Wildlife adds vigor to Shandan Horse Ranch in the city of Zhangye, Northwest China's Gansu province. The city has been a draw for tourists thanks to its natural landscape, historical sites and ethnic cultures.[Photo By Pei Mingxing/China Daily]

Northwest China's Zhangye revives its ancient culture through tourism and ethnic development

With its long history, vibrant local culture and stunning natural landscapes, the city of Zhangye in northwestern Gansu province is attracting more tourists each year.

"Today's Zhangye welcomes visitors as a link of the New Eurasian Land Bridge," said Mao Shengwu, Party chief of the city.

Blessed with numerous streams, abundant sunlight and fertile soil over an area of 42,000 square kilometers, Zhangye's popularity as a tourist destination is rising in the northwest thanks to its rich historical sites, glorious past and beautiful natural scenery, he said.

Ancient Zhangye, originally called Ganzhou, was an important commercial hub along the ancient Silk Road, and one of four counties in the Hexi Corridor. It was the political, economic, cultural and diplomatic center of Northwest China in each dynasty, continuing to attract merchants from the West to trade.

The city's current wealth of historical sites includes the Wooden Tower of the Sui Dynasty (AD 581-618), Danxia National Geological Park, Giant Buddha Temple in Shandan and Shandan Horse Ranch.