China Endangered Wildlife: Golden Monkey and More

Stay overnight in Taiyuan for today.

We will have a welcome dinner together, and the leader will introduce the photography trip at night in the hotel.

We will head to Lijiashan Village in the morning.

We will capture images of the cave dwellings, which are a unique type of architecture in northwest China, depicting how locals survived in the poor and arid land.

Additionally, we will listen to stories about the village and the present and past lives of its inhabitants.

Cave dwelling people's life: peanuts drying and basket making by salix monogolica branches

Following breakfast, we will photograph the Yadan landform in Jingbian Wave Valley, which is one of the most breathtaking wave valleys in China. The red sandstone has formed isolated peaks and steep rock formations over millions of years, creating a beautifully colored landscape.

In the afternoon, we will proceed to Hukou Waterfall.

Colorful Yadan Landform

In the morning, capture the Hukou Waterfall, the world's largest yellow waterfall, whose yellow hue results from the sand and mud carried downstream from the Loess Plateau.

Next, photograph the traditional Chinese New Year celebration, the Ansai waist drum performance. A dancer with a red drum tied to their waist beats the drum with a red silk drumstick while dancing, showcasing the villagers' straightforward and uninhibited character.

Ansai Waist Drum Performance

After breakfast, explore the Yucha Grand Canyon and capture the Yadan landform, a geological wonder hidden deep in the Loess Plateau, also known as the 'Antelope Valley' of China.

In the late afternoon, head to Huangling.

'China Antelope Valley' - Yucha Grand Canyon

After breakfast, venture to Foping County in Hanzhong, one of the few remaining habitats of wild Giant Pandas, though difficult to access, and focus instead on the Golden Snub-nosed Monkeys. These monkeys are easily found at a scientific station where they are accustomed to people.

Additionally, the forest, river valley, and cliffs provide excellent opportunities to capture a variety of bird species such as the Wallcreeper and Forktail.

In the afternoon, photograph endangered wildlife such as Giant Pandas in Panda Valley of Foping County.

Gloden Monkey Running Thru Rocks with Her Baby

Following breakfast, continue photographing rare wildlife, including the Asian Crested Ibis. With only 7 remaining in the 1980s, their population has now grown to 2000 thanks to protection and dedicated natural reserves.

Later in the day, head to Yang County to capture shots of golden monkeys and other wildlife.

The Mating Season of Crested Ibis

Keep shooting Asian Crested Ibis and other rare animals after breakfast.

After lunch, end the trip by traveling to Xi'an and bidding farewell.

The Takins Family