The Emerald Secret of the Northwest: A Journey Through the Subtropical Rainforest of Yangba

A Subtropical Oasis in the Arid Northwest

1.Located in the southern part of Kang: County, Longnan City, at the intersection of the Qinling and Bashan mountain ranges, Yangba is a rare ecological miracle. While much of Gansu is characterized by arid loess or desert landscapes, Yangba is a lush, vibrant sanctuary known as the "Emerald of the Northwest". It preserves a typical Northern Subtropical primeval forest ecosystem, a feature that is virtually unique within the northwestern region of China.

The Lungs of Longnan

The scenic area is renowned for its incredible biodiversity and environmental purity. With a forest coverage rate exceeding 70%, Yangba serves as a massive natural oxygen bar. These ancient woods are not only a feast for the eyes but also a critical habitat for some of China’s most precious wildlife, including the Giant Panda and the Golden Snub-nosed Monkey. The sparse human footprint in the deeper reaches of the reserve has allowed the primeval environment to remain largely undisturbed, offering a sense of serenity rarely found in more commercialized destinations.

Echoes of the Tea Horse Road

Beyond its natural grandeur, Yangba is steeped in historical significance as a vital node on the ancient Tea Horse Road, which historically connected Gansu, Sichuan, and Shaanxi provinces. The region is the birthplace of the famous Longshen Green Tea, and the local tea culture remains deeply integrated into the daily lives and customs of the mountain residents. Visitors can explore the ancient post roads and stone paths that still seem to echo with the sounds of horse bells from centuries past.

The Picturesque Corridors of Meiyuan

The heart of the scenic experience lies in Meiyuan Ravine, a ten-mile "gallery" of canyons and waterways. Here, the landscape is dotted with alpine lakes such as the mystical Swan Lake, which according to local legend, was formed when celestial beings were drawn to the beauty of the valley. Other highlights include the Longshen Ravine, which features millennium-old yew trees and primary forests, providing a deep-immersion experience into the "Highland Aesthetics" of the Gansu-Sichuan border.