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Introducing Waterwheel Park
Waterwheel Park is a renowned tourist destination in Lanzhou. Waterwheel Park covers an expansive area of 55,900 square meters. The park is a meticulously restored representation of the ancient irrigation system that once played a crucial role in Lanzhou’s development, both agriculturally and socially. Exploring Waterwheel Park and its remarkable waterwheels provides visitors with a hands-on comprehension of their historical importance and creative operational design.
Waterwheel Park Fast Facts
• AKA: Waterwheel Park
• Chinese Name: Shui Che Yuan 水车园
• Best Time to Visit: April to October
• Recommended Visiting Hours: About 1 to 2 hours
• Things to Do: Photography, Culture, Waterwheels
• Opening Hours: All Day.
• Entrance Fee: Free
• Address: 4 Binhe Central Road, Qilihe District, Lanzhou, Gansu Province
History of the Waterwheel Park
During the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), Lanzhou’s reliance on spring waters for irrigation severely limited its agricultural output. This changed dramatically in 1556 when a government official named Duan Xu introduced a groundbreaking invention: the water wheel. Inspired by similar devices he had observed in the southern region, Duan Xu adapted the design and installed Lanzhou’s first water wheel.
Duan Xu’s invention proved to be a turning point in the region’s agricultural history. Farmers quickly recognized the benefits of water wheels, and their use spread rapidly. By the mid-20th century, over 350 water wheels were operating along the Yellow River, with Lanzhou itself boasting an impressive number of 252 by 1952. These water wheels irrigated a staggering 16,500 acres of land, transforming Lanzhou into a veritable “Water Wheel Capital of the World.”
What to Expect at the Waterwheel Park
More than just a scenic park, Waterwheel Park serves as a living museum dedicated to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of ancient civilizations when it came to irrigation. The park’s meticulously restored water wheels offer a tangible connection to a time when harnessing the power of nature was essential for survival. Visitors can witness firsthand the elegant simplicity of these water-powered machines and gain a deeper appreciation for the impact they had on agriculture and the development of entire societies.
Impressive Waterwheels
The park showcases two impressive 16.5-meter diameter waterwheels, modeled after historical designs and powered by the Yellow River. During high water, the river directly feeds the wheels, and in drier periods, a cofferdam cleverly stores water, ensuring continuous operation. The wheels themselves work on a simple principle: buckets around the rim fill with water, their weight pulling that side down and rotating the wheel. Reaching the top, the buckets empty into a trough, delivering irrigation water. This elegant cycle continues as long as water flows.
Sheepskin Raft
Beyond the famous waterwheels, the sheepskin rafts stand as a testament to the enduring legacy of navigating the Yellow River. Crafted from sheepskins stretched over a wooden frame, this buoyant wonder allows visitors to embark on a leisurely float, soaking in the tranquil surroundings while admiring the majestic waterwheels that once powered the region. It’s a captivating blend of heritage and relaxation, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the rich cultural tapestry of Lanzhou.
How to Get to Waterwheel Garden
• By Bus: Take bus 25, 137 to Shuicheyuan Station. (Waterwheel Park).
Additional Travel Advice on Waterwheel Garden
• Visitors can experience a sheepskin raft down the Yellow River in the park.
• Please wear body lotion, lip balm and hand cream as it is always dry in Lanzhou.
Tour Highlights
• Marvel at Binglingsi Temple Grottoes filled with Buddhist sculptures in a canyon along the Yellow River.
• Visit Lanzhou Waterwheel Garden along the Yellow River (the second longest river in China.
• Walk the Iron Bridge of Yellow River, the first bridge built on the Yellow River.
• Hike up White Pagoda Mountain to enjoy a bird's-eye view of the city of Lanzhou.
• Experienced English speaking tour guide.
• Overland transfers with private chauffeur and in-transport refreshments.
About This Tour
• Departure: Daily departing from Lanzhou.
• Tour Duration: Approximately 8 hours.
• Pick-up Time: Between 07:00 and 10:00, choose a departure time most suitable for you.
• Pick-up & Drop-off Place: Your accommodation in Beijing
• Advice on Meals: Lunch is not included in this tour, please have a big breakfast and pack snacks just in case you get a bit peckish during sightseeing. If you want to try authentic local food for lunch, please feel free to inform your guide who is always ready to help.
Tour Itinerary at a Glance
• Pick up from your accommodation in Lanzhou
• Drive to Liujiaxia Reservoir (90 minutes)
• Board speedboat to Binglingsi Temple Grottoes (40 minutes)
• Visit the Grottoes (1 hour & 30 minutes)
• Drive back to Lanzhou (2 hours)
• Visit Waterwheel Garden (15 minutes)
• Visit Whilte Pagoda Hill (1 hour)
• Transfer back to your accommodation in Lanzhou
Tailor This Itinerary to Meet Your Needs and Requirements
• If you want to modify this itinerary, please feel free to contact GoGrandChina by WhatsApp (+86-18309280878), Wechat (+86-18309280878) or email (info@GrandChinaTravel.com), we will create a tailor-made tour package for you.
Tour Prices (US$ Per Person)
1 person | 2 people | 3 people | 4 people | 5 people | 6 people | 7 people | 8 people | 9 people | 10 + |
$308 | $198 | $168 | $148 | $128 | $118 | $112 | $108 | $105 | $98 |
Price Remark
• Prices are not valid during China's Official Holidays (such as National Day & Chinese New Year Festival etc.).
Price Inclusions
• Professional English language speaking private tour guide
• Air-conditioned vehicle with private experienced driver
• All admission tickets to sightseeing places
• Round trip cable car to Mutianyu Great Wall
• All government taxes
Price Exclusions
• Hotel accommodation.
