Things To Do
in Zequ
Zequ is a plateau city in northwest China where centuries of Silk Road history mingle with modern streets. Its compact old town unfolds around city walls and lantern-lit markets, while new cafes, studios, and parks line the boulevards. Northwestern flavors define the cuisine, with lamb, cumin, and hand-pulled noodles weaving through daily life.
Surrounded by rugged mountains and a still river, Zequ invites relaxed strolls, sunrise viewpoints, and warm encounters with locals.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Zequ and check into your hotel, breathing in the refreshing mountain air. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast featuring local delicacies to start your adventure. Take a quick orientation walk around the area to familiarize yourself with the enchanting surroundings.
Visit the Zequ Museum to learn about the rich cultural history and the unique traditions of the minorities that inhabit the region. Spend time exploring the local artisan shops, where you can find handmade crafts and souvenirs. Indulge in a delicious lunch at a nearby café, sampling authentic Zequ cuisine.
Take a serene evening stroll along the riverside, watching the sun set behind the lush mountains. Have dinner at a local restaurant, relishing favorite dishes while immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere. Wind down with a traditional tea ceremony, experiencing the essence of local customs.
After breakfast, set off to explore the ancient temples nestled in the mountains. Marvel at the intricate architecture and sacred relics that tell stories of the past. Experience the serenity of the temples as you meditate or practice yoga amidst the tranquil surroundings.
Enjoy a packed lunch in the lush gardens surrounding the temples, soaking in the peaceful vibes. Continue your exploration by hiking up to a panoramic viewpoint that overlooks the valley, where stunning vistas await. Capture photos and soak in the beauty of Zequ's majestic landscape.
Return to your hotel to freshen up and prepare for dinner at a well-recommended dining spot. Engage with locals and fellow travelers, sharing stories over a delicious meal that highlights regional flavors. End your evening with a local music performance, immersing yourself in the cultural essence of Zequ.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🍜Bowl of noodles | $3-7 |
| 💧Bottle of water | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-60 |
| ☕Coffee in café | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Silk Road heritage and architecture
- Accessible Northwestern cuisine and markets
- Friendly locals and safe, walkable core
- Limited English in some areas
- A few services favor domestic travelers over Western travellers
- Hot summers and chilly winters requiring good layering
- "Nǐ hǎo (你好)" - Hello
- "Xièxiè (谢谢)" - Thank you
- "Nǐ huì shuō Yīngyǔ ma? (你会说英语吗？)" - Do you speak English?
- "Cèsuǒ zài nǎlǐ? (厕所在哪里？)" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Zhège duōshǎo qián? (这个多少钱？)" - How much is this?
- "Hǎochī (好吃)" - Delicious
- "Qǐng (请)" - Please
- "Zàijiàn (再见)" - Goodbye
- "Fēicháng gǎnxiè (非常感谢)" - Thank you very much
Places to Visit in Zequ
Visit one of these nice places.
The stone gate framed by morning mist makes a dramatic focal point for skyline photos.
A panoramic overlook along the preserved walls offering sunset silhouettes.
A neon-lit pedestrian bridge over the East Canal ideal for long exposures.
A hillside temple complex with pagodas casting long shadows in the late afternoon.
Food in Zequ
Zequ Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slippery noodles in a clear beef broth with coriander, chili oil, and a touch of sesame.
Must-Try!
Charred, cumin-scented skewers enjoyed at night markets and roadside stalls.
Stir-fried potatoes with chili, garlic, and a robust cumin spice mix.
Cold noodles tossed with sesame paste, sesame seeds, and crisp vegetables.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A traditional market with fresh produce, dumplings, and sizzling street bites; try the lamb skewers at stalls 7–9.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a nod and a polite smile; use respectful language when addressing strangers.
Wait for elders to start, avoid pointing with chopsticks, and offer food to others before taking a bite.
Dress modestly in temples and markets; keep voices down in sacred spaces and follow local rules.
Safety
Tipping in Zequ
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most restaurants; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is optional, especially in touristy spots.
Cash (RMB) is widely accepted; mobile payments via WeChat Pay and Alipay are ubiquitous; some shops accept credit cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming blossoms; carry a light jacket and sunscreen; showers are possible.
Hot and dry with dusty winds; stay hydrated, wear a hat, and shoot early or late in the day.
Cool, clear days with vibrant foliage; great for photography and outdoor walks; layer up.
Cold and windy; occasional snow in higher areas; bring warm clothing and sturdy footwear.
Zequ at Night
Hiking in Zequ
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic loop with panoramic plateau views and rocky outcrops.
A shaded gorge trail with pools, rock formations, and quiet scenery.
Airports
How to reach Zequ by plane.
Small but growing airport with domestic and a few international connections; taxi or shuttle to the city center.
Major hub with frequent connections to major Chinese cities and some international routes; accessible by rail or road from Zequ.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority, with a strong presence of Hui Muslims in the city.
A sizable Muslim minority with distinctive cuisine and markets.
Smaller communities contributing to the city’s cultural mix.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools, public courts, and clubs; local leagues and pickup games are common.
A popular pastime in cafés and community centers.
Popular on the surrounding plateaus and in the hills above Zequ.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Zequ.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many veg options exist; look for mushroom or eggplant dishes, and dumplings filled with vegetables.
Several halal-friendly eateries are in the city; seek out certified halal signs and ask staff when in doubt.