The Maijishan Grottoes are the great reason to come to Tianshui. Hundreds of Buddhist caves and niches are cut into a sheer red cliff, with clay sculpture, murals, and wooden walkways that make the site feel both sacred and slightly improbable.
They form part of the Silk Roads UNESCO listing and reward a slow visit, not just a photo stop. The stairs and cliff galleries can be exposed, so wear sensible shoes and allow enough time for transport from the city.