Overview
Tianshui is a gem on China's Loess Plateau where ancient legends and natural beauty intertwine. The city claims to be the mythical birthplace of Fuxi, the inventor of the trigram and other mathematical systems, and is home to the breathtaking Maijishan Grottoes—one of China's four major grotto complexes.
Architecture · Day Trips · History · Museums · Nature
Before you go
Connectivity
Internet cafes charge ¥5-10/hour. Most hotels and cafes have free WiFi, sometimes requiring mobile phone verification.
Culture
Many museums and temples close on Mondays. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and remove shoes in temple halls.
Money
Chinese Yuan (¥) is the local currency. Cash is widely accepted, and Alipay/WeChat Pay are standard. Most ATMs are available in the city center.
Transport
City buses cost ¥2-3 (cash or QR code). Tourist buses to Maijishan from South Railway Station depart from 07:00, taking about 1 hour for ¥8-10.
Weather
Cold winters (avg -5°C January) and warm summers (avg 29°C July). Best seasons are spring and autumn for comfortable sightseeing.