2025 Li County Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in May)

Located in southern Gansu Province, Longnan is known as the "Jiangnan of the Loess Plateau." It attracts an increasing number of tourists with its unique natural landscapes, rich cultural history, and distinctive cuisine. Below is a detailed travel guide to Longnan, covering recommended attractions, itinerary planning, food experiences, and practical tips. --- ## **I. Must-Visit Attractions** ### **1. Natural Landscapes** - **Guan'e Valley National Forest Park** Known as the "Little Jiuzhaigou of Northwest China," it features canyons, waterfalls, lakes, and snow-capped mountains, with different scenery across all four seasons. Waterfalls are magnificent in summer, forests are colorful in autumn, and ice waterfalls are unique in winter. Plan to spend 4 hours here and wear non-slip shoes for the plank roads. - **Wenxian Tianchi Lake** Comparable to Changbai Mountain's Tianchi, the lake water is mirror-like blue, surrounded by mountains and forests. Rhododendrons bloom in spring, and the scenery is colorful in autumn. Perfect for lakeside walks or boat tours (boat tickets: 30 yuan). - **Wanxiang Cave** Acclaimed as "China's First Cave," it features countless stalactites in various shapes that create a magical world under the lights. The cave maintains a constant temperature of 14°C, making it ideal for summer visits. ### **2. Cultural History** - **Tielou Tibetan Township** This is the oldest settlement of White Tibetans in East Asia, preserving unique costumes, language, and folk culture. Visitors can experience traditional ceremonies like the "Twelve Zodiac Dance." - **Qingling Ancient Shu Road in Huixian County** An ancient transportation route connecting Sichuan and Shaanxi, described by Li Bai as treacherous. Best experienced with a guide who can explain its historical significance. - **Dabaozi Mountain Ruins in Lixian County** One of the origins of Qin culture, where the Qin Gong Ding (bronze tripod) was unearthed, witnessing the early history of the Qin people. --- ## **II. Recommended Itineraries** ### **1. Three-Day Highlights Tour** - **Day 1**: Lanzhou/Chengdu → Wudu → Wanxiang Cave → Overnight in Wudu District - **Day 2**: Wudu → Wenxian Tianchi Lake → Tielou Tibetan Township → Overnight in Dangchang County - **Day 3**: Dangchang → Guan'e Valley → Return ### **2. Five-Day In-Depth Tour** - **Day 1**: Guangyuan → Wenxian County (Tielou Tibetan Township) - **Day 2**: Wenxian Tianchi Lake - **Day 3**: Kangxian Huaqiao Village (Rural Scenery) - **Day 4**: Guan'e Valley in Dangchang - **Day 5**: Return --- ## **III. Specialty Food Recommendations** - **Potato Mash (Yangyu Jiaotuan)**: Mashed potatoes topped with spicy and sour sauce, with a soft texture. - **Longnan Warm Pot**: Slow-cooked in a copper pot over charcoal fire, with rich ingredients and flavorful broth. - **Cured Meat Hot Pot**: Smoked meat paired with pickled vegetables, resulting in a savory broth and tender meat. - **Canister Tea**: Roasted dates and wolfberries brewed together, served with wild vegetable buns - warming and healthy. --- ## **IV. Practical Travel Tips** - **Best Season**: May to October; September is ideal for walnut and Sichuan pepper harvesting experiences. - **Transportation**: Take high-speed rail to Longnan Station; renting a car offers more flexibility, and SUVs are recommended for mountainous areas. - **Accommodation**: There are inns with floor heating near Guan'e Valley and high-end hotels in downtown Wudu. - **Notes**: Some scenic areas are at high elevations with significant temperature differences between day and night, so bring windproof jackets. Respect White Tibetan customs and ask for permission before taking photos. --- Longnan's charm lies in its pristine natural landscapes and profound cultural heritage. Whether you're hiking, exploring cultural sites, or enjoying local cuisine, you'll find yourself reluctant to leave. Hope this guide helps you plan an unforgettable trip to Longnan!

