Complete Travel Guide to Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou, China

Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture, formerly known as Hezhou (河州) and Baohan (枹罕), is located in Gansu Province, south of the provincial capital Lanzhou, bordering Qinghai to the west. It is an autonomous prefecture for the Muslim Hui people, a large Chinese ethnic group. It also includes two autonomous counties for other Muslim groups, namely Bonan, Dongxiang and Salar. Positioned at coordinates 35.66597°N, 103.2408°E, Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou occupies a geographically significant location that has influenced its historical development and contemporary importance. The precise geographic coordinates of Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou place it within a region characterized by diverse landscapes and strategic transportation routes that have shaped settlement patterns for centuries. Home to 2109750 residents, Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou maintains a community scale that balances urban amenities with traditional social structures and cultural continuity. The population of Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou represents a diverse community that has adapted to changing circumstances while preserving essential cultural traditions and local knowledge. Community life in Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou reflects the resilience and adaptability that characterize populations throughout China, demonstrating successful integration of traditional values with contemporary opportunities. Within the broader context of Gansu province, Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou contributes to the cultural and economic diversity that defines China’s regional character. The role of Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou in regional development extends beyond its municipal boundaries, encompassing influences on transportation networks, economic activities, and cultural preservation efforts. Visitors to Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou discover a destination that embodies the authentic character of China while offering unique local perspectives and experiences unavailable in more commercialized locations.

Historical Heritage of Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou

History and culture In the past, Linxia City was called Hezhou and the surrounding area was known as He Prefecture Part of a series on Islam in China History By dynasty * Tang * Song * Yuan * Ming * Qing Rebellions and revolts * Jahriyya revolt * Panthay Rebellion (1856–1873) * First Dungan Revolt (1862–1877) * Second Dungan Revolt (1895–1896) * Afaqi Khoja revolts Post-dynastic China * 1912–present * Second Sino-Japanese War * Concerns and controversies at the 2022 Winter Olympics * Islamophobia * Migration to Xinjiang * Persecution of Uyghurs in China * Xinjiang internment camps Major figures * Afaq Khoja * Du Wenxiu * Hu Dahai * Hu Songshan * Kasim Tuet * Liu Zhi * Ma Anliang * Ma Bufang * Ma Buqing * Ma Fuxiang * Ma Gui * Ma Hualong * Ma Laichi * Ma Mingxin * Ma Qixi * Ma Wanfu * Ma Yize * Ma Zhu * Shams al-Din * Su fei-erh * Yeheidie’erding * Yusuf Ma Dexin * Wang Daiyu * Zhang Chengzhi * Zheng He Culture * Architecture * Cuisine (Uyghur) * Han Kitab * Mosques * Shrines * Sini script * Sufi orders * Uyghurs * Uyghur Arabic * Xiao’erjing * Islamic Association of China * Cities * Regions * Hong Kong * Kashgar * Linxia * Macau * Ningxia * Sichuan * Xinjiang * Xunhua Groups * Ahmadis * Bonans * Dongxiang * Hui * Ili Turks * Kazakhs * Kyrgyz * Salar * Tajiks * Tatars * Tibetans * Utsuls * Uyghurs * Uzbeks Islam portal • China portal * v * t * e #The Hui Minorities War During the Hui Minorities’ War in the 1860s He Prefecture was a scene of fierce fighting between the Muslim (Hui, Dongxiang and Salar, in modern terms) rebels on one side and the Han Chinese militias and, later, government troops, on the other side.

From 1862 to 1872, Hezhou City (today’s Linxia City) was the stronghold of the Muslim (mostly Hui) rebels led by the Khufiyya imam Ma Zhan’ao and his associates Ma Haiyan and Ma Qianling The Han Chinese’s resistance to the rebellion throughout the northern and eastern parts of the then Hezhou Prefecture (today’s Yongjing County and Dongxiang County of Linxia Prefecture and Lintao County of Dingxi City) was headed by the Kong family, one of whose main home villages was Dachuan in today’s Yongjing County (within 6 km or 3.

