The International Mediatour in Lanzhou demonstrated how the Chinese city is transforming its unique geological landscape into a comprehensive tourist destination that combines natural heritage, Silk Road history, and modern cultural experiences.
The International Mediatour in Lanzhou demonstrated how the Chinese city is transforming its unique geological landscape into a comprehensive tourist destination that combines natural heritage, Silk Road history, and modern cultural experiences.
Lanzhou is implementing a tourism model that integrates geological heritage, historical heritage, and contemporary cultural attractions. One of the key projects is the Inkai Dansi Landscape Park, located about 13 kilometers from the city center. During the 'Second International Communication Week of Lanzhou – Lanzhou Mediatour,' journalists, bloggers, and photographers from 23 countries across six continents visited the park.
Dansi is a unique geological landscape formed over millions of years by natural processes. Its vibrant rock formations, isolated peaks, deep valleys, and narrow gorges create dramatic landscapes that change depending on the lighting and weather conditions. After rain, the landscape takes on a different appearance: the colors of the rocks become softer, and the mountains are partially covered with clouds and mist. This constantly changing picture is one of the distinguishing features of Dansi and attracts visitors and visual content creators.
Photojournalist Jian Chenxin from the Beijing bureau of the news agency Brasil de Fato stated that the weather allowed him to see the landscape from a new perspective. He noted: 'Today I truly understood why these mountains are called 'watercolor Dansi'. '
Editor Kristina Borodavko of Dialog News also emphasized the beauty of the landscape, noting: 'After the rain, the colors of Dansi became even more vivid, and the mountains shrouded in clouds and mist looked like scenes from a movie. It is one of the most unusual geological landscapes I have ever seen.'
The Inkai Dansi Landscape Park is a flagship cultural and tourism project of Gansu Province and a priority development initiative for Lanzhou. It is developing as a multifunctional area combining geological and nature tourism with educational programs, rural tourism, recreation, and entertainment. The planned area is 400 square kilometers, with the main tourism zone of the first phase covering 20 square kilometers.
The park began trial operation in May 2021 and received the national Chinese AAAA tourist site designation in December 2023. Its infrastructure includes seven observation decks, a 3.5-kilometer walking trail, the Ancient Silk Road Geological Museum, an educational center, cultural venues, camping, a modular hotel, restaurants, and recreation areas. This infrastructure reflects a modern approach to ecotourism, complementing sightseeing with educational, cultural, and leisure experiences.
A key element of the park's tourism offering is the live performance 'Danci Dancing Horses,' which demonstrates how historical heritage can be adapted into a modern cultural attraction. The show is dedicated to the history of the region during the Western Han Dynasty, when the Hexi Corridor played an important role on the Silk Road. It is based on the story of the famous military commander Huo Qubing.
The large-scale show combines equestrian performances, choreography, theatrical elements, music, and modern lighting technology, with dozens of horses performing under the direction of professional riders. For participants of the international mediatour, this performance expanded their knowledge of the region's history. Borodavko noted: 'Just a few minutes ago we were admiring the magnificent natural landscape, and now it has transformed into an epic historical tale. The sound of galloping horses, the rhythm of drums, and the skill of the riders create unforgettable impressions.'
Another international journalist also commented on how the performance changed the perception of the landscape: 'Just now Dansi was a static picture. Now it has come alive.'
The combination of geological landscapes and historical performances has become one of the defining features of Lanzhou's tourism model. Dansi represents millions of years of geological history, while the equestrian performance transports visitors to the era of the Silk Road. Together, they offer a unified experience combining geology, history, and culture. This approach aligns with global tourism trends where immersive experiences that provide visitors with both emotional engagement and educational content are increasingly valued.
For Lanzhou, this strategy is particularly important because the city possesses extensive natural and historical resources. The goal is not only to preserve this heritage but also to ensure its accessibility to local and foreign guests through modern infrastructure.
The participation of journalists, bloggers, and photographers from 23 countries should contribute to the international promotion of Lanzhou as a tourist destination. As digital media becomes increasingly influential, visual storytelling and personal travel experiences play an increasing role in shaping the international perception of destinations. Dansi has great potential for this type of promotion because its appearance changes throughout the day, in different seasons, and under various weather conditions, creating diverse opportunities for photography and videography.
International media initiatives also present Lanzhou to foreign audiences through the experiences of journalists and content creators, beyond official promotional materials.
Historically, Lanzhou was an important node on the ancient Silk Road. Today, the city is giving new meaning to this heritage through the development of its modern tourism economy. Around the natural and historical attractions, Lanzhou is creating integrated tourism infrastructure, including educational routes, museums, cultural performances, dining spots, recreation areas, and active leisure. As a result, individual attractions become part of a broader tourist experience rather than standalone objects.
According to organizers, this integrated approach supports both the preservation of cultural and natural heritage and the economic development of the region by attracting a larger number of international visitors. The Lanzhou model demonstrates how ancient landscapes and Silk Road history can serve as the foundation for modern tourism. The Dansi landscape showcases the region's geological heritage, the equestrian performance brings the history of the Hexi Corridor to life, and modern infrastructure connects these elements into a single experience for visitors. Together, they present a new image of Lanzhou as a city that preserves its heritage by integrating it into modern international tourism.
Winter in South Africa is the harvest season in the main citrus-growing regions. In fertile river valleys and sun-drenched plains, citrus orchards abound with oranges, lemons, mandarins, and grapefruit, ready for both the local market and export abroad.
