Location & Transportation

Whale Gully is nestled on the iconic Bailü Original (White Deer Plain) near Xi’an’s eastern suburbs, just 5 kilometers from the city’s East Third Ring Road. The address is Xi Che Village, Fengguang South Road, Dizhai Street, Xi’an, Shaanxi Province. If you’re staying in downtown Xi’an, a taxi or ride-hailing app like Didi takes about 20 minutes. For a more adventurous trip, rent a bike—the area is flat and scenic, perfect for exploring nearby attractions like Bailü Warehouse (a cultural hub inspired by Chen Lu’s novels) and Cherry Valley (a springtime favorite for locals).

Natural Highlights

Whale Gully lives up to its name with a mix of rugged beauty and serene landscapes. The “Three Wonders of Guanzhong” here—Thousand-Mule Bamboo Forest, Whale Lake, and Bao’en Temple—are must-sees.

  • Bamboo Forest: Over 1,000 acres of towering green bamboo create a cool, shaded escape, especially popular on hot summer days.
  • Whale Lake: A tranquil reservoir surrounded by hills, great for kayaking or picnicking by the water.
  • Rocky Streams & Waterfalls: Wander through quirky rock formations and listen to the sound of cascading waterfalls.

Pro tip: Visit in spring for cherry blossoms or autumn for fiery maple leaves—Whale Gully’s colors change with the seasons!

Cultural & Historical Touches

While Whale Gully is mostly natural, it has a few cultural gems:

  • Bao’en Temple: A peaceful Buddhist temple with ancient architecture, often less crowded than Xi’an’s more famous spots.
  • Bailü Outdoor Camp: For fans of Chinese literature, this camping area references Bailü Original, the setting of Chen Lu’s novel Bai Lü Yuan.
  • Stargazing & Legends: Locals say the valley’s shape resembles a whale, hence the name—look down from the Stone Pavilion for a bird’s-eye view!

Stay, Eat, & Play

Whale Gully isn’t just a day trip—it’s worth spending overnight!

  • Accommodation: Choose between starry yurts (perfect for photo ops) or cozy bamboo-themed rooms. The Bamboo Restaurant serves farm-to-table dishes like homemade tofu and wild mushrooms—try the cherry-stuffed dumplings in season!
  • Activities: Rent a paddleboat on the lake, test your aim at the archery range, or challenge friends at the ropes course. Families love the Hundred-Fruit Garden for seasonal fruit picking.

Why Visit Whale Gully?

Unlike Xi’an’s crowded historic sites, Whale Gully feels like a hidden gem. It’s ideal for:

  • Nature lovers: Hiking, birdwatching, or simply breathing fresh air.
  • Culture buffs: A quieter side of Bailü Original’s story.
  • Families: Safe, kid-friendly activities and spacious grounds.

Pro Tip: Pair Whale Gully with a visit to Bailü Film City (a movie studio) or Modern Agriculture Park for a full Bailü Original adventure. Bring comfy shoes, sunscreen, and a camera—you’ll want to capture every corner of this “Xi’an backyard”!