Jiayuguan - Zhangye

Zhangye is located in the middle section of the Hexi Corridor. The city owes its historical significance to its geographical location and fertile oasis, which means that throughout the dynasties it has been the political, economic, cultural and diplomatic centre of Northwest China. The Italian traveler Marco Polo lived there for about one year. We have lunch on the way.

After arrival, we will explore this interesting city and visit the Giant Buddha Temple (Da Fo Si), which is the largest architectural relic in Gansu Province of the Western Xia (1038-1227) period. China's largest reclining Buddha is well preserved in this temple. The Zhangye Museum is also located here.

Legend has it that a chancellor named Wei Mie of the Western Xia period ordered workers to dig into the ground to 1 to 1.3 meters deep to carve a reclining Buddha to be covered with glazed color tiles. The Giant Buddha Temple was built in 1098 to house the Buddha. In its 900 years the temple was restored many times during the Ming and Qing dynasties.

After dinner you will stay overnight at the "Huacheng International Hotel" (3*).