Gateway to the Rainbow Mountains: An Immersive Journey into Silk Road Heritage at Danxiakou Town

The Cultural Sentinel of the Rainbow Ridges

Nestled at the entrance of the world-renowned Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park in Linze County, Danxiakou Town serves as the vital cultural gateway and "first station" for travelers exploring the Hexi Corridor. Spanning over 300 mu, this meticulously crafted town bridges the gap between the staggering natural beauty of the "Rainbow Mountains" and the deep human history of Gansu Province. Built with a philosophy that harmonizes ancient aesthetics with modern tourism, it offers an immersive window into the lifestyles that once thrived along the Silk Road.

Ming-Style Architecture and Frontier Spirit

The town is designed in the traditional architectural style of the Ming Dynasty, specifically reflecting the rugged yet elegant frontier aesthetic of the Hexi region. Visitors are greeted by towering loess-colored earthen walls, intricate wood carvings, and classic grey-tiled roofs that evoke the atmosphere of ancient Ganzhou. Walking through its streets feels like stepping back into a time when caravans of camels were the lifeblood of international trade, bringing together Han, Xiongnu, Qiang, and Mongol cultures in a vibrant oasis.

The Epic of "Hui Dao Zhangye"

1.The crown jewel of: Danxiakou is the grand immersive performance, "Hui Dao Zhangye" (Back to Zhangye). Perched in a state-of-the-art theater featuring 360-degree panoramic stages, the show uses cutting-edge stagecraft—including artificial sandstorms, water effects, and high-altitude wirework—to narrate the millennial history of the region. From the legendary conquests of ancient generals to the romantic tales of the Silk Road and the grandeur of the early international trade fairs, the performance brings the "Stone Library" of the Hexi Corridor to life in a breathtaking spectacle.

A Living Museum of Folk Life

Beyond the theater, Danxiakou functions as an open-air museum. The Folk Street is lined with workshops showcasing ancient trades: traditional wine brewing, blacksmithing, and vinegar making. The town also features specialized galleries dedicated to Silk Road heritage and local folk customs, where travelers can touch the raw materials of history. As the sun sets, the town transforms into a culinary paradise at Hexi Square, where the aroma of authentic beef noodles, apricot skin tea, and roasted meats fills the air, offering a true taste of Northwest China.