Lanzhou: A Journey Through Silk Road History & Noodle Heaven – Travel Guide

Planning Your Trip to Lanzhou

Country and Province

China, Gansu Province

Timezone

GMT +8

Languages Spoken

Mandarin Chinese

Currency

Chinese Yuan (CNY)

Lanzhou Weather & Climate: A Month-by-Month Snapshot

January-February: Cold and dry, averaging -7°C to 3°C. Snow is possible. Keywords: Lanzhou winter, Lanzhou weather January, Lanzhou weather February
March-April: Temperatures rise, averaging 3°C to 17°C. Expect windy conditions. Keywords: Lanzhou spring, Lanzhou weather March, Lanzhou weather April
May-June: Pleasant and mild, averaging 12°C to 25°C. Great for outdoor activities. Keywords: Lanzhou summer, Lanzhou weather May, Lanzhou weather June
July-August: Hottest months, averaging 18°C to 30°C. Occasional rainfall. Keywords: Lanzhou summer, Lanzhou weather July, Lanzhou weather August
September-October: Cooling temperatures, averaging 12°C to 20°C. Clear skies, comfortable weather. Keywords: Lanzhou autumn, Lanzhou weather September, Lanzhou weather October
November-December: Temperatures drop, averaging -3°C to 7°C. Dry and cold. Keywords: Lanzhou winter, Lanzhou weather November, Lanzhou weather December

Lanzhou City Overview: A Blend of History and Modernity

Lanzhou, the capital of Gansu province, sits pretty on the Yellow River. It’s been a vital Silk Road stop, so it’s packed with culture but also has a modern vibe. Everyone knows it for its amazing Lanzhou beef noodles (牛肉面) – a must-try! The Yellow River gives the city beautiful riverfront views and makes for nice boat trips. Mountains all around add to the scenery, offering opportunities for adventures. Think historical sites, lively markets, and natural beauty all in one place. It’s also a major transportation hub linking western China. Keywords: Lanzhou history, Silk Road, Yellow River, Lanzhou beef noodles, Gansu province, tourism, travel guide

Best Time to Visit Lanzhou: Season by Season

Spring (May-June): Pros: Mild temperatures, flowers blooming. Cons: Can be a bit windy. Keywords: Best time to visit Lanzhou, Lanzhou in spring
Autumn (September-October): Pros: Pleasant weather, clear skies. Cons: Possible sandstorms. Keywords: Best time to visit Lanzhou, Lanzhou in autumn
Summer (July-August): Pros: Warm weather, lively city. Cons: Hot temperatures, occasional rain. Keywords: Best time to visit Lanzhou, Lanzhou in summer
Winter (November-February): Pros: Fewer tourists, winter landscapes. Cons: Cold temperatures, snow. Keywords: Best time to visit Lanzhou, Lanzhou in winter

Getting to Lanzhou & Visa Information

Flights: Lanzhou Zhongchuan International Airport (LHW) has lots of flights, both domestic and international. Keywords: Lanzhou airport, flights to Lanzhou, LHW airport
Trains: Lanzhou is a major train hub, connecting to cities all over China. Keywords: Lanzhou train station, trains to Lanzhou
Visa Details: Most people need a Chinese visa. Check with the Chinese embassy or consulate in your country. Keywords: Chinese visa, visa for China, travel to China
Airport Transfers: Taxis and airport buses are available. Keywords: Lanzhou airport transfer, taxi from Lanzhou airport, bus from Lanzhou airport

Lanzhou: Fun Facts & Historical Tidbits

Legend says a Qing Dynasty chef passed down the recipe for Lanzhou beef noodles. Precise techniques are needed to pull the noodles and make the flavorful broth.

Famous People From or Near Lanzhou

General Huo Qubing (140-117 BC), a famous military leader from the Western Han dynasty, was born near Lanzhou (present-day Linxia).

