Lanzhou Ink Danxia Tourist Scenic Area

Arrive at the visitor center with time to spare

The park is not far from central Lanzhou, but public transport involves a transfer. Drive or use ride-hailing and set the visitor center as your destination. Since 2026, the park opens at 08:30; ticket sales end at 17:00 on weekdays and 17:30 on weekends and public holidays. Morning entry is the most practical choice.

Take the internal transport to the high viewpoints first

After entering, follow the park transport system to key stops such as Silk Road Ancient Trail and Danding Lansheng. Do not try to link every viewpoint on foot. Starting high and working downhill reduces climbing and leaves you with more energy for the longer boardwalk.

Make the downhill boardwalk from Danding Lansheng to Shayun Tuoling your main walk

This wooden boardwalk is the key section for close views of the rock textures and coloured hills. Allow about 1.5-2 hours with photo stops. If you do not want the full walk, shorten the route and continue by sightseeing bus.

Finish at Jiuse Danqing and the hot-air-balloon platform, then leave a transport buffer

After the walk, continue by park transport to Jiuse Danqing and the remaining viewpoints, then return to the visitor center. If you use a city shuttle, confirm its meeting point and departure time when you enter; its return trip may be earlier than the park's ticket-sales cutoff.