Published : 2024-10-17
The massive land of China filled with diverse landscapes, but among the most beautiful is the natural Yadan landform.
The rainbow beach in China's Xinjiang is the very best one that represents the breathtaking beauty of Yadan landform.
Without further ado, let's take a look at the following travel guide for Xinjiang's rainbow beach!
Colourful hills showing the magical beauty of Xinjiang
To see rainbows in the sky need luck, but rainbows on the ground can be "captured". The colourful rainbow beach (五彩灘) is in the Altay region (阿勒泰地區) of Xinjiang, near the north bank of the Irtysh River (額爾齊斯河).
Because the rainbow beach is located in a dry region, a large area of rocks, shaped over time by the river and strong winds, evolved into steep towers and wide shallow channels, as well as hilltops with sheer cliffs, which is a typical of Yadan landforms.
The area of the rainbow beach scenic area is not very large. The ravines and the small hills have a maximum height of about 25 metres, with a distributed area of about 3 square kilometres.
Upon entering the scenic area, there is a large sign that reads "Heavenly Colourful City" at the entrance. As you stroll along the plank walkway, you will quickly be captivated by the strange stones along the roadside.
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The multi-tiered, variously-sized hills look a bit like a giant's footprints from a distance. When you get closer, they resemble an elephant’s big butt and thighs. Exercise a little imagination and you might see even more patterns!
Due to its unique scenery and rich cultural significance, the rainbow beach has been a filming location for the movie Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (臥虎藏龍) and the TV series Journey to the West (西遊記).
It is worth mentioning that the rainbow beach is a sedimentary rock layer of an ancient lake basin. Over millennia of water erosion and wind abrasion, hundreds of mudstone formations have developed, featuring deep red, ochre, stone blue, pale yellow, dark green, and and greyish-blue hues.
However, whether viewed from afar or up-close, these hundreds of rock pools look like an exotic fortress, and it seems that every grain of sand and every rock carries stories from hundreds of years ago.
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Recommendation of best locations for photo shooting
When you visit the scenic area of the rainbow beach, it would be a miss not to take photographs in the surrounding areas.
If you want to capture an outstanding scenery, it is best to arrive at the rainbow beach before sunset.
This place is dry and flat, and the long-lasting golden or red sunset illuminates the colourful landforms, making them appear vibrant, mesmerising and magnificent.
In addition, on the opposite bank of the rainbow beach is a dense poplar forest, which reflects beautifully in the river, and is a perfect place for taking photos every autumn when the yellow leaves are in full bloom.
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Another must-visit spot is the white windmill on the small hill.
Standing on the viewing platform, your eyes can sweep over the expansive views, observing the windmill turning gently, which will bring a sense of relief and tranquillity.
It's the perfect opportunity to put down life and work pressures and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
After a journey through the plank walkway and viewing platform, there is a square in the scenic area featuring sculptures, handicraft shops, and restaurants.
Nearby are stores selling lamb skewers, roasted chicken, and local snacks to provide rest for tired tourists.
On the right of the square is an art museum displaying paintings and calligraphy related to Xinjiang, alongside petrified ancient trees and valuable antiques.
Next time you visit Xinjiang, remember to savour the colourful exotic fortresses at the rainbow beach!
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Travel Information
Xinjiang rainbow beach
Address: About 24 kilometres northwest of Burqin County in the Altay region of Xinjiang
Opening hours: 09:00-20:30
Suggested stay: 2 to 3 hours
