2025 Tianshui Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in September)

[WorldMap]Maijishan Grottoes, located in Tianshui City, Gansu Province, is one of China's Four Great Grottoes, renowned for its exquisite clay sculptures and precipitous mountain terrain. Here's a detailed travel guide to help you explore efficiently: --- [Balloon]1. Basic Information - Address: No. 2, Quanhu Road, Maiji District, Tianshui City, Gansu Province - Opening Hours: 8:30-17:30 (Peak season: April-October); 9:00-17:00 (Off-season: November-March) - Tickets: - Peak season: ¥80 (Grottoes) + ¥15 (optional shuttle bus) - Off-season: ¥40 (Grottoes) - Special caves require additional fees (¥100-500/cave, e.g., Cave 133 "Ten Thousand Buddha Cave") - Recommended Visit Duration: 3-4 hours --- [CarFront]2. Transportation 1. From Lanzhou: - High-speed rail: Lanzhou West → Tianshui South (1.5 hours), then transfer by bus or taxi (~40 minutes). - Bus: Lanzhou Bus Station → Tianshui (3 hours), then take Bus 34 directly. 2. From Tianshui city: - Bus: Take Bus 5 or 34 directly to Maijishan Scenic Area (~1 hour). - Taxi: ~¥50 from downtown, 30-minute ride. --- 👁️3. Must-See Attractions 1. Maijishan Grottoes: - East Cliff: Cave 44 "Oriental Smile" Buddha, Cave 4 "Flower Scattering Tower" murals from Northern Zhou Dynasty. - West Cliff: Cave 133 "Ten Thousand Buddha Cave" (special cave), Cave 121 "Whispering" sculptures. - Cliffside Plank Walkway: Thrilling aerial path with panoramic views. 2. Botanical Garden: Near entrance, ideal for hiking and summer retreat. 3. Ruiying Temple: Ancient temple at mountain base, showcasing grotto history. --- 🧶4. Recommended Routes 1. Standard Route: Entrance → Shuttle bus (or walk) → Plank walkway → East Cliff → West Cliff → Botanical Garden → Return. 2. In-Depth Tour: Key East Cliff caves → Special West Cliff caves (reservation required) → Mountain loop trail for full views. --- [TrafficLightVertical]5. Tips 1. Safety: Narrow/steep walkways - caution for acrophobia; some areas may close in rain. 2. Special Caves: Book at ticket office in advance; guided tours cost extra. 3. Attire: Wear anti-slip shoes; sun protection in summer, warmth in winter. 4. Photography: Prohibited inside caves; allowed outside. --- [RollerCoaster]6. Nearby Attractions - Xianrenya: 15km from Maijishan, combining Danxia landforms with Buddhist relics. - Fuxi Temple: In downtown Tianshui, honoring legendary ancestor Fuxi (¥30). - Tianshui Ancient City: Ming-Qing architecture with local snacks (free). --- [Tableware]7. Local Cuisine - Tianshui Guagua: Buckwheat jelly with chili sauce. - Jiangshui Noodles: Sour broth, locals' summer favorite. - Hui-style Crumbled Noodles: Beef bone broth with handmade noodles. --- [Bed]8. Accommodation - Near Scenic Area: Maijishan Hot Spring Hotel (with hot springs). - Downtown Tianshui: Hotels in Qinzhou District (e.g., Tianshui Hotel), convenient transport. --- 🌸9. Best Seasons - May-October: Pleasant weather, lush greenery. - Avoid holidays: Crowds during National Day/Labor Day - weekdays recommended. --- [Awesome]Maijishan blends natural wonders with artistic heritage. Planning ahead helps you fully experience the "Oriental Sculpture Gallery." Feel free to ask for more details!

Maijishan Grottoes are an important attraction in Maijishan Scenic Area and a national 5A-level tourist attraction. They are named because their shape resembles a farmer's haystack. The Maijishan Grottoes are carved into a vertical cliff face that is 20-80 meters high and 200 meters wide. There are 194 caves, including 54 on the east cliff and 140 on the west cliff. There are more than 7,800 clay sculptures, stone clay sculptures and stone carvings. The largest statue is the East Cliff Buddha, which is 15.8 meters high. There are also murals covering more than 1,000 square meters. Maijishan Grottoes, Tianshui, Gansu 1. Tickets: Adults 95, students half-price 55, including sightseeing bus 👍Most recommended: It is recommended to take a sightseeing bus, the way up the mountain is relatively long ⏳Play time: 9:00-18:00 🍲Recommended dishes: It is recommended to eat Jiangshui noodles in the morning. The local specialty beef ramen 🏨Hotel recommendation: Go to a hot spring hotel. After a day of wandering, you can go to a hot spring. 🍽Recommended dining: Go to Mandajiang Hotpot, which is delicious and affordable, with an average consumption of 50 Tianshui's hand-rolled noodles are smooth and chewy After having a good meal, drink and have fun, we set off on our journey home Finally, I wish you all a pleasant journey.

