Hainan

Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Qinghai has a large difference between daytime and nighttime temperatures, so you should bring warm clothing even when traveling in summer.

In Qinghai, “Hainan” refers to Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture (often shortened to Hainan Prefecture), not Hainan Province. The area is home to the southern shore of Qinghai Lake, the turquoise Yellow River canyon and spectacular Danxia landforms, making it a destination worth exploring in depth on the Qinghai–Gansu Grand Loop.

Here is a relatively relaxed 3-day, 2-night itinerary for Hainan Prefecture, suitable for self-driving or traveling by private car.

Main Attractions

• Erlangjian Scenic Area at Qinghai Lake: The lake is broad and tranquil along the southern shore. The scenic area has a 3,196-meter altitude marker and a lighthouse on the lake. At dusk, the sunset is reflected on the water, making the lakeside boardwalk ideal for a walk and views.

• Longyangxia Ecotourism Resort: Known as the “Colorado of China,” this area features the turquoise Yellow River flowing through steep canyons. Visitors can take a boat or walk along the boardwalks to admire the high gorges and calm lake-like waters.

• Guide National Geopark: Guide is known for the saying “The Yellow River is clearest in Guide.” The Ashigong Colorful Peaks in the park are rich in color, with Danxia mountains contrasting with the clear river. The trails have gentle slopes, making for an easy visit.

• Laji Mountain Viewing Platform: The viewing platform is located at an altitude of 4,188 meters at the “First Pass on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau.” From here, you can look out over range after range of mountains, while prayer flags flutter in the wind. There is no admission fee, and it is a good place to stop for views, prayers and photos of the highway scenery.

• Mugertan Desert: Located in Guinan County, Mugertan Desert has interconnected sand dunes, grasslands and wetlands, with cattle and sheep often grazing along the edge of the sand. From the top of a dune, you can see yellow sand to the north and pastureland to the south, creating a striking change in scenery. There is no admission fee.

3-Day, 2-Night Itinerary

• Day 1: Cross the mountains and enjoy the sunset over Qinghai Lake
  • Morning: Depart from Xining and pass by Laji Mountain Viewing Platform to see the highland scenery and prayer flags swaying in the wind.
  • Afternoon: Arrive at Erlangjian Scenic Area at Qinghai Lake. Walk along the lakeside boardwalk, stop at the 3,196-meter marker and then wait for sunset by the lake.
  • Evening: Stay overnight in Gonghe County. Try hand-pulled mutton and barley yogurt, and rest early to help your body adjust to the high altitude.
• Day 2: See the turquoise Yellow River and learn about Tibetan culture
  • Morning: Visit Longyangxia Ecotourism Resort. Choose between a boat ride and a walk along the canyon boardwalks, taking in the scenery of turquoise water alongside steep cliffs.
  • Afternoon: Travel to Guide County, visit the Clear Yellow River Scenic Area and see the world’s largest prayer wheel, the China Fortune Wheel, to learn about local prayer customs.
  • Evening: Stay overnight in Guide County. The altitude here is relatively low, and some hotels have hot springs, making them a good place to rest after sightseeing.
• Day 3: Explore the colorful Danxia landforms and return to Xining
  • Morning: Visit Guide National Geopark (Ashigong Colorful Peaks) to see the layers of colorful mountains and observe how the colors change with the sunlight.
  • Afternoon: Return to Xining along the original route and end your trip through Hainan Prefecture.

Local Specialties

• Hand-Pulled Mutton: The meat is tender and succulent without being greasy. It is served with salt and pepper and is a common Qinghai dish for entertaining guests.

• Braised Lamb: A local specialty with fragrant, well-seasoned lamb and a rich flavor.
• Guide Yellow River Carp: The Yellow River has clear water, and its carp are known for their tender meat. They are worth trying in Guide.

• Gou Jiaoniao Pancake: Made with barley flour and fried in rapeseed oil, this pancake is crisp with a slightly sweet fragrance.

• Barley Yogurt: Usually handmade, it has a layer of golden milk skin on top. Its sweet-and-sour flavor helps cut through rich foods.

Accommodation and Travel Tips

• Where to stay: Stay in Gonghe County on the first night for convenient access to Qinghai Lake. Choosing a room with an oxygen supply system can help with altitude sickness. Stay in Guide County on the second night, where the altitude is lower and some hotels also have hot springs.
• Transportation: The attractions in Hainan Prefecture are far apart, so self-driving or hiring a private car makes it easier to arrange your itinerary. There are many free viewing platforms along the way where you can stop for a break and enjoy the scenery.
• Best season: June to October is a good time to visit. In July and August, rapeseed flowers bloom around the lake and the water is often a brighter color. From September to October, the grasslands turn golden and there are relatively fewer visitors.

High-Altitude Travel Precautions

• Preventing altitude sickness: Avoid strenuous exercise when you first arrive at high altitude and drink warm water in moderation. You can also prepare an oxygen canister in advance. On the first day, try not to wash your hair or take a shower to avoid getting chilled.
• Sun protection and warmth: Ultraviolet radiation is strong at high altitude, so bring SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat and lip balm. The temperature difference between day and night is significant, so bring a windbreaker or thick coat even in summer.
• Respect local customs: In Tibetan areas, do not touch prayer flags or mani stones casually. Prayer wheels should be turned clockwise. Before photographing herders or yaks, ask whether there is a fee and confirm the amount.
• Protect the environment: The Huang fish in Qinghai Lake is a protected animal, and fishing, touching and feeding them are prohibited. Private pastureland belonging to local herders may charge a photography fee, so ask about the terms before entering.