Things To Do
in Beidao

Beidao is a rural town on the edge of the Loess Plateau in central Gansu, framed by rolling hills and terraced farmland. The town blends agricultural life with small-town markets, temples, and winding river valleys that invite relaxed exploration. Visitors can experience genuine hospitality, sample hearty northern Chinese flavors, and use Beidao as a gateway to nearby natural and cultural attractions.

The pace is slow and friendly, making it ideal for a weekend escape or a longer rural getaway.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the Beidao Ancient Town, where you can wander through narrow alleys lined with traditional architecture. Stop by local tea houses to sample authentic Chinese tea and chat with the locals. Capture the morning light as you take photographs of the picturesque landscape surrounding the old buildings.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a quaint dumpling restaurant, head to the Beidao Museum to learn about the region's rich history and culture. Spend some time exploring local artisan shops, where you can find handmade crafts and souvenirs. Don’t forget to try the local delicacies at street vendors as you stroll through the bustling market.

evening
:

As night falls, enjoy a traditional performance at the local theater, featuring music and dance that reflect the history of Beidao. After the show, take a leisurely walk along the river, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere and the soft glow of lanterns illuminating the path. Wrap up your evening with a sumptuous dinner at a rooftop restaurant, offering stunning views of the city skyline.

day 2
Nature Walks in Beidao National Park
morning
:

Start your day early with a guided hike through Beidao National Park, where the fresh mountain air invigorates your senses. Experience the stunning views from various lookout points as you trek through lush green forests filled with vibrant flora and fauna. Along the trail, keep an eye out for local wildlife and listen to the soothing sounds of nature.

afternoon
:

After a morning of exploration, enjoy a picnic lunch in a scenic clearing within the park, surrounded by nature's beauty. Spend your afternoon visiting the park's natural hot springs, where you can relax and rejuvenate in the warm mineral waters. Take a moment to appreciate the peaceful ambiance as you soak in the natural surroundings.

evening
:

As the sun sets, make your way back to town and consider dining at a local restaurant specializing in mountain cuisine. Enjoy dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, paired with regional wines or teas. End your day by stargazing outside your accommodation, as the clear skies of Beidao offer a spectacular view of the night sky.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant$6-12
🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant$20-40
🚖Taxi starting fare$1-2
💧Water bottle (1/2 liter) or soft drink$0.5-1
🛏️Budget hotel per night$15-40

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming rural atmosphere and hospitable locals
  • Affordable prices and authentic northern Chinese cuisine
  • Good base for hiking and nearby nature areas
  • Relatively low crowds compared to bigger cities
  • Limited nightlife and nightlife options outside the town center
  • Public transport within Beidao is modest; travel by car or organized tours is common
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "谢谢" - Thank you
  • "请问厕所在哪里?" - Excuse me, where is the bathroom?
  • "多少钱?" - How much is this?
  • "你会说英语吗?" - Do you speak English?
  • "不用客气" - You're welcome
  • "可以帮我看看这个吗?" - Could you help me look at this?
  • "对不起,我不明白" - Sorry, I don’t understand

Places to Visit in Beidao

Visit one of these nice places.

Beidao Old Town Gate

Historic gate and surrounding alleyways with traditional architecture and morning light—great for atmospheric street photography.

Riverside Park at Dawn

Quiet riverside paths, early-morning mist, and locals practicing tai chi; ideal for tranquil landscape and portrait shots.

Terraced Farmlands

Stepped fields that sweep up the hillsides, particularly striking during planting or harvest seasons.

Liupan Mountain Overlook

Panoramic viewpoints over pine forests and distant ridges; best at sunrise or late afternoon golden hour.

Culinary Guide

Food in Beidao

Beidao’s cuisine centers on hearty, rustic flavors typical of central Gansu: wheat-based dishes, lamb and beef stews, cumin-spiced vegetables, and simple street snacks. Expect plenty of noodle dishes, robust broths, and grilled skewers enjoyed in casual settings.

Beidao Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Lanzhou-style Beef Noodles

Clear, beef-forward broth with tender slices of beef and hand-pulled noodles; widely available in local noodle shops.

Must-Try!

Cumin Lamb Skewers (羊肉串)

Grilled lamb skewers seasoned with cumin and chili; popular at night markets and street stalls.