7 mi from the county seat, Liujiaxia Town) The conflict was further complicated by the fact that some members of the Kong clan had, in fact, intermarried with the Hui people Large number of people lost their lives on both sides of the conflict, in particular during the rebels’ attacks on Kong clan’s villages around Dachuan 1864.

Two Hui book vendors at a Linxia City market, wearing traditional eyeglasses After the Qing general Zuo Zongtang had finally destroyed the rebels farther east, in Shaanxi and Ningxia, he tried to take Hezhou in late 1872, but his troops were badl.

The historical trajectory of Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou demonstrates the complex interplay between local agency and external influences that has characterized regional development throughout successive historical periods. Understanding this historical context provides essential background for appreciating the depth and authenticity of contemporary cultural expressions.

Historical preservation efforts in Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou reflect community commitment to maintaining connections with ancestral heritage while adapting to contemporary circumstances. These preservation activities create opportunities for visitors to experience authentic historical environments and traditional practices.

The legacy of historical development in Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou remains visible in architectural styles, urban planning patterns, cultural traditions, and social organizations that provide continuity between past and present while supporting future community development.

Geographic Environment and Natural Setting

Geography and climate Linxia Prefecture is located in southwestern central Gansu. It is just south of Lanzhou and borders Qinghai Province in the west, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in the south and the Dingxi prefecture-level city in the east. The terrain is highlands, mountains and _loess_ hills. The mountainous terrain surrounding Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou creates unique microclimates and provides natural resources that have sustained local communities throughout history. Elevation averages 2000 meters above sea-level. The Yellow River, which gets its muddy yellow color from the loess, runs through the northwestern part of the prefecture. Water resources have been fundamental to the development of Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou, supporting agriculture, transportation, and industrial activities. Dammed at Liujiaxia (Yongjing County), it forms the large Liujiaxia Reservoir in the north-central part of the county. There is also a smaller Yanguoxia Dam (盐锅峡水电站; _Yánguōxiá Shuǐdiànzhàn_) further downstream, also within Yongjing County. The Yellow River’s main tributaries within the prefecture are the Daxia River and the Tao River. Water resources have been fundamental to the development of Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou, supporting agriculture, transportation, and industrial activities. They flow from the neighboring Gannan Prefecture and fall into the Liujiaxia Reservoir from the southeast. The Tao River also serves as the border with the Dingxi prefecture-level city over some of its length. Water resources have been fundamental to the development of Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou, supporting agriculture, transportation, and industrial activities. The year’s average temperature is 8 °C and the annual frost-free period is only 155 frost-free days. The area is semi-arid with annual precipitation of only 442 mm (17. Total area is 8,169 km2 (3,154 sq mi). Qianheyan Mosque, Linxia City.

The topographic characteristics of Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou result from complex geological processes that have created distinctive landscape features supporting diverse ecosystems and human activities. These natural features provide both opportunities and constraints that have influenced settlement patterns and economic development throughout history.

Hydrological systems in the Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou region play crucial roles in supporting natural ecosystems and human communities through provision of water resources, transportation routes, and agricultural irrigation. Understanding these water systems helps explain historical settlement patterns and contemporary development opportunities.

Soil composition and agricultural potential in the Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou area reflect the interaction of geological substrate, climatic conditions, and human management practices that have created productive agricultural systems supporting local food security and economic development.

Natural resource availability in Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou has historically influenced economic activities and settlement patterns while continuing to provide opportunities for sustainable development that balances economic needs with environmental conservation.

The relationship between geographic features and human settlement in Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou demonstrates sophisticated adaptation strategies that maximize advantages while minimizing risks associated with natural hazards and environmental constraints.

Seasonal variations in the geographic character of Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou create changing opportunities for agricultural production, outdoor recreation, and transportation that influence the rhythm of community life and economic activities throughout the year.