The Maijishan Grottoes, located in Maiji District, Tianshui City, Gansu Province, are named after their shape which resembles a haystack. It is a world cultural heritage and one of the four major grottoes in China. The Maijishan Grottoes were first built in the Later Qin Dynasty. They have more than 200 caves, more than 10,000 clay sculptures and stone carvings, and more than 1,300 square meters of murals. They are world-famous for their exquisite clay sculptures and are known as the Oriental Sculpture Art Exhibition Hall. If Dunhuang is a large mural museum, then Maiji Mountain is a large sculpture museum with various clay sculptures that are ever-changing and very special. 🎉🎉Transportation strategy: The scenic spot is located in Tianshui City, more than 300 kilometers away from Lanzhou. It is recommended to take the high-speed rail to Tianshui South first, and then call a Didi car directly, or take the bus (take bus No. 9 and get off at Maiji Mountain Public Security Bureau, and transfer to bus No. 34 to Maiji Mountain Scenic Area). It usually takes 3 hours to reach the scenic spot from Lanzhou High-speed Railway Station. 🎉🎉Ticket Guide: When purchasing tickets, it is recommended to choose Class A tickets which include visiting the grottoes and taking the sightseeing bus. If you do not take the sightseeing bus, you will have to climb a long uphill road, which is very tiring. 🎉🎉Visit time: If you go out in the morning, it will probably be noon when you arrive at the scenic spot. Since you will stay in the grottoes for at least 3 hours, it is recommended that you first have some local snacks in the food court in front of the scenic area (or bring your own dry food) before going up to visit. 🎉🎉Tour guide explanation: Before entering the Maijishan Grottoes scenic area, you will see a place to buy special grotto tickets and hire a professional grotto guide. It is recommended to spend 100 yuan to hire a guide, otherwise you will not understand anything during the more than two hours on the grotto plank road. 🎉🎉Cave selection: Since the tickets to enter each special cave are different, it is recommended to choose according to your preferences. Personally, I recommend Cave 44 (see the Mona Lisa of the East). In addition, for the purpose of protecting cultural relics, taking photos is not allowed in the special caves, so please keep this in mind. #See the Earth in an instant

I set out on a mission to travel the starting points of the historical silk road, as a solo traveler who speaks very little Chinese. This opportunity put me at the forefront of seeing some places that seem far flung from the mass cities in the east. Maijishan Grottoes are carved into the beautiful mountain the rises from the ground, high into the sky. There are intricately carved designs and Buddhas on this beautiful mountain, that allowed travelers to stop, rest and pray for good passage. On the day I arrived, the weather was bad, so you couldn't climb the grottoes themselves, but to see this beautiful place is worth it. I stayed in the village just outside of the scenic area, I suggest for any future travelers, you visit the city of Tianshui, and take a bus or a taxi to the scenic area. #historicculture#naturalwonders#culturalattractions#nationalpark#hiking

It is really more and more like the city of Tianshui. has been attracted since the first time. Not only because it has a history of 8,000 years of civilization, but also because the spirit of the city is very rich. On the Fuxi Temple Square, the rich civic activities are exciting, and the inheritance and continuation of traditional culture taught me to move. If you don't come once, you can't imagine how cultured the life of Tianshui people is.

20 degrees of Gansu! Fish Life's first parent-child trip Where to go on weekends? What can I play in two days? Let the fish slowly come here to travel in person. This is the first time in the life of a fisherman to travel personally, with a 10-month-old baby to go to Gansu Tianshui. Xi'an's summer is really a real version of the stove, listen to Tianshui friends said that Tianshui summer average temperature is more than 20 degrees, very cool, and Tianshui is not far from Xi'an, the first time with a baby travel, choose a suitable distance The place where the temperature is perfect is also awkward. Just hit it and leave. Transportation: Xi'an - Tianshui High-speed rail 1 and a half hours Itinerary

The well-known Maiji Mountain Grottoes is one of the four major caves in China. The mud sculptures of the Maiji Mountain Grottoes are vivid and vivid. It is known as the Oriental Sculpture Exhibition Hall and is one of the attractions that will be hit after the Gansu. Maiji Mountain is famous for its exquisite clay sculpture art. At the same time, the Maiji Mountain Grottoes retain a large amount of material materials such as religion, art and architecture, reflecting the characteristics of statues of various eras over the past thousand years. It also visited the development and evolution of Chinese clay sculpture art. Tianshui, where Maiji Mountain is located, was once called "Qinzhou". It was the seal of the ancestors of Emperor Qin Shihuang. It was a very dangerous thing to go west from the east to the west. People prayed for themselves and carved on the nearby cliffs. Buddha statue, in order to obtain the blessing of the Buddha after death. Watching the sculpture at close range, the production is extremely beautiful. The clay sculpture here can be roughly divided into high-floating plastic protruding from the wall surface, round plastic which completely leaves the wall surface, and molded shadows and wall moldings on the wall surface. For treasures. Boarding the grotto, wishing for the distant mountains and the sea of clouds, the mood is comfortable. Today's Maiji Mountain Grottoes have been used as part of the Silk Road: the road network of Chang'an-Tianshui Corridor, which has also been identified as a World Cultural Heritage by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee.

Climbing up a layer of plank road, before it was too tired, it was shocked by a beautiful statue. Just as the Maiji Mountain Grottoes cannot be described as a natural, cultural or intangible heritage, these statues are not only art, but also history and faith. More than 7,800 clay sculptures, stone carvings, stone clay sculptures, wood carvings, etc., sculpt, sculpt, is a gem.

Fuxi Workshop, the place to experience the human life of Laotianshui, is part of Tianshui Wenchuang. All kinds of almost lost Tianshui authentic snacks can be tasted here, and the inheritance and protection of ancient craftsmanship. The dining environment includes the Republic of China, industrial science Daqing, agricultural Dazhai, etc., and various world heritage projects such as paper-cutting and guqin can be experienced here. Fuxi Workshop set up a non-legacy exhibition area to display special cultural products such as root carving, paper-cutting and sachet. In addition, folk craftsmen produce traditional handicrafts such as wood carvings, silk carpets and pottery. In the inheritance of heritage, revisit farming culture, customs and local characteristics.

