Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture Tourism

The pearl on the south shore of Qinghai Lake — highland lakes complement Danxia canyons. A 4-day, 3-night in-depth tour covering Qinghai Lake, Longyang Gorge, Guide Danxia and other natural and cultural landscapes.

4400
Qinghai Lake Area (km²)
1500
Longyang Gorge Dam Height (m)
3000
Average Elevation (m)
70+
Tibetan Population (%)

Hainan Prefecture Counties & Districts Tourism

Hainan Prefecture 4 Days 3 Nights Essence Tour

Circle Qinghai Lake, explore Longyang Gorge, appreciate Guide Danxia

Duration
4 Days 3 Nights
Main Destinations
Gonghe, Guide, Xinghai
Suitable For
Nature lovers, photography enthusiasts
Budget per Person
¥1600 - ¥2400
01
Sacred Lake Panorama
Qinghai Lake · Erlangjian
Highlights

Arrive in Gonghe County in the morning, visit Qinghai Lake Erlangjian Scenic Area in the afternoon.

Attractions
Qinghai Lake Erlangjian Scenic Area
Core scenic area on the south shore of Qinghai Lake. Get up close to the lake water and enjoy the magnificent view where sky and lake merge.
Daotang River
China's only river that flows from east to west. Legend says it was formed by the tears of Princess Wencheng.
Practical Info
Accommodation Recommendations
  • Qinghai Lake Hotel
  • Gonghe County Hotel
  • Lakeside Tibetan Guesthouse
Photography Tips
  • Best time: sunrise and sunset
  • Use polarizing filter to reduce glare
  • Bring extra memory cards and batteries
02
Canyon Exploration
Longyang Gorge · Clear Yellow River
Highlights

Full day tour of Longyang Gorge Grand Canyon, enjoying the magnificent scenery of the Yellow River canyon.

Attractions
Longyang Gorge Grand Canyon
One of the most spectacular gorges on the upper reaches of the Yellow River, with towering cliffs on both sides and crystal-clear river water, majestic in momentum.
Longyang Gorge Hydropower Station
The first large hydropower station on the upper Yellow River, with a magnificent dam. Power generator units are open for visitation.
Practical Info
Tour Route
  • Main gate → Observation deck → Boat pier
  • About 10 km by sightseeing car
Safety Tips
  • Stay away from cliff edges
  • Wear non-slip hiking shoes
  • Beware of falling rocks
03
Danxia Wonders
Guide · The Yellow River Runs Clear
Highlights

Visit Guide National Geopark in the morning, tour Yuhuang Pavilion in the afternoon.

Attractions
Guide National Geopark
A geopark dominated by Danxia landforms. Red sandstone layers have weathered into countless strange peaks and grotesque rocks.
Yellow River Clear Bridge
The best spot to witness 'The Yellow River Runs Clear in Guide'. The river water is so clear you can see the bottom, beautifully contrasting with the Danxia on both banks.
Practical Info
Experience Activities
  • Danxia hiking (about 2 hours)
  • Yellow River rafting
  • Geological survey
Souvenir Recommendations
  • Guide Long-handled Pear
  • Yellow River Carp
  • Tibetan Incense
  • Thangka
04
Cultural Origins
Tongde · Departure
Highlights

Visit the Zongri Cultural Site in the morning to learn about prehistoric civilization, then depart in the afternoon.

Attractions
Zongri Cultural Site
A late Neolithic cultural site, yielding a large number of painted pottery and bone artifacts, showcasing the early civilization along the upper Yellow River.
Practical Info
Cultural Experiences
  • Painted pottery making experience
  • Tibetan song and dance appreciation
  • Folk museum visit
Transportation Guide
  • Tongde County is about 150 km from Gonghe County
  • Chartering a car is recommended
  • Drive carefully on mountain roads

Must-Try Foods in Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture

Qinghai Lake Yellow Croaker

A unique fish species in Qinghai Lake, with tender meat. Can be steamed or braised, a local delicacy.

Hand-Grabbed Lamb

Made from highland free-range sheep, boiled in plain water and eaten by hand. Reflects the bold Tibetan food culture.

Goujiao Niu Oil Cake

A Hainan Prefecture specialty pastry, named for the action of pouring oil along the pan edge during cooking. Thin, crispy and fragrant.

Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
  • June-September: Pleasant weather
  • July-August: Rape flowers in full bloom
  • Note: Some attractions closed in winter
Altitude Reminder
  • Keep warm and protect against sun
  • Avoid vigorous exercise
  • Prepare common medicines
Budget Reference
  • Tickets: approx. 280 yuan
  • Accommodation: 350-600 yuan/night
  • Meals: 100-150 yuan/day
  • Transportation: 700-1000 yuan
  • Total: 1600-2400 yuan