This northwestern city is surprisingly low-key.
Recommended Attractions
- Maijishan Grottoes: One of the four largest grottoes in China, created during the Later Qin Dynasty of the Sixteen Kingdoms period, over 1,600 years ago. The grottoes are located on cliffs and are accessible by suspended walkways. There are 221 caves, over 10,632 statues, and over 1,300 square meters of murals. The exquisite clay sculptures have earned it the reputation of "Oriental Sculpture Museum".
- Fuxi Temple: Located on Fuxi Road, West Gate, Qinzhou District, Tianshui City, it was first built during the Chenghua period of the Ming Dynasty. It is the most completely preserved Ming Dynasty temple dedicated to Fuxi, known as the "First Temple of China". The annual Fuxi Grand Ceremony is held on June 22nd.
- Yuquan Temple: A national 4A-level tourist attraction, located at the foot of Beishan Mountain in Qinzhou District. It got its name from the Jade Spring on the mountain and a poem by Liang Gongbi of the Yuan Dynasty, "Mountain temple in the northern suburbs, famous mountain and jade spring". Covering over 90,000 square meters, with over 90 magnificent temples and palaces, it has a history of over a thousand years and enjoys the reputation of "Famous Temple of Longshang".
- Nanzhaizi: Located on Minzhu West Road, Qinzhou District, Tianshui City, it has a typical Ming Dynasty architectural style and is part of the Hu family's ancient residential buildings. The layout of the houses is rigorous, and the wood, brick, and stone carvings are exquisite.
Recommended Food
- Tianshui Guagua: Made with buckwheat flour, served with sesame paste, chili oil, and other seasonings. It has a spicy and soft texture. Chang Ji Guagua and Wu Da Shi Guagua Noodle Skin are worth trying.
- Tianshui Mala Tang: Fragrant, numbing, and spicy, with a rich sauce and a variety of ingredients. Hai Ying Mala Tang and Yuan Nü Mala Tang are popular choices.
- Tianshui Nuanguo: Similar to hot pot, with a variety of ingredients including meat, vegetables, and tofu. It's a warm and delicious dish for winter. Li Ji Lao Wei Nuanguo is recommended.
- Potato Jituan: Potatoes are steamed and mashed, then served with soup and seasonings. It has a soft and glutinous texture and can be found in both Longnan and Tianshui.
Accommodation Recommendations
- Luxury: Tianshui Jiufu Hotel, close to the ancient city; Gong Hang Lv Maijishan Pearl Hotel, with views of Maijishan.
- Upscale: Borlin Effie Hotel, Mercure Tianshui Wanda Plaza Hotel, and Wanxin Zhige Hotel offer complete facilities and excellent locations.
- Budget: Tianshui Kunyi Time Hotel, near Fuxi Temple, Yuquan Temple, and Tianshui Ancient City; Xinghuo Minsu, affordable and conveniently located.
Transportation Guide
- External Transportation: Tianshui has an airport with direct flights from some cities. Tianshui South Railway Station is a high-speed rail station connecting to many cities nationwide. Tianshui Railway Station also has many train connections.
- Internal Transportation: Tianshui city has extensive bus routes covering major attractions. Taxis and ride-hailing services are also convenient.