My 7-Day Gansu Hidden Gems Adventure: A Cute & Wild Journey!

OMG, you guys, I just got back from the most EPIC trip to China, and my heart is still doing little happy dances! I’m talking about Gansu province, a place I kept hearing whispers about in my cute travel groups online. Everyone else was like, “Beijing! Shanghai! So modern!” But I was like, “Nah, there’s gotta be more to China than just skyscrapers and bustling city life,” and boy, was I right! My confirmation bias was totally validated, and now I’m in my own little echo chamber of Gansu adoration. This 7-day adventure was all about discovering Gansu Hidden Gems, and let me tell you, it was a wild, cute, and absolutely unforgettable journey. For anyone who’s never been to China, especially my fellow Western adventurers looking for something truly unique and off the beaten path, this is for you! Get ready to sqee with me!

Discovering Gansu Hidden Gems: My Initial Thoughts and Preparations!

So, like, before I even left, I was already buzzing with excitement. I’d seen some pics of Gansu’s crazy colorful mountains and ancient cities that looked straight out of a fantasy movie, and I just *knew* I had to go. My friends were a bit skeptical, “Gansu? Where even is that?” But I was like, “It’s in the northwest, duh! And it’s supposed to be full of Gansu Hidden Gems!” I spent weeks planning, meticulously looking up every adorable little detail, from what plushies I’d bring to what cute snacks I could find. I even bought a new little cat-themed travel notebook to jot down all my adventures. I mean, how else would I remember every fluffy cloud and sparkly moment? It’s truly a region that has been severely underrated, and I was so ready to explore its ancient wonders and natural beauty.

Getting Ready for my Gansu Hidden Gems Journey: Practicalities and Pre-Trip Jitters!

• Duration: 7 absolutely purr-fect days!
• Cost: Hmm, maybe around $1500-$2000 USD (excluding international flights, obvs!). China is actually super affordable if you know where to look.
• Getting Around: I mostly relied on private cars or taxis for the longer stretches between cities, especially for those truly Gansu Hidden Gems that aren’t on the main tourist routes. Within cities, public transport is great, or just call a Didi (like Uber!).
• Pitfalls: Language barrier can be a thing, but translation apps are lifesavers! Also, some remote areas have limited English speakers, so be prepared to point and smile a lot. And seriously, bring tissues, they don’t always have toilet paper in public restrooms. You’ve been warned!
• Apps: WeChat is a MUST for everything from chatting to paying for literally *everything*. And Amap (Gaode Maps) is surprisingly good for navigation in China, even better than Google Maps sometimes!

I was so nervous but also SO ready to dive into the Gansu Hidden Gems experience. I packed my cutest outfits, my favorite plushie (a little fluffy cat named Mochi!), and a heart full of curiosity. I mean, what could possibly go wrong? It’s China! It’s going to be an adventure! I really wanted to see the parts of China that aren’t plastered all over Instagram, the places that feel a bit more, you know, *real* and untouched. And Gansu, with its ancient history and dramatic landscapes, seemed like the perfect canvas for my quest for cute and unique discoveries. I was already picturing all the adorable photos I’d take with Mochi in front of ancient ruins and colorful mountains. My travel itinerary was packed, but I made sure to leave some room for spontaneous discoveries, because that’s where the real magic happens, right? Especially when you’re hunting for Gansu Hidden Gems.

Day 1: Lanzhou, My Cute Introduction to Gansu’s Yellow River Charm!

My first stop was Lanzhou, the capital of Gansu! I landed at Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport, and the first thing I noticed was how dry the air was. Definitely different from home! The city itself felt bustling but in a very relaxed way compared to, say, Beijing. It was a pleasant surprise, actually. I checked into my hotel, which had the most adorable little tea set in the room, and then it was time to explore! My first mission: find a cute local souvenir. I mean, what’s a trip without a new plushie friend or a sparkly trinket? I totally found a tiny, fluffy camel keychain that instantly became Mochi’s new buddy.

Yellow River Views and Noodle Dreams!

