Datong County Ecology & Folklore

Datong County, Xining — the ecological barrier at the source of the Beichuan River, a melting pot of diverse ethnic cultures, a hidden gem integrating Danxia landforms, forest canyons and ethnic customs.

2925
Laoye Mountain Elevation (m)
30+
Ethnic Minority Villages
85%
Forest Coverage Rate
Aerial panoramic view of Laoye Mountain, Datong County, Qinghai
Laoye Mountain Danxia Landform, Datong County
A unique landscape where steep mountain bodies composed of red conglomerate sandstone complement ancient architectural complexes

Datong County 2 Days 1 Night Landscape & Culture Tour

From Danxia wonders to ethnic villages, experience the collision of plateau ecology and diverse cultures

Duration
2 Days 1 Night
Main Destinations
Laoye Mountain, Chahan River, Yaozi Gully
Suitable For
Outdoor enthusiasts, culture explorers
Budget per Person
¥600-¥900
01
Danxia Exploration
Laoye Mountain Scenic Area · Tu Ethnic Folk Village
Highlights

Climb Laoye Mountain in the morning to admire the Danxia landform, visit the Tu ethnic folk village in the afternoon to experience intangible cultural heritage projects such as Anzhao dance and Wheel Autumn.

Attractions
Laoye Mountain
A classic Danxia landform scenic area with ochre-red mountain bodies, featuring ancient architectural complexes and suspended plank roads. Main venue for the June Sixth Flower Fair.
Practical Info
Accommodation Recommendations
  • Datong Hotel
  • Yaozi Gully Forest Cabin
  • Tu Ethnic Farmstay
02
Canyon Hidden Realm
Chahan River Canyon · Yaozi Gully Forest Farm
Highlights

Traverse the Chahan River canyon plank road in the morning, stroll through the pristine Yaozi Gully forest farm in the afternoon, and enjoy the forest oxygen bar.

Attractions
Chahan River
A canyon with cascading waterfalls, springs and grotesque rocks. Average summer temperature is 18°C, earning it the nickname 'Little Jiuzhaigou of the Plateau'.
Practical Info
Gear Suggestions
  • Non-slip hiking shoes
  • Waterproof jacket
  • Trekking poles

Must-Try Foods in Datong Hui and Tu Autonomous County

Yogurt Sliced Noodles

A Datong specialty noodle dish, handmade sliced noodles paired with yak yogurt and wild chives. Sour and fragrant, appetizing, embodying the dietary characteristics of farming-pastoral integration.

Datong Hui and Tu Autonomous County Travel Tips
Best Seasons
  • June-August: Best for summer escape
  • Lunar June Sixth: During the Flower Fair
  • September-October: Most beautiful autumn scenery
Notes
  • Some sections inside the canyon may be slippery
  • Respect minority ethnic customs
  • Open fires are prohibited in the forest farm

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