Lanzhou, with its long history, brilliant culture and abundant natural resources, is the capital and largest city of Gansu Province in the northwest of China.

Historically a key point on the ancient Silk Road, Lanzhou played a crucial role in the trade and cultural exchange between East and West. It is also China's only provincial capital where the Yellow River runs through the entire city, from east to west. Enclosed by the hills overlooking the river, Lanzhou possesses a distinctive and fascinating urban landscape.

Currently, Lanzhou is an important industrial city with a relatively complete industrial structure. It is also a comprehensive transportation hub containing a well-developed aviation system, railways and highways. In 2012, the Lanzhou Municipal Government established the slogan "Travel in Northwestern China, Start from Lanzhou" for the promotion of the city's tourism. Tourists can enjoy firsthand the beautiful and charming sceneries of Lanzhou when traveling in northwestern China.

The following are the top 10 attractions in Lanzhou.

 Xinglong Mountain National Natural Reserve (興隆山國家自然保護區(qū))

Xinglong Mountain National Natural Reserve [File photo]

The Xinglong Mountain National Natural Reserve is a famous national 4A tourist attraction located in Yuzhong County, Lanzhou City. Its main mountain range contains two peaks; the east peak Xinglong, at an altitude of 2,400 meters, and the west peak Qiyun at an altitude of 2,500 meters. The gorge between the two peaks is called Xinlong Gorge. The undulating hills and luxuriant forest form the major sceneries at the reserve.