Things To Do
in Lanzhou
Lanzhou is a major city in north-central China, serving as the capital of Gansu Province. It is strategically situated along the banks of the Yellow River, making it a significant cultural and economic hub in the region, with a history deeply intertwined with the Silk Road.
Today, Lanzhou is known for its vibrant mix of ethnic cultures, breathtaking landscapes, including the nearby Bingling Temple grottoes, and unique culinary offerings, such as the famous Lanzhou beef noodles.
- "Ni hao" - Hello
- "Xie xie" - Thank you
- "Zao an" - Good morning
- "Zai jian" - Goodbye
- "Shen me" - What?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the Gansu Provincial Museum to learn about the region's history. Don't forget to check out the Silk Road exhibits.
Enjoy lunch at a local noodle shop and savor Lanzhou's famous beef noodle soup. After, head to the Zhongshan Bridge for some scenic views.
Stroll along the Yellow River to take in the sunset. Grab dinner at a traditional restaurant offering local specialties.
Visit the Wuquan Mountain Park for a morning hike and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Take some time to appreciate the tranquility of the park.
Explore the Bingling Temple Caves, known for their stunning Buddhist sculptures. Have a picnic lunch surrounded by nature.
Return to the city and relax at a local tea house. Enjoy a calming tea ceremony while reflecting on the day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history, including traditional Chinese architecture and landmarks.
- Beautiful natural scenery, surrounded by mountains and the Yellow River.
- Famous for its noodles (Lanzhou beef noodles) and diverse cuisine.
- A relatively low cost of living compared to major Chinese cities.
- Growing economy with investments in infrastructure and tourism.
- Air pollution can be an issue, particularly in industrial areas.
- Limited international connectivity compared to other major Chinese cities.
- Public transport options may not be as developed as in larger metropolitan areas.
- Extreme weather, with cold winters and hot summers.
- Potential language barrier for non-Mandarin speakers.
Best Activities in Lanzhou
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the ancient Buddhist cave complex and admire the intricate statues and carvings.
Enjoy a scenic hiking trail through unique rock formations and along the beautiful Yellow River.
Hike up to the White Pagoda for stunning views of Lanzhou and the surrounding area.
Tours
Uncover the best of Lanzhou with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Lanzhou
Visit one of these nice places.
Baitashan Park offers panoramic views of Lanzhou city and the Yellow River, making it a great spot for photography and sightseeing.
The Yellow River Mother Sculpture provides a picturesque backdrop with the Yellow River and surrounding landscape, ideal for capturing memorable photos.
Lanzhou Bridge offers stunning views of the Yellow River and the cityscape, making it a popular location for photographers and visitors.
Food in Lanzhou
Lanzhou Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Aromatic, hand-pulled noodles served in a rich beef broth with tender slices of beef, garnished with green onions and chili oil. Must-try at Hui Restaurant or Mazilu Beef Noodles.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked mutton served with cumin, chili, and other spices, creating a flavorful and tender meat dish. Recommended at Zhen Lao Mutton Restaurant.
Cold, chewy noodles dressed in a savory, spicy sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic, sprinkled with sesame seeds. Available at Lanzhou Liangpi shops in the city center.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Lanzhou better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering an array of local street food including grilled skewers, dumplings, and a variety of noodle dishes. Try the skewers at the vendors near the entrance, and don't miss the Lanzhou Beef Noodles at Lanzhou Noodle Stall.
A vibrant street lined with stalls selling regional specialties like spicy tofu, hand-pulled noodles, and sesame seed cakes. Make sure to sample the tofu dishes from Auntie Liu's Tofu Stall.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Lanzhou, it is important to show respect for elders, including addressing them with proper titles and using polite language when speaking to them.
Bringing a small gift when visiting someone's home is considered a thoughtful gesture in Lanzhou. It is customary to present the gift with both hands as a sign of respect.
When dining in Lanzhou, it is polite to wait for the host to start eating before you begin. Additionally, it is customary to leave a small amount of food on your plate to show that you have eaten your fill.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Lanzhou with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Lanzhou
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Lanzhou, China. In most situations, tipping is not expected or required, especially in local restaurants and stores.
In Lanzhou, China, cash is widely used for day-to-day transactions. However, major establishments may accept credit cards, and mobile payment options such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are also popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Lanzhou.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Lanzhou as the temperatures are mild and the city is in full bloom with beautiful cherry blossoms and other flowering plants. It's an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking and sightseeing.
Summer in Lanzhou can be hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). It's a good time to explore the surrounding natural attractions such as the Bingling Temple and the Yellow River, but be prepared for the heat.
Autumn brings cooler temperatures and clear skies, making it a pleasant time to visit Lanzhou. The autumn foliage in the surrounding mountains is stunning, and it's a great time for hiking and outdoor activities.
Winter in Lanzhou can be cold, with temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. The city is less crowded during this time, and you can experience beautiful snowy landscapes. It's also a good time to try traditional hot dishes and warm beverages in the local restaurants.
Lanzhou at Night
Hiking in Lanzhou
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination near Lanzhou with scenic views and well-marked trails. Ideal for both beginner and experienced hikers.
Offers various trails along the Yellow River with beautiful landscapes and opportunities for photography.
Famous for its colorful rock formations and unique geological features. It offers amazing hiking opportunities.
A serene area for hiking with lush greenery and a rich cultural heritage, featuring temples and historical sites.
Known for its deep canyons and spectacular views, this area offers challenging hikes for those seeking adventure.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Lanzhou through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Lanzhou by plane.
The primary airport serving Lanzhou, located approximately 70 kilometers northeast of the city center.
An international airport serving Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, approximately 600 kilometers east of Lanzhou.
An international airport located in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, approximately 750 kilometers southeast of Lanzhou.
An international airport serving Urumqi, Xinjiang Province, approximately 1,200 kilometers northwest of Lanzhou.
A regional airport located in Dunhuang, Gansu Province, approximately 1,000 kilometers west of Lanzhou.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Lanzhou, making up the majority of the population.
A significant Muslim ethnic group in Lanzhou, known for their unique culture and traditions.
An ethnic group found in Gansu Province, with a small presence in Lanzhou.
A smaller ethnic group in Lanzhou, with historical ties to the region.
Includes groups such as Tibetans, Xibe, and others, though they represent a smaller portion of the population.
The Soul of Lanzhou
Discover the essence of Lanzhou through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport enjoyed by many locals, with numerous courts available for public use.
Widely played throughout the city, with local leagues and a strong following among fans.
A favored indoor sport, especially in schools and recreation centers, with many enthusiasts participating in the game.
Many residents engage in running as a form of exercise, with parks and riverfront areas serving as popular locations.
Various forms of martial arts, such as Tai Chi and Kung Fu, are practiced widely, reflecting traditional Chinese culture.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lanzhou.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Lanzhou's cuisine is meat-centric, vegetarian options can be found at Buddhist vegetarian restaurants such as Tianlong Baoyan. Additionally, many street vendors offer vegetable skewers and tofu dishes.
Finding strictly vegan options can be challenging due to the prevalent use of animal products in local dishes. However, some Buddhist vegetarian restaurants and street food stalls offer vegan-friendly choices.
It's important for those with gluten sensitivities to exercise caution, as wheat-based products are prevalent in Lanzhou's cuisine. Opt for rice-based dishes and communicate your dietary requirements clearly when dining out.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Lanzhou with these cultural adventures.