Although South Africa is a global leader in citrus exports, these areas offer much more than just commercial agriculture. They invite travelers to slow down, taste fruits picked straight from the tree, visit charming farm stalls, and meet communities that have been growing citrus for generations.
There are several outstanding places to follow this South African citrus route, whether it is a short weekend trip or a longer road trip.
Since the name includes 'citrus,' Citrusdal is a natural starting point for this journey. Located along the Olifants River and framed by the rugged Cederberg Mountains, this town is surrounded by extensive citrus plantations producing oranges, lemons, grapefruits, and sweet citrus.
A drive along the N7 highway towards Clanwilliam is particularly scenic in winter, as rows of fruit-laden trees stretch toward the mountains. Farm stalls sell fresh produce, homemade marmalades, citrus syrups, and baked goods, while local cafes often feature seasonal ingredients on their menus.
In addition to the orchards, visitors can enjoy natural hot springs, hike in the nearby Cederberg wilderness, or visit a local winery to taste wines that pair wonderfully with citrus-inspired cuisine.
Just north of Citrusdal lies Clanwilliam, a historic town most famous for its Rooibos tea, but it also plays an important role in the citrus industry of the Western Cape. Here, citrus groves spread across fertile valleys, with the dramatic Cederberg serving as an unforgettable backdrop.
Late winter and early spring are especially beautiful when citrus blossoms fill the air before the harvest begins. If you visit the town during flowering, you will also be delighted by the magnificent wildflowers in the surrounding landscape. The town's tranquil atmosphere makes it an ideal overnight stop, allowing tourists to explore both citrus farms and the region's rich cultural heritage.
Located through Addo, Kirkwood, and surrounding agricultural communities, Sandies Valley is one of South Africa's largest citrus-producing regions. The warm climate supports the production of exceptional lemons, oranges, and mandarins that are shipped worldwide.
One of the valley's main attractions is its proximity to the Addo Elephant National Park. You could spend the morning visiting farm stalls and the afternoon watching herds of elephants at a watering hole. The Sandies River itself also offers opportunities for boating, canoeing, and birdwatching, making it one of the country's most diverse agricultural destinations.
Deep away from Jeffrey's Bay, the fertile Gamtoos Valley has long been an agricultural backbone of the Eastern Cape. Citrus orchards thrive alongside vegetable farms and other fruit crops, creating a mosaic of green fields and colorful produce.
Although Patensie is quieter than some of South Africa's more famous agricultural destinations, it offers travelers an authentic glimpse into rural life. Local farm stalls offer seasonal fruits, homemade preserves, and baked goods, making it an excellent stop for those exploring the eastern parts of the Garden Route.
The Letsele Valley is in the heart of Limpopo's citrus industry, annually producing huge volumes of oranges, grapefruits, and sweet citrus. Warm temperatures, abundant sunshine, and fertile soils create ideal growing conditions, with the rising escarpment providing an impressive backdrop.
Nearby Hodspruit is a great place for visitors who want to combine farm experiences with wildlife adventures. After exploring the citrus regions, it is easy to reach private game reserves, the Panorama Route, or Kruger National Park. The combination of agriculture and safari makes this one of the most memorable destinations for road trips in the country.
The Groblersdal and Marble Hall region, irrigated by the Loskop Dam, is another important citrus-producing area that often goes unnoticed. Quiet country roads wind through productive orchards where agriculture has shaped the local economy for decades.
While tourism here remains subdued, that is part of the area's appeal. Travelers can enjoy peaceful drives, visit small town cafes, and buy fresh seasonal produce directly from local businesses. It is a wonderful place for those who want to explore South Africa beyond the popular tourist trails.
Lowveld's warm, arid climate has made the Crocodile River Valley one of South Africa's most productive citrus regions. Around Mbombele, orchards flourish with oranges, lemons, and mandarins, many destined for export.
For travelers heading to Kruger National Park, this region offers a delightful introduction to the Lowveld. Farm stalls offer freshly squeezed juice, local honey, preserves, and fruit picked just hours ago. Combined with mountain passes, scenic viewpoints, and wildlife experiences, this road trip satisfies both adventure lovers and foodies.
The best time to travel the South African citrus route is from May to October, when the orchards are full of fruit and the harvest is in full swing. During this time, farm stalls are most stocked, and visitors can feel the excitement of the harvest season.
If you prefer colorful blossoms over ripe fruit, plan your trip for August or September. In early spring, fragrant white flowers cover the orchards and fill entire valleys with their sweet scent.
A few simple tips will help you get the most out of your trip: try to buy produce directly at roadside farm stalls to support local producers. Bring a cooler bag to take fresh fruit home. Combine citrus regions with nearby attractions such as the Cederberg, Addo Elephant National Park, Kruger National Park, or the Panorama Route. Keep an eye out for seasonal festivals and local harvest markets. Before entering plantations, ask for permission, as most are active farms and not open to the public.
The South African citrus route offers a fresh perspective on some of the country's most beautiful rural landscapes. Behind the rows of orange trees lies the history of family farms, hardworking communities, and regions whose identity is shaped by the fruits they grow.
Whether you are drinking freshly squeezed juice under the Cederberg mountains, buying a bag of sweet mandarins in the Eastern Cape, or discovering the subtropical beauty of the Lowveld, following the citrus route is a flavorful way to experience South Africa.
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