Longnan is located at the junction of Gansu, Shaanxi, and Sichuan provinces and is known as the "Jiangnan of Longnan". With a pleasant climate, beautiful mountains and rivers, and a high forest coverage rate, Longnan is a natural oxygen bar where you can enjoy freshness and tranquility during your trip and find spiritual comfort in nature's gifts. 1. Travel Route I chose to start from Longnan City and head to Dangchang Guange Valley. Known as the "Little Jiuzhai Valley", it is a place where lakes and mountains complement each other and the canyon waterfalls are magnificent and beautiful. Then I went to Wenxian Tianchi, a poetic lake embedded on the top of the mountain, quiet and charming. Then I went to Kangxian Yangba to experience the original ecological pastoral scenery and dense forests🌳 Finally, I stopped in Chengxian to appreciate the cultural charm of the Xixia Inscription Cliff Carvings. 2. Surrounding Attractions In addition to the above, there is Wudu Wanxiang Cave, where the stalactites are in various shapes and look like a fairyland under the light. Lixian Qishan Wuhou Temple carries the profound heritage of the Three Kingdoms history, making history lovers linger. 3. Accommodation Guide In Longnan City, you can choose hotels located in the city center or near transportation hubs for convenient travel. Around the scenic area, there are many characteristic homestays near Guange Valley, where you can feel the breath of nature up close. Yangba also has some pastoral-style inns, where you can experience the comfort of rural life while staying. 4. Food Guide Longnan cuisine has a unique flavor. Dangchang's Red Army Guokui is crispy and delicious; Wenxian's Bikou Tofu Noodles are tender and smooth; Kangxian's Ten Bowls are rich and varied, showing the local food characteristics; Chengxian's Ma Zhanxiang Wonton is thin-skinned and big-stuffed. There are also various wild vegetables and special bacon to satisfy your taste buds. 5. Dressing Arrangement In spring and autumn, you can wear long-sleeved shirts and thin jackets with comfortable sneakers or casual shoes for hiking and sightseeing. In summer, short sleeves and shorts are the mainstay, and remember to bring sunscreen and a sun hat for sun protection. In winter, you need to wear thick cotton clothes and down jackets, and warm and non-slip boots are also essential. 6. Precautions Longnan has many mountains and winding roads, so be careful when driving and pay attention to traffic safety. When visiting the scenic area, follow the rules and protect the environment. In addition, the mountain climate is changeable, so bring rain gear and warm clothes. Prepare common medicines in case of physical discomfort. A trip to Longnan is a wonderful journey to get close to nature and embrace culture, and I hope you will also have unforgettable memories here💕

As you enter Berlin Temple, the ancient architecture comes into view, with red walls and gray tiles, solemn and solemn. In the temple, the incense is curling, and the bell is melodious, as if telling a thousand-year-old story. Stroll on the bluestone path, feeling every inch of history under your feet. The ancient trees in the courtyard are towering, with lush branches and leaves, adding a touch of vitality and mystery to this quiet place. The sunlight sprinkled through the gaps in the leaves, forming patches of light, like the brushstrokes of nature, drawing a tranquil picture.

In the 1990s, the accidental discovery of two large Qin tombs in Dabaozi Mountain, Lixian County, awakened the long-lost childhood memories of the Qin Empire. Subsequent archaeological and research showed that the earliest capital of the Qin people, "Xichui", was located in the upper reaches of the Han River in Lixian County. Lixian County is the birthplace of the Qin people and Qin culture. Even after the Qin capital moved east to Guanzhong, Xichui, as the old capital of Qin, still played the role of a rear base. The Qin people moved to southeastern Gansu from the end of the Shang Dynasty to the beginning of the Zhou Dynasty, and the Qin Dynasty was destroyed in 207 BC, a history of more than 800 years. The development of the Qin people in southeastern Gansu in the first 300 years is the beginning of the Qin Empire and has an important status. During these 300 years, the Qin people not only established their own country, but also received the support of the Zhou Dynasty. In 770 BC, they completed the transition from the Qin state to the Qin vassal state in Xichui, taking a key step in the development of Qin history. At the same time, during these 300 years, the Qin people from the east, in the battle with the strong and warlike Xirong, forged their hardworking, brave and tenacious national character and the spirit of advocating force and pioneering and enterprising, and after absorbing and integrating Zhou culture and Xirong culture, formed the open, enterprising, inclusive and integrated Qin culture. History has proved that the Qin people's operation in southeastern Gansu centered on the upper reaches of the Han River in Lixian County has created a solid material and cultural foundation for their eastward advancement to Guanzhong, and then to compete in the Central Plains and unify the country.

📷 Must-visit attractions 1. Lanzhou Santai Pavilion: Located on the top of Gaolan Mountain in the south of Lanzhou, it is an excellent place to overlook the panoramic view of Lanzhou and one of the iconic attractions of Lanzhou. 📑 Travel tips 1. Best time to visit: It is recommended to go on a sunny day. In the evening, you can enjoy the magnificent view of Lanzhou city during the day and the beautiful sunset, as well as the city night view. 1. Duration of visit: It is recommended to arrange 3-4 hours for the whole visit, including climbing and visiting Santai Pavilion. 1. Climbing route: If you are physically fit, you can choose to climb on foot, with beautiful scenery along the way. If you want to save energy, you can take a cable car. 1. Viewing points: You can overlook the whole Lanzhou city from Santai Pavilion, including the spectacular view of the Yellow River running through the city. 💒 Accommodation tips 1. As the capital city of Gansu Province, Lanzhou offers a variety of hotel and accommodation options. You can choose accommodation in the city center or near major attractions according to your budget and needs. 💗 Other tips 1. Food recommendations: Taste local specialties such as beef noodles and hand-grabbed mutton at the foot of the mountain. 1. Precautions: Wear comfortable sneakers when climbing, bring enough water, keep warm, and protect the environment and do not litter. 1. Photography opportunities: Bring a camera to capture the beautiful moments of Santai Pavilion and the surrounding scenery. Please adjust your itinerary according to the latest weather forecast and opening information to ensure a pleasant travel experience.

