Gansu

Gansu, often abbreviated as “Gan” or “Long,” is located in northwestern China. It served as a vital corridor along the ancient Silk Road. The provincial capital, Lanzhou, is uniquely built around the Yellow River—the only Chinese provincial capital with the river flowing through its downtown.

The region features diverse landscapes: from loess plateaus and deserts to lush oases and snow-capped mountains. It’s also one of the cradles of Chinese civilization. Historic treasures like the Mogao Caves and Maijishan Grottoes tell stories that date back thousands of years. Today, Gansu draws travelers who seek cultural depth and natural beauty in China’s west.

Location of Gansu Province in China

Major Cities in Gansu

Gansu is divided into 12 prefecture-level divisions—10 cities and 2 autonomous prefectures. Each city has its own history, ethnic identity, and natural character. Whether you’re into ancient ruins, ethnic minority culture, or dramatic landscapes, you’ll find plenty to explore here.

While Lanzhou, Dunhuang, Jiayuguan, and Zhangye are the most well-known destinations, cities like Tianshui, Wuwei, Jiuquan, Pingliang, Qingyang, and Longnan are also worth visiting.

City Map of Gansu Province

Lanzhou

Capital of Gansu, famous for its location along the Yellow River. Landmarks like Zhongshan Bridge, White Pagoda Mountain, and Waterwheel Park make it a scenic and cultural stop. It's also a major hub for entering Western China.

Dunhuang

A legendary Silk Road outpost known for the Mogao Caves, Mingsha Sand Dunes, and Crescent Lake. Its Buddhist heritage and desert landscapes create a truly unique travel experience.

Zhangye

Home to the famous Rainbow Mountains (Zhangye Danxia). The city also features historical sites like the Giant Buddha Temple and remains of the ancient Blackwater Kingdom.

Jiayuguan

Located at the western end of the Great Wall, Jiayuguan Fort is an architectural marvel. Other must-sees include the Overhanging Great Wall and the First Beacon Tower of the Ming Dynasty.

Tianshui

An ancient city often called the hometown of Fuxi, one of China's mythological ancestors. The Maijishan Grottoes are a standout, featuring stunning cliffside Buddhist sculptures.

Recommended Attractions in Gansu

Gansu combines dramatic scenery with historical depth. It’s a top destination for Silk Road tours, adventure travel, and religious heritage routes. From towering desert dunes to ancient temples carved in stone, there’s something for every type of traveler.

Top Tourist Attractions in Gansu Province

Mogao Caves (Dunhuang)

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of China’s four great grottoes. The caves are filled with Buddhist murals and statues, earning it the nickname “the Louvre of the East.”

Zhangye Danxia Landform

Known for its vibrant, rainbow-colored mountains, this unique landscape draws photographers and nature lovers from around the world. Sunrise and sunset offer the best views.

Jiayuguan Fort

The western starting point of the Ming Great Wall. The structure and its surroundings showcase ancient military architecture and desert beauty.

Crescent Lake & Mingsha Dunes (Dunhuang)

A surreal oasis nestled among towering sand dunes. Popular activities include camel rides, dune sledding, and sunset photography.

Maijishan Grottoes (Tianshui)

One of China’s four great Buddhist grotto sites. Perched on a sheer cliff, it features clay sculptures and religious art that span dynasties.

Labrang Monastery (Gannan)

One of the six great monasteries of Tibetan Buddhism’s Gelug school. Visitors can walk the world’s longest prayer corridor and experience authentic Tibetan culture.

Local Cuisine in Gansu

Gansu’s food blends the hearty flavors of the northwest with Muslim and Tibetan influences. Expect plenty of noodles, mutton, spices, and bold broths. The cuisine is flavorful, often spicy or sour, and reflects the province’s diverse ethnic makeup.

Lanzhou Beef Noodles

This iconic dish features hand-pulled noodles in clear broth with sliced beef, chili oil, and herbs. It’s Gansu’s most famous culinary export.

Sour Soup Noodles (Jiangshui Mian)

Made with fermented vegetable broth, this refreshing noodle dish is a local favorite during the summer.

Sweet Fermented Grains (Tianpei)

A cool dessert made from fermented barley or rice. Often enjoyed during festivals in Tibetan and Hui areas.

Grilled Lamb Skewers

Served across the province, these skewers are seasoned with cumin and chili flakes. Best enjoyed fresh off the grill on a bustling street corner.

Donkey Meat Noodles (Wuwei)

A specialty featuring rich broth and yellow noodles topped with tender donkey meat and spicy oil.

Gray Pea Soup (Hu Douzi)

A warm, smooth pea porridge found on Lanzhou’s winter street stalls. It’s simple but satisfying.

Basic Facts About Gansu

Area and Population

Gansu covers about 425,000 square kilometers and has a population of roughly 25 million. Here’s a breakdown of major cities by size and population:

  • Lanzhou: 13,300 sq km, approx. 4 million people
  • Tianshui: 14,300 sq km, approx. 3.2 million people
  • Zhangye: 42,000 sq km, approx. 1.2 million people
  • Jiayuguan: 1,170 sq km, approx. 250,000 people
  • Dunhuang (part of Jiuquan): 31,200 sq km, approx. 180,000 people
  • Wuwei: 33,000 sq km, approx. 1.7 million people
  • Qingyang: 27,000 sq km, approx. 2.1 million people
  • Pingliang: 11,200 sq km, approx. 1.8 million people
  • Dingxi: 20,000 sq km, approx. 2.7 million people
  • Longnan: 27,100 sq km, approx. 2.4 million people
  • Linxia Autonomous Prefecture: 8,100 sq km, approx. 2.1 million people
  • Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture: 40,000 sq km, approx. 700,000 people
Note: These are estimates based on 2023 data and may slightly vary.

Climate and Weather

Gansu has a dry, continental climate with low rainfall and significant temperature swings between day and night. Northern areas like Jiayuguan are colder and drier, while southern cities like Longnan are relatively humid. Here’s a month-by-month guide:

  • January: Freezing and dry; average -10 to 2°C
  • February: Still cold, occasional snow; -7 to 5°C
  • March: Warmer days, chilly nights; 0 to 13°C
  • April: Windy and dry; 6 to 20°C
  • May: Mild and pleasant; 12 to 26°C
  • June: Sunny and hot; 17 to 30°C
  • July: Peak heat; 20 to 34°C, may exceed 35°C
  • August: Slightly cooler but still warm; 18 to 32°C
  • September: Crisp autumn weather; 12 to 26°C
  • October: Cooler evenings; 5 to 20°C
  • November: Cold returns; -2 to 12°C
  • December: Very dry and cold; -8 to 3°C
Best travel seasons are late spring (May–June) and autumn (September–October). The weather is comfortable, and the landscapes are at their most vibrant.

Postal Codes and Area Codes

Here are the key postal and telephone area codes for major Gansu cities:

  • Lanzhou: ZIP 730000, area code 0931
  • Tianshui: ZIP 741000, area code 0938
  • Zhangye: ZIP 734000, area code 0936
  • Jiayuguan: ZIP 735100, area code 0937
  • Dunhuang: ZIP 736200, area code 0937
  • Wuwei: ZIP 733000, area code 0935
  • Qingyang: ZIP 745000, area code 0934
  • Pingliang: ZIP 744000, area code 0933
  • Dingxi: ZIP 743000, area code 0932
  • Longnan: ZIP 746000, area code 0939
  • Linxia: ZIP 731100, area code 0930
  • Gannan (Hezuo): ZIP 747000, area code 0941