Complete Travel Guide to Dingxi, All You Need to Know

Dingxi is located in the central part of Gansu Province, at the junction of the Loess Plateau and the Western Qinling Mountains, known as the "Key to Longzhong." It serves as an important ecological barrier for the upper reaches of the Yellow River and is a must-pass area on the ancient Silk Road, nurturing the unique Longxi Li culture, traditional Chinese medicine culture, and agricultural civilization. Famous Features: Li Culture: The birthplace of the Li family worldwide. The Li Family Dragon Palace, a clan temple inscribed by Emperor Taizong of the Tang Dynasty, is a sacred site for Li descendants globally to trace their roots and honor their ancestors. Natural Scenery: The forest mystery of the Weihe River source, the karst wonders of Zheyang Mountain, the Danxia landforms of Guiqing Mountain, and the vast wetlands and grasslands of Langdutan form the ecological tapestry of Dingxi. Gourmet Feast: The rich flavor of Longxi cured meat, the smooth texture of Dingxi wide noodles, the sweet snacks of Min County, and the tangy sourness of Jiangshui noodles immerse your taste buds in Northwest flavors. Related Legends: Zheyang Mountain is named for being "blocked by the mountain at sunrise." It is said that Taoist Zhang Sanfeng once practiced here, leaving relics such as the "Three Drunken Stones." Guiqing Mountain’s Duanjian Fairy Bridge and the Ming Dynasty ancient temple Guiqing Zen Temple carry a thousand years of incense and temple fair traditions. ⛺ 【Must-Visit Local Spots】 1. Cultural Landmarks Li Family Dragon Palace (Longxi County): A national 4A-level scenic spot, a Tang Dynasty palace-style complex. The main worship hall "Longxi Hall" honors the Li ancestors, and the Sutra Library houses the world's most complete Li family genealogy, attracting millions of clan members annually. Yuexin International Calligraphy and Painting Village (Tongwei County): Covering 321 acres, this art hall offers live creation viewing and showcases the profound heritage of the "Hometown of Chinese Calligraphy and Painting." 2. Natural Wonders Weihe River Source Scenic Area (Weiyuan County): The source of the Weihe River with 95% forest coverage, streams, canyons, and sea of clouds intertwine into a fairyland, perfect for hiking upstream. Zheyang Mountain (Zhang County): A national 4A-level scenic spot known for karst landforms. The Xixi Canyon’s "One Line Sky," ice caves (frozen in summer, thawed in winter), and rock climbing base attract adventure enthusiasts. Guiqing Mountain (Zhang County): Danxia landforms coexist with forests. The Duanjian Fairy Bridge spans the canyon, and the Ming Dynasty ancient temple is hidden in the mountains. The temple fair on the eighth day of the fourth lunar month is lively and festive. 3. Food Experience Recommended Restaurants: Liang Laoda Lamb Restaurant (No. 35 Youyi South Road, Anding District): The top must-eat in Dingxi, hand-pulled lamb is tender and free of gamey taste, paired with secret dipping sauce that is exceptional. Xiaxin Restaurant (Dingxi City): Representative of Long cuisine, famous for roast whole lamb and Dingxi noodle slices. Minzhou Snack Street (Min County urban area): Transforms into a "City That Never Sleeps" at night, offering a dazzling array of Min County snacks like dim sum, stuffed cold noodles, and yellow wine soaked bread, evoking the lively atmosphere of the Tea Horse Road. 4. Characteristic Streets Around Longxi Drum Tower: Ancient Ming and Qing architecture blends with modern shops, where you can buy Longxi cured meat, traditional Chinese medicine materials, and other specialties. Minzhou City That Never Sleeps: A night market paved with bluestone bricks, red lanterns and trendy lighting intertwine, allowing you to enjoy food while watching folk performances. 🛬 【Travel Tips】 Recommended Travel Time: Summer (June to August) is cool, ideal for escaping the heat and outdoor activities; Autumn (September to October) features colorful foliage, with Guiqing Mountain and Zheyang Mountain offering picturesque autumn views. Recommended Duration: 3-4 days. Itinerary: Day 1: Longxi Cultural Tour Morning: Visit Li Family Dragon Palace to experience the depth of Li culture. Afternoon: Stroll around Weiyuan Tower, climb for panoramic views of Longxi, and taste Longxi cured meat. Evening: Experience nightlife at the Longxi Drum Tower night market. Day 2: Weiyuan Ecological Exploration Morning: Drive to Weihe River Source Scenic Area, hike through forest canyons. Afternoon: Head to Luming Valley Scenic Area for family activities or check in at popular photo spots. Evening: Stay in Weiyuan County town and try Jiangshui noodles. Day 3: Zhang County Mountain and Water Wonders Morning: Explore Zheyang Mountain, try rock climbing or explore the ice caves. Afternoon: Drive to Guiqing Mountain, hike the "One Line Sky," visit Guiqing Zen Temple. Evening: Stay at Zhang County hot spring resort for relaxation. Day 4: Tongwei Art and Return Morning: Visit Yuexin International Calligraphy and Painting Village, participate in calligraphy and painting experiences. Afternoon: Relax at Tongwei Hot Spring Resort or shop for calligraphy and painting works before departure. 🏨 【Accommodation Guide】 High-End Options: Tiandi International Hotel (Weiyuan County): A 4.5-star comfort hotel near Weihe River Source Scenic Area with complete facilities. Tianqing International Hotel (Anding District, Dingxi): A high-end hotel near Dingxi Station, suitable for business and leisure. Cost-Effective Choices: Vienna Hotel (Dingxi High-Speed Rail Wanda Plaza): Highly rated at 4.8 stars, close to the high-speed rail station and shopping district, convenient transportation. Lavande Hotel (Dingxi High-Speed Rail North Station): Comfortable hotel with stylish design, ideal for young travelers. Unique Homestays: Guiqing Mountain Farmhouse (Zhang County): Experience rural life, taste farmhouse dishes, some offer private hot spring baths. 🧡 【Tips】 Transportation: Attractions are scattered; self-driving or chartering a car is recommended (Dingxi roads are good and car rental is convenient). Climate: Large temperature differences between day and night; bring a light jacket in summer and windproof warm clothes in winter; strong UV rays require sun protection. Food: Local flavors tend to be spicy; inform restaurants in advance if you prefer milder dishes; Longxi cured meat and Min County snacks can be vacuum-packed for travel. Culture: When visiting Li Family Dragon Palace, maintain solemnity and respect ancestral worship customs. Safety: Wear non-slip shoes for mountain hiking; some parts of Zheyang Mountain are steep, so it is advisable to go in groups. Dingxi, a city where culture and nature symphonize on the Loess Plateau, awaits you to measure history with your footsteps and feel the gift of mountains and rivers with your heart. Pack your bags and set off now to start a Northwest journey blending tradition and modernity!