Gansu Travel Attractions

Top 8 Tourist Attractions in Gansu

Gansu, a province in northwestern China, boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage and abundant natural landscapes. With its majestic mountains, vast deserts, mysterious grottoes, and historical cities, Gansu attracts numerous domestic and foreign tourists. Here are eight must-visit tourist attractions in Gansu:

1. Mogao Grottoes

Located 25 kilometers southeast of Dunhuang city at the eastern foot of Mingsha Mountain, the Mogao Grottoes are one of the four great grottoes in China and the world’s largest treasure house of Buddhist art. The construction of the Mogao Grottoes began in the 4th century AD and spanned the Sixteen Kingdoms, Northern Wei, Western Wei, Northern Zhou, Sui, Tang, Five Dynasties, Western Xia, and Yuan dynasties. Currently, there are 735 extant grottoes, 45,000 square meters of murals, and 2,415 painted sculptures. The Mogao Grottoes are renowned for their exquisite murals and painted sculptures, showcasing the development of Buddhist art throughout the dynasties and holding immense historical and artistic value.

2. Jiayuguan Pass

Situated 7 kilometers west of the city of Jiayuguan, Jiayuguan Pass marks the westernmost point of the Ming Great Wall. Its construction began in 1372 AD during the reign of Emperor Hongwu of the Ming dynasty and served as a critical pass on the western end of the Ming Great Wall. Strategically located, Jiayuguan Pass is an imposing fortress known for its formidable defenses and architectural grandeur. It represents a remarkable feat of ancient Chinese military engineering and was a significant交通枢纽 on the Silk Road.

3. Mingsha Dunes of Dunhuang

Located 5 kilometers south of Dunhuang city, Mingsha Dunes is an extensive desert renowned for its magnificent sand dunes. The dunes are formed by fine sand, towering high, and shimmering in a golden hue under the sunlight. Mingsha Dunes features various natural wonders, such as Crescent Moon Lake, the Singing Sand Dunes, and the Desert Sunrise, offering exceptional opportunities for sightseeing and outdoor adventures.

4. White Dragon River Rafting

White Dragon River Rafting takes place in the White Dragon River Grand Canyon and is a thrilling rafting route known for its treacherous rapids. The White Dragon River boasts fast-flowing waters and formidable mountain peaks along its banks. Rafting through the river is an exhilarating experience, earning it the title of “China’s No. 1 Rafting River.” The rafting course extends 150 kilometers, and the rafting time ranges from 3 to 5 hours, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

5. Maijishan Grottoes

Situated 45 kilometers west of Tianshui city, the Maijishan Grottoes are one of the four great grottoes in China. Construction of the Maijishan Grottoes commenced during the Later Qin period. Today, there are 194 extant grottoes, over 7,200 sculptures, and 1,300 square meters of murals. Known for their exquisite carvings and murals, the Maijishan Grottoes are a treasure of Buddhist art and an exemplary demonstration of ancient Chinese sculpting techniques.

6. Kongtong Mountain

Located in the southwest of Pingliang city, Kongtong Mountain is one of China’s famous Taoist mountains. With its rugged terrain and lush vegetation, Kongtong Mountain is the birthplace of the Quanzhen School of Taoism. It houses numerous Taoist temples, including Baiyun Temple, Ziyun Temple, and Xuangdi Temple, attracting a large number of pilgrims. Kongtong Mountain is also renowned as the birthplace of martial arts. Legend has it that Laozi imparted Taoist teachings and martial arts on Kongtong Mountain, giving rise to the saying, “All martial arts under heaven originated from Kongtong.”

7. Wuwei Leitai Han Tombs

Located in the southern outskirts of Wuwei city, the Wuwei Leitai Han Tombs are a burial site from the Eastern Han dynasty. Excavations of the tombs unearthed a vast collection of precious artifacts, including gold, silver, copper, iron, jade, and pottery. Among the discoveries, the most celebrated is the Gilt Bronze Galloping Horse. Considered a masterpiece of ancient Chinese bronze art, this sculpture showcases the extraordinary casting techniques and artistic prowess of the Han dynasty. It is widely recognized as one of the “Ten National Treasures of China.”

8. Zhangye Danxia Landform

Situated in the Sunan Yugur Autonomous County of Zhangye city, the Zhangye Danxia Landform is an extensive area of red sandstone formations. With its vibrant colors and intricate patterns, Zhangye Danxia Landform was formed 6 million years ago by the combined forces of geological movements and wind and water erosion. Recognized for its unique natural scenery, Zhangye Danxia Landform is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.