Lanzhou is famous for the Yellow River flowing right through it, and seeing it up close was mesmerizing. It’s not yellow like I thought, but more of a muddy, earthy color. Still, it’s the “Mother River” of China, so it’s super important and historic! I walked along the Yellow River Wind Corridor, soaking in the views. The Zhongshan Bridge, an iron bridge that’s been there for ages, felt so grand and old. I saw people taking these traditional sheepskin rafts across the river, and while they looked kinda scary (like, how do those even float??), they were also super cute to watch. I was like, “Nope, not for me, but you go, little rafts!” The sheer resilience of these local traditions really made me smile. It’s one of those Gansu Hidden Gems that’s not really hidden, but still feels so special.

And then, the food! OMG, Lanzhou Beef Noodles. Everyone told me I *had* to try them, and they weren’t wrong. I found this tiny little noodle shop, ordered a bowl of “erxi” (medium-thin noodles) with extra chili oil, and it was heavenly. The broth was so rich, the beef was tender, and the noodles were perfectly chewy. I mean, my heart melted instantly! It wasn’t just food; it was an experience. I could totally see why people rave about it. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for a slightly chilly evening. This is definitely one of the edible Gansu Hidden Gems! My taste buds were singing!

A Cute Galloping Horse at the Museum!

Later, I visited the Gansu Provincial Museum, and you guys, it was amazing! They have this super famous artifact called the Bronze Galloping Horse, or “Ma Ta Fei Yan” (Horse Treading on a Flying Swallow). It’s literally a bronze horse balancing on one hoof on a tiny little swallow! It’s an ancient masterpiece, and honestly, it’s so cute how delicate yet powerful it looks. I was like, “Sqee! A horse that flies!?” It reminded me of all the sparkly, magical creatures I used to draw when I was little. The museum also had a ton of other cool artifacts from the Silk Road, making me feel like I was truly walking through history. It’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of this region, and definitely one of the top Gansu Hidden Gems for history buffs. I spent ages just staring at all the beautiful pottery and ancient treasures, wondering about the people who made them centuries ago.

Day 2: Disappearing Wonders – Yongtai Ancient City and Yellow River Stone Forest!

Day two was all about venturing out to see some truly unique and, sadly, disappearing wonders. I hired a private car for the day, which was totally worth it for reaching these remote Gansu Hidden Gems. The drive was about 3 hours from Lanzhou, through increasingly desolate and stunning landscapes. I saw vast stretches of Gobi Desert and distant mountains, which felt so different from anything I’d ever seen. It was like driving into a painting, honestly. I had Mochi the cat plushie on the dashboard, making cute little poses for the scenic views!

Yongtai Ancient City: The Golden Turtle!

First up was Yongtai Ancient City, also known as Yongtai Turtle City. OMG, you guys, it’s shaped like a giant turtle! How cute is that?! It was built over 400 years ago during the Ming Dynasty as a military fortress, and it’s surrounded by these ancient rammed earth walls. It’s one of China’s top ten vanishing wonders, and seeing it in person, you can really feel the weight of history and the relentless wind and sand eroding it away. The city walls are like, 12 meters high, and the base is 6 meters thick! It’s incredible! The moat and some of the original buildings are gone now, but the structure is still so impressive. I walked through one of the city gates, and then, like, a flock of sheep came walking through! I literally squealed! It felt like I’d stepped into a time machine. It was such a surreal and adorable moment. My inner child was screaming with joy! This is what I came for, these little unexpected moments that are pure Gansu Hidden Gems material. I couldn’t believe how few people were there; it felt like I had the whole ancient city to myself. It was so quiet, you could almost hear the whispers of soldiers from centuries past. It really makes you think about how quickly things can change, and how important it is to cherish these historical treasures before they’re gone. It’s a bittersweet feeling, knowing that something so grand is slowly fading away, but also feeling so lucky to witness it.

Yellow River Stone Forest: An Alien Landscape!

After being utterly charmed by the Turtle City, we drove to the Yellow River Stone Forest. And holy cow, you guys! This place was like stepping onto another planet! Seriously, it felt like Mars or something. The rock formations are these towering, rugged sandstone pillars, carved by wind and water over millions of years. It’s another one of China’s amazing natural wonders that’s sadly facing the threat of being submerged due to a hydroelectric project. It’s like, a race against time to see these incredible Gansu Hidden Gems before they’re gone! I mean, talk about FOMO! I was so glad I decided to come now.

