Sunset Red Northwest Tour - Henan, Shanxi, Shaanxi, Ningxia, Inner Mongolia, Gansu, Qinghai Double High-Speed Train 12-Day Tour

Embark on a journey to the Shaolin Temple, revered as the "Ancestral Court of Zen and the Premier Monastery of the World." The first image that comes to mind when thinking of the Shaolin Temple is the legendary Shaolin monks, their 72 martial arts techniques, and the mystical martial arts secrets depicted in Jin Yong's novels. Visiting Henan to witness a Shaolin martial arts performance is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Embark on a journey to explore one of China's three major grottoes, the Longmen Grottoes, and marvel at the pinnacle of Tang Dynasty Buddhist art. The towering 17.14-meter tall statue of Vairocana Buddha in the Fengxian Temple stands as a paragon of the Longmen Grottoes' sculptural artistry. As part of China's treasure trove of stone carving art, the Longmen Grottoes are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a National Key Cultural Relics Protection Unit, and are collectively known as the Four Great Caves of China alongside the Mogao Caves, Yungang Grottoes, and Maijishan Grottoes.

Embark on a morning journey by coach to the historic city of Pingyao, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Nestled in the heart of Shanxi Province, Pingyao Ancient City boasts a rich cultural heritage spanning over 2,700 years. Immerse yourself in the charm of its well-preserved ancient architecture and experience the vibrant history that comes alive within its walls.

Continue your exploration to the majestic Hukou Waterfall, the first and largest waterfall of the Yellow River. Marvel at the grandeur of the "Mother River" as the waters plunge over the edge, symbolizing the boundless spirit and relentless drive of the Chinese nation. Feel the power and grace of the waterfall as it echoes the indomitable spirit of the people and the land.

After a delightful breakfast, embark on a journey by coach to explore the historical site of the 7th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, known as the "Zhongnanhai" of the Anti-Japanese War period, at the **Zao Garden Revolutionary Site**. Continue your cultural adventure to the prestigious National AAAAA-rated scenic spot, the **Zhenbeibao Western Movie Town**. Immerse yourself in the familiar settings of numerous films, where iconic and award-winning movies such as "Red Sorghum," "A Chinese Odyssey," and "The Ballad of the Yellow River" were filmed.

After a delightful breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to the Inner Mongolia Alashan Left Banner's **Tonghu Grassland Scenic Area**. This remarkable destination is a treasure trove of natural and cultural landscapes, including deserts, salt lakes, wetland grasslands, sand springs, oases, pastoral villages, and rock art, making it a part of the World Desert Geopark.

Continue your journey to the awe-inspiring **Tengger Desert Shapotou Tourism Area**, located in Shapotou. This extraordinary scenic area is a harmonious blend of vast deserts, the mighty Yellow River, towering mountains, and lush oases. It offers a unique combination of the charm of the south and the grandeur of the north, with its distinctive and renowned landscapes that captivate visitors from around the globe.

Embark on a scenic morning drive to Zhangye, where you'll be captivated by the breathtaking beauty of Zhangye Danxia at the renowned Zhangye Danxia Landform Geological Park. Recognized by China National Geography as one of the most stunning Danxia landscapes in China, this geological wonder will leave you in awe. Capture the mesmerizing sunset hues as the day draws to a close. After a day filled with natural splendor, return to Zhangye and retire to the comfort of your hotel for a well-deserved rest.

Embark on a scenic morning drive to Qilian, where you'll immerse yourself in the rich history of the Red Army at the Goose Fortress Red Army Long March Memorial Site. This ancient town, a strategic stronghold on the historic Silk Road, is home to the Goose Fortress Red Army Monument, where you can pay your respects and listen to the inspiring stories of the Red Army's valiant struggles.

Next, explore the breathtaking AAAA-rated Zhuo'er Mountain Scenic Area, a stunning landscape of Danxia landforms composed of red sandstone and conglomerate. Located in the Ba Bao Town of Lian County, the area is nestled alongside the Ba Bao River and offers a magnificent view of the sacred Tibetan mountain, A Mi Dong Suo (Ox Heart Mountain), across the river.

Join us for an unforgettable journey through the heart of Qilian, where history, culture, and natural beauty come together in a harmonious tapestry of wonder.

Embark on a scenic morning drive to the mesmerizing Chaka Salt Lake, traversing the picturesque West Lake Ring Road, and ascending the icy Gou Da Ba Mountain Pass. Continue your journey through Gangcha, where you'll be captivated by the beauty of the Cangyang Gyatso Square. Ascend the perennially snow-capped Da Dong Shu Pass, marked by the 4120-meter milestone, and marvel at the pristine snow-covered plateau landscapes.

As you travel through the stunning Qilian grasslands, you'll be treated to a visual feast of natural splendor. Upon reaching Gangcha, you'll arrive at the unique and iconic landscape of Qinghai, the Chaka Salt Lake. After an enriching visit, proceed to the shores of Qinghai Lake for a relaxing stay, where you can indulge in leisure activities and witness the breathtaking sunset over the lake's tranquil waters.

After a delightful breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to the breathtaking **Qinghai Lake Erlangjian Scenic Area**. Known as "mtsho-sngon" in Tibetan, Qinghai Lake is revered as the "Blue Sea" and is likened to a sapphire set against the majestic backdrop of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, a sacred lake in the hearts of the Tibetan people. Stroll along the shores of Qinghai Lake, breathing in the crisp, fresh air, as the azure sky seamlessly blends with the stunning blue waters, painting a picture of nature's perfect harmony.

Following your visit to Qinghai Lake, continue your journey along the picturesque lakefront, where the water and sky merge into a single, enchanting vista.

As a special treat, we offer a complimentary visit to the **Kesu'er Tibetan Village**. This exclusive experience transports you to a realm beyond the mundane, allowing you to immerse yourself in the tranquility and charm of traditional Tibetan culture.

After a delightful breakfast, embark on a journey to the "Sanjiang Snow Goji Berry Health Garden," where you will be immersed in the unique regional and ethnic culture of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau through a display of original specimens, wax figures, and cultural relics. Next, board your vehicle to visit either the "Qinghai Tibetan Medicine Cultural Museum" or the "Qinghai Sino-Tibetan Medicinal Materials Poverty Alleviation Industry Demonstration Park," the only comprehensive museum in the world reflecting Tibetan culture.

Continue your exploration to the city of Lanzhou, where you will marvel at the "Mother of the Yellow River" sculpture, one of the many artistic representations of the mother river of the Chinese nation and a recipient of the first national urban sculpture competition award. Discover the historical charm of the "Zhongshan Iron Bridge," built in the 33rd year of the Guangxu era (1907), a testament to Lanzhou's rich history and known as the "Mother Bridge of the World's Yellow River."

As the day's adventures come to a close, retreat to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.

Welcome to the conclusion of your enchanting journey in Chongqing. As you return to the warmth and comfort of your home, we hope the memories of your delightful adventure will linger in your heart.