Map of Tianshui, China

Tianshui, located in the Gansu province of China, is a city that beautifully blends ancient history with modern development. Known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes, Tianshui offers a unique glimpse into China's past while embracing the future.

The city is a hub for cultural tourism, attracting visitors with its historical sites and vibrant local traditions. Tianshui's economy is supported by agriculture, manufacturing, and increasingly, tourism, as more people discover its historical and cultural treasures.

Pollution
89.66
About this index

History and Culture

Tianshui's history dates back over 2,000 years, making it one of the oldest cities in China. It played a significant role during the Qin and Han dynasties, serving as a strategic military and trade location. The city is renowned for its connection to the ancient Silk Road, which facilitated cultural and economic exchanges between the East and West.

Culturally, Tianshui is famous for the Maiji Mountain Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site. These grottoes are a testament to the city's Buddhist heritage, featuring thousands of statues and murals carved into the cliffs. The city also hosts the annual Tianshui Fuxi Culture and Tourism Festival, celebrating the legendary ancestor Fuxi, who is said to have created humanity according to Chinese mythology.

Tianshui's diverse population includes Han Chinese and various ethnic minorities, each contributing to the city's rich cultural tapestry. Traditional crafts, music, and dance are integral to local life, with many festivals showcasing these vibrant cultural expressions.

Things to do in Tianshui

Visitors to Tianshui can explore the Maiji Mountain Grottoes, where they can marvel at the intricate carvings and serene natural surroundings. The grottoes are a must-see for anyone interested in history and art.

The city is also home to the Dadiwan Ruins, an archaeological site that offers insights into ancient Chinese civilization. Here, visitors can learn about the Neolithic cultures that once thrived in the region.

For those interested in local culture, the Tianshui Fuxi Culture and Tourism Festival is an excellent opportunity to experience traditional music, dance, and crafts. The festival is a vibrant celebration of the city's heritage and attracts visitors from across China and beyond.

Nature enthusiasts will enjoy the scenic beauty of the Tianshui countryside, with its lush hills and clear rivers providing a perfect backdrop for hiking and outdoor activities.

Quality of Life Rankings

The Quality of Life Rankings for China reflect how livable a city in China is. It considers factors like purchasing power, pollution, housing affordability, cost of living, safety, healthcare, commute times, and climate. A higher index score means a better quality of life.

Best to WorstUpdated: Jan, 2025

Weather in Tianshui

Tianshui, China experiences a temperate continental climate characterized by distinct seasons with cold, dry winters and warm, humid summers. The city receives an average annual precipitation of approximately 22 inches (560 mm), with July being the wettest month, averaging 4.7 inches (120 mm) of rainfall.

Seasonal Breakdown
  • Spring (March to May) - Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 54°F (12°C) in March to 73°F (23°C) in May. Rainfall increases during this period, with May receiving the most precipitation, averaging 2.8 inches (70 mm).
  • Summer (June to August) - Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 54°F (12°C) in March to 73°F (23°C) in May. Rainfall increases during this period, with May receiving the most precipitation, averaging 2.8 inches (70 mm).
  • Autumn (September to November) - Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 54°F (12°C) in March to 73°F (23°C) in May. Rainfall increases during this period, with May receiving the most precipitation, averaging 2.8 inches (70 mm).
  • Winter (December to February) - Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 54°F (12°C) in March to 73°F (23°C) in May. Rainfall increases during this period, with May receiving the most precipitation, averaging 2.8 inches (70 mm).
Notable Weather Events
  • Occasional summer thunderstorms, particularly in July.
  • Rare winter snowfalls, typically light and short-lived.
  • Potential for spring dust storms due to dry conditions.
Overall, Tianshui's climate offers a mix of warm, humid summers and cold, dry winters, with moderate rainfall distributed throughout the year.

Tianshui's Political Climate

Communist Party of China

Tianshui, located in the Gansu province of China, is a city with a rich historical and cultural heritage that influences its political climate. As part of China, Tianshui operates under the centralized political system of the People's Republic of China, which is governed by the Communist Party of China (CPC). The city's political landscape is characterized by its alignment with national policies and directives set forth by the central government.

Historically, Tianshui has been a significant location due to its position along the ancient Silk Road, which has shaped its cultural and economic development. The current political leadership in Tianshui is focused on economic development, infrastructure improvement, and social stability, aligning with the broader goals of the CPC. Key political issues in the city include economic modernization, rural development, and environmental sustainability.

Tianshui has implemented several progressive policies, particularly in the areas of environmental protection and urban development. The city has been part of initiatives to improve air quality and manage water resources effectively, reflecting China's national emphasis on sustainability. These efforts are crucial as Tianshui seeks to balance rapid development with environmental conservation.

The political climate in Tianshui significantly influences its economic and social decisions. The city's alignment with national policies ensures that it benefits from central government support in terms of funding and development projects. Recent trends in Tianshui include a focus on digital infrastructure and smart city initiatives, which are part of China's broader technological advancement goals.

Political Quick Facts
Voter Turnout - N/A (as local elections are not held in the same manner as democratic countries)
City Governance - Municipal government under the Communist Party of China
Composition - Entirely composed of members from the Communist Party of China
Recent Political Changes - Increased focus on digital infrastructure and smart city initiatives
Engagement - Moderate, with civic activities often organized through government channels
Political Scorecard - High in governance efficiency, aligned with national policies
Legislative Priorities - Economic modernization, Environmental sustainability, Rural development
Public Opinion - Generally supportive of national policies, with a focus on economic growth and stability
Notable Political Figures
  • Li Hongzhong - A senior official in the Communist Party known for his work in economic development.
  • Wang Yaping - A local leader involved in environmental initiatives and urban planning.
  • Zhang Wei - An influential figure in promoting cultural heritage and tourism in Tianshui.
Tianshui

"Key Takeaways"

Tianshui is a city with over 2,000 years of history, playing a crucial role in ancient Chinese dynasties and the Silk Road.

The Maiji Mountain Grottoes and Dadiwan Ruins are key historical and cultural attractions, drawing tourists from around the world.

The Tianshui Fuxi Culture and Tourism Festival highlights the city's rich cultural heritage, offering a vibrant display of traditional arts and crafts.