The 'Dragon Ridge Lost Grotto' Hidden in the Loess Plateau: This Grand Canyon Is No Ordinary Place

Dragon Ridge Lost Grotto is a place name from the novel 'Ghost Blows Out the Light', located in Gulan County, Shaanxi. The characters Hu Bayi and Wang Fatzi experienced a series of thrilling adventures there. The novel is fictional, but the Dragon Ridge Lost Grotto described in it is mysterious and full of secrets. On the Loess Plateau in northern Shaanxi, there is a tranquil geological fissure wonder that seems like a real-life Dragon Ridge Lost Grotto.

This wonder is the Yucha Grand Canyon in Ganquan County, Yan'an. Hundreds of millions of years ago, a strong earthquake split the mountains of the Loess Plateau, creating cracks of varying widths. Over the years, rainwater and mountain torrents eroded these cracks, gradually forming a unique canyon landscape with beautiful wavy curves.

It is said that the Yucha Grand Canyon is very similar to the Antelope Canyon in the United States, earning it the title of 'China's living Danxia'. It has now become a photography mecca for enthusiasts across the country.

The Yucha Grand Canyon is a concentrated cluster of canyons, mainly composed of four gorges: Huashugou, Longbagou, Huabaogou, and Nanhegou. Huashugou is about 800 meters long and is the most scenic gorge. The sandstone walls on both sides vary in width and shape, creating a strong visual impact through light and shadow. Longbagou is about 2,500 meters long, making it the longest gorge. As you enter, the path narrows, and you can only go about two-thirds of the way before you cannot proceed. The most beautiful part of the grand canyon is the 'S'-shaped passage formed between the gorge walls, which are as sharp as blades and breathtaking!

In 2017, a photographer from Beijing accidentally discovered this place while photographing the Loess Plateau. Subsequently, domestic and international media flocked to capture this geological wonder. It also attracted an interview by CCTV's 'Geographic China' program.

Entering the canyon, whether you look down or up, forward or backward, left or right, you can appreciate large swaths of colorful rocks, like three-dimensional paintings. Especially in the narrow gaps, sunlight penetrates through the crevices, casting a rainbow of light and shadow on the cliffs. Therefore, to visit the Yucha Grand Canyon, you must choose a sunny day with the best sunlight to see the most beautiful scenery.

The Yucha Grand Canyon is China's only canyon Danxia landform, different from Zhangye Danxia and Longzhou Danxia, each with its own characteristics. The Yucha Grand Canyon offers more of a visual impact, like a magical underground palace. In recent years, as the reputation of the Yucha Grand Canyon has grown, many tourists have come to visit. The editor reminds you to pay attention to your safety in natural scenic areas and avoid risky behavior. Because the ground is often slippery, you must be very careful when walking. Only by traveling safely can you have fun and enjoy yourself to the fullest. Let us explore this real-life Dragon Ridge Lost Grotto with a spirit of discovery.

Transportation: Self-drive from Xiasiwan Village, turn right after 2 kilometers to reach the scenic area gate, then take a shuttle bus into the scenic area; out-of-town tourists can take the bus from Xiasiwan Town, Ganquan County to Yucha.

Ticket: Free

Shuttle bus fare: 70 yuan/person

Opening hours: 09:00-17:00

Best photography time: Sunny days, 11:00-15:00.