Baiyin

Baiyin lies in central Gansu where the Yellow River carves through arid loess and desert hills, and it grew into a major industrial base after large copper and other non-ferrous metal deposits were exploited, earning it the nickname China's Copper City. Its economy still leans on non-ferrous metallurgy, chemicals and energy, but agriculture and tourism are expanding, with Jingyuan County famous nationwide for its tender roast lamb and black melon seeds. The Yellow River Stone Forest, a dramatic geopark of towering earthen pillars beside the river, is its signature natural attraction. Baiyin also holds an important place in modern history at Huining, where the three main Red Army forces converged at the end of the Long March in 1936. For an international student, Baiyin offers rugged Yellow River scenery, revolutionary heritage sites, hearty northwestern cuisine and a very low cost of living.