Things To Do
in Agan
Agan is a quiet city in central Gansu Province, perched on the edge of the Loess Plateau and tucked between broad plains and distant mountains. Its heritage from Silk Road times blends with modern life as you wander its markets and courtyards. The city offers a relaxed pace with a flavorful street food scene and accessible viewpoints for photography.
Nearby canyons and river valleys provide easy day trips that reward visitors with sunrise and sunset scenery.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Agan Ancient Town, where you can stroll through cobblestone streets lined with traditional architecture. Enjoy a local breakfast at a cozy café, sampling dishes like steamed buns and soy milk. As the sun rises higher, immerse yourself in the rich history of the town by visiting the Agan Museum.
After lunch at a local dumpling restaurant, take a guided tour around the ancient temples, learning about their significance and the legends behind them. Spend some time exploring the vibrant artisan shops that showcase local craftsmanship, from hand-painted pottery to intricate textiles. As the afternoon light casts a golden hue, find a tranquil spot by the river to relax and take in the scenery.
As twilight approaches, join a cultural performance showcasing traditional Agan music and dance, set against the backdrop of the ancient town. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant that offers both local and fusion dishes, allowing you to experience the flavors of Agan. End your evening with a leisurely walk along the river, where you can see the town illuminated by lanterns.
Kick off your culinary adventure with a cooking class at a local chef's home, where you'll learn to prepare classic Aganese dishes. Enjoy a hearty breakfast featuring fresh ingredients from the local market, fueling you for the day ahead. As you chop, stir, and season, gain insight into the cultural significance of each dish.
After your cooking class, take a culinary tour through the bustling local market, sampling street food such as spicy skewered meats and sweet pastries. Engage with local vendors to learn about the ingredients that are staples in Aganese cuisine. Conclude your afternoon with a tea ceremony, where you can savor the delicate flavors of local teas.
Return to the chef's home to feast on the dishes you prepared earlier, enjoying the fruits of your labor. Share stories with fellow participants as you indulge in a multi-course meal, each bite rich with tradition. As the evening winds down, take some time to reflect on your culinary journey over a cup of herbal tea.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🥟Street food snack | $1-4 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at cafe | $3-6 |
| 🚕1 km taxi ride | $2-4 |
| 🎬Movie ticket | $5-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Silk Road heritage and welcoming locals
- Excellent street food and strong noodle tradition
- Accessible day trips to canyons and rivers
- Safe and affordable to explore on foot
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Arid climate can be dusty and dry
- Public transport outside the city center is modest
- Some signs and information primarily in Mandarin
- "你好" - Hello
- "谢谢" - Thank you
- "请问洗手间在哪儿" - Where is the restroom
- "多少钱" - How much is this
- "可以刷卡吗" - Can I pay by card
- "你们有清真食品吗" - Do you have halal options
Places to Visit in Agan
Visit one of these nice places.
High vantage point over the canyon with pastel skies at dawn and dramatic rock formations.
Historic arches framed by lantern light as the streets glow with evening activity.
Reflections on the water, city lights, and slow traffic create a cinematic harbor of color.
Serene water, lotus blossoms in season, and a calm setting for portrait and nature shots.
Food in Agan
Agan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Hand pulled noodles in a clear beef broth with aromatic toppings. Best enjoyed in the morning at a family shop.
Must-Try!
Charred lamb skewers seasoned with cumin, chili, and sesame. Common at night markets and street stalls.
Slow braised lamb served with warm flatbread, onions, and herbs for a hearty meal.
Crispy sesame pastries paired with soft flatbread, often found at street stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Evenings are alive with grills, skewers, fried dough twists, and sesame cakes. A great place to try multiple bites in one stroll.
A daytime market offering fresh produce, dumplings, and regional snacks with river views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite nod or light handshake is common. Address elders with respect and use formal language in initial chats.
Respect queues and share tables politely in markets. Avoid loud disputes and gesturing loudly in public.
Many Hui communities observe halal dietary rules. Dress modestly when visiting temples or religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Agan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in most everyday services. In high end hotels or exceptional guided experiences small tips may be appreciated but are not expected.
Cash and mobile payments are widely used. WeChat Pay and Alipay are common in shops, markets, and restaurants.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days, occasional showers, and blooming flowers. Pack light layers and a compact umbrella.
Hot and dry with bright sun. Hydration is essential; wear sun protection and start early for outdoor activities.
Clear skies and comfortable temperatures. Ideal for photography and walks around hills and rivers.
Cold and dry with occasional frost. Layered clothing and warm footwear are recommended.
Agan at Night
Hiking in Agan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Ridgetop route with panoramic views and moderate elevations.
Easy to moderate hike along the river with wildlife and photo spots.
Airports
How to reach Agan by plane.
Main regional airport, about 60 km from Agan. Regular domestic and limited international flights; access by taxi or airport shuttle.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority population with diverse regional influences.
Significant community with halal options and distinct cultural practices.
Small communities including migrant workers and regional minorities contributing to local culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Common recreational activity at community centers and parks.
Popular in schools and clubs with public courts.
Played in public courts and gyms across neighborhoods.
Local leagues and casual games are common in parks and school fields.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Agan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in most eateries. Look for tofu, mushrooms, vegetables, and egg dishes; ask for no meat stock and confirm ingredients if needed.