Just got back from Lanzhou, and I have to share some things you don’t know…

Standing at Zhongshan Bridge, beneath your feet flows the Yellow River, rushing for billions of years, while the silhouette of White Pagoda Mountain gradually blurs in the dusk. This city nourished by the Yellow River hides both the bold drinking songs of Northwest men and the homely warmth of a bowl of beef noodles. 🚗 Transportation Guide ✅ Arrival in the city: Zhongchuan Airport is connected to the city center by Metro Line 1 (about 45 minutes), taxi fare around 80 RMB; from Lanzhou Station/Lanzhou West Station, you can take the metro to the main city. ✅ Getting around the city: The metro covers core areas like Zhongshan Bridge and West Station Shizi; Yellow River Scenic Line attractions are accessible by walking or cycling; taxi starting fare is 10 RMB, watch out for detours when crossing districts. 📍 Must-Visit Attractions 1️⃣ Zhongshan Bridge + White Pagoda Mountain Park: The century-old iron bridge at dusk and the night view of White Pagoda Mountain are a perfect match. The mountaintop viewing platform offers a panoramic view of the city and the Yellow River’s “ji” shaped bend. 2️⃣ Wanquan Mountain Park: The “green lung” of old Lanzhou city, ancient cypresses stand tall beside five clear springs. Fewer people and serene scenery in early spring and autumn mornings; recommended to wear comfortable shoes. 3️⃣ Yellow River Tower: A replica ancient pavilion + light show (19:00-22:00). From the top, you can overlook the Yellow River flowing through the city like a golden ribbon. The 50 RMB ticket can be saved by visiting at night when the view is free. 4️⃣ Qingcheng Ancient Town (day trip): About 1 hour by car from the city, Ming and Qing dynasty buildings built along the mountain. Listen to Qin opera at Qingcheng Shizi Teahouse, more authentic than tourist spots. 🍛 Taste of Lanzhou 🔥 The pinnacle of beef noodles: “Ma Youbus” at Zhengning Road Night Market, rich and fragrant broth with handmade noodles; “Jinding” on Yongchang Road, cold noodles mixed with chili are even better. 🔥 Sweet fermented dough and gray beans: Find street stalls on Zhengning Road. Sweet fermented dough made from yogurt is chilled and refreshingly sour to beat the heat; gray beans with red bean paste paired with lily cake is a perfect match. 🔥 Yellow River bank late-night snacks: Shilidian Night Market’s grilled meat skewers (5 RMB/skewer), grilled potato chips; the owner will recommend “add chili powder with sour plum soup.” ⚠️ Pitfall warning: Don’t trust scalpers offering “no queue” tickets on Zhengning Road; during peak hours, patiently wait 15 minutes and you’ll get in! 🏰 Best Places to Stay 💰 High-end: Ningwozhuang Hotel (10-minute walk from Yellow River Scenic Line), the courtyard is as beautiful as a painting when the crabapple flowers bloom. 💰 Cost-effective: Apartments near West Station Shizi (about 100 RMB per person), metro direct to train station, night markets and attractions within 3 km. 💰 Artsy style: Lanshan Top Homestay (requires private car for round trips), starry sky tents + Yellow River night view, book 3 days in advance! 🚫 Avoid Pitfalls ⚠️ For Yellow River boat tours, avoid “low-price tickets” sold by touts at the scenic area entrance; buy directly at the Shuiche Expo Park dock (60 RMB/person), the trip lasts 1 hour. ⚠️ The popular “Lanzhou Eight Treasures Tea” contains goji berries and dried fruits; 15 RMB per cup is enough, don’t be greedy to buy gift boxes as the unit price doubles. ⚠️ UV rays are very strong at noon in summer; bring sun-protective clothing when playing by the Yellow River; in winter, wear thick down jackets as the perceived temperature is 5°C lower than forecast! Final Thoughts The soul of Lanzhou lies in the Yellow River and also in a bowl of noodles. With this guide, you can pack both the boldness of the Northwest and the warmth of everyday life into your bag~