Minhe Hui and Tu Autonomous County Travel

Eastern Gateway of Qinghai — Minhe County, a melting pot of diverse ethnic cultures, home to the Qili Temple medicinal spring and starting point of the Yellow River Grand Canyon. The 3-day 2-night tour includes natural wonders, prehistoric sites, and Hui and Tu cultural experiences.

2000+
Years of Historical Sites
2
Ethnic Minority Groups
1800+
Altitude (meters)
40+
Specialty Foods
Minhe Qili Temple Medicinal Spring Scenery
Qili Temple Medicinal Spring - Plateau Holy Spring
A magical mineral spring water source, rich in various minerals, known as the 'Plateau Holy Spring'

Minhe Three-Day Two-Night Culture and Nature Tour

Visit the miraculous medicinal spring, explore prehistoric sites, experience diverse ethnic cultures

Duration
3 Days 2 Nights
Main Destinations
Qili Temple Medicinal Spring, Machangyuan Site, Yellow River Grand Canyon
Suitable For
Culture Enthusiasts, Nature Explorers
Budget per Person
¥700-¥1000
01
Medicinal Spring Exploration
Qili Temple · Medicinal Spring
Highlights

Arrive in Minhe in the morning, head to Qili Temple Medicinal Spring scenic area in the afternoon to experience the magical medicinal mineral water.

Attractions
Qili Temple Medicinal Spring
A natural mineral spring, rich in beneficial minerals with significant therapeutic effects on digestive system diseases. Attracts numerous visitors annually for health recuperation.
Practical Info
Accommodation Recommendations
  • Minhe Hot Spring Resort
  • Qili Temple Sanatorium
  • County Town Hotel
Food Recommendations
  • Hand-Grab Lamb
  • Hui Fried Dough Twists
  • Herbal Medicine Hotpot
02
Site Exploration
Machangyuan Site · Folk Culture Experience
Highlights

Morning visit to the Machangyuan archaeological site, afternoon experience Hui and Tu folk culture.

Attractions
Machangyuan Site
A late Neolithic site yielding a large number of pottery and stone tools, an important site for studying prehistoric culture in the Hehuang region.
Minhe Ethnic Culture Park
A themed park showcasing Hui, Tu and other minority cultures, featuring ethnic song and dance performances and handicraft demonstrations.
Practical Info
Cultural Experiences
  • Hui Hua'er Folk Song Singing
  • Tu Anzhao Dance
  • Ethnic Handicraft Making
Notes
  • Respect minority customs
  • Do not touch artifacts in the site area
03
Canyon Scenery
Yellow River Grand Canyon
Highlights

Full day tour of the Yellow River Grand Canyon to enjoy the magnificent canyon scenery. Return trip in the afternoon.

Attractions
Yellow River Grand Canyon
A famous canyon on the upper reaches of the Yellow River, with steep cliffs on both sides, swift currents, and magnificent scenery. An ideal location for photography enthusiasts.
Practical Info
Transportation Guide
  • Chartered car recommended
  • Some road sections are dangerous, drive cautiously
Souvenir Recommendations
  • Minhe Goji Berries
  • Plateau Honey
  • Ethnic Embroidery

Must-Try Foods in Minhe Hui and Tu Autonomous County

Hand-Grab Lamb

A traditional Hui dish made with quality lamb, cooked simply to preserve the original flavor. Tender and nutritious.

Hui Fried Dough Twists

A traditional fried pastry, crispy and delicious. A must-have food for festivals and entertaining guests.

Herbal Medicine Hotpot

A hotpot featuring Qili Temple medicinal spring water and local herbs, with health benefits.

Minhe Hui and Tu Autonomous County Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
  • May-Oct: Pleasant climate
  • Jul-Aug: Best summer retreat
Notes
  • Consult doctor before drinking medicinal spring water
  • Pay attention to safety when touring the canyon
  • Respect ethnic dietary customs
Budget Reference
  • Tickets: approx 100 RMB
  • Accommodation: 120-250 RMB/night
  • Meals: 50-80 RMB/day
  • Transport: 150-300 RMB