Step into the Millennium of Gansu's Gobi Desert | Jingtai Yongtai Ancient City One-Day Tour

This trip to the Gobi ancient city gave me an unexpected surprise! Yongtai Ancient City is like a pearl polished by time, quietly telling millennium-old frontier stories on the desolate Gobi desert. The well-preserved Republic of China-era primary school, old residences from decades ago, every corner is filled with a strong historical atmosphere.

📍Attraction Guide:
Yongtai Ancient City
Address: Next to the City God Temple in Gucheng, Sitaan Township, Jingtai County, Baiyin City, Gansu Province
Opening Hours: All day
Recommended Playtime: 3-4 hours

Taking a leisurely stroll in the ancient city truly feels amazing~ The rammed earth city walls around the City God Temple are well-preserved. Standing on them, overlooking the entire ancient city, with the magnificent Qilian Mountains in the distance and rustic residential courtyards nearby, it feels as if you've instantly traveled back to the era of war and horses.

What surprised me the most was the Republic of China-era primary school building in the city, with its wooden classrooms and handwritten blackboards. Such authentic historical traces are truly hard to find elsewhere! I recommend that friends who enjoy humanistic photography bring their cameras, as every gate tower and every earthen wall here is incredibly photogenic.

📌Practical Tips:
1. The ancient city can be windy and dusty, so remember to take precautions against wind and sun.
2. Wear comfortable flat shoes, as the stone paths in the ancient city can be difficult to walk on.
3. It is recommended to take photos between 4-6 PM when the light is best.
4. You can hire a local guide to hear many interesting historical stories.
5. There are not many dining options nearby, so it's advisable to bring your own dry food and water.

🚗Transportation Guide:
Approximately 2.5 hours drive from Lanzhou.
Alternatively, take a long-distance bus from Lanzhou Bus Station to Jingtai County, then transfer to another vehicle to the ancient city.

Post by NIA BRIGGS | Oct 19, 2025

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