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Lanzhou, the capital of Gansu Province and a central city in Northwest China, serves as the province's political, cultural, economic, and scientific and educational center. Located on the upper reaches of the Yellow River, Lanzhou is the geometric center of China's landmass and is known as the "Yellow River Capital of the West, a Famous City of Mountains and Rivers on the Silk Road." The Yellow River, flowing endlessly day and night, has endowed Lanzhou with a unique character. Its rolling waves and roaring roars have not only nurtured Lanzhou's land and waters, but also shaped the bold and rugged character of its people. The city, imbued with warmth and richness by the Yellow River, is a must-see destination for travelers to the west.
Lanzhou, a key city on the ancient Silk Road, boasts numerous historical and natural wonders. For travelers, it's a crucial transit point and a starting point. Traveling west from Lanzhou, you can reach Qinghai Lake, and northwest, you can pass through Zhangye and Jiayuguan Pass all the way to Dunhuang.
It has a temperate continental climate, with cool summers and not too cold winters, making it a famous summer resort.
Lanzhou is a famous "hometown of fruits and vegetables". The best time to visit Lanzhou is autumn, when the fruit harvest is abundant, enough to satisfy your appetite.
The Eid al-Fitr on October 1st of the Islamic calendar is quite unique. The annual "Lanzhou China Silk Road Festival" is also held in September. Many tourists will gather in Lanzhou, making it very lively.
In addition, Lanzhou has a large temperature difference between day and night, strong sunshine, and most of the rainfall is concentrated from June to August.
Baitashan Park
The White Pagoda Mountain looks like it is embracing a golden city. It was originally built to commemorate a Tibetan Sakya lama who died of illness in Lanzhou while traveling to Mongolia to pay homage to Genghis Khan.
Yellow River Iron Bridge
The first real bridge across the 5,640-kilometer Yellow River, known as the "No. 1 Yellow River Bridge in the World"
Gansu Provincial Museum
Home to the national treasure "Horse Stepping on Flying Swallow", it boasts over 350,000 precious collections and is a must-visit destination for those wanting to understand the history and culture of Gansu Province and the ancient Silk Road.
About 2 days
Gansu Provincial Museum: Free, ID card required
Baitashan Park: Free
Gansu Provincial Museum: 09:00-17:00, last admission 16:00
Lanzhou is the capital of Gansu Province and an important city on the ancient Silk Road. It has historically served as a cultural, commercial, and transportation hub connecting China’s interior to Central Asia.
Lanzhou is located along the Yellow River in central Gansu. It is accessible via Lanzhou Zhongchuan International Airport, long-distance buses, and Lanzhou Railway Station. Within the city, public buses, taxis, and a metro system make travel convenient, while walking is suitable for city center sightseeing.
For most sites, advance booking is not required. During peak seasons or special exhibitions, booking 1–2 weeks in advance is recommended.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin; English guides are limited and can be arranged through travel agencies or hotels.
Start at the Yellow River Scenic Area, cross Zhongshan Bridge, visit Gansu Provincial Museum, then head to Baita Mountain and explore nearby food streets.
Night views along the Yellow River and illuminated Zhongshan Bridge are popular; some local festivals feature evening performances.
City attractions can be busy on weekends and public holidays. Weekdays outside national holidays are least crowded.
Main city attractions and museums are generally accessible. Baita Mountain paths may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors.
Cash is accepted widely; most shops and restaurants also accept Alipay, WeChat Pay, and credit cards.
Vegetarian dishes are available in many restaurants; Halal food is widely available due to the local Hui Muslim community.