There are many hot spring pools in the Maijishan Hot Spring Hotel Resort. There are various indoor and outdoor pools. It is a great experience to soak in the hot springs in such a winter. The hot spring water here is said to have a temperature of about 40 degrees, rich in various trace elements, as well as dry steaming and steaming.

The Maiji Mountain Grottoes are named after the shape of the mountain. There are many Buddha statues in the grotto. The Buddha statue here is very different. The Buddha's eyes look more radiant than other Buddha statues, because the eyes are made of glass, and the light shines like a living. However, because of the age, some Buddha statues have been swayed, and the preserved Buddha statues are now well protected, and most of them can only be viewed through the fence. This four famous caves in China are indeed worth seeing.

We went to visit this amazing historical site near Tianshui. We kept hearing about how amazing and breathtaking the place is, so we needed to see it with our own eyes. Thank God we did. The place didn’t disappoint us — it was even more breathtaking than we thought it would be. We visited the site on a Saturday, so there were a lot of people, and we had to wait a bit to get inside to see all the statues. Once we saw them, we didn’t care about the wait anymore — it was worth it. The place has been made really tourist-friendly. There are snacks, food, and water available for purchase if needed. Toilets are also everywhere, which is really nice. Overall, a great spot! Highly recommended: 10/10. #china #chinatravel #exploreityourself #2025 #traveling #travelinginchina #backpacking #naturepark #historicallandmarks #tianshui

Step into Ancient Wonder at Maijishan Cave-Temple Complex 🏞️🕉️ Get ready for a surreal journey through centuries—the Maijishan Cave-Temple Complex in Tianshui is a breathtaking showcase of Buddhist art, perched dramatically on a cliffside. Marvel at over 194 caves filled with lively murals and hundreds of sculpted Buddhas that make you feel history come alive! 🧭 How to Go & Pro Tips: Hop on publuc bus nr. 34 directly from Maiji town; be sure to buy your ticket ahead of time at the bus service office before heading towards the scenic spot entrance. Shuttle buses operate from the ticket area to the caves (and back!), making the trip super convenient, especially when crowds are heavy—arriving early is key to beating the rush. 🌟 Must-dos: Stroll the walkways hugging the cliff for panoramic valley views, explore the labyrinth of grottoes, and linger at Cave No. 133—the guardian of the biggest Buddha statue. Each cave tells a unique spiritual story! 📸 Top Insta-worthy Angles: Snap jaw-dropping shots of the steep staircase zigzagging up the mountain, close-ups of intricate Buddha carvings, and wide views of the lush greenery enveloping the cliffs. Pro tip: capture the main façade in the morning for best natural lighting and fewer people! ⚠️ Key Precautions: The area can get crowded, especially midday, so time your visit for opening hours. The steep steps and walkways might be challenging—wear sturdy shoes and be cautious with kids and elderly companions. Weather can change fast; pack a light jacket. #Tianshui #Maijishan #CaveTemples #BuddhistArt #ChinaTravel

