Lanzhou, Gansu Province, is the only provincial capital in China with the Yellow River running through it. The city has devoted years to building splendid riverside landscapes. (Photos: local authorities and People's Daily)

“During my studies at Lanzhou University, barren mountains were on both sides of the river and no trees could be seen,” said Wang, standing at a viewing platform along the river. Now, bushy trees and blooming flowers offer beautiful scenery along the riverside of the Yellow River.

To better serve local residents, the Lanzhou government has turned waste into treasure by dismantling the abandoned buildings of a pumping station and establishing an observation platform of over 500 square meters. On the platform are two antique and elegant pavilions, part of the picturesque view along the Yellow River.

A 123-kilometer-long sightseeing corridor along the Yellow River is distinctive to Lanzhou. The core section of the corridor is 42-kilometers long, covering 4.75 million square meters. The corridor is dotted with 21 theme parks, music fountains, fitness trails and bookstores, making the spot a popular destination.

Ma, a native of Lanzhou, has been in the city since she was in primary school and she is deeply impressed by the changes in her hometown. "The riverbank has been consolidated and we enjoy the scenic beauty here. My family members like to come here for a walk or a ride. How comfortable it is!" she said.

“Both citizens and tourists have a stronger sense of happiness and fulfillment”, said Wen Shuping, deputy director of the sightseeing corridor’s management committee, adding that “the city government plans to build a large theme park of roses and launch projects to build walls along the levees sculpted with reliefs that present the profound culture of the Yellow River and the Silk Road, and the city’s history.” (Translated by Liu Luolin and edited by Zhan Huilan)