Lanzhou

Lanzhou is the capital and largest city of Gansu Province in Northwest China. It lies on the south bank of the Yellow River in the Hexi Corridor, a historic conduit between the Loess Plateau and the rest of China. The city serves as an administrative, economic, and transportation center for the region and is a major rail junction.

Lanzhou has a long history as a Silk Road waypoint and trading center. The name derives from Chinese characters meaning orchid and prefecture, a reference to the local topography. The area has absorbed diverse cultural influences over centuries through trade and migration.

The economy combines industry and services, with energy, chemical processing, machinery, and light manufacturing as important sectors. Lanzhou is a major rail hub and road transport node, served by Lanzhou Zhongchuan International Airport and several expressways. The Lanzhou New Area and related zones aim to attract investment and develop high-tech industries.

Culturally, the city is known for Lanzhou beef noodle soup, or lamian, a dish associated with the region. Landmarks include the Zhongshan Bridge over the Yellow River and the modern museums and universities such as Lanzhou University and Northwest Normal University. The Gansu Provincial Museum and riverfront parks reflect the city’s historical and geographical context.