Lanzhou, China: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Lanzhou, China? If you're planning to go to Lanzhou, we've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Lanzhou, China

Based on the climate and weather in Lanzhou, China, the best time to go is June. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Lanzhou, China

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Lanzhou, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Lanzhou, China by month

January

If you are traveling to Lanzhou in January, you will notice that it is freezing. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C). There is frost nearly every day this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lanzhou. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. It's important that you pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Waterwheel Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

If you go to Lanzhou in February, you will notice that it is very cold. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C). There is frost most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lanzhou. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to find the necessary type. The majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you go to Waterwheel Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

Traveling to Lanzhou in March, you will notice that it can be very chilly. Expect it to rain sometimes. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 40s F (single digits C). There is frost about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lanzhou. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. It's important that you pick the necessary type. A lot of adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

If you go to Waterwheel Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

If you are traveling to Lanzhou in April, you will notice that it is crisp. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). There is frost about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lanzhou. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. It's important that you choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

If you go to Waterwheel Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

If you go to Lanzhou in May, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain regularly. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lanzhou. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. It's important that you pick the necessary type. Most adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

If you go to Waterwheel Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

June in this region is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (high 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lanzhou. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to find the necessary kind. Many adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you go to Waterwheel Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

July for Lanzhou is warm. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lanzhou. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Make sure to find the correct kind. Many adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Waterwheel Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

August in this region is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lanzhou. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to choose the necessary type. Most adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you go to Waterwheel Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

If you go to Lanzhou in September, you will notice that it is balmy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lanzhou. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be sure to find the necessary type. Many adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

If you go to Waterwheel Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

Traveling to Lanzhou in October, you will notice that it is relatively cool. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 40s F (single digits C). There is frost about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lanzhou. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. It's important that you get the correct type. Many adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Waterwheel Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

November in Lanzhou is pretty cool. Temperatures average in the 30s F (single digits C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost most days. It rains once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lanzhou. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to get the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you go to Waterwheel Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

December for Lanzhou is freezing. Temperatures average in the 20s F (single digits below 0 C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost nearly every day this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lanzhou. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to choose the right kind. Many adapters available online are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to Waterwheel Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Lanzhou, China

Lanzhou, the capital city of the Gansu Province in China, is a popular tourist destination, thanks to its fascinating history, rich cultural heritage, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Located in the northwestern region of China, Lanzhou boasts a plethora of tourist attractions that offer vacationers and adventure-seekers a unique blend of ancient and modern Chinese lifestyle. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Lanzhou:

1. The Yellow River Scenic Area

The Yellow River, known as the "Mother River" of China, runs through Lanzhou and is a popular tourist attraction. The Yellow River Scenic Area offers a picturesque view of the river, surrounded by stunning landscapes and architectures. The scenic area also offers boat rides, hiking trails, and cable car rides for a panoramic view of the river and the surrounding areas.

2. Bingling Temple Grottoes

The Bingling Temple Grottoes, located about 80 kilometers from Lanzhou, features a stunning array of statues, paintings, and artworks carved into the cavernous limestone cliffs. Dating back to the Tang and Song Dynasties, the grottoes house over 183 caves with 776 stone statues and 1,076 clay statues.

3. Gansu Provincial Museum

The Gansu Provincial Museum houses an extensive collection of art, cultural relics, and historical artifacts dating back to the prehistoric era. It is one of the most significant museums in China, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Gansu Province.

4. Zhongshan Bridge

Built during the Qing Dynasty, the Zhongshan Bridge is an iconic symbol of Lanzhou City. The bridge offers a stunning nighttime view of the Yellow River, surrounded by the city's skyline.

5. Lanzhou Waterwheel Garden

The Lanzhou Waterwheel Garden offers visitors a unique glimpse into the traditional irrigation system of ancient China. The garden features over 30 waterwheels, which were used to irrigate crops along the Yellow River. Visitors can also witness the demonstrations of how the waterwheels work.

6. Five Springs Park

The Five Springs Park is a serene park located in Lanzhou City, featuring five springs that flow from different locations within the park. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful stroll around the park, savoring the natural scenery of the springs and trees.

7. White Pagoda Mountain

The White Pagoda Mountain, located in the center of Lanzhou City, is a sacred site for both Buddhism and Taoism. The mountain features a vast complex of temples, pagodas, and shrines, offering visitors a unique cultural and religious experience.

In conclusion, Lanzhou is a fascinating tourist destination with an abundance of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Lanzhou has something to offer everyone.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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