Shandan Horse Ranch
山丹军马场
An imperial horse ranch on the northern foot of the Qilian Mountains, dating back to the Han dynasty. In summer, vast rapeseed fields, grassland and snow peaks come together, making it a must-see on the way from Zhangye to Qilian.
Shandan Horse Ranch lies in the Damaying grasslands between the Qilian and Yanzhi mountains in the south of Shandan County. Its history goes back to Huo Qubing in the Western Han, and it was once one of Asia's largest military horse farms. Every year from mid to late July, vast sheets of rapeseed flowers bloom here, backed by the snowy Qilian peaks. You can watch herds of horses run, and some areas have viewing platforms and horse-riding experiences. The ranch lies about 90 km from Zhangye city, on the G227 road to Qilian and Biandukou, and it's worth a stop on the way. At about 2,800 m above sea level, it is cool in the mornings and evenings, so bring sunscreen and a jacket.
Opening hours
All day (check on-site notices for the grassland area)
Nearby sights
- Yanzhi Mountain
- Xiakou Ancient Fort & Han-Ming Great Wall
- Biandukou Pass
- Mati Temple (Matisi Grottoes)
- Pingshanhu Grand Canyon
- Ganzhou Market (Night Food Market)
- Zhangye Shanxi Guild Hall
- Zhangye Giant Buddha Temple