Top 10 Attractions in Lanzhou: What to See & Do

Gansu Provincial Museum: History and culture of Gansu Province.
- Description: Silk Road artifacts and regional history.
- Address: 3 Xijin E Rd, Qilihe District, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
White Pagoda Mountain Park (Baita Shan Park): Panoramic views of Lanzhou & Yellow River.
- Description: Climb for city views and see the White Pagoda.
- Address: Baita Shan, Binhe N Rd, Chengguan District, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
Yellow River Iron Bridge (Zhongshan Bridge): Historic bridge over the Yellow River.
- Description: Walk across for river views and a look at Lanzhou’s past.
- Address: Binhe N Rd, Chengguan District, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
Waterwheel Park: Traditional waterwheels used for irrigation.
- Description: Learn about irrigation and enjoy the riverfront.
- Address: Binhe N Rd, Chengguan District, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
Bingling Temple Grottoes (Day Trip): Ancient Buddhist cave temples.
- Description: See carvings and artwork from centuries ago.
- Address: Yongjing County, Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu, China
Five Springs Mountain Park (Wuquan Shan Park): Park with temples and springs.
- Description: Explore historical sites and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
- Address: Wuquan Shan, Chengguan District, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
Lanzhou Botanical Garden: Collection of plants and flowers.
- Description: Stroll through the gardens and admire the flora.
- Address: Yanchang Rd, Anning District, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
Museum of Gansu Geology: Geological formations and minerals of Gansu.
- Description: Learn about the region’s geology and see mineral specimens.
- Address: 666 Duanjiatan N Rd, Anning District, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
Yellow River Mother Sculpture: Sculpture symbolizing the Yellow River.
- Description: Admire the artwork and take photos.
- Address: Binhe N Rd, Chengguan District, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
Zhangye Danxia Landform Geological Park (Day Trip): Colorful rock formations.
- Description: See the amazing Danxia landforms.
- Address: Sunan Yugur Autonomous County, Zhangye, Gansu, China

Lanzhou Hidden Gems: Off the Beaten Path

Xiaoxihu Park: Park with Chinese gardens and teahouses.
- Description: Escape the city and relax in this park.
- Address: Dingxi Rd, Chengguan District, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
Zhengning Road Night Market: Street food and local products.
- Description: Sample Lanzhou’s food and shop for souvenirs.
- Address: Zhengning Rd, Chengguan District, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
Dongfanghong Creative Park: Art and cultural hub in a renovated industrial area.
- Description: Explore art galleries, studios, and cafes.
- Address: No.108 Jianxi Road, Qilihe District, Lanzhou, Gansu, China

Local Festivals & Events in Lanzhou

Lanzhou International Marathon: Annual marathon (May/June). Keywords: Lanzhou Marathon
Dunhuang Silk Road Festival: Cultural festival celebrating the Silk Road (September). Keywords: Silk Road Festival
Gansu Silk Road International Tourism Festival: Showcasing tourism and culture (July/August). Keywords: Gansu Tourism Festival

Day Trips From Lanzhou

Bingling Temple Grottoes: (2-3 hours travel time) Keywords: Day trip to Bingling Temple
Zhangye Danxia Landform Geological Park: (5-6 hours travel time) Keywords: Day trip to Zhangye Danxia
Labrang Monastery (Xiahe): (4-5 hours travel time) Keywords: Day trip to Labrang Monastery

Top Lanzhou Photography Spots: Capture the City

White Pagoda Mountain Park: City views and the White Pagoda.
Yellow River Iron Bridge: Historic architecture and river scenery.
Yellow River Mother Sculpture: Symbolizing the Yellow River.
Zhangye Danxia Landform Geological Park: Colorful rock formations.
Bingling Temple Grottoes: Buddhist cave temples and sculptures.

Where to Stay in Lanzhou: Hotels & Accommodation

Recommended Length of Stay in Lanzhou

3-5 days

Top Places to Stay in Lanzhou

Budget Hotels in Lanzhou

Lanzhou Youth Hostel:
- Address: 42 Qingyang Rd, Chengguan District, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
Home Inn Lanzhou Railway Station:
- Address: 366 Tianshui Rd, Chengguan District, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
7 Days Inn Lanzhou West Railway Station:
- Address: 133 Xijin W Rd, Qilihe District, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
Hanting Express Lanzhou Zhangye Road Pedestrian Street:
- Address: 339 Zhangye Rd, Chengguan District, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
Jinjiang Inn Lanzhou University:
- Address: 222 Tianshui Rd, Chengguan District, Lanzhou, Gansu, China

Mid-Range Hotels in Lanzhou

Holiday Inn Express Lanzhou City Center:
- Address: 222 Donggang W Rd, Chengguan District, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
Wyndham Garden Lanzhou:
- Address: 777 Anning W Rd, Anning District, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
Ibis Lanzhou Zhangye Road:
- Address: 188 Zhangye Rd, Chengguan District, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
JI Hotel Lanzhou Railway Station East Square:
- Address: No.518 East Donggang Road, Chengguan District, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
Greentree Inn Lanzhou Xigu District Government Express Hotel:
- Address: No.48, Xigu West Road, Lanzhou, Gansu, China