Climate Patterns and Environmental Conditions

Geography and climate Linxia Prefecture is located in southwestern central Gansu. It is just south of Lanzhou and borders Qinghai Province in the west, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in the south and the Dingxi prefecture-level city in the east. The terrain is highlands, mountains and _loess_ hills. Elevation averages 2000 meters above sea-level. The Yellow River, which gets its muddy yellow color from the loess, runs through the northwestern part of the prefecture. Dammed at Liujiaxia (Yongjing County), it forms the large Liujiaxia Reservoir in the north-central part of the county. There is also a smaller Yanguoxia Dam (盐锅峡水电站; _Yánguōxiá Shuǐdiànzhàn_) further downstream, also within Yongjing County. The Yellow River’s main tributaries within the prefecture are the Daxia River and the Tao River. They flow from the neighboring Gannan Prefecture and fall into the Liujiaxia Reservoir from the southeast. The Tao River also serves as the border with the Dingxi prefecture-level city over some of its length. The year’s average temperature is 8 °C and the annual frost-free period is only 155 frost-free days. Temperature patterns in Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou influence agricultural cycles, tourism seasons, and daily life rhythms throughout the year. The area is semi-arid with annual precipitation of only 442 mm (17. Rainfall patterns in Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou determine water availability and agricultural productivity, shaping economic activities and settlement patterns. Total area is 8,169 km2 (3,154 sq mi). Qianheyan Mosque, Linxia City.

The climatic regime of Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou reflects the complex interaction of geographic location, topographic features, and regional weather patterns that create distinctive seasonal characteristics influencing both natural ecosystems and human activities throughout the year.

Temperature variations in Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou create distinct seasonal periods that influence agricultural cycles, energy consumption patterns, and outdoor activity opportunities while requiring adaptive strategies for housing, clothing, and food preservation.

Precipitation patterns in Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou determine water availability for agricultural production, urban consumption, and natural ecosystem maintenance while influencing the timing of traditional festivals and seasonal economic activities.

Seasonal weather patterns in Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou create varying opportunities for different types of economic activities, recreational pursuits, and cultural celebrations that contribute to the distinctive rhythm of community life throughout the year.

The interaction between climate and human adaptation in Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou demonstrates sophisticated traditional knowledge systems for managing seasonal variations while taking advantage of favorable conditions for agriculture, construction, and outdoor activities.

Climate considerations for visitors to Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou include understanding seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, and daylight hours that influence the availability of different activities and the appropriate preparation for outdoor exploration and cultural participation.

Cultural Heritage and Community Traditions

Demographics Children at a primary school in Jishishan County 2008 population was 2 million people. The demographic composition of Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 2010 census counted 1,946,677. 2020-11 Census increased to 2,437,000. Average population density is 233 per km2. The demographic composition of Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. Ethnic minority groups include Hui, Tibetans, Salar, Bao’an, Dongxiang and others, and their population is up to 50,64%. The demographic composition of Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. Altogether there are 16 minority ethnic groups with a population of 1,700,000; 56% of the total population of Linxia. The demographic composition of Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. According to 2010 China National Census Archived 2012-03-25 at the Wayback Machine.

