Hekou Ancient Town
河口古镇
A small ancient ferry town where the Yellow River meets the Zhuanglang River. It was once an important crossing on the Silk Road and the Yellow River shipping route, and today has restored old streets and courtyard houses.
Hekou lies at the western end of Xigu District in Lanzhou, where the Yellow River meets the Zhuanglang River. In ancient times it was an important ferry crossing and post station on the Yellow River, and the Silk Road crossed the river here on its way west. The old town has preserved and restored old residences such as the Zhang Family Courtyard, an old opera stage, and old streets, and a footpath along the river offers views of the water. Visitor numbers are low and the setting is quiet, which makes it good for travellers who want to see the old Lanzhou landscape. Most areas are free, though some courtyards charge admission, subject to the situation on site. It is about 40 kilometres from the city centre. Take a bus heading from Lanzhou to Hekou, or a taxi. The coordinates given are for the town government seat in Hekou.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Lanzhou Yellow River Tower
- Gansu Jiandu (Bamboo and Wooden Slips) Museum
- Gansu Provincial Museum
- Yellow River Mother Statue
- Jinchengguan Cultural Expo Park
- Baita (White Pagoda) Mountain Park
- Zhongshan Bridge (Yellow River Iron Bridge)
- Xiguan Mosque