Lanzhou, the capital of Gansu Province, is a major industrial city and transportation hub nestled in a narrow valley along the Yellow River. Historically, it was a crucial point on the ancient Silk Road, where caravans would stop and resupply before facing the challenges of the Hexi Corridor.

• The Yellow River: The city's lifeblood. The iconic Zhongshan Bridge, the first permanent bridge over the Yellow River, is a symbol of Lanzhou. You can take a relaxing stroll along the Binhe Road (Riverside Road) or experience a traditional sheepskin raft ride on the river.

• Lanzhou Beef Noodles: This is arguably Lanzhou's most famous export. A steaming bowl of hand-pulled noodles in a clear, flavorful beef broth, topped with chili oil, cilantro, and tender beef slices, is a must-try culinary experience.

• Bingling Temple Grottoes: Located about 80 km from the city, these are a series of magnificent Buddhist cave temples carved into the cliffs along the Yellow River. The statues and frescoes date back over 1,600 years.

• White Pagoda Mountain (Baitashan): Offering panoramic views of the city and the Yellow River winding through the valley. It's home to the historic White Pagoda Temple.

Located on the edge of the Gobi Desert, Dunhuang was a vital oasis and a crossroads of civilizations on the Silk Road. Its name means "Blazing Beacon," reflecting its role as a frontier garrison town. It is home to one of the world's most significant treasure troves of Buddhist art.

• Mogao Caves (Caves of the Thousand Buddhas): A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the crown jewel of Dunhuang. This is a sprawling complex of 492 caves adorned with exquisite Buddhist murals and statues, created over a millennium from the 4th to the 14th centuries. It is an unparalleled repository of art, religion, and history.

• Singing Sand Dunes & Crescent Lake (Mingsha Shan & Yueya Quan): An incredible natural wonder where massive, echoing sand dunes surround a serene, crescent-shaped oasis. Visitors can climb the dunes, listen to the "singing" sound the sand makes when sliding, and enjoy a camel ride.

• Yangguan Pass and Yumenguan Pass: These are the remains of two great Han Dynasty fortresses that once guarded the imperial borders. Standing at these remote passes, you can feel the isolation and imagine the caravans and soldiers that passed through these gates into the vast desert.

• The Silk Road Dunhuang Hotel Night Market: A vibrant market where you can sample local delicacies, buy souvenirs, and soak in the atmosphere of this historic town.

One of Cincinnati's Sister Cities

Liuzhou, located in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, is known for its stunning karst landscapes and the Liu River that winds gracefully through the city. A major industrial and cultural center in southern China, Liuzhou blends modern growth with rich ethnic diversity and natural beauty.

• Liu River: The lifeline of the city, offering picturesque river cruises and illuminated night views of the skyline and bridges.

• Luosifen (Snail Rice Noodles): Liuzhou’s signature dish—savory, spicy, and aromatic—has become a nationwide sensation.

• Ma’anshan Park: A lush hilltop park with temples and panoramic views of the city and surrounding karst peaks.

• Dalongtan Scenic Area: A tranquil spot just outside the city featuring caves, waterfalls, and the unique limestone scenery Guangxi is famous for.