We took a little sightseeing car through the canyon, and every turn revealed a new, breathtaking view. The scale of it all was just mind-boggling. I kept thinking, “How is this even real?!” The colors of the rocks, the way the light played off them, it was all so dramatic and beautiful. I even saw some local farmers offering donkey cart rides, which were surprisingly cute, although I opted for the electric car. Mochi was enjoying the ride, too, peeking out from my backpack! The air was crisp and clean, a stark contrast to the city, and the silence was profound, broken only by the occasional gust of wind. It’s places like these that make you realize how small we are in the grand scheme of things, and how much natural beauty there is to protect. I felt a deep sense of wonder and a little bit of sadness knowing its fate. It truly felt like I was exploring something from a National Geographic magazine, right here, one of the most stunning Gansu Hidden Gems I’ve ever encountered. The sheer geological artistry was beyond words.

Day 3: A Rainbow of Earth and a Hidden Royal Palace – Danxia & Lu Tusi Yamun!

Today was all about colors and ancient secrets! We headed out from Lanzhou again, this time towards the Danxia landforms. I’d heard about the famous Zhangye Danxia, but my travel groups kept whispering about these Gansu Hidden Gems right near Lanzhou that were just as stunning, if not more, because they were less crowded! And you know me, I love a good underdog story, especially when it involves pretty colors.

Kushui and Shuimo Danxia: Nature’s Own Art Gallery!

First, we went to Kushui Danxia. OMG, it was breathtaking! The mountains were painted with stripes of red, yellow, and deep brown, looking like a giant, earthy rainbow. It’s raw, untouched, and absolutely free to enter, which is a huge plus! The best part? There were barely any tourists! It felt like I had discovered my own secret alien planet. The sheer scale and intricate patterns of the rock formations were just incredible. I spent ages just walking around, taking photos, and letting the vibrant colors wash over me. It truly felt like stepping into an otherworldly landscape, one of those magical Gansu Hidden Gems that just makes you gasp. My personal bias was confirmed again: these lesser-known Danxia formations are just as spectacular as the famous ones, maybe even more so because of the peaceful solitude. The lack of crowds really lets you connect with the raw beauty of nature without any distractions. I even found a little spot where I could sit and just *be*, surrounded by all that ancient, colorful earth. It was a truly grounding experience.

Then we went to Shuimo Danxia, which was equally gorgeous but felt a bit more developed with some cool activities. The colors here were perhaps even more dramatic, with deep reds and purples creating a fantastical landscape. I mean, my jaw was on the floor. It’s like nature just went wild with a paint palette! I even tried a VR experience that simulated flying over the Danxia, and it was so much fun! It gave me a new appreciation for the vastness and complexity of these Gansu Hidden Gems. The guide told us these formations are over 150 million years old, which is just mind-boggling. Imagine all the things they’ve seen! I felt so tiny standing amidst those ancient giants, a humbling yet exhilarating feeling. It was a stark reminder of the incredible geological forces that have shaped our planet over eons. The sheer variety of landforms, from towering cliffs to narrow canyons, kept me captivated at every turn. It felt like I was in a real-life version of those epic landscapes you see in movies, but even better because it was *real*! The experience here really put a smile on my face, and I knew I’d be telling everyone about these amazing Gansu Hidden Gems.

Lu Tusi Yamun: A Western Forbidden City!

In the afternoon, we visited another incredible Gansu Hidden Gem: the Lu Tusi Yamun in Yongdeng County. This place is seriously called the “Little Forbidden City of Western China,” and OMG, it was huge! I had no idea such a grand ancient palace complex existed out here. It’s one of the best-preserved Tusi chieftain’s mansions in the Gansu-Qinghai border area, and it’s enormous, covering over 30,000 square meters!

Walking through the courtyards, the ancestral halls, and the living quarters felt like I was literally stepping into a historical drama. The architecture was so elegant and grand, with intricate carvings and beautiful rooflines. It’s like, who knew this was all just hidden away in a small village?! The best part? In the back garden, they had these ancient pear trees, and I actually got to eat a pear from one of them! I was like, “OMG, I’m eating the same kind of pear that a Tusi chieftain might have eaten centuries ago!” It was such a cute and surreal connection to the past. It tasted sweet and juicy, almost like it held centuries of history within its flesh. It really made me pause and think about the generations that had walked these grounds, their stories echoing in the quiet courtyards. This kind of personal, tangible connection to history is what makes travel so special, and it’s these unexpected moments that truly define the Gansu Hidden Gems experience. I felt so lucky to stumble upon such a well-preserved piece of history that most people don’t even know exists. It’s definitely a place that deserves more recognition, a beautiful blend of history and natural serenity.

