Jingbian Wave Valley (Bolang Valley) - the Annual Rings of the Earth

The vast earth is full of wonders, and in Shaanxi lies a spectacular feast of red sandstone formations covering a total area of 44 square kilometers - Jingbian Wave Valley (Bolang Valley or Longzhou Danxia Landform). Visiting this place, you will undoubtedly be deeply impressed by the awe-inspiring craftsmanship of nature. The undulating, wave-like patterns of the red sandstone, shaped over millions of years, create a surreal and mesmerizing landscape that feels almost otherworldly.

Formed during the Cretaceous period approximately 96 million years ago, it boasts a rare and spectacular wave-like Danxia landform that is unparalleled in China. Compared to the famous Antelope Canyon and The Wave in the United States, Jingbian Wave Valley features more concentrated and diverse geological resources. It is as vibrant as flaming fire and as fluid as flowing water, creating majestic rock walls that seem to reach the sky. In 2018, the Jingbian Danxia Natural Scenic Area was honored as one of the "50 Must-See Scenic Spots along the Yellow River" at the China Yellow River Tourism Conference.

Flame Danxia earns its name from its vast expanse of fiery-red sandstone formations that resemble a "Flaming Mountain". Its striking textures mimic the swirling currents of the Yellow River or surging ocean tides, creating the illusion of "waves rolling without wind". This surreal landscape is often hailed as "Mars Wonderland" due to its rust-colored, alien-like terrain. Viewing platforms allow visitors to admire these ancient Danxia formations up close, offering a rare glimpse into the planet’s geological drama.

Red Cliff Danxia (赤壁丹霞)

Red Cliff Danxia emerges as a striking canyon landscape and presents two vastly different geological wonders in a single vista. The northern face features 100-meter-high crimson cliffs of weathered sandstone, their fiery hues glowing under sunlight, while the southern side presents the earthen tones and layered contours of the Loess Plateau.

Beneath these towering formations, the canyon floor softens with emerald-green grasses and the meandering "Flowing Sand River" (流沙河), whose seasonal waters carve delicate patterns through the valley.

Geocentric Danxia (地心丹霞)

Geocentric Danxia transports visitors into a labyrinth of winding passages and dramatic turns, evoking the sensation of descending into the planet’s core. Its serpentine corridors and towering rock walls create an otherworldly atmosphere, as if stepping into a hidden time tunnel.

3D Glass Bridge is China's first 3D landscape bridge, spanning a total length of 340 meters at a dizzying 75-meter height. This innovative structure integrates advanced technologies to create immersive experiences like falling rocks and digital waterfalls. As you walk, the glass panels beneath your feet simulate cracking sounds and visual effects, creating the illusion of walking on air, or falling through it! Visitors can feel the canyon’s depth and capture the valley’s curves from a bird’s-eye view. These features significantly enhance visitor engagement.

3D Glass Bridge provides direct access to the core scenic areas of Jingbian Wave Valley, saving visitors approximately 40 minutes of travel time. If tourisrs prefer solid ground, they can also choose trails which also offer stunning perspectives.

Walk through A Thread of Sky (一线天)

A Thread of Sky is a breathtaking natural wonder in Geocentric Danxia Scenic Area, with an average width of less than 1 meter and a length of nearly 100 meters.

Walking into A Thread of Sky, visitors are immersed in a world of light and shadow. Looking up, the sky is split into a slender line by the towering rock walls, while sunlight streams through the narrow gap like a golden waterfall, illuminating the undulating wave-like patterns on the sandstone walls.

CNY 90 per person for entrance (valid for 1 day); CNY 50 per person for 3D Glass Bridge; CNY 15 per person for elevator

Jingbian Wave Valley Route

Entrance (Tourist Center) - Flame Danxia - Red Cliff Danxia - Geocentric Danxia (地心丹霞)- Exit. The scenic area is designed as a one-way clockwise loop, allowing visitors to experience all highlights without retracing steps.

