Holiday in Qingyang

About Qingyang

Qingyang is a district city in the east of Gansu Province and is considered one of the cradles of Chinese civilization. The region is closely associated with the Zhou Dynasty (1046–256 BC), which, as the longest dynasty in Chinese history, laid the foundations for philosophy, literature, and statecraft. Zhougong (Duke of Zhou), one of the most influential thinkers in early Chinese history, is said to have lived here. The landscape is characterized by the Loess Plateau — a unique geological formation of wind-blown sediments that can be up to 200 meters thick. The rugged terrain with its deep gorges, caves, and terraced fields offers breathtaking views, especially at sunset when the loess glows golden. The caves of Bei Shiku Si (North Stone Caves) are among the most significant Buddhist cave sanctuaries in Gansu. The rock-carved statues and murals date back to the Sui, Tang, and Song Dynasties and illustrate the spread of Buddhism along the Silk Road. Qingyang is famous for its traditional folk art: The Qingyang paper-cutting (Jianzhi) is UNESCO intangible cultural heritage, and the Qingyang pillow embroidery (Xiangbao) and shadow play tradition are among the most vibrant forms of folk art in China. The annual Xiangbao Festival attracts folk art enthusiasts from all over the country.