Hand-pulled Noodles (手擀面)

Thick, chewy noodles served in meat or vegetable broth with seasonal toppings.

Beef and Potato Braise

Slow-cooked beef with potatoes in a fragrant, comforting sauce, typically enjoyed with flatbread.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Beidao Night Market

Bustling evening stalls offering grilled meats, fried breads, dumplings, yogurt, and local snacks; great for a quick dinner.

Riverside Food Stalls

Seasonal stalls along the riverbank serving light dishes, fresh fruit, and dairy beverages.

Climate Guide

Weather

Beidao experiences a temperate continental climate with hot summers, cold winters, and relatively low annual precipitation. Spring is mild but changeable, summer can be hot with occasional rain, autumn is typically dry and sunny, and winter is cold with potential for frost. The region’s elevation contributes to noticeable diurnal temperature swings.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and Respect

Greet with a polite nod or short handshake; address elders with formal terms and avoid raised voices in public spaces.

Tobacco, Alcohol, and Temples

Ask for permission before photographing people at religious sites; remove hats and keep voices respectful near temples.

Gift Giving

Small, modest gifts are acceptable when visiting homes; present with both hands and avoid overly expensive items.

Public Behavior

Public displays of anger are discouraged; maintain quiet, especially in markets and religious sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Beidao is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates in the town center. Maintain standard rural travel precautions: keep valuables secure, travel with a companion after dark, and watch for uneven sidewalks or unlit streets. Tap water is usually treated, so rely on bottled or filtered water for drinking; carry a small first-aid kit and know the location of nearby clinics in case of minor injuries.

Tipping in Beidao

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is not a common practice in Beidao; if you do tip, a small amount at higher-end places or guided tours is appreciated but not expected.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild, with blooming flowers and light rain; bring a light jacket and a compact umbrella; trails are often muddy early in the season.

Summer

Warm to hot days with occasional afternoon showers; carry water, sun protection, and breathable clothing. Monsoon-influenced humidity can rise.

Autumn

Pleasant temperatures and clear skies; ideal for hiking and photography; layers recommended for cooler evenings.

Winter

Cold and dry, with occasional snowfall; some outdoor facilities may reduce hours; pack warm clothing and insulated footwear.

Nightlife Guide

Beidao at Night

Beidao’s nightlife is low-key, centered on tea houses, small family-run restaurants, and a few night-market stalls. Expect relaxed atmospheres, local conversations, and occasional karaoke rooms or informal music evenings in town centers. For a lively scene, visitors typically head to nearby larger towns or cities where bars and late-night venues are more common.

Hiking in Beidao

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Liupan Mountain Trails

A range offering forested slopes, scenic viewpoints, and opportunities for nature photography.

Airports

How to reach Beidao by plane.

Lanzhou Zhongchuan International Airport (LHW)

Major gateway in Gansu with connections to major Chinese cities; typically a 3–5 hour drive to Beidao depending on traffic and route.

Tianshui Maijishan Airport (THQ)

Regional airport serving Tianshui and surrounding areas; closer to Beidao than Lanzhou depending on route planning.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is compact and walkable, with most sights reachable on foot. Beyond the center, roads lead into hilly countryside where vehicle access is more practical. Overall, Beidao is best explored on foot for the core area, with short drives to nearby attractions.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Chinese

Predominant ethnic group in Beidao with rural and town residents.

Ethnic Minorities

Smaller communities from nearby regions, including Hui or other minority groups, contribute to cultural diversity in the broader area.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Widely played in schools, community centers, and local courts.

Table Tennis

Common pastime in homes, cafes, and recreation rooms.

Transportation

Traffic

Road travel is the primary mode of transport; Beidao relies on local taxis and regional buses to connect with larger cities. Public transit within the town is limited, so having a car or arranging a guided day trip is convenient for visiting surrounding sites.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Beidao.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian travelers can find vegetable dishes, tofu stews, and noodle bowls; ask for no meat broth and request oil-free cooking when possible.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare facilities are available in Beidao, with larger clinics and hospitals in nearby cities. For serious conditions or specialized care, plan to travel to regional centers by bus or car. Carry essential medications and a copy of any prescriptions when visiting.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide