Baiyin Travel Guide: Geological Wonders and the Red Army's Historic Reunion

1.Introduction: The Copper City by the Yellow River Baiyin, located in the central part of Gansu Province, is a city forged by industry and sculpted by nature. Situated on the upper reaches of the Yellow River, it serves as a crucial connecting point between the Loess Plateau and the Tengger Desert. Historically known as a "land of treasures" for its rich mineral deposits, Baiyin earned the moniker "Copper City" during the early days of the People's Republic of China, playing a pivotal role in the nation's non-ferrous metal industry. Today, the city is transforming from a resource-based industrial hub into a tourist destination known for its rugged geological landscapes and red revolutionary history. The Yellow River flows through the city from south to north, carving out magnificent canyons and nourishing fertile oases amidst the arid terrain.

2.The Yellow River Stone Forest: A Geological Masterpiece The crown jewel of Baiyin’s tourism is undoubtedly the Yellow River Stone Forest (Huanghe Shilin) National Geopark, located in Jingtai County. This scenic area is a breathtaking display of natural artistry, described by experts as "unique in China and rare in the world".

• 3.Landscape and Formation: The Stone Forest is not composed of limestone like the famous karst formations in the south, but of "Wuquanshan Conglomerate"—a mix of gravel and sand deposited over a million years ago during the Early Pleistocene. Through countless centuries of tectonic uplift, rain erosion, and wind weathering, these strata have been carved into a vast forest of stone pillars, peaks, and cliffs. The formations are massive, with relative heights ranging from 60 to 200 meters, far exceeding typical stone forests.
• 4.The Scenic Experience: The core of the park lies in the Yinma Gully (Drink Horse Gully) and Laolong Gully. Walking through these deep canyons feels like entering a prehistoric world. The vertical cliffs loom overhead, creating a stark, imposing atmosphere often described as "cold and峻". The stone pillars take on countless shapes, resembling bamboo shoots, lions, pagodas, and human figures, sparking the imagination of every visitor. Because of its dramatic and primitive scenery, it has become a favorite location for filmmakers, hosting productions like The Myth and The Era of Emperor Wu of Han.
• 5.Laolongwan: An Oasis in the Wilderness: Nestled within the curve of the Yellow River lies Laolongwan (Old Dragon Bay) Village. This lush, green village contrasts sharply with the desolate, yellow-hued stone forest surrounding it. Here, the river flows gently, creating a tranquil "Arcadia" protected by towering cliffs. Visitors can experience the traditional Sheepskin Rafts (Yangpi Fazi), an ancient mode of water transport on the Yellow River, drifting down the current to view the majestic canyon walls from the water. Donkey carts are another traditional way to traverse the winding gullies, adding a rustic charm to the exploration.

6.Huining: The Sacred Ground of the Long March Baiyin holds a distinguished place in modern Chinese history. Huining County is celebrated as the site where the three main forces of the Chinese Workers' and Peasants' Red Army joined forces in October 1936, marking the victorious end of the Long March.

• 7.Red Army Reunion Site: The Huining Red Army Long March Reunion Site is a major national monument. The Huining join-forces gate tower stands as a symbol of unity and resilience. It is a place of pilgrimage for those wishing to understand the hardships and spirit of that era.
• 8.Tiemu Mountain: Located in Huining, Tiemu Mountain is known as the "Show Peak of the Plateau." With an altitude of 2404 meters, it is a natural green island in the region. History records that the Red Army passed through here twice during the Long March. The mountain is rich in cultural relics, including ancient temples dating back 600 years, and features unique natural phenomena like the "Water-Forcing Pearl" and natural stone statues.

9.Industrial Heritage and Urban Transformation: As a city that rose with mining, Baiyin carries the memory of China's industrialization. The open-pit mines and historic factories testify to the city's contribution to the country's development. In recent years, Baiyin has been actively developing industrial tourism, turning its mining legacy into a unique cultural asset. The cityscape itself is a blend of rugged northwestern character and modern urban planning, with the Yellow River providing a constant, dynamic backdrop to daily life.

10.Climate and Best Time to Visit: Baiyin has a continental monsoon climate. It is generally dry with ample sunshine. The temperature difference between day and night is significant.

• 11.Best Time: The best time to visit is from May to October. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the fruit in the Yellow River valley is ripe.
• 12.Autumn: Late autumn is particularly spectacular at the Yellow River Stone Forest, where the golden leaves of the trees in Laolongwan contrast vividly with the red-yellow hues of the rock formations and the blue sky.

In summary, Baiyin is a city of contrasts—between the hardness of stone and the softness of water, between the barren desert and the lush oasis, and between the silence of geological time and the roar of revolutionary history. It offers a unique travel experience for those seeking to explore the rugged beauty and deep spirit of Northwest China.