🌫️ When the morning mist blankets the mountain, the Buddha naps among the clouds Climbing the plank road in the dark at five a.m., the morning mist wraps Maijishan like freshly steamed buns, damp and soft. When the first ray of sunlight pierces through the fog, the Northern Wei little novice in Cave 133 suddenly "wakes"—the mud sculpture’s eyelashes glisten with morning dew, and the smile at the corner of his lips is softer than spring water, as if about to say "Good morning" any second. Squatting in front of the cave and looking up, the Buddha’s fingertips seem to still hold the warmth of the Northern Wei craftsmen’s palms, and even the breath carries a fresh scent of incense and pine needles. Old Zhang squats nearby, smoking his dry tobacco, squinting and saying, “This mountain is older than our grandfathers, and the wind carries the aroma of meals from past dynasties.” From afar comes the drawn-out sound of Qin opera, making the eardrums tremble, as if catching a script from a thousand years ago—at this moment, the strongest urge is to shout out in the old style, letting the mountain wind carry the voice up to the clouds. 🎨 A Thousand Buddhas, a Thousand Faces, Every Fold a Living History ✔️ Northern Wei · “Smiling Novice”: Before the morning light fades, the mud sculpture’s eyelashes look like they are covered with dew, and the smile at the lips is softer than spring water. Squat low and let the morning mist blur into an ink-wash background; in the moment when the figure and scenery merge, even the hair tips seem imbued with celestial aura—posting on social media with the caption “Northern Wei’s morning mist awakens the Buddha” will definitely have people asking for the location! Even strangers ask, “Where is this? I want to go too!” ✔️ Tang Dynasty · “Shakyamuni Assembly”: Standing guard in front of the cave at six a.m., when sunlight suddenly pierces the cave eaves, Shakyamuni’s fingertips suddenly glow golden, as if about to start preaching. This is the perfect time to wear a moon-white long shirt and stand before the Buddha, letting the colors collide to create a sense of time and space overlap—when the wind blows, the hem and prayer flags flutter together, more lively than flying apsaras in ancient paintings. Old Zhang leans over: “This Buddha has seen the moon of the flourishing Tang and heard the lullabies of the village grannies!” Even the tree shadows hide stories, making you want to sit a while longer. ✔️ Song Dynasty · “Thousand-Hand Guanyin”: Climb to the summit on an autumn afternoon; the mud sculpture of Thousand-Hand Guanyin stretches gracefully in the light and shadow, each hand in a different pose, even the shadows radiate compassion. Sitting at the highest viewing platform, listening to the mountain wind tell the mountain’s stories, even the breath becomes a fresh scent mixed with incense and cypress leaves. This is the best time to hold a cup of hot tea, letting the tea fragrance blend with the mountain breeze and fill your nose—more comforting than any perfume. 🌌 Four Seasons Theater · 2025 Limited Experiences ▫️ Spring · When Mountain Flowers Bloom: In April, peach blossoms cover the cliffs; ride a bike along the Maijishan greenway, the sound of hooves crushing petals is clearer than bells🌸. This is the perfect time to bring a copy of "Luoyang Garan Ji," walking and reading by the pavilion near the caves, even the wind carries Buddhist chants—when you read “On Maiji Cliff, the bright mirror terrace,” look up to see the Buddha smiling, and butterflies can’t help but rest on your shoulder, as if wanting to read poetry with you. ▫️ Summer · When Shade Covers the Day: In July’s blazing sun, hide in Tang Dynasty Cave 43, where the cool breeze carries the Buddha’s voice from the mud sculptures, cooler than air conditioning. The most romantic moment is lying under an ancient tree with companions, watching sunlight filter through leaves and scatter light spots, even your heartbeat syncing with the rhythm of the sutras, as if time itself slows down. ▫️ Autumn · When the Forest is Painted: In October, maple leaves burn like fire, and even the cliff walls reflect vibrant colors. The coolest activity is “climbing the plank road”—hike along the plank road to the summit, stepping on a golden path paved with fallen leaves, even your breath carries the scent of autumn🍂. When tired, find a patch of grass to lie down, watch clouds stroll overhead, and time seems to freeze, as if the whole world belongs to you. ▫️ Winter · When Snow Falls in the Buddha Kingdom: In December, snow reaches knee-high, snowflakes cover the Buddha’s mud sculptures, holding a cup of ginger tea watching snow fall on eyelashes, even your breath crystallizes into ice❄️. This is the best time to build a snowman, tie it a red scarf, letting the winter fairy tale come true in the Buddha kingdom—the snowman can’t speak, but it listens to your heart, making loneliness feel warm. 🚗 Travel Tips · 2025 New Details Only Locals Know 🎫 Tickets: Peak season 80 RMB/person (April-October), off-season 40 RMB/person (November-March), combo tickets are more cost-effective! Discounts for students and seniors, remember to bring your ID—tickets can be purchased at the entrance, don’t regret waiting until inside. 👗 What to Wear: Comfortable sneakers + sun protection clothing + light backpack, maximum photo potential! A straw hat is a must (the cliff walls reflect strongly). ⏰ Best Times: 6-8 a.m. for morning mist Buddha light, 5-7 p.m. for sunset glow, after 10 p.m. for stargazing and the Milky Way. Avoid midday strong light or you won’t be able to open your eyes for photos—but the afternoon sunlight on the Buddha niches makes the statues look like paintings, don’t miss it! 💡 Pitfall Warning: Don’t believe gimmicky “Buddha light shining everywhere” tours; the natural scenery is stunning enough. For souvenirs, look for “Maijishan mud sculptures” and “hand-cut paper art,” avoid cheap Yiwu trinkets! Food inside the scenic area is expensive, bring your own snacks—but Grandma’s sour noodle soup and guagua snacks are definitely worth trying, warming even your stomach. 🌍 2025 New Stories: Technology Brings the Millennium Smile to Life This year, the Maijishan Grottoes Art Research Institute partnered with universities to use 3D printing technology to replicate Buddha statues, bringing the “Eastern Smile” out of the grottoes and into the Shanghai Baolong Art Museum, allowing people thousands of miles away to see Maijishan’s beauty. Meanwhile, the cave microenvironment monitoring system achieves 24-hour real-time monitoring, completing digitalization of 8 typical caves and large caves through digital technology, accumulating 3.15TB of data, ensuring the millennium-old grottoes “live forever” in the digital world.

#SeptemberDestinations2025 #China #Gansu #MaijishanGrottos The Maijishan Grottoes, near Tianshui City in Gansu Province, are one of China's four major grottoes. The astonishing Buddha statues and murals carved into the cliffs are truly a masterpiece of divine craftsmanship. A tribute to the artisans of the time, whose skill was not only exceptional but also their courage. This is a must-see attraction in Gansu. It's truly spectacular, and the guide's explanations provide a fascinating insight into the cultural background of the time. I highly recommend joining the tour! 👍 You can refer to the travel link on the platform~ https://tw.trip.com/travel-guide/attraction/tianshui/maijishan-cave-temple-complex-78385?curr=TWD&locale=zh-TW&scene=basic #NaturalWonder #China'sBest #GhostCraftsmanship

#mytraveldiary Tianshui totally blew me away! This iconic city in southeastern Gansu is a major flex for history buffs – think Maijishan Grottoes, where you’ll spot jaw-dropping Buddhist cave temples carved right into a cliffside (Address: Maijishan Scenic Area, Tianshui, Gansu, Open 08:00-18:00)! The vibes here are super mystical. Don’t skip Fuxi Temple (No. 1 Fuxi Rd, Qinzhou District, Tianshui, Open 08:00-17:30), a legit spot honoring the legendary ancestor of Chinese civilization. Mind = blown with all the cultural energy in the air! 🚀 Let’s talk food – if you’re a fan of mouth-tingling flavors, you HAVE to try the spicy noodles, melt-in-your-mouth lamb skewers, and those dope local pastries! Sooo good, I’m still dreaming about them. Wrapped by stunning mountains and winding rivers, Tianshui serves up major chill vibes mixed with cultural depth. It’s perfect for anyone chasing spiritual feels or just vibing with ancient stories and scenic beauty. Ready for a “touching history + foodie adventure” mood? This place is THE move. Pro tip: Search for places to stay and things to do on trip.com before you go!

