Is It Safe to Visit Lanzhou? A Comprehensive Guide

When planning to visit China, it’s essential to prioritize your safety, especially in a world where travel risks are ever-increasing. As the capital city of Gansu province, Lanzhou may not appear on everyone’s travel bucket list. Still, it is one of the most distinctive destinations with its unique cuisine, rich history, and stunning attractions. Hence, it’s essential to ask whether it’s safe to visit Lanzhou. Read on to find out..

The Current State of Lanzhou Safety

First and foremost, it’s vital to stay up-to-date on Lanzhou’s current state of safety, especially given the current geopolitical climate globally. Generally, Lanzhou is considered one of China’s safest cities, with a low crime rate, and incidents of crime are rare. The law enforcement authorities are well-established and visible, and they ensure the city remains safe for visitors.

One of the biggest concerns tourists have when visiting Lanzhou is the air pollution. Unfortunately, Lanzhou suffers from severe air pollution, making it one of China’s most polluted cities. The levels of air pollution can be high in some areas, making it essential to check the air quality index when planning to visit. You might want to consider bringing a mask to protect yourself from the pollution.

The Recent History of Safety in Lanzhou

China has a history of infrastructure accidents, and Lanzhou has been no exception. In August 2020, a gas explosion occured in a restaurant in the Chengguan District of Lanzhou, killing one and injuring many others. However, this is not a regular occurrence, and it’s unlikely that you will encounter any similar hazardous situations unless you’re in a restaurant that uses combustible fuels for cooking.

Prioritize the safety of your personal belongings when visiting Lanzhou. Like other Chinese cities, theft, pickpocketing, and other petty crimes like bag snatching can occur. As such, it’s essential to keep an eye on your possessions so that no one can steal them. Be sure not to carry too many valuables when moving around – that’s just an open invitation for criminals.

Safe Places to Visit in Lanzhou

Lanzhou is full of fascinating sites and unique experiences. The city’s food culture is renowned in the country, its geological diversity, its history, and its natural beauty makes it a popular destination for both domestic and international travelers.

Apart from the natural beauty, the famous landmarks you can visit include the White Pagoda Mountain, Baita Mountain, Binhe Park, and the Provincial Museum. These sites not only offer breathtaking views but are also easily accessible and safe to visit. The local authorities have worked hard over the last few years to improve their safety measurements in public areas, and you can visit with peace of mind.

What to Do in Lanzhou to Stay Safe?

As with any new place you visit, it’s essential to take some security measures to ensure your safety. Here are some safety tips to follow when you visit Lanzhou:

1. Avoid Demonstrations and Protests

If any protests happen in Lanzhou, especially in crowded areas, it’s best to avoid them. As such events generally attract large gatherings, they can be dangerous, and you may find yourself in a situation that endangers your safety.

2. Keep Your Valuables Safe

When in areas with high foot traffic or when moving around the city, it’s best to lock your documents and valuables in your hotel room’s safety deposit box instead of carrying them around with you.

3. Check the Air Quality

Check the daily air quality ratings when planning to visit different parts of the city. Sometimes, the levels of pollution can be very high in some areas, causing discomfort to certain individuals, and it’s better to avoid those areas.

4. Use Licensed Transport Services

Use licensed vehicles or taxis when moving around Lanzhou. Also, take care of your belongings and don’t leave bags or personal items visible inside the taxi or car.

5. Avoid Walking in Isolated and Poor-Lit Areas at Night

When it’s dusk or nighttime, avoid walking in isolated areas that lack proper lighting. Look for well-lit streets instead.

Conclusion

Overall, Lanzhou remains one of China’s safest cities to visit. Tourists can enjoy the distinctive cuisine, rich history, and stunning scenery without worrying too much about their security. However, as with every destination, it’s crucial to keep yourself safe when visiting. Be aware of your surroundings and use the tips mentioned above to ensure you stay safe throughout your visit to Lanzhou.

An Insider’s Guide to Lanzhou

If you’re planning a trip to Lanzhou, you might be wondering about the city’s safety. Let me reassure you – Lanzhou is a safe and welcoming city that has a lot to offer visitors. As an insider, I’m excited to share with you some of Lanzhou’s hidden gems, must-try cuisines, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems

The Bingling Temple Grottoes and the Yellow River Stone Forest may be the most popular tourist spots in Lanzhou, but there are many other hidden gems to explore. The first stop should be the Gansu Provincial Museum, which houses some of the best artifacts from the Silk Road. If you want to escape the busy city, head to the Zhongshan Iron Bridge or Mount Xiangshan. To see the city from above, hike up to the top of the Baiyun Mountain.

Dining Spots: Local Cuisine and Anecdotes

Lanzhou is famous for its Lanzhou beef noodles. While you can find beef noodle shops throughout the city, the most famous one is located in the center of the city – Zhengning Road’s beef noodle street. Here, you can see the noodle makers’ deftly hand-pulling the noodles. Beyond beef noodles, you can find great skewers, spicy snacks, and various Islamic foods throughout the night market on Wuyi Road. The food culture of Lanzhou is heavily influenced by its central location along the ancient Silk Road. Did you know that Lanzhou’s traditional dishes originated from the Hui people?

Cultural Experiences: Traditions and Festivals

There are many cultural experiences to try out in and around Lanzhou. If you’re interested in Taoist culture, visit the Five Springs Mountain Park during the Double Fifth Festival, where you can watch Taoist rituals and performances. Another significant festival is the Labrang Tashikyil Monastery Festival in Xiahe, which is 220km from Lanzhou. You can also visit the Lanzhou Mosque, the Xiguan Mosque, and the Confucius Temple to observe the Islamic, Buddhist, and Confucian cultures, respectively.

Local History: Stories and Legends

Lanzhou and Gansu Province have a long history, and several legends and stories surround the region. For example, Tianshui’s Maijishan Grottoes’ story tells how monks fled to the mountains during the turmoil of the Wei and Jin dynasties, creating over 7,000 cave-cut statues. Another story relates to the Yellow River’s origin, a central symbol of Chinese culture. Legend says it is the “cradle of human civilization” because it supported the earliest Chinese settlements.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you want to go beyond the conventional sightseeing path, consider a visit to the Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park. The landscape here is vibrant and surreal, with red and orange cliffs that look like a painting. You can also take a side trip to the Thousand Buddha Caves in nearby Wuwei, which date back to the Northern Wei dynasty. Alternatively, take a day trip to the Western Xia Imperial Tombs, 22km due west of Yinchuan, to learn about the Western Xia Kingdom.

Closing thoughts:

Lanzhou is a city of hidden wonders and locally cultural treasures. I hope this guide gives you a more well-rounded look at what this exciting destination has to offer. With its unique blend of Chinese, Islamic, and Silk Road cultures, Lanzhou is a must-visit for curious travelers who want to connect with vibrant history and tradition.