Don't go to Gansu from March to May! A local friend told me the truth!

Super detailed Gansu travel guide, unlock the charm of Northwest China! 3-Day Itinerary Day 1: Exploring the Ancient Charm of Tianshui - Maijishan Grottoes: This grotto art treasure is inlaid among the peaks. The unique "thin-flesh sculptures" of flying apsaras are exquisite, making you feel like you are traveling through time and space, conversing with ancient craftsmen. The surrounding peaks are embraced by forests of pine and bamboo, and the natural scenery is incredibly beautiful. - Tianshui Ancient City: Unlike other commercialized ancient cities, this place is full of life. Ancient streets and alleys connect buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties, and authentic Tianshui cuisine can be found everywhere. - Food Recommendation: Tianshui Guagua, chewy in texture, served with chili and vinegar, it's sour, spicy, and satisfying. Day 2: A Date with the Yellow River in Lanzhou - Yellow River Scenic Line: Stroll along the Yellow River and experience the magnificence of "the water of the Yellow River comes from the sky." Take photos in front of the Mother Yellow River sculpture and admire the majestic Yellow River Iron Bridge in the sunset. - Gansu Provincial Museum: The museum has a rich collection, and the "Galloping Horse Treading on a Flying Swallow" is particularly famous. Here, you can gain a deep understanding of the historical changes in Gansu. - Food Recommendation: Huidouzi, soft, glutinous, sweet, and refreshing, it's a common and special dessert on the streets of Lanzhou. Day 3: Tracing the Roots of Taoism in Pingliang - Kongtong Mountain: As a sacred place of Taoism, the mountain forests are quiet and the temples are ancient. Climb to the main peak, and the sea of clouds churns like a fairyland. Admire the cliff carvings along the way and experience the profound cultural heritage. - Food Recommendation: Pingliang Mutton Paomo, the mutton is tender, the soup is rich, and the bread pieces are chewy. Every bite is full of happiness. 5-Day Itinerary Day 1: First Impressions of Lanzhou - Lanshan Park: Climb the Santaige Pavilion, and the entire Lanzhou city comes into view, with the Yellow River running through it. The scenery is unique. At night, you can watch the night view of Lanzhou from the top of the mountain. The lights are charming. - Food Recommendation: Hand-Grabbed Mutton, the meat is tender, fatty but not greasy, and original in flavor. Paired with pepper salt and garlic, it's simply superb. Day 2: Colorful Journey to Zhangye - Zhangye Danxia Landform: Nature's palette. At sunset, the glow of the setting sun sprinkles on the colorful mountains, making it breathtakingly beautiful. - Mati Temple: It has both the grotto art of the Thousand Buddha Caves and the magnificent grassland scenery of Tianjing Qilian, perfectly blending religious culture and natural scenery. - Food Recommendation: Chao Pao, the noodles are shaped like firecrackers and have a chewy texture. Stir-fried with bean sprouts, green vegetables, etc., it's fragrant and spicy. Day 3: Jiayuguan Pass - Jiayuguan Fort: The "First and Greatest Pass Under Heaven." Standing on the city wall, imagine the scenes of ancient battles and feel the weight of history. - Golden Pagoda Poplar Forest: In autumn, the poplars turn golden yellow, contrasting with the azure sky, like a fairy tale world. - Food Recommendation: Hu Guo, bean curd sheets, fried dough twists, meat slices, and other ingredients are stewed in chicken soup. It's fragrant, warming, and delicious. Day 4 - Day 5: Exploring the Legends of Dunhuang - Mogao Caves: A World Cultural Heritage site. Exquisite murals and Buddha statues tell stories of thousands of years, making one marvel at the superb ancient art. - Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Moon Spring: Ride a camel through the desert, slide down the sand dunes, and experience the passion of the desert. In the evening, admire the tranquil beauty of Crescent Moon Spring under the setting sun. - Dunhuang Night Market: Lively and bustling, with a wide variety of special snacks and handicrafts. Donkey Meat Yellow Noodles and apricot skin water are must-try foods. - Food Recommendation: Donkey Meat Yellow Noodles, the noodles are as thin as dragon whiskers, yellow, bright, and oily. Served with donkey meat sauce, the taste is delicious. Practical Tips - Accommodation: Book in advance on major platforms during peak season. Refer to other travelers' reviews to choose cost-effective accommodations. If you want to experience local life, you can also choose unique homestays. - Transportation: For long distances, choose airplanes or trains. For intercity transportation, consider chartering a car, which is more flexible and convenient, allowing you to stop and admire the scenery at any time. - Shopping: Gansu has many specialties, such as Dunhuang Li Guang dried apricots and Lanzhou lilies, which are good souvenirs. Pay attention to quality when purchasing to avoid being ripped off. - Safety: When visiting scenic spots, follow the rules and do not touch cultural relics at will. When traveling in the desert, pay attention to sun and sand protection, and protect electronic devices.