Lanzhou isn't the most auspicious welcome to the Silk Road, its cultural relics hidden behind a thriving modernity and industrial center. The attractions can be toured in one day and there's less in the way of unique culture than further west. Start in the Gansu Provincial Museum for an overview of the region, then admire the Lanzhou Xiguan Mosque, a piece of Islamic history that arrived over 800 years ago. The White Pagoda Temple dates from Yuan times while the Tianfusha Palace and Solemn Temple have a poignant history from the 7th century. Out of town, but the highlight of Lanzhou, are the Buddhist grottoes of Bingling Si. Sculpted Buddhas are everywhere and they're accessed by boat across a reservoir.