Located in Xiguan, Tianshui, Gansu Province, Fuxi Temple is a sacred site dedicated to the cultural ancestor of the Chinese people. Built during the Chenghua period of the Ming Dynasty, this ancient architectural complex is the largest and best-preserved site for Fuxi worship in China. Stepping into Fuxi Temple feels like traveling back in time. The temple is built against the mountain, with layered courtyards arranged harmoniously. Towering ancient cypress trees, including the over-thousand-year-old "Bagua Cypress," add to its historical charm. The main structure, Xiantian Hall, houses a three-meter-tall statue of Fuxi holding a Bagua (Eight Trigrams) plate, his piercing gaze watching over the descendants who come to pay homage. Legends surrounding Fuxi add a mystical aura to the temple. It is said that Fuxi, with a human head and snake body, created the Bagua, established marriage customs, taught fishing and hunting, and laid the foundation of Chinese civilization. Within the temple, the Bagua Well is believed to be closely linked to the legend of Fuxi's creation of the Bagua. The well's water is clear and sweet, earning it the title of "sacred water." While visiting Tianshui, don't miss the local delicacies such as Tianshui Liangpi (cold noodles), crispy Tianshui Guokui (flatbread), fragrant Guagua Noodles, and the uniquely flavored "Eight Bowls" dishes, offering a cultural feast for your taste buds. Every year on the 13th day of the fifth lunar month, said to be Fuxi's birthday, a grand public ceremony is held at the temple. Chinese people from around the world gather here to honor their roots and ancestors in a solemn and majestic event. Throughout the year, folk rituals and pilgrimages to Guatai Mountain also take place, showcasing the enduring vitality of Chinese culture. As a significant cultural symbol of the Chinese nation, Fuxi Temple is not just a tourist destination but also a spiritual home for Chinese people. It bears witness to the origins and development of Chinese civilization, embodying the reverence and remembrance of ancestors. Visit Fuxi Temple to connect with the pulse of Chinese civilization, experience the profound heritage of 5,000 years of culture, and embark on a journey to rediscover your roots across time and space. 👉 Click the link below for in-depth travel routes. Have questions about trip planning? Feel free to message us! We offer various unique routes to provide you with a personalized cultural journey.

Exploring the Maijishan Cave-Temple Complex: Where East Meets West Along the Ancient Silk Road 🗿✨ Maijishan Cave-Temple Complex is a breathtaking fusion of history, faith, and art set amid towering cliffs. Step into this UNESCO gem in Tianshui and witness the magical moment Buddhism first arrived in China over 2000 years ago—spot the unmistakable Indian influences in the statues’ costumes and features and feel the wonder at this living crossroads of cultures! For your visit, plot your route along the cliffside walkways that snake up Maijishan. Start early to beat crowds—the panoramic trail reveals hundreds of caves, each packed with awe-inspiring Buddhist statues and vivid murals. Your must-do is the “North Cliff” for the biggest, most expressive sculptures; catch the sunrise for surreal lighting. The intricate corridors and windows are perfect Insta-worthy angles; aim for shots looking out over the lush green valleys, and close-ups of the statues’ faces, where ancient artistry meets cross-cultural exchange. 🧭 Practical Tips: - Address: Maiji, Tianshui, China - Hours: Apr 1–Oct 31 08:30–17:30; Nov 1–Mar 31 09:00–17:00 - Entry: CNY 35 Wear sturdy shoes—the steps and paths can be slippery after rain! Bring water, as the climb is steep and there are limited vendors inside. Respect the delicate carvings—no flash photography, and try to move quietly to soak in the spiritual atmosphere. Personal tip: Pause by the earliest caves and notice the details—the headwear and robes are distinctly Indian. It’s like seeing history carved in stone and realizing just how connected our cultures truly are! #Tianshui #Maijishan #SilkRoad #BuddhistArt #TravelChina

[Desert] Scenic Area Introduction: Qingjuan Mountain International Tourism Resort is a national AAAA-level scenic area located in Pingnan Town, Qinzhou District, Tianshui City, Gansu Province. It features a diverse integration of "tourism + culture + health care + sports + agriculture," covering 27 types of leisure activities including ski resorts, hot springs, and pet parks, suitable for visiting all year round. [Shrine] Tickets and Others: The resort is open to the public for free, but it is indeed quite far from downtown Tianshui, over 40 kilometers away. There are few shuttle buses to the resort, and public transportation is inconvenient, so driving is the most suitable option. The scenery is decent, with mountains, lakes, restaurants, playgrounds, and camping sites. However, because very few people come here, many facilities are not open.

