Maijishan National Park Travel Guide

Discover the natural and cultural wonders of Maijishan National Park in Gansu, China with our comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, activities, food, and more.


Introduction to Maijishan National Park

Maijishan National Park is a picturesque park located in Tianshui, Gansu province in China. Maijishan, an isolated mountain range, is the main attraction of this park that is home to a number of historical and cultural sites, and an abundance of natural beauty. The park spans 141 square kilometers and the Maijishan mountain range is about 60 kilometers long. The park is a popular weekend getaway for both locals and tourists.

List of Places to Visit in Maijishan National Park

Maijishan National Park has a lot of attractions that are culturally and historically important as well as a number of natural wonders. We have compiled a list of the best places to visit in Maijishan National Park.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Maijishan Grottoes

The Maijishan Grottoes, built between the Later Qin Dynasty (384-417) and the Tang Dynasty (618-907), are home to nearly 7,200 Buddhist statues and 1,000 square meters of murals. The grottoes are located on Maijishan mountain and are comprised of 194 cave chapels. The statues are examples of Buddhist art showing the popular styles of the era they were created in.

Fuxi Temple

The Fuxi Temple, located at the foot of Maijishan mountain, is dedicated to one of the most important figures in Chinese mythology, Fuxi. The temple was built during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), and has been rebuilt several times. The temple’s architecture is a fusion of Han and Tibetan styles.

Natural Attractions of Maijishan National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Maijishan Mountain Range

The Maijishan mountain range dominates the park, reaching a height of 1,700 meters. The mountain is famous for its lush forests, crystal-clear streams, and stunning views. The park is a hiker’s paradise and a great place to go for a nature walk.

Aoyue Peak

Aoyue Peak is one of the most unique features of Maijishan National Park. It is a pyramid-shaped mountain that is over 1,200 meters high. Aoyue Peak is known for its stunning views of Maijishan mountain range and is a popular spot for photography.

Hiking/Biking Routes in Maijishan National Park

Maijishan National Park has many hiking and biking routes. The most popular hiking trail is the Maijishan Grottoes Scenic Area, which is 8.5 kilometers long and takes about 4-5 hours to complete.

Best Things to Do in Maijishan National Park: Activities and Tours

Explore Maijishan Grottoes

The Maijishan Grottoes are the main attraction of this park, and for good reason. Take a guided tour of the grottoes to learn about the history and culture of the region.

Go Hiking or Biking

Maijishan National Park has many hiking and biking routes that offer stunning views of the parks’ scenic beauty.

Week-Long Itinerary for Maijishan National Park

Day 1: Maijishan Grottoes Scenic Area

Day 2: Aoyue Peak

Day 3: Fuxi Temple

Day 4: Shimen Valley

Day 5: Huanglong Valley

Day 6: Huanka Scenic Area

Day 7: Maijishan Mountain Range

Food and Drink Scene of Maijishan National Park

Must-Try Dishes

Anjou Lamb

Anjou Lamb is a local specialty of Maijishan National Park. The lamb is cooked over a slow fire with spices like cumin, coriander, and chili, resulting in a flavor that is both savory and spicy.

Local Beverages

Maijishan Tea

Maijishan Tea is a type of green tea that is grown on the slopes of Maijishan mountain. It is a refreshing and healthy option and is preferred by locals as well as tourists.

Where to Stay in Maijishan National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Maijiuyuan Resort Hotel

The Maijuyuan Resort Hotel is a 4-star hotel located near Maijishan National Park. The hotel is equipped with all modern amenities and offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

Maijiuyuan Inn

The Maijiuyuan Inn is a budget option for travelers. The Inn is located near the park entrance and offers clean and comfortable rooms at an affordable price.

What to Buy in Maijishan National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Maijishan Tea

Maijishan tea is a great souvenir to take back home. It has a unique taste and is only available in this region of China.

Maijishan Silk

Maijishan silk is a famous local product. The silk is soft, light, and has a luxurious feel. It is highly valued in China for its quality and is often used to make traditional Chinese clothing.

Local Culture and Customs of Maijishan National Park

The people of Maijishan National Park are from different ethnic backgrounds and speak different dialects. The park is known for its diverse cultures, and the locals are very hospitable and friendly. Visitors are expected to respect the local customs and traditions when visiting the park.

Best Time to Visit Maijishan National Park

The best time to visit Maijishan National Park is during the spring and autumn seasons, from March to May and from September to November. During this time, the weather is mild and the scenery is at its best.

Do’s and Don’ts of Maijishan National Park

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Follow the park regulations and guidelines.
  • Stay on designated trails and paths.
  • Take necessary precautions while hiking.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural surroundings.
  • Disturb the animals or plants in the park.
  • Use prohibited items or materials in the park.
  • Take any historical or cultural artifacts with you.

Safety and Health

Safety in Maijishan National Park

Maijishan National Park is a relatively safe place, but visitors should be aware of the natural risks associated with hiking and visiting remote places. Visitors to the park should take necessary precautions while hiking and should be aware of the weather conditions.

Health in Maijishan National Park

Visitors to Maijishan National Park should come prepared with any necessary medications and insect repellent. It is recommended that travelers drink only bottled water and avoid street food to avoid getting sick.

Getting to Maijishan National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Maijishan National Park

The nearest airport to Maijishan National Park is Tianshui Maijishan Airport, which is located 10 km from the park entrance. There are flights from major Chinese cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Chengdu.

Bus Stations Near Maijishan National Park

Tianshui Bus Terminal is the closest major bus station to Maijishan National Park. The bus station is well-connected to major Chinese cities like Xi’an, Chengdu, and Lanzhou and has regular bus services to Maijishan National Park.

Other Options

Visitors can hire a private car or take a taxi from Tianshui to Maijishan National Park. Hiring a private car is a more comfortable option, but it is more expensive than taking a bus.

How to Get Around in Maijishan National Park

Visitors can walk or rent a bike to get around the park. Walking is a great way to enjoy the scenery, but renting a bike is a more convenient option and ideal for covering more ground.

Where to Go Next from Maijishan National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Tianshui

Tianshui is a historical city located near Maijishan National Park. The city has a number of ancient temples and pagodas that are worth visiting.

Lanzhou

Lanzhou is the capital city of Gansu province and is famous for its delicious local cuisine, scenic spots, and long history.

Conclusion

Maijishan National Park is a hidden gem in China that is waiting to be explored. With its beautiful landscapes, unique cultural attractions, and mouth-watering local cuisine, it is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting China. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a cultural enthusiast, Maijishan National Park has something for everyone.