• Your personal expenses.
• Meals are excluded allowing you flexibility on menu.
• Travel insurance is not included. Please purchase before your trip to provide for any unforeseen circumstances.
• Gratuities to guide & driver. They are customary and would be of great encouragement and reward for quality service.
Additional Info
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking.
• Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.
• The itinerary is subject to change due to traffic conditions or bad weather.
• The itinerary is flexible; changes can be made upon written request from travelers.
• IMPORTANT: It is required by the government regulations that travelers must provide their name, gender, nationality, passport number and date of birth to their tour operator upon booking a tour. Failure to do so could result in being denied access or admittance to sites and attractions during sightseeing. When you book this tour, please complete all required fields at checkout. Please bring your passport with you on the tour.
Cancellation Policy
• You may cancel the booking and receive a full refund up to 24 hours prior to the date of your tour.
• Cancellation within 24 hours or after the tour begins is non-refundable.
• Cancellation request will be confirmed in 2-5 business days, you will receive your refund within 14 working days.
Why Travelers Have to Choose GoGrandChina Private Tours?
• Choose your most suitable departure time, whether you are an early bird or you prefer sleeping in.
• GGC private tours are more flexible, allowing you to adjust everything on your trip to your wishes.
• GGC tour guides will be at your service to make sure you get the most from each destination. They are there for you and are responsible for making your journey special – and your needs always come first.
• GGC offers comfortable and luxury vehicles with a private & experienced driver who’s always by your side and ready to take you to your next destination.
• No shopping stops & factory visits, no chance of getting ripped off.
• No hidden costs, rest assured that there are no nasty surprises.
Tour Highlights
• Marvel at the 14cm-tall Flying Horse, an iconic emblem of China at Gansu Provincial Museum.
• Visit Lanzhou Waterwheel Garden along the Yellow River (the second longest river in China.
• Walk the Iron Bridge of Yellow River, the first bridge built on the Yellow River.
• Hike White Pagoda Mountain to enjoy a bird's-eye view of the city of Lanzhou.
• Experienced English speaking tour guide.
• Overland transfers with private chauffeur and in-transport refreshments.
About This Tour
• Departure: Daily departing from Lanzhou
• Tour Duration: Approximately 8 hours.
• Pick-up Time: Between 07:00 and 10:00, choose a departure time most suitable for you.
• Pick-up & Drop-off Place: Your accommodation in Lanzhou
• Advice on Meals: Lunch is not included in this tour, please have a big breakfast and pack snacks just in case you get a bit peckish during sightseeing. If you want to try authentic local food for lunch, please feel free to inform your guide who is always ready to help.
Tour Itinerary at a Glance
• Pick up from your accommodation in Lanzhou
• Drive to Gansu Provincial Museum
• Visit Gansu Provincial Museum (90 minutes)
• Visit Waterwheel Garden (60 minutes)
• Lunch on your own
• Visit the Iron Bridge of Yellow River (30 minutes)
• Visit Whilte Pagoda Mountain (90 minutes)
• Transfer back to your accommodation in Lanzhou
Tailor This Tour to Meet Your Needs and Requirements
• If you want to modify this itinerary, please feel free to contact GoGrandChina by WhatsApp (+86-18309280878), Wechat (+86-18309280878) or email (info@GrandChinaTravel.com), we will create a tailor-made tour package for you.
Tour Prices (US$ Per Person)
1 person | 2 people | 3 people | 4 people | 5 people | 6 people | 7 people | 8 people | 9 people | 10 + |
$250 | $148 | $118 | $108 | $98 | $92 | $88 | $86 | $82 | $78 |
Price Remarks
• Prices are not valid during China's Official Holidays (such as National Day & Chinese New Year Festival etc.).
Price Inclusions
• Professional English language speaking private tour guide
• Air-conditioned vehicle with private experienced driver
• All admission tickets to sightseeing places
• All government taxes
Price Exclusions
• Hotel accommodation.
• Your personal expenses.
• Meals are excluded allowing you flexibility on menu.
• Travel insurance is not included. Please purchase before your trip to provide for any unforeseen circumstances.
• Gratuities to guide & driver. They are customary and would be of great encouragement and reward for quality service.
Additional Info
• Gansu Provincial Museum is closed on Monday tours.
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking.
• Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.
• The itinerary is subject to change due to traffic conditions or bad weather.
• The itinerary is flexible; changes can be made upon written request from travelers.
• IMPORTANT: It is required by the government regulations that travelers must provide their name, gender, nationality, passport number and date of birth to their tour operator upon booking a tour. Failure to do so could result in being denied access or admittance to sites and attractions during sightseeing. When you book this tour, please complete all required fields at checkout. Please bring your passport with you on the tour.
Cancellation Policy
• You may cancel the booking and receive a full refund up to 24 hours prior to the date of your tour.
• Cancellation within 24 hours or after the tour begins is non-refundable.
• Cancellation request will be confirmed in 2-5 business days, you will receive your refund within 14 working days.
Why Travelers Have to Choose GoGrandChina Private Tours?
• Choose your most suitable departure time, whether you are an early bird or you prefer sleeping in.
• GGC private tours are more flexible, allowing you to adjust everything on your trip to your wishes.
• GGC tour guides will be at your service to make sure you get the most from each destination. They are there for you and are responsible for making your journey special – and your needs always come first.
• GGC offers comfortable and luxury vehicles with a private & experienced driver who’s always by your side and ready to take you to your next destination.
• No shopping stops & factory visits, no chance of getting ripped off.
• No hidden costs, rest assured that there are no nasty surprises.