Lanzhou, formerly known as Lanchow, is the capital and largest city of Gansu province in northwestern China. It is situated on the banks of the Yellow River.
The city serves as a key regional transportation hub, providing rail connections between areas further west and the eastern half of the country. Historically, Lanzhou was a major link on the Northern Silk Road and is positioned to become a significant hub on the New Eurasian Land Bridge.
Lanzhou is also recognized as a center for heavy industry and the petrochemical industry.