“It’s amazing how much history is just tucked away, waiting to be discovered, if you just, like, look a little harder. These Gansu Hidden Gems are truly mind-blowing!”

Day 4: Journey to the West and a Ghostly Oil City – Dunhuang and Yumen Old City!

Today was a travel day, taking a flight from Lanzhou to Dunhuang. It was a relatively short flight, and I was excited to explore the westernmost part of Gansu! Dunhuang is famous for its Silk Road history and incredible grottoes, but before diving into that, I had a detour planned to a place I’d seen described as a “ghost city” – Yumen Old City. My travel friends told me about it, and I was like, “A ghost city?! That sounds both spooky and cute in a weird way!” I mean, who doesn’t love a good urban exploration?

Yumen Old City: Echoes of an Oil Boom!

From Dunhuang, we drove to Yumen Old City, which is near Jiayuguan. The drive itself was fascinating, passing by vast solar power bases and endless Gobi Desert. Yumen Old City was once a thriving oil town, literally “born from oil.” But as resources dwindled and the city’s location proved difficult, it was largely abandoned. Now, it’s a fascinating, eerie place, a true Gansu Hidden Gem for urban explorers and history buffs. It’s like a time capsule, frozen in the past.

Walking through the deserted streets, I saw abandoned factories, schools, and even a dance hall! It was so weird and cool. Most buildings were sealed off, but peeking through cracks, you could imagine what life was like there decades ago. I found an old “North Flat Garment Factory” sign, all faded pink, and it was surprisingly cute in its decay. Mochi and I took some epic, slightly melancholic photos here. It was a bit spooky, tbh, but also incredibly thought-provoking. It’s a reminder of how quickly fortunes can change and how nature reclaims things. It’s a very unique kind of beauty, a beauty of decay and forgotten stories. The wind whistling through the empty buildings almost sounded like whispers from the past, telling tales of the boom and bust. It really made me think about the people who once lived there, their hopes and dreams. It’s a powerful experience, and definitely one of the most unexpected Gansu Hidden Gems I encountered. For those interested in unique historical sites, I highly recommend checking out this kind of “desert dreams” adventure, just like in this Desert Dreams and Ancient Wonders Family Adventure. It truly makes you appreciate the impermanence of things.

For lunch, we found a tiny local eatery in the commercial street that was still active. I tried “Yang Bola,” a local specialty with lamb, and it was SO good and super unique! It’s like a stir-fry but with a distinct Northwestern flavor. Definitely not expensive and totally delicious. It’s these little culinary Gansu Hidden Gems that make the trip even better!

Day 5: Deep Dive into Ancient Art – Western Jin Mural Tombs & Mogao Grottoes!

Today was a major history day, and I was so ready for it! Dunhuang is like, the heart of Silk Road art, and I was buzzing with anticipation. I mean, ancient art and history? Yes, please! I’ve always been fascinated by hidden cultural treasures, and these were definitely at the top of my list of Gansu Hidden Gems to explore. It’s like, I knew China was old, but seeing it *this* old is just a whole different level of cool.

Western Jin Mural Tombs: A Spooky, Cool Adventure!

First up was the Western Jin Dynasty Mural Tombs, which are super close to Dunhuang Airport. This was such a cool, slightly spooky experience! We drove off the main road and onto a dirt track, deep into the Gobi Desert, where there were tons of ancient burial mounds. Our guide led us with flashlights into a pitch-black, narrow tunnel. It felt like a real-life Indiana Jones adventure! My heart was pounding, but in a fun way! Mochi was peeking out of my bag, probably a little scared, but also curious, hehe.

