Lanzhou Travel Guide - Brief Information on Lanzhou

Lanzhou, the capital city of Gansu Province is situated in the center of the mainland China with famous Yellow River passing through it. As the capital city, Lanzhou plays an important role in the economy, politics and transportation of the Gansu province.

Lanzhou was an important and well-known city on the old Silk Road, the ancient trade route which linked Xi'an, the capital of ancient China then with Central Asia and Europe. It radiates cultural diversity with Hui, Mongols, Tibetans and Kazakhs living in the city and surrounding areas.

As a regional transport hub, Lanzhou is easily accessed by air and land. Most people within the province come by long distance bus, while those traveling from farther areas prefer air and railway. Public bus and taxi services are used to commute within the city.

It is the city that acts as a starting point to many visitors who visit other sites in its vicinity such as Labrang Monastery and Sangke Prairie. Lanzhou also has its own attractions for the travelers such as Water Wheel Park, the White Pagoda Hill Park, the Bingling or Thousand Buddha Caves and Five Springs Mountain Park.

In addition, the city is dotted with museums that display a wealth of artifacts such as Gansu Provincial Museum, Gansu Museum of Geology, and Lanzhou Earthquake Museum.

Local cuisine in Lanzhou is influenced by many different ethnic groups that reside in the area. Generally speaking, Lanzhou dishes are either salty or spicy, and are roasted, steamed or braised.  Many local dishes as well as a wide-range of local handicrafts can be found at the city's night markets.