Best Time to Visit Jingbian Wave Valley

The best time to visit Jingbian Wave Valley is during the spring (Mar. to May) and autumn (Sept. to Nov.). During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for hiking and photography. In summer (Jun. to Aug.), the weather can be quite hot, but the sunrise and sunset views are exceptionally beautiful. For those who prefer a quieter and more serene experience, winter (Dec. to Feb.) is also a good time to visit. Although the temperatures are colder and visitor numbers are lower, Jingbian Wave Valley takes on a unique charm with its snow-dusted landscapes.

Additionally, visiting Jingbian Wave Valley in the early morning or late afternoon is highly recommended. During these times, the soft, golden light enhances the vibrant red hues of the sandstone, creating a breathtaking visual experience that is perfect for capturing stunning photographs.

Bolang Valley is located in Longzhou Village, Jingbian County, Yulin City, Shaanxi Province. Its remote setting helps to preserve pristine Danxia landscapes, while its proximity to Yan'an city makes it an ideal sidetrip choice with Ganquan Yucha Grand Canyon for photographers and adventurers. Jingbian County currently has no airport, but travelers can fly into nearby Yulin Yuyang Airport (150km, 2.5hrs drive) or Yan'an Nanniwan Airport (200km, 3hrs drive). The county is well-connected by rail via Jingbian Railway Station, offering high-speed trains to Xi’an, Yinchuan, and Taiyuan, etc. Most visitors travel from Yan'an or Xi'an to Jingbian Wave Valley with public transportation or private car.

From Yan'an to Jingbian Wave Valley

By Train plus or taxi: take a bullet train (3hrs) from Yan'an Railway Station to Jingbian Railway Station, and then take a taxi (50mins) to Jingbian Wave Valley.

By car: drive about 150km for about 2 hours from Yan'an to Jingbian Wave Valley.

From Xi'an to Jingbian Wave Valley

By Train plus bus or taxi: take a bullet train (5hrs) from Xian Railway Station to Jingbian Railway Station, and then take a taxi (50mins) to Jingbian Wave Valley.

By car: drive about 450km for about 5 hours from Xian to Jingbian Wave Valley.

>> More information about How to Get to & Around Xi'an.

Location: Xiasiwan Village, Ganquan County, Yan’an City, about 210km (3 hours’ drive) from Jingbian Wave Valley

Ganquan Yucha Grand Canyon in Shaanxi, often hailed as the "Antelope Canyon of China", is a mesmerizing natural wonder renowned for its stunning rock formations and vibrant colors. Carved by centuries of wind and water erosion, the canyon features narrow, winding passages and smooth, flowing curves that create a surreal, otherworldly landscape. Its unique beauty has earned it the nickname "natural art gallery", making it a paradise for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Yellow River Shequ National National Park

Location: Yanchuan County, Yan'an City, about 250km (3 hours’ drive) from Jingbian Wave Valley

Shaanxi, located in the heart of China, is a region rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. It is often referred to as the "Cradle of Chinese Civilization" due to its significant role in the country's ancient history. Tourists typically spend 4~7 days exploring Shaanxi, with 2~4 days in Xi'an which is one of the top destination in China and once the ancient capital city of 13 dynasties. Visitors should not miss famous Terracotta Warriors and Horses, Ancient City Wall, Drum Tower and Bell Tower, Muslim Quarter, Shaanxi History Museum, Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City, Great Mosque, etc.

Recommended Xian Tour Packages:

☛ 2 Days Xian City Break
☛ 3 Days Classic Xian Tour
☛ 4 Days Xian In-depth Experience Tour

It's also worth spending 1~2 days on Mount Huashan which is one of China's Five Great Mountains known for its steep trails and breathtaking views, or 1~2 days visiting Ganquan Yucha Grand Canyon and Yellow River Shequ National National Park in Yan'an, or Jingbian Wave Valley in Yulin.

Recommended Huashan or Yan'an Tour Packages:

☛ 2 Days Terracotta Warriors Tour with Mount Hua Hiking
☛ 4 Days Xian Highlights Tour with Mount Huashan Hiking
☛ 4 Days Magnificent Wonders to Yucha Grand Canyon and Hukou Waterfall