Inside the tomb, it was surprisingly cool, a welcome relief from the desert heat above. The guide was amazing, explaining everything in such detail: the tomb’s structure, its age, the identity of the tomb owner, and the incredible brick murals depicting life, mythology, and the afterlife. The colors were faded, but you could still see the outlines of the ancient paintings. It was like a secret art gallery underground! They only open two tombs to the public, which makes it feel even more special and exclusive. This was truly one of the most fascinating Gansu Hidden Gems for anyone who loves ancient history and a bit of mystery. I mean, how many people can say they’ve explored a real, ancient tomb with a flashlight?! It felt like a privilege, a peek into a world long past. The intricate details on the bricks, even faded, told stories of a vibrant culture and belief system. It was a profound connection to history, making me feel a deep appreciation for the artistry and beliefs of ancient civilizations. For more on ancient architecture, check out this Shanxi Ancient Architecture Journey – it might give you ideas for your next adventure!

Mogao Grottoes: The Pinnacle of Buddhist Art!

After the tombs, it was time for the main event: the Mogao Grottoes! This is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it’s like, super famous for a reason. It’s a massive complex of Buddhist cave temples filled with thousands of ancient murals and sculptures, dating back over a thousand years! You have to book tickets in advance, and they take you on guided tours in small groups to protect the fragile art. I totally recommend booking early, especially if you want to see specific caves.

Walking through the grottoes was absolutely mind-blowing. Each cave was a treasure trove of vibrant colors, intricate details, and serene Buddha figures. Our guide was super knowledgeable, explaining the different dynasties, artistic styles, and stories behind the murals. It was like a visual feast! I was just in awe of the sheer scale and beauty of it all. To think that these artists painstakingly created these masterpieces over centuries, in such remote conditions, is just incredible. It’s a testament to human devotion and artistic genius. I felt a profound sense of peace and wonder in those ancient caves. It’s not just a collection of art; it’s a living history book, a spiritual sanctuary, and definitely one of the most important Gansu Hidden Gems (though not so hidden anymore!). I spent hours just trying to absorb it all, my imagination running wild with stories of Silk Road travelers and devout monks. The experience was truly transformative, a beautiful reminder of the enduring power of art and faith. It makes you feel like you are part of a very long and profound human story. You can’t leave China without seeing this!

Day 6: Desert Wonders – Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring!

My last full day in Gansu was dedicated to experiencing the magic of the desert around Dunhuang. I mean, how often do you get to ride a camel in a real desert?! I was so excited, I practically bounced out of bed! This was going to be the ultimate cute desert adventure, and I was ready for all the sparkly sand and fluffy camels!

Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring: An Oasis Dream!

We headed to Mingsha Mountain (Singing Sand Dunes) and Crescent Spring. The desert here is just massive and beautiful. The sand dunes are so tall and golden, and when the wind blows, they supposedly “sing” – though I mostly heard the wind! The highlight for me was definitely the camel ride. OMG, the camels were so fluffy and adorable! I picked the cutest one, of course, and Mochi got to ride on its head, hehe. It was a bit bumpy, but so much fun, and the views from atop the dunes were absolutely spectacular. It felt like I was in a movie! I mean, who would have thought that China had such incredible desert landscapes? My friends back home were totally in an echo chamber thinking China was just cities, but this was *so* different! It’s one of those unexpected Gansu Hidden Gems that completely changes your perception.

After the camel ride, I tried sand sliding down a dune, which was exhilarating and a little scary, but so much fun! And then, the Crescent Spring! It’s a literal oasis in the middle of the desert, a crescent-shaped lake surrounded by lush greenery. It’s so magical and unexpected. How does it even stay there, surrounded by all that sand? It’s truly a natural wonder, and it looked so pretty and serene. I just sat by the water, watching the sunset over the dunes, and it was one of the most peaceful moments of my trip. The colors of the sky, the golden sand, and the green oasis – it was all just perfect. It felt like a scene from a fairytale, a truly enchanting Gansu Hidden Gem. If you’re looking for other stunning natural landscapes, you might enjoy reading about Qinghai’s Hidden Gems, which also features incredible natural beauty!

Activity	Rating (out of 5 🐱)	Cute Factor
Camel Riding	🐱🐱🐱🐱🐱	Super fluffy and wobbly!
Sand Sliding	🐱🐱🐱🐱	Fast and sandy, kinda cute!
Crescent Spring	🐱🐱🐱🐱🐱	Magical oasis, super serene!

Dunhuang Night Market: Food and Sparkly Souvenirs!