History and culture In the past, Linxia City was called Hezhou and the surrounding area was known as He Prefecture. Part of a series on Islam in China History By dynasty * Tang * Song * Yuan * Ming * Qing Rebellions and revolts * Jahriyya revolt * Panthay Rebellion (1856–1873) * First Dungan Revolt (1862–1877) * Second Dungan Revolt (1895–1896) * Afaqi Khoja revolts Post-dynastic China * 1912–present * Second Sino-Japanese War * Concerns and controversies at the 2022 Winter Olympics * Islamophobia * Migration to Xinjiang * Persecution of Uyghurs in China * Xinjiang internment camps Major figures * Afaq Khoja * Du Wenxiu * Hu Dahai * Hu Songshan * Kasim Tuet * Liu Zhi * Ma Anliang * Ma Bufang * Ma Buqing * Ma Fuxiang * Ma Gui * Ma Hualong * Ma Laichi * Ma Mingxin * Ma Qixi * Ma Wanfu * Ma Yize * Ma Zhu * Shams al-Din * Su fei-erh * Yeheidie’erding * Yusuf Ma Dexin * Wang Daiyu * Zhang Chengzhi * Zheng He Culture * Architecture * Cuisine (Uyghur) * Han Kitab * Mosques * Shrines * Sini script * Sufi orders * Uyghurs * Uyghur Arabic * Xiao’erjing * Islamic Association of China * Cities * Regions * Hong Kong * Kashgar * Linxia * Macau * Ningxia * Sichuan * Xinjiang * Xunhua Groups * Ahmadis * Bonans * Dongxiang * Hui * Ili Turks * Kazakhs * Kyrgyz * Salar * Tajiks * Tatars * Tibetans * Utsuls * Uyghurs * Uzbeks Islam portal • China portal * v * t * e #The Hui Minorities War During the Hui Minorities’ War in the 1860s He Prefecture was a scene of fierce fighting between the Muslim (Hui, Dongxiang and Salar, in modern terms) rebels on one side and the Han Chinese militias and, later, government troops, on the other side. From 1862 to 1872, Hezhou City (today’s Linxia City) was the stronghold of the Muslim (mostly Hui) rebels led by the Khufiyya imam Ma Zhan’ao and his associates Ma Haiyan and Ma Qianling. The Han Chinese’s resistance to the rebellion throughout the northern and eastern parts of the then Hezhou Prefecture (today’s Yongjing County and Dongxiang County of Linxia Prefecture and Lintao County of Dingxi City) was headed by the Kong family, one of whose main home villages was Dachuan in today’s Yongjing County (within 6 km or 3. 7 mi from the county seat, Liujiaxia Town). The conflict was further complicated by the fact that some members of the Kong clan had, in fact, intermarried with the Hui people. Large number of people lost their lives on both sides of the conflict, in particular during the rebels’ attacks on Kong clan’s villages around Dachuan 1864. Two Hui book vendors at a Linxia City market, wearing traditional eyeglasses After the Qing general Zuo Zongtang had finally destroyed the rebels farther east, in Shaanxi and Ningxia, he tried to take Hezhou in late 1872, but his troops were badl.

The cultural landscape of Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou represents a living repository of traditions, customs, and social practices that have evolved over centuries while maintaining essential characteristics that define community identity and provide continuity between generations.

Social organization in Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou reflects sophisticated systems for maintaining community cohesion and mutual support that have enabled the population to preserve cultural traditions while adapting to changing economic and political circumstances.

Traditional arts and crafts in Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou continue to flourish as expressions of cultural identity and sources of economic opportunity, providing visitors with authentic opportunities to observe skilled artisans practicing techniques transmitted through family and community networks.

Religious and spiritual practices in Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou provide insights into the values and beliefs that guide community decision-making and social interaction while creating frameworks for cultural continuity and adaptation to contemporary circumstances.

Language use and cultural expression in Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou demonstrate the dynamic relationship between tradition and innovation as communities maintain linguistic heritage while adapting to contemporary communication needs and educational opportunities.

Cultural festivals and community celebrations in Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou provide opportunities for visitors to experience authentic traditional practices while participating in community life and supporting local cultural preservation efforts.

Economic Activities and Development Patterns

Economy Linxia’s 2002 GDP was 3. 3 billion RMB, which was 10. 7% growth over the previous year. The per capita GDP was 1,778RMB, which was 9. 9% growth over the previous year. Agriculture, manufacturing, building materials, finance, hydropower (Liujiaxia Dam and Yanguoxia Dam on the Yellow River), and tourism are all important industries. The prefecture’s capital, Linxia City (formerly known as Hezhou), is the center of trade, transport, and industry for the area directly south of Lanzhou.

The economic structure of Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou reflects a complex balance between traditional livelihoods and contemporary opportunities that enables the community to maintain economic stability while preserving cultural values and environmental sustainability.

Traditional economic activities in Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou often center around sustainable resource management practices that have been refined over generations to maximize productivity while maintaining environmental balance and community welfare.

Local markets and commercial activities in Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou serve as important centers of community life where economic transactions intersect with social interaction and cultural exchange, providing visitors with opportunities to observe traditional trading practices.

Agricultural production in Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou demonstrates sophisticated adaptation to local environmental conditions while maintaining traditional crop varieties and farming techniques that support both food security and cultural continuity.

Service sector development in Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou has evolved to accommodate external economic connections while maintaining authentic community character and traditional approaches to hospitality and customer service.

Economic development opportunities in Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou focus on sustainable approaches that build upon existing community strengths while creating new opportunities for education, employment, and cultural preservation.

