Qingyang Gansu, China Travel Guide
Uncover stories etched in stone, taste flavors born from fertile lands, and meet people who carry traditions with quiet pride. A visit to Qingyang promises a rich, rewarding adventure.
Qingyang sits in the eastern part of Gansu Province, bordering Shaanxi and Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region. It defines a significant portion of the Loess Plateau, a geological formation famous for its distinct yellow, silty soil. This unique soil, deposited by wind over millions of years, creates a scenery of rolling hills, deep gullies, and spectacular erosion patterns. The Yellow River's tributaries, including the Malian and Qingyang rivers, carve through this terrain, shaping the region's geography and supporting its agricultural life.
Qingyang experiences a temperate continental monsoon climate. Distinct seasons define the year. Winters bring cold, dry conditions, often with temperatures sub-zero. Summers are warm to hot, characterized by the heaviest rainfall. Spring and autumn hold milder temperatures and clear skies, making them pleasant for exploration. The altitude of Qingyang generally goes from 1,300 to 1,500 meters (approximately 4,200 to 4,900 feet). The unique loess landscape not only holds beautiful landscapes but also dictates traditional farming methods and even the architecture, like the famous Yaodong (cave dwellings).
Qingyang is a remarkably deep and important place in Chinese history. It is often regarded as one of the cradles of Chinese agriculture. Legend attributes the birth of Hou Ji, the mythical founder of agriculture and ancestor of the Zhou Dynasty, to this region. This connection makes Qingyang a place of immense cultural weight, linking it directly to the origins of Chinese civilization and its enduring agrarian roots. The Zhou Ancestral Temple in Qingcheng County, near Qingyang, attests to thi's lasting impact.
Beyond its ancient agricultural heritage, Qingyang also played a role in more recent history. During the revolutionary era of the 20th century, the Nanliang Soviet, one of the earliest revolutionary bases of the Communist Party of The people's republic of china, was established in Huachi County, within Qingyang prefecture. This site served as a strategic point during the Long March, offering a glimpse into a pivotal period of modern Chinese history. Visitors to Qingyang can trace these historical layers, from the earliest farming methods to the struggles that shaped the modern nation, through its sites and local museums.
Near Qingcheng County, connected to the mythical founder of agriculture.
In Huachi County, a revolutionary base during the Long March.
Houses artifacts spanning the region's long history.
The natural terrain itself reflects centuries of people interaction and history.
Various ancient monuments found across the region, telling tales of the past.
Qingyang is a trip experience rich in heritage depth and natural beauty, distinct from China's more frequently visited areas. Visitors discover a region where the unique Loess Plateau landscape dominates the scenery, leading to scenic drives and walks through dramatic eroded hills.
The city and its surrounding counties present a window into ancient agricultural practices and the early foundations of Chinese civilization, especially through sites like the Zhou Ancestral Temple. The region's dishes, a product of Northwestern Chinese traditions, has hearty wheat-based dishes and flavorful lamb, holding a real flavor of the region.
Travelers encounter fewer crowds compared to major tourist destinations, making for more relaxed exploration and genuine interaction with local communities. Qingyang is a link with an authentic, less commercialized side of China, making it an excellent choice for those seeking cultural immersion and an appreciation for historical depth.
This guide will help navigate this fascinating destination, making the trip both informative and enjoyable.
This section covers needed information, from timing your visit to managing your budget and staying safe.
The region experiences a temperate continental monsoon climate, creating four distinct seasons. Each season comes with different advantages and challenges for travelers.
May-June, September-October: Pleasant temperatures, clear skies. Expect potentially higher prices and more domestic tourists.
March-April, November: Fewer crowds and lower prices. Weather can be variable, with potential for colder temperatures or winds.
July-August, December-February: Lowest prices and fewest crowds. Summer brings high temperatures and substantial rainfall; winter is very cold.
Winter, from December to February, is cold and dry. Average temperatures often drop below freezing, typically ranging from -8°C to 0°C (18°F to 32°F). Precipitation remains minimal, usually falling as snow. Spring, extending from March to May, brings milder to warm temperatures, averaging 5°C to 18°C (41°F to 64°F). Weather during this period can be variable, sometimes windy.
A smooth entry into China entails understanding requirements for visas and entry. Most foreign nationals need a visa to enter mainland China, including Qingyang. Begin this process well before your planned departure date.
Common visa types include: L Visa (Tourist Visa) for tourism, M Visa (Business Visa) for commercial activities, F Visa (Non-commercial Visit Visa) for exchanges, and Z Visa (Work Visa) for employment. Apply at of Chinese origin embassy or consulate in your home country. Requirements vary by nationality and change periodically; check official websites for current information.
Special Permits: Standard foreign tourists do not usually need special permits for Qingyang. Permits might be needed for restricted border areas or specific research, which are uncommon for typical tourism.
Visa Fees: Fees vary by nationality and visa type. Payment typically happens upon submission or pickup. Immigration Procedures: Upon arrival, present passport, valid visa, and a completed Disembarkation Card. Immigration officials may collect fingerprints. A customs declaration is also needed. Follow all instructions.
Health Entry Note: Travelers may complete a health declaration upon arrival. No specific mandatory vaccinations for entry to China are generally in place. Routine vaccinations (measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, polio) are recommended for all international travel. Consult a doctor well before your trip for personalized health advice.
Direct Companies That help with visas
Passport and visa facilitation.
Always confirm visa rules for your nationality.
Consumer Visa Application
Assistance with online visa applications.
Expedited options may come with additional fees.
Flight Compensation
Up to €600 for delayed/canceled flights.
Claims involve a commission if successful.
The official currency is the Chinese Yuan (CNY), also known as Renminbi (RMB). Exchange rates fluctuate. Major banks offer currency exchange. ATMs are widely available for cash withdrawals using foreign credit cards. WeChat Pay and Alipay dominate digital payments. Foreigners can link international credit cards, though activation sometimes poses challenges without a local bank account or Chinese phone number. Setting these up beforehand or with local assistance is wise.
Tipping is generally not customary or expected in China, including Qingyang. In some high-end, tourist-oriented services (e.g., tour guides, drivers on multi-day private tours), a small gratuity might be accepted. It is not obligatory. Tipping in local eateries or standard service settings may be met with confusion or refusal.
CNY 140-380 (US$19-53) for hostel, street food, bus.
CNY 380-980 (US$53-137) for 3-star hotel, local restaurants, taxis.
CNY 980-2100+ (US$137-293+) for best hotels, upscale dining, private transport.
Hostels: CNY 80-150. Budget Hotels: CNY 150-250. Mid-range: CNY 250-500.
Street Food: CNY 10-30. Local Eateries: CNY 30-80. Mid-range: CNY 80-150.
Be aware of these potential issues and take preventive steps.
Qingyang has the main hospitals like Qingyang People's Hospital. Quality of care varies. English-speaking staff are rare. Pharmacies are widely available for common over-the-counter medications.
Travel insurance is highly recommended. Ensure your policy includes coverage for medical emergencies, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation/interruption, and loss of baggage. Verify coverage for any planned activities, like hiking.