Rated by National Geographic as one of the must-visit places in a lifetime June 5-9 is not the best season for Gannan, but we still set off on our journey, turning all the places we longed for into paths we have walked. Here is the itinerary: Day 1: Lanzhou Airport - Meiren Grassland - Hezuo Accommodation on 6/5: Vienna International Hotel Xiangbala Plaza Branch Day 2: Hezuo - Rock Road - Zhagana Accommodation on 6/6: Zhagana Yunshang Ejie Homestay Day 3: Zhagana (Fairy Beach hiking) - Langmu Temple - (via National Highway 345) Maqu County Accommodation on 6/7: Maqu Xueyu Jin Zhu Hotel (We made a mistake in the travel plan here; we should have stayed in Xiaqu, so the next day’s trip to Labrang Monastery wouldn’t be so long and would save a lot of time. We stayed in Maqu, so the next day’s visit to Bingling Temple was too late. It’s possible to just view it from outside, but it’s a pity.) Day 4: Maqu - Labrang Monastery - Huangtao Confluence - Bingling Temple Grottoes - Lanzhou Accommodation on 6/8: Lanzhou Days Wyndham Hotel Day 5: Casual stroll in Lanzhou, buy some local specialties and return to Hangzhou Notes for traveling in Gannan: 1) The weather in early June is still a bit cold, be sure to bring a windbreaker or a thin down jacket. The temperature difference is large, so use the onion layering method and carry layers all year round. 2) Pay attention to sun protection; the ultraviolet rays on the plateau are very strong. 3) It is recommended to hire a car with a driver in Gannan. The road conditions are special, and it is safer to find a local driver. We rented a five-day Buick seven-seater for 5600 RMB. 4) The distances between attractions are quite long, so be mentally prepared. Rock Road is very exhausting with poor road conditions. It is not recommended to take this route in early June; the scenery is not as beautiful as imagined. 5) The heating in Gannan is already turned off in June. When booking hotels, ask if there is air conditioning. The hotel we stayed at in Maqu had no air conditioning, only electric blankets. 6) If you are afraid of altitude sickness, it is recommended to buy an oxygen pillow or get oxygen refills at local hospitals. This has a higher oxygen content and is convenient to use in the car during the trip. 7) Temple taboos: ask for permission before photographing monks, and turn prayer wheels clockwise. Finally finished organizing my notes on Gannan, haha Gannan is a place that lacks oxygen but not faith.

Gansu Tianshui 4-Day Travel Guide Itinerary Overview · Budget: 3000 RMB (including transportation, accommodation, meals, and tickets) · Duration: 4 days 3 nights · Theme: Grotto Art + Fuxi Culture + Southern Gansu Scenery + Food Exploration --- Day 1: Arrival in Tianshui & Fuxi Culture Exploration Morning · Transportation (budget reference): · From Xi’an/Lanzhou, take the high-speed train (2 hours, ticket about 100-150 RMB) directly to Tianshui South Station. · City bus/taxi (10-20 RMB) to Fuxi Temple. · Attractions: · Fuxi Temple (ticket 20 RMB): The largest Fuxi sacrificial complex in China, experience the origin of Chinese civilization. · Tianshui Museum (free): Adjacent to Fuxi Temple, learn about Tianshui’s history. Afternoon · Tianshui Ancient City (free): Ming and Qing style architecture, great atmosphere when lanterns light up at night, recommended stops: · Yuan Nu Spicy Hot Pot (about 15 RMB per person): Representative spicy hot pot of Tianshui. · Chang Ji Guagua (about 10 RMB per person): Buckwheat snack, local specialty. Accommodation: Budget hotel on Minzhu Road (about 150 RMB/night). --- Day 2: Maijishan Grottoes & Xianren Cliff Morning · Maijishan Grottoes (ticket 80 RMB + sightseeing bus 15 RMB): · World Cultural Heritage, famous for cliffside plank roads and clay sculptures, recommended to go early to avoid crowds. · Must-see: East Cliff Giant Buddha (Cave 13), Smiling Little Monk (Cave 133). Afternoon · Xianren Cliff (ticket 40 RMB): · Danxia landform combined with Buddhist temples, hike up the mountain to see the sea of clouds, accessible by bus route 37. Meals: Local farmhouse restaurant in the scenic area (sour noodle soup + wild vegetables, about 30 RMB per person). Accommodation: Hotel in Maiji District (about 180 RMB/night). --- Day 3: Gangu Daxiang Mountain & Gupo Grassland Morning · Transportation: Tianshui South Station → Gangu (high-speed train 20 minutes, ticket 15 RMB). · Daxiang Mountain (ticket 30 RMB): · The largest northern clay sculpture Buddha (23.3 meters), overlooking the entire Gangu area. Afternoon · Gupo Grassland (free): Alpine meadow scenery, suitable for camping and photography (round-trip charter about 150 RMB). Meals: Gangu chili powder experience (about 20 RMB per person) + local farmhouse dishes (about 40 RMB per person). Accommodation: Budget hotel in Gangu (about 120 RMB/night). --- Day 4: Return & City Leisure Morning · Yuquan Temple (free): Famous Taoist temple, enjoy pot tea (5 RMB). · Nanguo Temple (ticket 20 RMB): Former residence of poet Du Fu, climb up for a panoramic view of Tianshui. Afternoon · Return: High-speed train/flight (reserve 200 RMB for transportation). --- Budget Details Item Cost (RMB) Transportation (high-speed train + city) 400 Accommodation (3 nights) 450 Meals 400 Tickets 205 Others (shopping, etc.) 200 Total 1655 Remaining budget (3000-1655=1345 RMB) can be flexibly used for: · Upgrading accommodation (e.g., hot spring hotels). · Experiencing special caves (Maijishan Cave 133, 100 RMB/person). · Purchasing cultural souvenirs (around Fuxi Temple). --- Tips 1. Transportation: Bus routes 34/37 connect main attractions but have limited frequency, allow extra time. 2. Clothing: August is hot, but mountain areas have large temperature differences, bring a light jacket. 3. Food: Besides spicy hot pot, recommended are sweet fermented rice (refreshing) and lard pastry (snack).

