A view of terraced fields in Zhuanglang county, Pingliang. [Photo/Zhuanglang government website]

Zhuanglang county is located in central-eastern Gansu province on the western foothills of the Liupan Mountains. The county administers 18 towns, one urban community and 293 administrative villages, covering a total area of 1,553 square kilometers and supporting a permanent population of 335,700.

Zhuanglang is recognized as one of the cradles of the Chinese nation and an important stop along the ancient Silk Road. With a long history and rich cultural heritage, the county has more than 400 cultural sites associated with the Yangshao, Qijia and Siwa cultures, along with more than 6,800 cultural relics dating from different historical periods.

The county is known for its natural landscapes and greenery. Forested land accounts for about one-sixth of its total area, with plentiful vegetation, dense wooded areas and good air quality, earning it a reputation as a natural "oxygen bar".

The Guanshan scenic area covers more than 200 square kilometers and features grasslands, alpine lakes, waterfalls, peaks, ancient temples and grottoes, integrating leisure, tourism, vacation and wellness experiences.

Zhuanglang also has a diverse range of agricultural and specialty products, as well as long-standing handicraft traditions. Mawei Hebao embroidery and Zhuanglang Gao Tai folk performance are included in China’s national intangible cultural heritage list.