Can foreigners travel freely from Xining to Zhangye?

Question

We will be flying into Xining in Oct 25 and plan to spend 2-3 days covering Xining before taking the train to Zhangye where we will be joining a tour group. I am just wondering if foreigners may have any restrictions in moving around on our own (although I think not). However, I thought it may be better to just re-confirm before booking our flights, hotel and train. Thanks !

Answer

Yes, foreigners can generally travel freely from Xining to Zhangye on their own, especially if you are taking regular public transport like trains or buses. Both Xining and Zhangye are open to domestic and international travelers, and there are no special permits required for the areas you plan to visit in Qinghai and Gansu provinces, as long as you stay on standard tourist routes.

Key considerations:

Train Travel: The train from Xining to Zhangye is straightforward and safe. You can book tickets online or at the station. Foreigners are allowed to purchase regular tickets and use standard train services without restrictions.
Tourist Sites: Once in Zhangye, you will likely visit attractions like the Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park. These sites are open to foreign tourists, and you can join guided tours or explore on your own without extra permits.
Border/Restricted Areas: While some parts of Qinghai and Gansu are considered sensitive areas near Tibet, the main cities and typical tourist routes (like Xining to Zhangye) are not restricted for foreigners.

Additional tips:

Carry your passport at all times, as local authorities may ask for identification at train stations or hotels.
Check train schedules in advance, especially in October when travel may be busier due to national holidays or autumn tourism.
Book your hotels ahead of time in both Xining and Zhangye to secure convenient locations near transport hubs.
If you plan to explore more remote or Tibetan-influenced areas beyond Zhangye, verify in advance whether special permits are required for foreigners.

In summary, for your planned itinerary of spending 2-3 days in Xining and then taking the train to Zhangye, you should face no restrictions on moving around on your own. Standard train travel and local sightseeing in these cities are fully accessible to international visitors.