whatdo

Things To Do
in Pingliang

Day Trips

Tours

Attractions

Prices

Pingliang is a prefecture-level city located in the eastern part of Gansu Province, China, nestled amidst the Loess Plateau and bordering Shaanxi Province. It is known for its rich history, scenic beauty, and cultural significance, with Kongtong Mountain, one of China's sacred Taoist mountains, being a notable attraction.

The city enjoys a temperate semi-arid climate, facilitating diverse agriculture and making it a hub for both traditional Chinese culture and natural exploration.

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  • "Ni hao" - Hello
  • "Xie xie" - Thank you
  • "Zao an" - Good morning
  • "Zai jian" - Goodbye
  • "Shen me" - What?

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $30
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
  • ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $60

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Beautiful Pingliang
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the enchanting Kongtong Mountain, known for its stunning scenery and historical significance. Enjoy a hike and take in the fresh air while capturing beautiful photographs.

afternoon
:

After lunch, head to the Pingliang Botanical Garden where you can stroll amongst diverse plant species and relax in nature. This tranquil setting is perfect for a leisurely afternoon.

evening
:

In the evening, enjoy a local dining experience by trying traditional Pingliang dishes at a nearby restaurant. Conclude your day by taking a peaceful walk in the city square.

day 2
Nature and Culture Day
morning
:

Visit the Wangxian Hill for a morning hike that promises breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Don’t forget to take a moment to appreciate the natural beauty.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, explore the Pingliang Museum to learn more about the area’s rich history and culture. This museum showcases artifacts and exhibitions that are both informative and fascinating.

evening
:

End your day by attending a local cultural performance if available. If not, find a cozy cafe to unwind and reflect on your day.

Pingliang Day Trips

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage with historical sites and traditional festivals.
  • Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and rivers.
  • Affordable cost of living compared to larger Chinese cities.
  • Less crowded and pollution-free environment.
  • Community-oriented atmosphere with friendly locals.
  • Limited job opportunities and economic development compared to major cities.
  • Fewer educational and healthcare resources.
  • Inadequate public transportation options.
  • Limited entertainment and dining options.
  • Language barrier for non-Mandarin speakers due to less exposure to English.

Best Activities in Pingliang

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Hiking in Kongtong Mountain

Explore the scenic trails and historical sites in Kongtong Mountain, known for its beautiful natural landscapes and cultural significance.

Visiting Pingliang Grottoes

Explore the ancient Buddhist grottoes in Pingliang, which showcase intricate sculptures and carvings dating back to the Northern Wei Dynasty.

Cycling along Beidou River

Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the picturesque Beidou River, surrounded by lush landscapes and traditional rural scenery.

Places to Visit in Pingliang

Visit one of these nice places.

Kongtong Mountain

Kongtong Mountain offers stunning views of the surrounding area and is a popular spot for photo opportunities with its unique rock formations and scenic landscapes.

Mati Temple

Mati Temple, located on the cliffs of a deep valley, provides breathtaking views and picturesque settings for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Zhongshan Park

Zhongshan Park offers panoramic views of Pingliang and the surrounding countryside, making it a great location for capturing the city's beautiful landscapes.

Food in Pingliang

Pingliang, located in Gansu province, is known for its diverse cuisine influenced by both Han and Hui ethnic groups. The local cuisine is famous for its noodles, lamb dishes, and vibrant street food culture.

Pingliang Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Liangpi

Liangpi, a cold noodle dish made from wheat or rice flour, is a specialty in Pingliang. It is commonly served with a savory, spicy sauce and various toppings such as cucumbers, bean sprouts, and shredded tofu.

Must-Try!

Pingliang Lamb Skewers

The fragrant and tender lamb skewers seasoned with cumin and other spices are incredibly popular. You'll find vendors grilling these delectable skewers on the streets throughout the city, especially in the evening.

Noodle Soup with Clear Broth

A comforting dish consisting of hand-pulled noodles served in a clear and flavorful broth, often accompanied by tender slices of lamb or beef.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Fucheng Road Night Market

This bustling night market is a hub of street food in Pingliang. You can explore a wide variety of local snacks, including lamb skewers, dumplings, grilled tofu, and Liangpi noodles.

Dongguan Market

Dongguan Market is a vibrant food market offering a plethora of fresh produce, local snacks, and ingredients. It's an excellent place to experience authentic Pingliang flavors and observe local shopping habits.

Weather

Located in a semi-arid region, the climate is characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers are typically hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F), while winters can be quite cold, with average lows often dropping below -10°C (14°F). Rainfall is relatively scarce, concentrated mainly during the summer months, which can lead to dry conditions during other times of the year. The annual precipitation ranges from 400 to 600 mm (about 16 to 24 inches), making it crucial for agriculture and water resources management. Spring and autumn are transitional seasons, featuring mild temperatures and a mix of sunny and rainy days. Due to its altitude and geographical features, the area can experience significant temperature variations between day and night, especially in the cooler months. Wind patterns also play a role, occasionally bringing dust storms in the spring, which is a common feature in many parts of northern China.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for elders

One important cultural norm in Pingliang, China is to show respect for elders. This includes using proper titles and addressing them with courtesy and politeness.