The Gansu Qin Culture Museum is located on Dongxin South Road, Chengguan Town, Lixian County, Longnan City, Gansu Province. It is a comprehensive museum that integrates collection management, display, scientific research, and publicity and education. The following is a travel guide for the Gansu Qin Culture Museum: - Opening hours: 9:00-17:00 (entry stops at 16:30), closed on Mondays (except for national statutory holidays). - Ticket price: Free. - Time reference: 1-3 hours. - Traffic guide: - Self-driving: Depart from Longnan City, drive along G75 Lanzhou-Haikou Expressway to Lixian County exit, and then drive along S306 Provincial Road for about 10 kilometers to reach the museum. - Public transportation: Take a bus from Longnan City to Lixian County. After getting off at Lixian Bus Station, you can take a taxi or walk to the museum. - Visit route: - First floor: Mainly displays the history and culture and folk customs of Lixian County, including the history of Lixian County, folk culture, traditional handicrafts, etc. - Second floor: Mainly displays the development process of Qin culture and important cultural relics, including the origin, development, and growth of the Qin people, and important cultural relics of Qin culture, such as bronzes, pottery, and jade. - Third floor: Mainly displays the natural geography and ecological environment of Lixian County, including the geographical location, topography, climate characteristics, and ecological environment protection of Lixian County. - Precautions: - Please do not make loud noises during the visit, do not touch the exhibits, and do not smoke or eat in the exhibition hall. - Please do not bring flammable, explosive, toxic, harmful and other dangerous goods into the museum. - Please take care of the public facilities and environmental sanitation in the museum, and do not spit or litter. - Please abide by the museum's visit regulations and staff management. If you have any questions, please consult the staff.

In Longnan!! Feel the shock of history Qishan Fort, located in today's Qishan Town, Li County, Gansu Province, is an ancient battlefield site with a long history. It was also the place where Zhuge Liang, the prime minister of the Shu Han Dynasty, garrisoned when he left Qishan during the Three Kingdoms period. Qishan Fort was built in the Western Han Dynasty and is located on the north bank of the Western Han River. It was an important battlefield in the long-term tug-of-war between the Shu Han and Cao Wei during the Three Kingdoms period. With its pivotal position in the Longxi region, it could threaten the important towns of Cao Wei such as Tianshui and Longxi in the past, and it could control the vast Longnan mountainous area in the future.

Traveling about 10 kilometers forward from the hot springs in Wushan County, Tianshui City, Gansu Province, you will find the Caochuan Grassland. Here, the air is pure and free of noise pollution, the annual temperature variation is small, and in spring, summer, and autumn, the air is filled with the fragrance of flowers and birdsong, the greenery is endless, and the climate is pleasant. The azure sky is dotted with leisurely drifting white clouds, and colorful wildflowers sway in the breeze. The roaming cattle and sheep resemble amber white clouds floating on green waves, creating a vivid and colorful landscape painting that enchants visitors, making them linger and forget to return, feeling refreshed and delighted. The scenic area does not charge an entrance fee. There is a horse riding activity available for 10 yuan per round, which is quite a bargain. Since it is located on the mountaintop, you can see a different grassland scenery. The clouds are very close, and there are also hilly landforms, which add a bit more vitality and vigor compared to the endless grasslands of Inner Mongolia! It's definitely worth a visit! Transportation is only possible by self-driving, and you can drive directly to the mountaintop where it's not crowded! Just navigate to 'Caochuan Grassland'!

♻️♻️ Qishan Wuhou Shrine, one of the nine major Wuhou shrines in the country, is located in Lixian, Longnan City, Gansu Province. It was the place where Zhuge Liang led troops to campaign against Wei during the Three Kingdoms period. It is famous for his 'six out of Qishan' exploits, although in actual history he only made two such expeditions 🏰🏰🏰 ♻️♻️ The founding time of Qishan Wuhou Shrine is untraceable, and most of the existing buildings were constructed during the Ming and Qing dynasties 👌👌👌 ✅✅ This place is rarely visited, full of pristine ecological vibes. Due to the lack of maintenance over the years, the grass at Qishan Fort Stele has grown lush, and the mysterious Bagua fields have been cut at one corner by a newly emerged small ditch, hopefully not disturbing the feng shui of the area 😝😝😝 ———————————————————————— ⛩️⛩️ Address: Qishanbao, Qishan Township, Lixian, Longnan City, Gansu Province 🚙🚙 Transportation: Public transportation is complicated and indirect, self-driving is recommended 💰💰 Ticket price: 15 yuan

Museums are not only the remains of history, but also the development and process of history. The Gansu Qin Culture Museum in Li County, Gansu Province is one of the biggest harvests of my journey. The museum displays the early Qin cultural relics and shows the rich prehistoric cultural sites in the Xihan watershed of Li County. And a large number of precious cultural relics unearthed. These artifacts provide extremely valuable information for studying the initial history of the founding of the Daqin Empire. It also shows that Li County is the birthplace and cradle of the Qin people.