Guide for Foreigners to Arrange Their First Trip to Gansu

I. Preparation Before Traveling

1.  Visa and Invitation Letter

a. Visa: Foreign tourists need a valid visa to visit China. Apply for a tourist visa at the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in your country, ensuring that the visa’s validity and entries align with your travel plans.

b. Invitation Letter: If visiting Gansu for a specific event or organization, an invitation letter might be necessary. For instance, if attending a conference or cultural event, secure an official invitation or confirmation letter ahead of time.

2.  Airline Tickets

a. Book in Advance: Purchase air tickets early to secure better prices and preferred seats. The main airport in Gansu is Lanzhou Zhongchuan International Airport, which handles both domestic and some international flights.

b. Online Platforms: Use travel websites like Ctrip to compare prices and book tickets. Look for discounts and special offers to get the best deal.

3.  Hotels

a. Booking: Reserve your accommodation in advance, especially during peak seasons or local festivals. Gansu offers a range of hotels from budget to luxury options.

b. Location: Choose a hotel near major attractions or transportation hubs. For example, hotels in Lanzhou are convenient for exploring the city's attractions and accessing transportation.

4.  Other Preparations

a. Documents: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months and carry all necessary travel documents.

b. Communication: Purchase a local SIM card or arrange for international roaming, and download useful apps for maps, translation, and payment.

c. Health and Safety: Check for required vaccinations, pack basic medications, and consider purchasing travel insurance.

d. Currency and Payment: Carry a small amount of cash as a backup, although mobile payments are widely accepted.

II. Recommended Experiences in Traveling

1.  Recommended Attractions in Gansu

a. Lanzhou’s Waterwheel Garden: Discover traditional waterwheel technology and enjoy the riverside park.

b. The Bingling Temple: Visit this ancient Buddhist temple complex carved into cliffs along the Yellow River.

c. Zhangye Danxia Landform: Marvel at the stunning, colorful rock formations known for their unique and vibrant patterns.

d. Mogao Caves in Dunhuang: Explore the world-famous Buddhist cave temples with their intricate murals and statues.

e. Jiayuguan Pass: Experience the westernmost fortification of the Great Wall of China, rich in historical significance.

2.  Recommended Gansu Cuisine

a. Famous Dishes: Lanzhou Beef Noodles, Gansu-style Lamb Skewers, and Gansu-style Hand-pulled Noodles.

b. Snacks: Mutton Soup, Qishan Noodles, and various local dumplings.

c. Local Delicacies: Don’t miss trying traditional Gansu dishes such as Mutton Hot Pot and various pickled vegetables.

III. Things to Know When Traveling in Gansu

1.  Weather in Gansu

Gansu experiences a varied climate due to its diverse topography. Expect cold winters and warm summers. Dress in layers to adapt to temperature changes, and be prepared for potential altitude effects in highland areas.

2.  Transportation in Gansu

a. Subway and Bus: Lanzhou has a developing subway system and numerous bus routes covering the city.

b. Train: Long-distance trains connect Lanzhou with other major cities in China.

c. Taxi and Ride-Sharing: Taxis are available in urban areas, and ride-sharing apps like Didi can be convenient.

d. Walking and Cycling: Many of Lanzhou’s attractions and scenic areas are accessible by walking or biking.

3.  Precautions

a. Accommodation Registration: Register your stay with local authorities within 24 hours of arrival.

b. Visa Compliance: Avoid overstaying your visa; apply for an extension if needed.

c. Health and Quarantine: Be aware of regulations regarding the import of animals, plants, and other restricted items.

d. Safety: Keep your belongings secure and follow local traffic regulations.

e. Cultural Respect: Familiarize yourself with local customs and practices to ensure a respectful visit.

With these tips and preparations, you can ensure a memorable and hassle-free trip to Gansu.