Its so good that the queue is crazy, even though its kind of a normal thing in china to have crazily loads of people. The malatang queue was worth it! Creamy spicy texture with aromatic and fragrant spices, all blended together and its aroma being released with the hot oul that is splashed on top. Really a reccomended place for those people with heavy taste buds. #travel #china

Tucked within the grounds of Fuxi Temple (伏羲庙) in Tianshui, Gansu, the Fuxi Temple Museum is a small but fascinating space dedicated to preserving and sharing the legacy of Fuxi — the legendary ancestor credited with creating the Bagua (Eight Trigrams) and teaching early humanity essential skills. Inside, you’ll find: • Ancient plaques, steles, and calligraphy praising Fuxi’s contributions. • Ceremonial artifacts used in traditional rituals honoring him. • Historical paintings and diagrams explaining the origin of the Bagua and its symbolism. • Exhibits on the architecture of the temple complex, which dates back to the Ming Dynasty. The museum adds rich cultural context to a temple visit, helping you understand why Fuxi is such an important figure in Chinese mythology, philosophy, and history. 💡 Tips: • 📍 Located inside Fuxi Temple, central Tianshui — easy to combine with other old town sights. • 🕘 Plan about 30–45 minutes for the museum before exploring the temple courtyards. • 📸 Photography may be restricted for some artifacts — check signage. • 🌸 If visiting in June during the Fuxi Culture Festival, the museum hosts special displays and cultural activities. #chinatravel #gansu #tianshui #fuxitemple #fuxiculture #historicalchina #museumtravel #伏羲庙

Perched on the sheer face of Maijishan (“Wheat Stack Mountain”) in Tianshui, Gansu, the Maijishan Grottoes (麦积山石窟) are one of China’s four great Buddhist cave complexes, alongside Mogao (Dunhuang), Yungang (Datong), and Longmen (Luoyang). This UNESCO World Heritage Site holds over 7,000 Buddhist statues and 1,300 m² of murals carved across 194 caves — all connected by narrow wooden plank walkways that cling dramatically to the cliff. 📜 A 1,500-Year Legacy Construction began in the Later Qin period (384–417 AD) and continued for centuries, reflecting artistic styles from Northern Wei to Qing Dynasty. The statues range from serene Tang-style Buddhas to more expressive Northern Wei figures, giving visitors a timeline of Chinese Buddhist art evolution. 🗺️ What to See • East Cliff Caves — Famous for their lifelike clay sculptures, some standing over 15 meters tall. • West Cliff Caves — Smaller but rich in exquisite Tang Dynasty mural paintings. • Cliff Walkways — The heart-racing paths that connect the grottoes, offering sweeping views of green mountains and valleys below. • Maijishan Museum — Displays artifacts and gives background on the site’s restoration work. 💡 Visiting Tips • 📍 Location: 30 km southeast of Tianshui City; reachable by bus, taxi, or tour from Tianshui South Railway Station. • ⏳ Time Needed: 2–3 hours to explore fully. • 👟 What to Wear: Comfortable shoes — there are steep stairs and narrow cliffside paths. • 🌤 Best Season: Spring and autumn for mild weather; summer is lush but hot, winter is crisp with fewer crowds. • 📸 Photography: Photos of the exterior and scenery are allowed, but some caves prohibit interior photography — check signage. ✨ Why It’s Special Unlike the desert beauty of Dunhuang’s Mogao Caves, Maijishan is surrounded by lush, misty mountains, making it feel like a hidden temple in the clouds. The combination of natural scenery and cultural heritage creates an experience that’s as spiritual as it is visual. #chinatravel #gansu #tianshui #maijishan #maijishangrottoes #unescoheritage #buddhistart #silkroad #historicalchina #麦积山石窟

Tucked away in southeastern Gansu Province, Tianshui (天水) is a city where history, culture, and scenery meet. Known as the “Gateway to the West” on the ancient Silk Road, it blends thousand-year-old Buddhist art, traditional architecture, and local flavor into a destination that feels both timeless and welcoming. 🌄 Must-See Highlights that can be fcovered in one day comfortably: • Maijishan Grottoes (麦积山石窟) — A UNESCO World Heritage site carved into a cliff face, home to 1,500-year-old Buddhist statues and murals connected by dramatic plank walkways. • Fuxi Temple (伏羲庙) — Dedicated to the mythical ancestor of the Chinese people, this Ming Dynasty complex is a cultural and spiritual landmark. • Tianshui Ancient Town (天水古镇) — Stone-paved lanes, courtyard homes, and red lanterns bring the Silk Road era to life. Try to go at night as it is so much more beautiful. It is beside Fuxi Temple so time Fuxi Temple in the afternoon. The grotto will take you the entire morning anyway… 🍜 Taste of Tianshui The city is famous for its bold flavors — biangbiang noodles, Tianshui liangpi (cold noodles) with garlic and vinegar, and apricot kernel tea are must-tries. Street markets and small family-run eateries give you the best authentic taste. 💡 Travel Tips • Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for pleasant weather; summer can be hot, winter crisp but quieter. • Transport: Tianshui is well-connected by high-speed rail; taxis and buses make local travel easy. • Pace Yourself: The city has a slower rhythm — plan time to linger in parks, teahouses, and shaded old streets. Tianshui might not be as famous as Xi’an or Dunhuang, but that’s its charm — it’s where you can step into deep history without the crush of massive tourist crowds. #chinatravel #gansu #tianshui #silkroad #maijishangrottoes #historicalchina #travelchina #天水