Giving and receiving gifts

In Pingliang, it is customary to give and receive gifts with both hands as a sign of respect. It is important to show appreciation for the gift and avoid opening it in front of the giver.

Table manners

When dining in Pingliang, it's important to observe proper table manners, such as serving others first before oneself, using chopsticks appropriately, and not sticking chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice, as it resembles a funeral ritual.

Safety

Safety in Pingliang, a city located in the Gansu province of China, generally reflects the broader trends seen throughout the country. Most visitors and residents report feeling safe, with low levels of violent crime. The community often enjoys a sense of security, contributing to a peaceful environment. Common safety measures include a visible police presence in urban areas, which helps deter crime and provides reassurance to the public. Traffic safety can be a concern, as is typical in many Chinese cities, due to the heavy volume of vehicles and motorbikes, so pedestrians should remain vigilant. Natural disaster preparedness is also important, as the region can be susceptible to earthquakes, though major incidents are not frequent. Public health and safety measures are routinely enforced, especially in response to public health challenges, which has been particularly evident during the COVID-19 pandemic. Overall, while there may be localized issues, the general atmosphere in Pingliang is one of safety and community well-being. Visitors are encouraged to apply the same common-sense precautions as they would in any urban area and to remain aware of their surroundings.

Tipping in Pingliang

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Pingliang, China, tipping is not a common practice. It is generally not expected or required in restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments.

Payment

Cash is still widely used in Pingliang, although major credit cards are accepted in larger hotels, restaurants, and stores. Mobile payment platforms such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are also commonly used for transactions.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (March to May)

Spring is a great time to visit Pingliang as the weather is mild and there are beautiful blossoms throughout the city. It is also a good time to explore the surrounding natural landscapes and enjoy outdoor activities.

Summer (June to August)

Summer in Pingliang can be hot and humid, but it is a good time to visit if you want to explore the city's cultural attractions, as there are often festivals and events during this time.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is another pleasant time to visit Pingliang, with mild weather and colorful foliage making it a great time for outdoor sightseeing and hiking in the surrounding mountains.

Winter (December to February)

Winter can be cold in Pingliang, but it is a good time to visit if you want to see the city covered in snow and experience traditional winter activities and celebrations.

Pingliang at Night

As the evening descends, the city's atmosphere subtly shifts from the busy pace of the day to a more relaxed and vibrant scene. The streets come alive with young people heading out to enjoy a variety of local hotspots. KTV (karaoke) bars are particularly popular, where friends gather to sing their favorite songs and enjoy drinks in private rooms. Local eateries remain bustling late into the night, offering an array of street foods and traditional snacks. Night markets also pop up, featuring vendors selling everything from grilled skewers to steamed buns, and the aroma of these treats wafts through the air, inviting passersby to indulge. Cafes and tea houses offer a quieter retreat where people can unwind with a cup of tea or coffee and enjoy conversations. For those seeking a more energetic vibe, a few clubs and bars provide music and dancing, though on a smaller scale compared to larger cities. The city’s parks and public squares serve as gathering spots for evening strollers, older residents practicing traditional dances, and groups of people exercising or playing games. This creates a communal and lively atmosphere where different generations mingle effortlessly. Overall, nightlife balances traditional leisure activities with a growing influence of modern entertainment, catering to a diverse range of interests and ensuring that the city remains lively well after sunset.

Hiking in Pingliang

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Baiyin Mountain

A beautiful mountain featuring scenic trails, lush forests, and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, ideal for both novice and experienced hikers.

Liuhe Scenic Area

A picturesque area with diverse terrain and trails, popular for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty of mountains, rivers, and wildlife.

Qinling Mountain Range

A vast mountain range located nearby, offering a variety of hiking opportunities with breathtaking vistas, waterfalls, and unique flora and fauna.

Tanghe River Valley

A scenic valley perfect for hiking, featuring trails that follow the river, showcasing beautiful landscapes and opportunities for birdwatching.

Xiangshan Mountain

A well-known hiking destination with marked trails winding through forests and up to a peak that offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Aiports

How to reach Pingliang by plane.

Xi'an Xianyang International Airport (XIY)

Located approximately 170 kilometers southwest of Pingliang, this is one of the largest international airports in the northwest of China, serving Xi'an and surrounding regions.

Lanzhou Zhongchuan International Airport (LHJ)

Situated about 220 kilometers west of Pingliang, this airport serves Lanzhou and is a key hub for travel in Gansu Province.

Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport (CGO)

Approximately 400 kilometers east of Pingliang, this airport is one of central China's major airports, offering numerous domestic and international flights.

Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU)

About 570 kilometers south of Pingliang, this is one of the busiest airports in southwestern China, connecting various domestic and international destinations.

Walkability

In recent years, the concept of walkability has gained traction in many cities around the world, emphasizing the importance of designing urban environments that promote walking as a viable mode of transportation. In the context of Pingliang, a city located in the Gansu province of China, walkability can be assessed by examining several factors. The city's layout, infrastructure, and public spaces contribute to the overall walkability. Pingliang has a mix of urban and semi-urban areas, with various amenities such as shops, schools, parks, and public transport hubs that can influence walking patterns. Sidewalks and pedestrian pathways are essential for safe and comfortable walking, and their quality and connectivity play crucial roles in encouraging foot traffic. Moreover, the presence of green spaces and recreational areas enhances the walking experience, offering residents not only a place to walk but also to engage with their community. Pedestrian-friendly zones can create vibrant social spaces where people gather and interact. However, challenges such as traffic safety, air quality, and accessibility can impact walkability. Urban planning efforts that prioritize pedestrian needs, improve infrastructure, and enhance connectivity between different parts of the city are necessary for fostering a more walkable environment. As with many cities, ongoing initiatives and investment in public transport, streetscape improvements, and community engagement in urban planning could further promote walking and enhance the overall livability of Pingliang.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Chinese

The predominant ethnic group in Pingliang and throughout China, making up the majority of the population.

Hui

A Muslim ethnic group that has a historical presence in the region, contributing to the cultural diversity of Pingliang.

Other Ethnic Minorities

Includes several smaller ethnic groups such as Tibetan and Dongxiang, which have a lesser representation in the area.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Basketball is a widely popular sport among the youth in Pingliang, with many schools and communities hosting local matches and promoting talent development.

Soccer

Soccer has a strong following in Pingliang, with various leagues and community teams engaging residents of all ages in this dynamic sport.

Table Tennis

Table tennis is not only a popular pastime but also a competitive sport in Pingliang, with many players participating in local tournaments.

Martial Arts

Traditional martial arts, including Tai Chi and Kung Fu, are practiced widely in Pingliang and are an integral part of the local culture.

Volleyball

Volleyball has gained popularity in Pingliang, especially among schools and community recreational activities.

Traffic

Traffic in this city is influenced by its strategic location as a transportation hub in the Gansu province. The road network is well-developed, connecting various regions and facilitating the movement of goods and people. During peak hours, especially in the morning and evening, congestion can occur, particularly in the city center and near major intersections. Public transportation options, such as buses, provide residents with alternatives to personal vehicles, helping to alleviate some traffic pressures. However, as the population grows, the demand for efficient public transit and road infrastructure continues to increase. Additionally, considerate driving habits vary among residents, which can contribute to traffic flow challenges. Pedestrian traffic is also prominent in bustling areas, and efforts are being made to enhance walkability and ensure the safety of those on foot. Overall, while there are periods of significant traffic, ongoing developments aim to improve the overall transportation experience in the area.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Pingliang.

Hotels Apartments

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

While Pingliang's traditional cuisine heavily features meat, many restaurants offer vegetable-based dishes and tofu-based alternatives suitable for vegetarians and vegans. A visit to Hui Muslim Restaurant can provide a variety of plant-based options.

Gluten-free Options

Gluten-free options can be limited in traditional Pingliang cuisine due to the prevalent use of wheat-based noodles and flours. However, some establishments, particularly international hotel restaurants, may offer gluten-free alternatives or be willing to accommodate special dietary requests.

Healthcare

Located in the northwest region of China, healthcare in this area has undergone significant reforms and developments over the years. The local government has made efforts to improve healthcare accessibility and quality, particularly in rural regions where medical resources can be scarce. There is a mix of healthcare facilities available, ranging from large hospitals to smaller clinics. The main hospital in the city offers a range of services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialized treatments. However, smaller towns and rural areas often face challenges like limited access to advanced medical technologies and specialists. The Chinese government has implemented policies to enhance public health insurance coverage, aiming to ensure that a larger segment of the population can afford medical care. Health insurance programs, such as the Urban Employee Basic Medical Insurance and the New Rural Cooperative Medical Scheme, have contributed to an increase in healthcare access for both urban employees and rural residents. Challenges remain, including disparities in healthcare quality between urban and rural areas. Many residents still face barriers due to high out-of-pocket expenses and availability of healthcare professionals. Ongoing efforts are focused on increasing investments in healthcare infrastructure, training medical personnel, and promoting public health initiatives to address these issues. In summary, while significant progress has been made in improving healthcare in this region, there are still areas that require attention and development to create a more equitable healthcare system for all residents.

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