Transportation and Regional Connectivity

Transport China National Highway 213 crosses the prefecture from Lanzhou border in the north to the Gannan border in the south, via Liujiaxia Town (Yongjing County seat), Dongxiang County seat, and Linxia City. There is now a shortcut between Liujiaxia Town and Linxia City, bypassing Dongxiang County and crossing the Liujiaxia Reservoir on a ferry instead. A number of provincial roads connect all other county seats of the prefecture with Linxia City as well. The eastern part of the prefecture is connected with Lanzhou via the Lanhai expressway (G75), which, however, runs not within the prefecture itself, but within the Dingxia prefecture-level city, just on the other side of the prefecture border. The railway transport in the prefecture is limited to a short branch line in its very north, connecting the industrial Liujiaxia Town with the Lanzhou- Xining mainline (which runs along the northern border of the prefecture, but mostly on the Lanzhou prefecture side of it).

Transportation infrastructure serving Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou reflects the balance between accessibility and preservation of community character that characterizes regional development throughout China. Road networks, public transportation options, and traditional travel methods create multiple approaches for reaching and exploring Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou.

Regional connectivity from Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou provides access to broader transportation networks while maintaining the authentic character that distinguishes this destination from more commercialized locations. Understanding transportation options helps visitors plan efficient and respectful approaches to exploration.

Visitor Attractions and Cultural Experiences

Tourism A ferry crosses the Liujiaxia Reservoir from Yongjing County to Linxia County Linxia is blessed with both natural and cultural wonders. The Yellow River runs through the north of the prefecture, forming a larger reservoir at Yongjing’s Liujiaxia Dam, and a smaller one at Yanguoxia Dam further downstream. Yongjing’s Liujiaxia wharf (near Liujiaxia Dam) is also the starting point to trips to the Bingling Temple’s ancient Buddhist cave grottoes. Dinosaur fossils and footprints have been discovered in the dry rugged Badland-esque terrain, resulting in the creation of Liujiaxia National Dinosaur Geopark (刘家峡恐龙国家地质公园) in the northern part of Yongjing County (between Liujiaxia and Yanguoxia) in 2001. The local traditional folk sing _huaer_ is called the soul of northwest or the encyclopedia of northwest (it usually refers to five provinces in northwestern China). There are numerous mosques and temples throughout the rest of Linxia. Beautiful mountain scenery can be found at Taizi Mountain Nature Reserve, which stretches along the prefecture’s southern border. In 2002 these sites and others drew 400,000 tourists, up 20%, who added a total 110,000,000 RMB, up 50%, to the local economy. Linxia is also a stop on trips from Lanzhou to towns in the Tibetan parts of southern Gansu including the famed Labrang Monastery in Xiahe. 1. Bingling Temple Grottoes 2005-12-05, CRIENGLISH.com 2. Travel: CHINA, Gansu Province, by Laurie Werner. Forbes Magazine dated April 23, 2007. 3. “临夏旅游” (Linxia Tourism), published by Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture Tourist Board, 2003. 146 pages. No ISBN. Pages 31-32.

Tourism opportunities in Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou emphasize authentic cultural experiences and meaningful interaction with local communities rather than commercialized attractions, providing visitors with genuine insights into traditional ways of life.

Planning Your Visit to Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou

Successful visits to Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou require preparation that extends beyond typical travel planning, as this destination rewards visitors who approach it with cultural sensitivity, environmental awareness, and genuine interest in learning from local communities and traditions.

The most meaningful experiences in Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou often emerge from patient observation, respectful participation in community activities, and willingness to adapt expectations to local customs and environmental conditions rather than imposing external standards or expectations.

Practical considerations for visiting Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou include understanding seasonal variations in weather and activity availability, respecting local customs and social protocols, and supporting community-based economic activities that contribute to cultural preservation and sustainable development.

The rewards of visiting Linxia Huizu Zizhizhou extend far beyond the duration of your stay, as the insights gained from experiencing authentic traditional culture often influence perspectives and values long after returning home, providing new understanding of human potential and community cooperation.

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Source: This article incorporates material from the Wikipedia article “Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture”.