Laoniuwan Yellow River Grand Canyon Tourist Area, Inner Mongolia autonomous region

Laoniuwan Yellow River Grand Canyon Tourist Area (老牛湾黄河大峡谷旅游区 lǎo niú wān huáng hé dà xiá gǔ jǐng qū）

Address: Laoniuwan town, Qingshuihe county, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia autonomous region
Scenic spot level: 5A
Opening hours:
Summer: 9 am - 6 pm
Winter: 8:30 am - 6:30 pm
Contact: +86 471-7914669
Ticket price:
Full-price ticket: 40 yuan ($5.50)
Half-price ticket: 20 yuan

Notes:
1. Residents of Qingshuihe, children under 1.2 meters, seniors over 60, and people with disabilities can enter for free with proper documentation.
2. Children under 1.4 meters, students (undergraduate or lower), and firefighters with valid IDs can enter at half price.
3. From Nov 22, 2024, to March 31, 2025, visitors driving their own vehicles can enter for free.

The Laoniuwan Yellow River Grand Canyon Tourist Area in the Southwest of Qingshuihe county, Hohhot, capital of North China's Inner Mongolia autonomous region, spans 9.5 square kilometers. Positioned at the heart of the U-shaped bend in the Yellow River, it is a prime spot along the core stretch of the Yellow River Grand Canyon, which straddles North China's Shanxi province and Inner Mongolia. With over 30 breathtaking natural and cultural sites, the 30-km canyon's towering cliffs and dramatic rock formations make it a must-visit destination.

Key highlights include Laoniu (old cow) Bay, where the Yellow River meets its tributary, Yangjiachuan River. Over millions of years, erosion has carved out a unique cow-shaped rock formation, giving the area its name. Taiji Bay features the largest bend in the middle section of the Yellow River, where the river turns a full 270-degree, resembling a natural Tai Chi symbol, symbolizing a powerful cosmic transformation. The Great Wall Meets the Yellow River is another wonder of the area where the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) Great Wall intersects with the Yellow River, forming an awe-inspiring sight.

Shenniu (divine cow) Square offers the best vantage point from which to view Laoniu Bay. Spanning 7,000 sq m, it is the largest stone square in China and is estimated to be 500 million years old. According to legend, it was a resting place for the mythical emperor Yu the Great, who was dedicated to flood control and passed by three times without entering his home. Shenniu Park is based on the image of the divine cow, featuring various entertainment facilities and covering an area of about 6,500 sq m.

In addition to its scenic beauty, Laoniu Bay offers a variety of local delicacies. Don't miss the braised Yellow River carp, known for its tender, juicy texture and rich flavor, which pairs perfectly with youzhagao (deep-fried cake). Other regional specialties include crispy Yellow River shrimp and Qingshuihe-scented rice.