Ganquan Yucha Grand Canyon - Natural Crack Wonder of the Loess Plateau

Ganquan Yucha Grand Canyon, a national 4A-level tourist attraction, is renowned for its unique red sandstone landforms and rich geological features. It is celebrated as a "natural crack wonder of the Loess Plateau" for its deep crevices, towering cliffs, and winding valleys, offering visitors a breathtaking glimpse into the region's geological history and natural beauty. Located approximately 60 kilometers north of Yan'an and about 300 kilometers south of Xi'an, the canyon is an off-the-beaten-track but remarkable destination.

Ganquan Yucha Grand Canyon is a prime example of red sandstone geology and valley-type Danxia landform. The canyon walls feature distinct wave-like patterns, as if sculpted by the hands of time. The red rocks, green moss, black organic streaks, and white and yellow mud coatings create a rich tapestry of colors. As sunlight changes with the time of day and the seasons, the canyon transforms into a mesmerizing world of light and shadow, making it a photography paradise. Photographers can capture the soft glow of sunlight on the rock surfaces and immerse into the dreamlike atmosphere.

Longbagou Canyon, the most thrilling and adventurous of all the canyons in Yucha Grand Canyon, stretches for 2,500 meters in total, with only the first 800 meters open to tourists as a sightseeing area. The canyon stands about 10-20 meters high, with most sections being around 1 meter wide, and the narrowest point at the bottom measuring just 5 centimeters. The canyon walls are adorned with lush moss, undulating textures, and graceful lines. It takes approximately 2 hours and follows an oval-shaped route, so there’s no need to retrace your steps.

Huashugou Canyon (桦树沟峡谷)

Huashugou Canyon, one of the most unique and famous canyons in Yucha Grand Canyon, is celebrated as a "Paradise for Photographers". It offers a 1,100-meter-long section for visitors to explore, with the final 300 meters being the most iconic. The canyon stands 20-25 meters high, with most sections being 1-2 meters wide, and the narrowest point at the bottom measuring just 20 centimeters. The tour takes about 40 minutes and follows a one-way route, so there’s no need to retrace your steps. The canyon is winding and elongated, with a year-round stream flowing through it. The walls are covered in lush green moss, and the rich variety of figurative patterns

Mudangou Canyon (牡丹沟峡谷)

Spot 1 Longbagou Canyon for Mossy Wonderland: 300 meters from the entrance, where sunlight slants onto the moss and rock walls.

Spot 2 Huashugou Canyon for Light and Shadow Corridor: in the mid-section of the canyon, shoot upward to capture the narrow slit of sky and the wavy textures of the red sandstone.

Spot 3 Crescent Moon Canyon for Light Beam Spectacle: at noon (12 PM), when sunlight beams through the cracks at the top, creating flowing light patterns on the ground.

Spot 4 Heart Canyon for Romantic Heart Shape: using a drone or wide-angle lens to frame the complete heart-shaped outline.

(Note: The sightseeing shuttle does not go to Heart Valley. To visit this romantic spot, a self-drive or private vehicle is required.)

Entrance Ticket (valid for 2 day): CNY 98 per person between March and November, CNY 49 per person between December and February

Sightseeing Bus Ticket (valid for 1 day): CNY 70 per person, for re-entry on the 2nd day, visitors need to purchase a discounted shuttle ticket priced at 40 RMB per person.

Attractions within the scenic area are spread out, so visitors are recommended to take the sightseeing shuttle to travel between them.

Regular Route: Tourist Center - Crescent Moon Canyon - Huashugou Canyon- Tourist Center

Customized Route: Tourist Center - Butterfly Canyon - Longbagou Canyon - Tourist Center

Some attractions may open on an irregular basis due to weather conditions, maintenance, or other factors. Regular route is subject to the official route announced at the ticket hall. Customized route requires extra ticket purchases at the ticket window and daily visitor numbers are limited to 100 people.

Ganquan Yucha Grand Canyon is located in Ganquan County, Yan'an City, Shaanxi Province. This place is not as easily accessible as popular tourist destinations since Ganquan County has no airport. But it is served by two railway stations, making train travel a convenient option for visitors. Most travelers choose Xi'an (anout 300 km away) or Yan'an (anout 60 km away) as their gateway cities to reach Yucha Grand Canyon, with public transportation or private car being the primary ways of travel.

From Xi'an to Ganquan Yucha Grand Canyon

By Train plus bus or taxi: take a bullet train (2hrs) or normal trains (3~5.5hrs) from Xian Railway Station to Ganquan North Railway Station, and then take a bus (1hr) or taxi (1hr) to Ganquan Yucha Grand Canyon.

By car: drive about 325km for about 4.5 hours from Xian to Ganquan Yucha Grand Canyon.

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

From Yan'an to Ganquan Yucha Grand Canyon

By Train plus bus or taxi: take a bullet train (20 mins) or normal trains (25mins) from Yan'an Railway Station to Ganquan North Railway Station, and then take a bus (1hr) or taxi (1hr) to Ganquan Yucha Grand Canyon.

By car: drive about 72km for about 2 hours from Yan'an to Ganquan Yucha Grand Canyon.

For a comfortable, convenient, and hassle-free travel experience, we highly recommend China Discovery's private transfer with licensed private vehicles and experienced drivers, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable journey. Feel free to contact us for more details!

Yucha Grand Canyon experiences a plateau continental monsoon semi-humid climate, characterized by distinct seasonal changes in temperature and humidity. The four seasons are clearly defined, with cold, dry winters and warm, relatively wet summers.

The best time to visit Yucha Grand Canyon is from May to October. During this period, the weather is pleasant, with comfortable temperatures and ample sunlight, making it ideal for capturing the canyon's stunning landscapes. The canyon is particularly enchanting on sunny days between 11:00 and 15:00, when the sunlight shines directly into the canyon, illuminating the vibrant colors and intricate textures of the rock formations.

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 in Yan'an to visit Ganquan Yucha Grand Canyon, Wavy Valley, and Yellow River Shequ National National Park.

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