| Lanzhou,
named Jincheng (Gold City) in ancient times, has a history of more
than two thousand years. It is now the capital of Gansu province.
Greater Lanzhou has a total area of about 14, 000 square
kilometers and includes three counties and five districts under
its jurisdiction with a population of 2.43 million. Lanzhou proper
has about 220 square kilometers and a population of about 0. 6
millon. There are more than 30 ethnic groups in Lanzhou. Lanzhou
is located on the loess plateau with an average,elevation of 1520
meters. The Yellow River is flowing through the whole city. Most
parts of the area are semi-dry climate in the temperate zone. It
has an average annual temperature of 8.9 degree Celsius, and an
average annual precipitation of 331mm. Lanzhou abounds in coal.
And also, there is gold, silver, zine, nickel, manganese, clay and
dolomite, etc. The resource of waterpower is abundant too. Amongst
its major industries, especially the oil refinery, chemical,
machinary and metallurgical industry, are in the first place in
China. In agriculture, there is spring wheat, vegetables, beans,
oil-boiling, melon, tobacco, drug and so on. Lanzhou is the
important output place of roses and lilieLanzhou. The reserve of
rose-oil is in the first place. It can be about 80% of Chinese
output. Lanzhou's fruits are famous too.
In
Lanzhou, the railway and highway are very convenient. The airplane
here can take you to more than 20 cities all over the country.
The
climate of Lanzhou is cold. And there are so many places of
interest. Wuquan Mountain, Baita Mountain and Xinglong Mountain
are the most famous summer resort places in China. Lutusi ancient
government is the most complete ancient palace building that has
survived through China's long history.
The
traditional specialties are melon seed, peach, watermelon, pears,
roses and lilies.
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