Baiyin is located in the central part of Gansu Province, in the upper reaches of the Yellow River. It has a temperate continental climate with four distinct seasons, abundant sunshine, and a large temperature difference between day and night. The annual average temperature is about 8°C, and the annual precipitation is less than 300 mm, making it dry and arid.
Baiyin got its name from mining and was an important non-ferrous metal industrial base in New China. Mining activities date back to the Han Dynasty, and it was a major official mining site in the Ming Dynasty. In the 1950s, the discovery and development of large copper deposits made it known as the 'Copper City,' hailed as the 'Cradle of China's Non-Ferrous Metal Industry.'
Baiyin has a diverse culture, blending Silk Road culture, Yellow River culture, and red revolutionary culture. Local specialties include Jingyuan lamb, Huining coarse grain noodles, and Jingtai liangpi, with a preference for sour and spicy flavors. Folk arts such as paper-cutting and shadow puppetry are unique.
Today, Baiyin is transforming from a resource-based city into an eco-friendly and livable city, developing a circular economy and building the Baiyin High-tech Industrial Development Zone. Tourist attractions like the Yellow River Stone Forest and Baiyin Mine Park draw visitors, and the city's appearance has been renewed.
The best time to visit 白银 is Spring and Autumn (April-May, September-October).
Spring (April-May) sees rising temperatures and blooming flowers, ideal for outdoor hiking and visiting the Yellow River Stone Forest.
Autumn (September-October) is crisp and pleasant, the best time to view the Yellow River Stone Forest and ancient city ruins.
Summer (June-August) is hot but cool by the Yellow River, offering rafting; winter is cold but offers snow views and ice festivals.
Geological exploration teams discovered a large copper mine in the Baiyin area, marking the beginning of large-scale mining development.
Approved by the State Council, Baiyin City was officially established as a prefecture-level city.
Baiyin was listed as a resource-exhausted city by the State Council, initiating transformation development.
Recommended places to visit
National Geopark, 4A scenic area, famous for spectacular stone forest landscapes and Yellow River canyon views. Visitors can raft on sheepskin rafts.
One of the first national mine parks in China, showcasing Baiyin's mining history with open-pit mines and mining relics.
Explore rich intangible cultural heritage and traditional crafts
A traditional folk art of Baiyin, with bold and rugged style, themes reflecting folk life. Listed in Gansu Provincial Intangible Cultural Heritage.
A traditional local drama in Huining, with exquisite puppet making and unique singing style. Provincial intangible cultural heritage.
Must-know transportation for exploring the city
Located northwest of Baiyin city, with flights to Beijing, Shanghai, Xi'an, etc. About 30 km from the city center.
Varies by route
Located in Baiyin District, served by the Zhongwei-Lanzhou high-speed railway, providing direct access to Lanzhou, Zhongwei, Xi'an, etc.
Second class about 50 yuan to Lanzhou
The bus network covers main urban areas and attractions. Fare 1-2 yuan, can use bus card or mobile payment.
1-2 yuan
Taste the most authentic and popular local specialties
Made from high-quality lamb in Jingyuan County, tender and free of gamey smell, mainly braised or stewed. It is the top dish in Baiyin.
Made from buckwheat, naked oats, etc., with a chewy texture, served with sour soup or minced meat sauce. Healthy and delicious.
A cave temple built in the Northern Wei Dynasty, featuring cave statues and murals, a Buddhist cultural site.
Memorial site of the meeting of the three main forces of the Red Army, a national key cultural relic protection unit and classic red tourism scenic spot.
Similar to the Yellow River Stone Forest but located in Jingtai County, featuring Yellow River canyon and stone forest landscapes, including ancient villages like Longwan.
Similar to cold noodles but thicker, served with special vinegar sauce and chili oil. Sour and spicy, refreshing.
Boiled pork sliced and braised with pickled vegetables and vermicelli, sour and appetizing. A home-style dish.
A sweet porridge made from peas, red dates, and sugar, with a smooth texture and rich nutrition. A traditional snack in Baiyin.