Lanzhou Travel Guide

 

 

 

It is the unique city in China that is divided into the southern and northern sections by the Yellow River, the mother river of the Chinese. Lanzhou is located in the heartland of China, and its urban area and the beautiful night scenes are like many metropolises in the country. But its custom, atmosphere and food are so different. It is a place that you must count in your Chinese tour. The air is often cool and dry ; snacks like beef and mutton noodles and casseroles are very delicious, as well as local fresh fruits.

 

On a clear day, perhaps you would experience the majestic but decadent look of mountains and sandy mounds on the outskirt of Lanzhou. They are the historical relics of human and the Mother Nature which are worth to see. In every corner of the city, you may feel the blending of Chinese, ethnic minorities and Muslim cultures together.

 

Historically, Lanzhou was a vital city on the Silk Road, and the city is one of land and air traffic hubs in western China. So, if you are going to Dunhuang, you must pass Lanzhou and stop here at least for a day or two.

  

Geography

 

Lanzhou, the provincial capital of Gansu Province in western China, is located at the heart of the Gansu, and it is also known as "continental heart city" due to the city's location. The shape of the city on the map is like a short belt stretching from east to west with the Yellow River flowing, also from east to west, through it. Lanzhou has hills and mountains lie on its southern and northern sides with plain area in the middle.

 

The total area of Lanzhou covers 13,086 sq. km with administrative area divided into five municipal districts and three counties. The city is renowned for its historical sites and fruit products.

 

Climate

 

Lanzhou lies on the semi-arid temperate monsoon zone, with high difference in temperature between day and night and less rainfall. The annual mean temperature is around 6 to 9 degrees Celsius with no extreme weather in summer and winter, but sandstorms are often happened during spring. The annual rainfall is about 327.7 mm. So the best time to visit Lanzhou is in late summer and early autumn.

 

Population

 

Lanzhou is home to a population of 3.27 million (according to official statistics in 2006), including Han Chinese, and ethnic minorities like Hui, Bao'an, Dongxiang, Tibetan, Yugu, Sala and so on, religions and customs are different among ethnic groups.