Qinghai's second-largest city, Haidong is the eastern gateway to the Tibetan Plateau, known for its stunning mountain scenery, Tibetan Buddhist culture, and the famous Qutan Monastery.
Haidong is a prefecture-level city in eastern Qinghai Province, situated on the upper reaches of the Yellow River. It serves as the eastern gateway to the Tibetan Plateau, connecting the lowlands of Gansu with the high-altitude landscapes of western Qinghai and Tibet.
The city's name means "East of the Lake," referring to its position east of Qinghai Lake. Haidong's landscape is defined by the deep canyon of the Yellow River, terraced farmland climbing the valley slopes, and the distant snow-capped Qilian Mountains. The elevation ranges from 1,800 to 4,000 meters.
Haidong has a rich cultural heritage shaped by Tibetan, Han Chinese, Hui Muslim, and Tu ethnic groups. The crown jewel is Qutan Monastery, a Ming dynasty Tibetan Buddhist monastery with spectacular murals. The region also preserves Neolithic archaeological sites that reveal ancient civilizations of the Tibetan Plateau.
The Haidong region has been inhabited for over 5,000 years, as evidenced by the Gaomiao Neolithic site. During the Han and Tang dynasties, the area was a crucial stop on the ancient Silk Road's Hexi Corridor route.
Qutan Monastery, built in 1393 during the early Ming Dynasty, was an important center of Tibetan Buddhist learning. The monastery received imperial patronage, reflecting the Ming court's support for Tibetan Buddhism as a means of managing relations with Tibet.
Haidong was established as a prefecture-level city in 2013, splitting from the former Haidong Prefecture. It is one of China's youngest prefecture-level cities.
Haidong's economy is based on agriculture, renewable energy, and tourism. The Yellow River valley supports irrigated farming of wheat, barley, rapeseed, and vegetables. The city is developing solar and wind energy projects, leveraging its abundant sunshine and strong winds. Tourism centered on Qutan Monastery, the canyon landscape, and Tibetan culture is a growing sector.
Discover the culinary treasures of Haidong, from traditional street food to imperial cuisine.
A day exploring Haidong's Tibetan Buddhist heritage and the dramatic Yellow River canyon.
Haidong is served by Xining Caojiabao International Airport, about 40 km away with domestic flights.
Haidong Railway Station on the Lanzhou-Xining high-speed railway connects to Xining, Lanzhou, and Xi'an.
Buses connect Haidong's districts and major towns, with frequent services to Xining.
Available throughout the city
Apr - May
Cool and windy. The plateau begins to green. Occasional sandstorms from the Gobi.
Jun - Aug
Mild and pleasant, the best time to visit. Wildflowers blanket the meadows. The sky is brilliant blue.
Sep - Oct
Crisp and clear. The golden autumn foliage creates beautiful scenery. Cooler temperatures.
Nov - Mar
Very cold and dry. Snow covers the mountains. Many sites have reduced hours. Not recommended.
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