Two towering pillars resembling male and female reproductive organs, a powerful symbol of life and nature’s artistry.

3. The Seven Maidens Peak (七女峰)

These seven vertical stone columns, each representing a graceful maiden in a praying position, stand tall at the peak. The figures are part of the stunning natural formations in the Binggou Danxia Scenic Area and are considered one of the most iconic formations.

4. Golden Tortoise Viewing the Sunset (金蟾观霞)

This rock resembles a toad or tortoise, and the name reflects the mythological association with the celestial being watching the sunset.

5. Guan Yin Rock (观音岩)

A formation resembling the Buddhist figure Guan Yin (观音), embodying the region’s strong spiritual undertones.

Cultural Significance and Formation

The Binggou Danxia landform is part of a vast geological heritage that originated from the Himalayan orogeny (喜马拉雅造山运动). The formations date back to the Jurassic and Tertiary periods and were shaped by long periods of erosion, wind, and water. The distinctive red sandstone, which covers the region, has been eroded into unusual formations, including cliff faces, rock towers, and peaks, which form a dramatic and picturesque landscape.

The name “Binggou” (冰沟), meaning “ice valley,” is believed to have originated from two main theories:

  • One theory suggests that the area was once a vast sea, and after the sea receded, a white, icy substance formed on the mountains’ surface, resembling ice.

  • The second theory is that the region has a temperate grassland climate, with low vegetation, and in winter, snow accumulates and doesn’t melt, creating the “ice valley” effect.

Social Evaluation

Binggou Danxia has garnered significant praise for its natural beauty and unique geological features. It has been described as “China’s first Danxia landform,” with high regard from Professor Huang Jin (黄进), a renowned geologist and honorary president of the China Danxia Landform Tourism Development Research Association. He has called it “one of the best-preserved Danxia regions in China.”

Movies and TV Shows Filmed Here

Due to its striking landscape, the Binggou Danxia Scenic Area has been featured in several films and TV shows, including:

  • Detective Dee III (神探狄仁杰Ⅲ) – A Chinese detective film.

  • 3D Purple Cloud (西游·紫霞篇) – A 3D fantasy film.

  • The Most Beautiful Place (最美的地方遇见你) – A popular Chinese drama.

Ticket Information and Opening Hours

Ticket Prices:

  • Adult Entry: 40 RMB per person

  • Sightseeing Bus: 20 RMB per person

  • Free Entry: Children under 6 years old or under 1.2 meters in height, military personnel, disabled individuals, and seniors over 70.

Opening Hours:

  • Peak Season (May 1st to October 10th): 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM

  • Off-Season (October 11th to April 30th): 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Free Entry Days:

  • Chinese New Year (春节)

  • International Museum Day (国际博物馆日)

  • Teacher’s Day (教师节)

Binggou Danxia Scenic Area is one of China’s most remarkable geological and natural wonders. Its breathtaking landscapes, including its surreal rock formations and vivid colors, make it a must-see destination for tourists, photographers, and nature lovers. Whether you are exploring the vibrant Grand West Sky (大西天) or the awe-inspiring Seven Maidens Peak (七女峰), this area offers a truly unforgettable experience of both nature and culture.