Gansu Summer Fun Guide: A Complete Collection of Delicious Food and Exciting Attractions

As the summer heat spreads across the land, Gansu invites you to embark on a unique journey with its refreshing 20°C temperatures. Here, you'll find vast grasslands, magnificent Danxia landforms, mysterious grottoes, and mouthwatering cuisine. This summer, follow this guide and step into the colorful world of Gansu. Must-Visit Attractions 1. Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park: A world geological wonder, with June to August being the best viewing period. Take the scenic shuttle bus to visit four viewing platforms in sequence. Platform No. 2 offers a broad panoramic view, while Platform No. 4 is the perfect spot for sunset, where the mountains turn orange, red, and yellow under the setting sun, resembling a divine palette—breathtakingly beautiful. 2. Labrang Monastery in Gannan: One of the six great monasteries of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, home to the world's longest prayer wheel corridor. Walk clockwise along the path, turning the prayer wheels to feel the power of faith. Every morning, the lively debate among monks in the courtyard offers a profound insight into Tibetan Buddhist culture. 3. Mogao Caves in Dunhuang: Book tickets in advance on the official website. Opt for the Class A ticket to visit eight caves with a professional guide. The exquisite murals and painted sculptures inside, carrying a thousand years of Buddhist art and history, are treasures of human civilization. 4. Jiayuguan Pass: Known as the "First and Greatest Pass Under Heaven," it marks the western end of the Ming Great Wall. Climb the tower to experience the grandeur of this ancient military fortress and learn about Great Wall culture and Silk Road history. The Great Wall Museum inside the scenic area displays rich artifacts and historical materials. Hidden Gems 1. Sunan Kangle Grassland: Home to the Yugur people, the grassland is lush and dotted with wild flowers in summer. Enjoy horseback riding, archery, staying in a yurt, and savoring roasted lamb and butter tea, immersing yourself in the rich ethnic culture. The sight of yaks and sheep herds adds to the idyllic pastoral scenery. 2. Longnan Guanyegou: Known as "Little Jiuzhaigou," it features dense forests, deep valleys, mirror-like lakes, and cascading waterfalls. Stroll along the wooden walkways, breathe in the fresh air, and admire the pristine forest beauty. The changing scenery from Leigu Mountain to Guanye Lake is mesmerizing. 3. Lanzhou Ink Danxia: Unique Danxia landforms with distinct layers of bluish-gray and ochre-red hues under sunlight. Take the shuttle bus to explore and snap photos at the viewing platforms, especially at dusk when the sunset and Danxia complement each other, creating a dreamlike fairyland. Must-Try Foods 1. Lanzhou Beef Noodles: Known for "one clear broth, two white radishes, three red chili oils, four green herbs, and five yellow noodles," the chewy noodles and flavorful broth are a delight. Try Mazilu Beef Noodles or Wumule Beef Noodles for a hearty breakfast. 2. Hand-Grabbed Mutton: Tender and non-greasy, boiled in plain water to retain its original taste. Dip it in salt and pepper, pair it with Sanpaotai tea, and enjoy the unparalleled joy of eating meat. 3. Liangpi: Smooth and refreshing, served with chili oil, vinegar, and minced garlic, offering a spicy and sour taste—perfect for summer. 4. Hui Douzi: Made with ash and peas, cooked until soft and sweet, it’s a cooling summer treat available at Zhengning Road Night Market. 5. Donkey Meat Yellow Noodles: A Dunhuang specialty, featuring long, chewy noodles served with donkey meat, vinegar, and garlic sauce for a rich flavor. Itinerary - Day 1: Arrive in Lanzhou, visit Gansu Provincial Museum to learn about local history, stroll along the Yellow River Scenic Line in the evening, admire Zhongshan Bridge’s night view, and try Lanzhou beef noodles. - Day 2: Lanzhou - Zhangye Danxia, enjoy the sunset at the park. - Day 3: Zhangye - Labrang Monastery in Gannan, explore the monastery and experience prayer wheel turning. - Day 4: Gannan - Langmusi - Zhagana, admire the grassland scenery en route, and watch the sunset over the stone city in Zhagana. - Day 5: Zhagana - Lanzhou, conclude your wonderful Gansu trip. Tips 1. Gansu has strong UV rays in summer, so bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat. 2. Temperatures vary greatly between day and night in places like Gannan; pack a thick jacket even in summer. 3. Book Mogao Caves tickets in advance to avoid delays. 4. Some attractions are at high altitudes; rest well and avoid strenuous activities to prevent altitude sickness.