This 8-day loop focuses on two key provinces in Northwest China: Ningxia and Gansu. You’ll taste authentic flavors from famous “Halal food hubs” such as Wuzhong and Lanzhou, while discovering how Islamic culture blends with Silk Road heritage. This itinerary is ideal for travelers who love food, culture, and in-depth local experiences.
Morning
Airport pick-up at Yinchuan Hedong International Airport by your dedicated local representative
Transfer to a Halal-friendly hotel in the city center
Enjoy a welcome arrangement prepared in accordance with Islamic guidelines
Afternoon
Free time around the hotel to settle in
Get a first impression of a Northwest Chinese city and its local neighborhood life
Evening
Follow your guide to a well-known local Halal restaurant
Begin your journey with a first tasting of classic Northwest flavors
Morning
Visit Nanguan Great Mosque in Yinchuan
With your bilingual guide, admire the unique combination of traditional Chinese palace-style architecture and Islamic domes
Learn how religious culture and local architectural art have been blended over centuries
Afternoon
Take a high-speed train from Yinchuan to Wuzhong
Arrive and check in, followed by short rest
Evening
Visit Yellow River Tower, an iconic riverside landmark
From the tower, enjoy sweeping views of the mighty Yellow River and its dramatic landscape as it cuts through the Northwest
Morning
Visit Tongxin Great Mosque, known for its fusion of Chinese pavilions and Islamic decorative elements
With your guide, learn about the mosque’s historical background and its importance in the local Muslim community
Afternoon
Explore Wuzhong’s characteristic streets and local markets
Shop for signature local products such as Ma’s Eight-Treasure Tea and vacuum-packed lamb noodle sauce as souvenirs
Evening
Travel back to Yinchuan by private vehicle or train
Enjoy the changing scenery of Northwest villages and countryside along the way
Morning
Depart Yinchuan for Zhenbeibao Western Film Studio
Visit key filming areas such as the “Ming City” and “Qing City” sets
Experience the blend of Northwest folk culture and film history, and check in at famous movie locations
Afternoon
Drive onwards to Zhongwei
Check in at a Halal-friendly hotel near the desert area
Evening
Head to Shapotou Scenic Area at sunset
Experience classic desert activities such as sand-sliding
Enjoy the magnificent view of the sun setting over the vast dunes
Morning
Depart Zhongwei for Lanzhou by road
Enjoy views of the Loess Plateau and Yellow River landscapes along the way
Afternoon
Arrive in Lanzhou and check in to your city hotel
Time to rest and refresh
Evening
Visit Xiguan Great Mosque in Lanzhou to experience the calm religious atmosphere in the middle of a bustling city
Stroll along the Yellow River Scenic Walkway
Enjoy night views of Zhongshan Bridge and the illuminated riverside skyline
Morning
Fly from Lanzhou to Zhangye
Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel in Zhangye city and check in
Afternoon
Visit the Zhangye Danxia (Rainbow Mountains) Scenic Area
With your guide, explore the main viewing platforms and marvel at the extraordinary colors and layered rock formations
Learn about the geological history and formation of the Danxia landform
Evening
Return to Zhangye city
Free time to experience the relaxed atmosphere of a Northwest city at night
Morning
Visit Zhangye Dafo Temple, famous for housing one of the largest indoor reclining Buddhas in Asia
With your guide, discover how Buddhist culture and local folk traditions intersect and influence each other
Afternoon
Head to Pingshanhu Grand Canyon
Walk along canyon trails and viewing platforms
Experience the powerful landscape of Gobi gorges and admire impressive rock formations and cliff scenery
Evening
Return to Zhangye city
Rest and prepare for your departure the next day
Morning
Free time for last-minute shopping at local markets for souvenirs and snacks
Or enjoy a leisurely stroll through the city before departure
Afternoon
Transfer to Zhangye Ganzhou Airport for your onward flight
End of your Northwest China Halal Culture & Culinary Discovery Loop