Luxury Hotels in Lanzhou

Hyatt Regency Lanzhou:
- Address: 1 Jingning S Rd, Chengguan District, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
Shangri-La Hotel, Lanzhou:
- Address: 559 Tianshui E Rd, Chengguan District, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
Pullman Lanzhou Wanda:
- Address: 506 Donggang W Rd, Chengguan District, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
Radisson Blu Hotel, Lanzhou:
- Address: 311 Jiuquan Rd, Chengguan District, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
Crowne Plaza Lanzhou:
- Address: 199 Donggang E Rd, Chengguan District, Lanzhou, Gansu, China

Getting Around Lanzhou: Transportation Options

Public Transport: Buses and metro are convenient and affordable.
Taxis: Readily available and relatively inexpensive.
Bikes: Bike-sharing programs are available.
Walking: Explore the city center on foot.

Preparing for Your Lanzhou Experience: Tips & Advice

What to Pack for Lanzhou

Comfortable shoes: For walking and hiking.
Layers of clothing: For varying temperatures.
Sunscreen and hat: For protection from the sun.
Modest clothing: When visiting religious sites.
Phrasebook or translation app: To communicate with locals.

Useful Apps for Visiting Lanzhou

Baidu Maps: Navigation and local information.
Pleco: Chinese-English dictionary.
Didi Chuxing: Ride-hailing app.
Meituan: Food delivery and local services.
WeChat: Communication and mobile payment.

Lanzhou: Local Customs, Safety Tips & Cultural Etiquette

Do: Learn basic Mandarin phrases.
Do: Try local delicacies, especially Lanzhou beef noodles.
Do: Respect local customs and traditions.
Don’t: Publicly criticize the Chinese government.
Don’t: Be overly aggressive or loud in public.
Don’t: Forget to bargain in markets.
Safety: Be aware of your surroundings and avoid scams targeting tourists.

Lanzhou Food, Fun & Finds: Restaurants, Dishes & Souvenirs

Top Restaurants in Lanzhou: Where to Eat

Ma Zi Lu Beef Noodles: Authentic Lanzhou beef noodles.
- Description: Experience Lanzhou’s signature dish.
- Address: Multiple locations throughout Lanzhou.
Dunhuang Restaurant: Gansu cuisine and Silk Road specialties.
- Description: Sample regional dishes from the Silk Road.
- Address: Multiple locations throughout Lanzhou.
Yilamu Muslim Restaurant: Authentic Muslim cuisine.
- Description: Flavorful dishes prepared according to Islamic traditions.
- Address: Multiple locations throughout Lanzhou.

Must-Try Dishes in Lanzhou: A Culinary Adventure

Lanzhou Beef Noodles (牛肉面): The city’s signature dish.
Mutton Skewers (羊肉串): Grilled skewers seasoned with cumin and chili.
Hand-Pulled Noodles (拉面): Freshly made noodles served in various sauces.
Niangpi (酿皮): Cold starch noodles with spicy sauce.
Grey Beans Soup (灰豆子): Sweet soup made from grey beans.

Lanzhou Nightlife & Entertainment: After Dark

Bar Street along the Yellow River: Lively area with bars and restaurants.
- Description: Enjoy drinks and live music with views of the Yellow River.
- Address: Binhe Rd, Chengguan District, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
Zhengning Road Night Market: Street food and entertainment in the evening.
- Description: Sample local snacks and enjoy the bustling atmosphere.
- Address: Zhengning Rd, Chengguan District, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
Live Music Venues: Several venues offer live music performances.
- Description: Enjoy local bands and artists.

What to Buy in Lanzhou: Souvenirs & Local Products

Lanzhou Carvings: Intricately carved wooden crafts.
- Description: Unique souvenirs reflecting local artistry.
- Address: Available at local markets and craft shops.
Silk Products: Scarves, clothing, and other items made from silk.
- Description: High-quality silk products reflecting the Silk Road heritage.
- Address: Available at silk shops and department stores.
Herbal Medicines: Traditional Chinese medicines and herbs.
- Description: Authentic remedies and ingredients used in traditional medicine.
- Address: Available at local pharmacies and herbal shops.
Night Market Stalls: Affordable clothing and other goods
- Description: Bargain deals can be found
- Address: Zhengning Road Night Market