Qingyang

Qingyang is a historic city in eastern Gansu Province (甘肃省), located on the Loess Plateau (黄土高原) in the eastern part of the province. Known as Longdong (陇东), meaning eastern Gansu, Qingyang is surrounded by Shaanxi (陕西) and Ningxia (宁夏) on three sides and has long served as an important cultural and transportation link between northwest China and the Central Plains. With its rich history, unique loess landscapes, folk traditions, and revolutionary heritage, Qingyang offers travelers an authentic experience of eastern Gansu.

Why Visit Qingyang?

Zhouzu Mausoleum – Origin of Chinese Agricultural Civilization:

Zhouzu Mausoleum (周祖陵) is one of Qingyang’s most important cultural landmarks. It commemorates Houji (后稷), an ancient legendary figure regarded as the ancestor of Chinese agriculture. The site reflects the long agricultural traditions of the Loess Plateau and provides insight into the origins of farming culture in ancient China.

Dong Zhiyuan Loess Plateau Landscape – Unique Natural Scenery:

Qingyang is located in the heart of the Loess Plateau, featuring rolling hills, deep valleys, terraces, and distinctive geological formations. The Dong Zhiyuan (董志塬) area is one of the largest loess tablelands in China, offering impressive views of traditional northern Chinese landscapes and rural life.

Folk Culture and Traditional Arts – Living Heritage:

Qingyang is famous for its rich folk traditions, especially Qingyang sachets (庆阳香包), paper-cutting, embroidery, and folk songs. These traditional handicrafts reflect the creativity and beliefs of local communities and are important examples of northwest Chinese intangible cultural heritage.

Revolutionary History and Red Culture:

Qingyang played an important role during China’s revolutionary period and preserves many historical sites related to the Chinese Communist revolutionary base areas. Visitors interested in modern Chinese history can explore memorial sites and learn about the region’s historical contributions.

Ancient Villages and Rural Experiences:

The countryside around Qingyang preserves traditional villages, cave dwellings, farmland landscapes, and local lifestyles shaped by the Loess Plateau environment. Travelers can experience authentic rural culture, traditional architecture, and the daily life of communities in eastern Gansu.

Rivers, Mountains, and Ecological Landscapes:

Qingyang is crossed by several important rivers, including the Malian River (马莲河), Pu River (蒲河), Hong River (洪河), Xilang River (四郎河), and Hulu River (葫芦河). These waterways create valleys and agricultural areas that add diversity to the region’s dry plateau environment.

Local Cuisine and Northwest Flavors:

Qingyang’s cuisine reflects the traditions of eastern Gansu and the Loess Plateau, featuring wheat-based foods, handmade noodles, lamb dishes, and local agricultural products. Traditional snacks and rural dishes provide visitors with an authentic taste of northwest China.