I've returned from Dingxi, and the aftereffects are really intense.

🌄May brings gentle sunshine and soft breezes, making it the perfect golden season for travel. If you're craving a unique journey, come to Dingxi! This city in central Gansu Province offers distinctive natural landscapes, rich historical culture, and mouth-watering cuisine. Here's the most comprehensive travel guide for Dingxi in May, helping you easily experience its charm. 📍Location: Dingxi, commonly known as "Longzhong," is located in central Gansu Province at the intersection of the Loess Plateau, Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, and West Qinling Mountains. Its unique geographical position borders Tianshui City to the east, Lanzhou City to the west, Baiyin City to the north, Longnan City to the south, and also connects with Gannan and Linxia Prefectures. 🚗Transportation Guide: • By Air: First fly to Lanzhou Zhongchuan International Airport, then take the airport shuttle to Lanzhou Transportation Center and transfer to a long-distance bus to Dingxi. The fare is about 50 yuan with a journey of approximately 2 hours. Alternatively, you can take a high-speed train from the airport station to Dingxi, which is faster. • By Train: Dingxi has two stations - Dingxi Station and Dingxi North Station, with direct trains from many cities. Book tickets in advance through the official 12306 website or app for hassle-free travel. • Local Transportation: City buses reach most attractions for just 1-2 yuan. For more distant scenic spots, charter a vehicle or take special route buses. Sharing a chartered vehicle is more economical for groups. Taxis have low starting fares and are also convenient. 🗺️Itinerary Planning: • Day 1: Anding District ◦ Morning: After arriving at Dingxi North Station, take a bus or taxi to Dingxi City Museum to learn about the city's historical and cultural evolution. Admission is free, and opening hours are generally 9:00-17:00, closed on Mondays. ◦ Afternoon: Stroll around Dingxi Lake Park to enjoy the scenery, then head to Xiyan Mountain Forest Park for panoramic views of the city. ◦ Evening: Sample local cuisine in the city center, especially the recommended Dingxi wide noodles, which are smooth and chewy. • Day 2: Weiyuan County ◦ Morning: Depart from Anding District by bus to the Weihe River Source Scenic Area in Weiyuan County, one of the cradles of Yellow River civilization. Check actual ticket prices on arrival; opening hours are typically 8:00-18:00. Enjoy the beautiful springs, waterfalls, canyons, and primeval forests. ◦ Afternoon: Visit Baling Bridge, a unique pure wooden arch bridge with a long history that's definitely worth seeing. Check actual ticket prices on site. • Day 3: Longxi County ◦ Morning: Head to Li Family Dragon Palace in Longxi County, the ancestral home of the Li clan worldwide, featuring magnificent Tang Dynasty architecture. Check actual ticket prices; opening hours are generally 8:30-17:30. ◦ Afternoon: Explore Weiyuan Tower, the landmark building of Longxi, then visit Renshou Mountain Park for a relaxing forest walk. Both are free to enter. ◦ Evening: Try the local specialty Longxi cured meat in Longxi, which is flavorful without being greasy. 🏠Accommodation Tips: • Anding District: Dingxi Hotel is recommended for its prime location, convenient transportation, and numerous surrounding restaurants. Chain hotels like Hanting Hotel offer good value as well. • Weiyuan County: There are many homestays near scenic areas where you can connect with nature. Remember to book in advance through travel apps during peak season. • Longxi County: Stay in the county center for convenient travel and shopping, such as at Longxi Huawei Hotel. 🍱Food Recommendations: • Dingxi Wide Noodles: Smooth texture, delicious whether in hot pot or cold dishes, available at street-side shops. • Longxi Cured Meat: Well-balanced fat and lean meat with moderate saltiness and aroma. Enjoy it plain or stuffed in white buns for a special flavor. • Minxian Pastries: Various traditional pastries that are sweet but not cloying. • Tongwei Buckwheat Rings: Made from bitter buckwheat flour, these crispy and sweet snacks are not to be missed. 🎈Must-Try Experiences in Dingxi: • Hot Springs: Tongwei hot springs feature excellent water quality with high temperature and abundant flow. Relax at the Tongwei Hot Spring Resort. • Experience Calligraphy and Painting Culture: Tongwei is known as "China's Calligraphy and Painting Art Town." Visit Yuexin International Calligraphy and Painting Village to appreciate calligraphy and paintings and immerse yourself in the rich cultural atmosphere. 💕Dingxi, a city full of charm, offers beautiful scenery, delicious food, and rich culture. This May, start an unforgettable journey to Dingxi, and you'll surely create wonderful memories!