An aerial view of Kangjiagou village in Lingtai county, where rural tourism has flourished in recent years. [Photo/Lingtai government website]

After exploring towering mountains, mighty rivers and vast oceans, travelers looking for a slower rhythm may find an unexpected retreat in Lingtai county, Pingliang, Gansu province.

With a history spanning thousands of years, the county boasts a rich cultural heritage. Its museum houses the largest collection of cultural relics among grassroots museums in Gansu province. 

An underground cave-style guesthouse in Ganhuaishu village, Lingtai county. [Photo/Lingtai government website]

Lingtai is also home to a wealth of natural and cultural attractions, including sites associated with renowned historical figures such as Huangfu Mi and Niu Sengru. Visitors can also experience intangible cultural heritage here, from suona (double-reed instrument) music to traditional Chinese medicine, and savor local specialties such as crispy fried rice cakes.

Traditional Chinese medicine sachets are displayed as cultural tourism souvenirs. [Photo/Lingtai government website]

In recent years, improvements in rural infrastructure and living environments have transformed villages across the county. Building on these changes, Lingtai has developed four signature rural tourism routes focusing on cultural heritage, wellness, fruit-picking experiences and revolutionary history. Seven key tourism villages have also been established, creating an interconnected rural tourism network.