01Historic Walk
Gansu Provincial Museum
甘肃省博物馆
All Ages
Admission
Free entry; real-name reservation recommended
Typical Visit
2-3 hours
Quick Facts
Ticket
Free entry
Hours
Open public riverside space; visit in daylight or early evening
Transport
Xiaoxihu (小西湖), Line 1; walk to South Binhe Middle Road
Duration
20-40 minutes
Best Time
Year-round; morning and late afternoon are most comfortable
Visitors
All ages
How to Visit
1
Walk into the sculpture area from South Binhe Middle Road
Set your destination to Mother Yellow River Statue. View the full composition from a short distance first, then approach along the pedestrian path. Morning or late afternoon is the most comfortable time.
Tip:This is an open public-art site and normal visits are free. At midday, strong sunlight, water reflection, and limited shade make both photos and walking less comfortable.
2
View the work in the order of full composition, side profile, then base
Start with the mother-and-child composition, move to the side to see its outline, then look closely at the wave and fish patterns on the base. Allow about 20-40 minutes.
Tip:The front is usually the busiest photo position. Take the essential full view first, then use the side angle to reduce waiting time and avoid a photo filled with other visitors.
3
Continue briefly along the riverbank before leaving
After viewing the sculpture, walk a short distance on the riverside path, then return to South Binhe Middle Road for transport or your next city stop.
Tip:Nearby parking and short-stop space are limited, so it is usually quicker to arrive from the main road and walk in. Keep children away from unprotected water edges.
Highlights
- Completed in 1986, this public sculpture is one of Lanzhou's most recognisable city landmarks.
- Its mother-and-child composition represents the Yellow River as a source of Chinese civilisation.
- Wave and fish patterns on the base connect the work with Yellow River imagery and Gansu painted-pottery culture.
- Facing the Yellow River, it fits naturally into a riverside walk.
- It is a short, open-air stop for understanding a city symbol and taking photos.
Insider Tips
✦Bring sun protection and water on clear days; the riverbank can feel hotter than nearby streets.
✦Morning is generally quieter; late afternoon is better for walking, but photo positions may require patience.
✦Do not climb on the sculpture or base, or cross planted areas and barriers for photos.
✦Taxis and ride-hailing cars are easier to use from the main road, followed by a short walk in.
✦Allow 20-40 minutes for the sculpture alone, or add 30-60 minutes for a riverside walk.
More Lanzhou Attractions
02City Guide
Zhongshan Bridge
中山桥
All Ages
Admission
Free entry
Typical Visit
30-60 minutes
03City Guide
White Pagoda Mountain Park
白塔山公园
All Ages
Admission
Free entry to the park; paid on-site services may be separate
Typical Visit
1.5-2 hours
04City Guide
Lanzhou Waterwheel Expo Park
兰州水车博览园
All Ages
Admission
Free entry
Typical Visit
45-90 minutes
05City Guide
Yellow River Building
黄河楼
All Ages
Admission
Adult admission is CNY 30; ticket-and-show packages are sold separately.
Typical Visit
1.5-2 hours
06City Guide
Lanzhou Yellow River Cruise
兰州黄河游轮
All Ages
Admission
Adult ticket is CNY 100; eligible concession ticket is CNY 50. Children 1.2 m and under are free.
Typical Visit
40-50 minutes on the water; allow extra time for boarding