I visited Tianshui Ancient Town (天水古镇) again in the early afternoon to kill some time before catching a train, and the summer sun was relentless — the stone streets were almost shimmering with heat. Still, wandering through its centuries-old lanes lined with traditional buildings was worth every drop of sweat. Shops selling handmade crafts and local snacks offered brief pockets of shade, and the fragrance of herbal tea wafting from a teahouse was too tempting to resist. Inside, the cool interior felt like a time capsule, with carved wooden beams and bamboo blinds filtering the harsh sunlight outside. The heat gave the town a slower rhythm — locals sat under archways fanning themselves, while the red lanterns along the eaves swayed lazily in the breeze. If you visit in the afternoon, bring a hat, sunglasses, and lots of water, and take your time moving between shaded spots. 💡 Tips for Hot-Weather Visits: • Stick to the narrow alleys where buildings block the sun. • Pop into teahouses or craft shops to cool down. • If possible, time your stay so you can watch the town transform as the cooler evening air sets in. #chinatravel #gansu #tianshui #ancienttown #silkroad #summertravel #historicalchina #天水古镇

Here is a travel guide for Fuxi Temple: Basic Information - Address: No. 110, Fuxi Road, Qinzhou District, Tianshui City. - Opening Hours: 08:00-18:00 (Ticket sales stop at 17:30, last entry at 17:30). - Ticket Price: 40 RMB/person. A combo ticket for Fuxi Temple + Yuquan Temple + Hu's Residence is available for 80 RMB/person, offering better value. - Transportation: Fly to Tianshui Maiji Mountain Airport and transfer to the city center. For train travel, get off at Tianshui Station or Tianshui South Station, then take bus routes 3, 9, or 18 directly to Fuxi Temple. The scenic area has an underground parking lot with 210 spaces. Tour Route Enter through the "Kaitian Mingdao" archway and follow the central axis to visit the Xiantian Hall and Taiji Hall, admiring the exquisite architecture, sculptures, and murals. Then proceed to the back garden to enjoy the serene atmosphere under ancient cypress trees. After visiting Fuxi Temple, you can directly enter the Tianshui City Museum to learn more about local history and culture. Attraction Highlights - Xiantian Hall: Also known as the Main Hall, it is the principal building of Fuxi Temple, featuring a large painted statue of Fuxi and a ceiling decorated with the Taiji, Heluo, and Bagua diagrams. - Taiji Hall: Also called the Rear Hall or Resting Hall, built according to the "front palace, rear resting quarters" tradition, with exquisitely carved wooden lattice windows depicting dragons and phoenixes. - Ancient Cypresses: There are 37 Ming Dynasty cypress trees in the temple, symbolizing the 64 hexagrams of Fuxi, standing tall and lush, providing ample shade. - Tianshui City Museum: Located in the backyard of Fuxi Temple, it houses a rich collection of artifacts unearthed in Tianshui, offering deeper insights into local history and culture. Food Recommendations - Guagua: A cold jelly made from buckwheat flour, served with chili sauce, sesame paste, and other condiments, offering a chewy texture. - Lard Box: A crispy layered pancake stuffed with braised meat, best enjoyed hot and paired with almond tea to cut the richness. - Jiangshui Noodles: A sour and appetizing noodle dish, often served with braised pork ribs or hand-torn lamb. Nearby Accommodations Consider hotels near Fuxi Road or Jiefang Road in Qinzhou District, such as Junyi Hotel or Vienna 3 Good Hotel, for convenient travel.

In Qinzhou District, Tianshui, Gansu, the Hu Family Ancient Residence — locally called Nan & Bei Residences (南宅子, 北宅子) — is a rare, well-preserved example of Ming Dynasty official residences. With its brick-and-wood structure, elegant courtyards, and historic layout, it stands as one of the finest surviving Ming residential buildings in Tianshui. Recognized as a national key cultural relic in 2001, it is the only existing Ming official residence in Northwest China and is valued highly for its history, culture, and artistry. Its scale and preservation make it a standout among ancient residential complexes nationwide. Inside, you’ll find not only the Tianshui Folk Customs Museum but also an important patriotic education base and cultural tourism site. The residence holds a treasure trove of historical records, architecture, and displays that reflect Tianshui’s traditions, making it a must-visit for history lovers. 💡 Tips: • Located on Minzhu West Road, Tianshui, next to Wenhua Gallery. • Best explored on foot to enjoy the courtyards and architecture in detail. • Combine your visit with Fuxi Temple nearby for a richer cultural experience. #chinatravel #gansu #tianshui #ancientresidence #hufamilyresidence #nanbeizhai #mingdynastyarchitecture #folkcustomsmuseum #historicalchina #胡氏古民居