In the evening, I explored the Dunhuang Night Market. Oh. My. Gosh. So much delicious street food! I tried donkey meat noodles (don’t knock it till you try it, it’s a local specialty and actually quite tasty!), apricot skin water (refreshing!), and some yummy grilled lamb skewers. The market was bustling with people, lights, and music, and it had such a lively, festive atmosphere. I also found some adorable little sparkly souvenirs – tiny replicas of the Mogao Grottoes flying apsaras! They were so cute, I had to get one for myself and one for my bestie. It was the perfect end to a day of desert adventures, soaking in the local culture and enjoying all the yummy treats. It felt like a celebration of all the Gansu Hidden Gems I’d discovered, especially the culinary ones!

Day 7: Farewell Gansu, Hello Memories and Future Adventures!

And just like that, my amazing 7-day adventure exploring Gansu Hidden Gems came to an end. It felt like it flew by in a blink! I had a leisurely breakfast, packed up all my new cute plushies and sparkly souvenirs, and started my journey back home. My flight was from Dunhuang back to Lanzhou, and then an international flight from Lanzhou. It was a long travel day, but my heart was full of so many incredible memories.

Reflections on My Gansu Hidden Gems Journey!

This trip to Gansu was truly eye-opening. Before I came, I had this idea of China being all super modern, bustling cities, and while those exist, Gansu showed me a completely different side – a side rich in ancient history, dramatic landscapes, and unique cultural experiences. It’s a place where you can ride a camel in the desert one day and explore ancient grottoes the next. It really challenged my initial perceptions (and those of my friends stuck in their echo chambers about China!), and I loved that! It was like, “See? I told you there were Gansu Hidden Gems out there!” My confirmation bias about finding something unique and authentic was totally validated, and it felt so good.

I loved the playful moments, like seeing the sheep in Yongtai Ancient City and riding the fluffy camels. But I also cherished the profound moments, like standing in the Mogao Grottoes, feeling the weight of centuries of art and devotion. The food was surprisingly delicious, especially those Lanzhou beef noodles and the Yang Bola in Yumen. Even the quirky, slightly eerie vibe of Yumen Old City was an adventure in itself. Every single day brought a new surprise, a new adorable moment, or a new historical discovery.

“Gansu isn’t just a place; it’s an emotion. It’s wild, it’s ancient, and it’s full of these adorable little surprises that just make your heart sing! Seriously, if you’re looking for Gansu Hidden Gems, this is your sign!”

My Top Tips for Exploring Gansu’s Hidden Gems!

• Be Open-Minded: Gansu is different from coastal China. Embrace the differences, the history, and the unique culture. It’s truly a special place.
• Learn a Few Phrases: “Ni hao” (hello), “Xie xie” (thank you), and “Duoshao qian?” (how much?) will go a long way and make locals smile!
• Download Translation Apps: Seriously, they’re lifesavers for ordering food or asking for directions.
• Pack Layers: The desert climate means big temperature swings between day and night. Plus, good sun protection is key!
• Stay Hydrated: It’s a dry region! Always have water with you.
• Embrace the Unexpected: Some of the best moments were the unplanned ones, like the sheep in Yongtai or the taste of a fresh pear from an ancient tree. These are the true Gansu Hidden Gems!
• Charge Your Phone: For photos, translation, and navigation. A power bank is your best friend!
• Don’t Forget Your Plushie: For cute travel photos and moral support, of course! Mochi loved it!

I left Gansu with a camera full of photos, a backpack full of cute souvenirs, and a heart full of joy. It was more than just a trip; it was an adventure that expanded my view of the world and showed me that there are still so many incredible, beautiful, and often overlooked Gansu Hidden Gems waiting to be discovered. If you’ve been thinking about visiting China and want something truly unique, something that will make your friends say, “OMG, where *is* that?!” then Gansu is absolutely the place for you. Trust me, you won’t regret it. It’s a destination that offers a profound sense of history, a vibrant tapestry of cultures, and landscapes that will simply take your breath away. I’m already dreaming about my next adventure, perhaps seeking out more Gansu Hidden Gems or other unexplored corners of China. My little cat-themed notebook is already filling up with new ideas! What an absolutely fantastic experience, truly one for the books!

And for those curious about other unique Chinese travel experiences, consider checking out this Budget Adventure in Ningxia or a Shaanxi Yellow River Road Trip for more inspiration. China is HUGE and full of so many amazing places!