Gansu is a province in north-central China. Its city of Jiayuguan is known for the striking Overhanging Great Wall and imposing Jiayuguan Pass fortress complex, both part of the Great Wall of China. The nearby city of Jiuquan is a gateway to the July 1st glacier, which crowns the Qilian Mountains to the south, and to the Gobi Desert. Jiuquan's Silk Road Museum houses artifacts from this ancient trade route.

Top Attractions:

1. Mogao Caves (Thousand Buddha Grottoes): Located near Dunhuang, the Mogao Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to one of the most extensive collections of Buddhist art in the world, featuring thousands of sculptures and murals.
2. Jiayuguan Pass: Known as the "First Pass Under Heaven," Jiayuguan Pass is the western end of the Great Wall of China and a symbol of ancient Chinese military defense. Visitors can explore the pass and its surrounding fortress.
3. Labrang Monastery: Situated in Xiahe, Labrang Monastery is one of the largest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries outside of Tibet. It features stunning architecture, colorful prayer halls, and a vibrant atmosphere during religious festivals.
4. Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park: Famous for its rainbow-colored mountains, this geological park in Zhangye offers surreal landscapes and stunning photo opportunities.
5. Bingling Temple Grottoes: Located along the Yellow River near Lanzhou, the Bingling Temple Grottoes feature ancient Buddhist sculptures and murals carved into the cliffs, accessible by boat or hiking.
6. Dunhuang Night Market: Experience the vibrant atmosphere and taste local delicacies at the night market in Dunhuang, offering a variety of street food, souvenirs, and cultural performances.

Top Things to Do:

1. Explore the Silk Road: Follow in the footsteps of ancient traders and travelers by exploring Silk Road sites such as Dunhuang, Jiayuguan, and Zhangye, which played crucial roles in the exchange of goods and cultures between East and West.
2. Hike in the Mountains: Gansu is home to several stunning mountain ranges, including the Qilian Mountains and the Helan Mountains. Hiking enthusiasts can explore scenic trails, alpine meadows, and pristine lakes.
3. Visit Ethnic Minority Villages: Discover the rich cultural heritage of Gansu by visiting ethnic minority villages such as the Hui and Dongxiang communities. Experience traditional customs, cuisine, and handicrafts.
4. Attend Festivals and Cultural Events: Experience the vibrant culture of Gansu by attending festivals and cultural events, such as the Labrang Monastery Horse Racing Festival or the Zhangye Danxia International Festival.
5. Taste Local Cuisine: Sample Gansu's diverse culinary offerings, which include hand-pulled noodles, lamb skewers, and Lanzhou beef noodle soup, a regional specialty.