Suide travel guide and discussion

Wubu in September–October is the most "suspended on the edge of the Yellow River" county in northern Shaanxi.🌊 The old town hangs on a rocky mountain, with the Yellow River roaring and yellowing at your feet. The wind carries the scent of hollow noodles, lamb noodles, red dates, and aged vinegar. There are no long lines for major attractions, only the crumbling walls of the Stone City, the Yellow River plank road, the Guaimao Ferry, and baskets of red dates drying in front of cave dwellings. Don't rush here; stay a night, feel the Yellow River breeze, and listen to the boatmen's chants fading in and out—that is the slow life of the Qin-Jin Canyon. 💰 Budget (3 days, 2 nights, low-cost version) · Stay: Wubu County (Songjiachuan) / small hotels by the Yellow River CNY 80–130/night. No homestay clusters in the old town; Songjiachuan is the most reliable. Few hostels, but old hotels are clean.🛏️ · Eat: Lamb noodles CNY 12–18, hollow noodles CNY 8–12, wantuo CNY 5–8, red date buns CNY 3–5, stewed lamb (AA) CNY 40–55, Yellow River carp (AA) CNY 35–50. Total per day: CNY 48–62. · Transport: Suide → Wubu train/bus CNY 10–30; county bus CNY 1–2, taxi CNY 7–9. Carpooling to Wubu Stone City CNY 15–25; extra for Chashang/Guaimao Ferry. · Tickets: Wubu Stone City (outer/upper city basically CNY 0), Yellow River Erqi, Liu Qing Former Residence, Chashang Town Yellow River Trail, Songjiachuan river embankment: All CNY 0. Small maintenance points inside the Stone City are not mandatory; check on-site.👉 3 days, 2 nights: CNY 250–350; adding Yellow River Erqi + Stone City round trip: approx. CNY 300–390. 🏯 Recommended attractions (vast and free) 1. Wubu Stone City (CNY 0, before 9:00 AM / after 5:30 PM): The No. 1 Stone City in China hanging on a cliff. Ming and Qing dynasty county offices, Confucian temples, cave dwelling courtyards, and gaps in the city walls. The Yellow River turns a corner at your feet, and the wind is as harsh as a frontier novel.⛰️ 2. Yellow River Erqi (CNY 0): This stretch of rapids upstream from Qikou has yellow autumn water, waves crashing against reefs, and echoes carrying for half a mile. Stand on the bank and don't get too close; just listen.🌊 3. Songjiachuan River Embankment / Yellow River Bridge (CNY 0, evening): The mountains on the Shanxi side turn blue. When the bridge lights turn on, the aunties selling red date buns, the anglers, and the students coming home from school are all in the wind. 4. Liu Qing Former Residence (Wubu Sigou, CNY 0): The hometown of the author of The Builders. Earth caves + jujube trees + the scent of inkstones. A slow stroll here is more comfortable than in a touristy village. 5. Chashang Town / Guaimao Ferry outskirts (CNY 0): Old ferry, stone rollers, passing sheep, and cooking smoke from the Shanxi side across the river. In October, the sky is incredibly high—your phone can capture Western-style films directly.🐑 6. Koujiayuan / Chuankou Yellow River section (Optional): The site of the historical eastern crossing story. You don't have to enter the museum; just stand by the river for a while, and both Shaanxi and Shanxi provinces will be quiet. 🗺️ Slow route (no-fatigue version) D1 Yellow River arrival: Arrive in Wubu and stay in Songjiachuan → Eat lamb noodles + red date buns + wantuo at the river embankment → 1:30 PM–4:30 PM: Relax in the room (autumn wind is dry and harsh, avoid sun) → 5:30 PM: Walk a section of the Yellow River Bridge → Night market for hollow noodles + barbecue. D2 Stone City and Erqi: 9:00 AM: Carpool to Wubu Stone City (slow walk along the city walls + old county office direction) → 12:30 PM: Return to town for brick tea → 4:00 PM: Listen to the waves at Yellow River Erqi → Evening: Small portion of stewed lamb (AA). D3 Ferry choice: A. Stare at the river at Chashang/Guaimao Ferry + buy fresh dates; B. Slow walk at Liu Qing Former Residence + Sigou date forest. For a slow tour, choose A; Wubu's "Yellow River soul" is stronger there. D4 (Optional): Morning market to buy Wubu hollow noodles/red dates/aged vinegar/millet → Return to Suide/go to Jiaxian. 🍜 What to eat (Qin-Jin Yellow River appetite) · Lamb noodles (CNY 12–18: Hand-pulled noodles + clear-stewed lamb + chili oil; a bowl warms you up in the autumn chill) 🐑 · Hollow noodles (CNY 8–12: Wubu intangible cultural heritage; thin and hollow, good with lamb soup or sour soup, slides right down) · Wantuo (CNY 5–8: Steamed and sliced buckwheat, topped with spicy vinegar and garlic, firmer than liangpi) & Red date buns (CNY 3–5: Millet/flour with dates, sweet and not greasy) & Braised dishes (CNY 15–18: Potatoes, vermicelli, cabbage, pork belly) · Stewed lamb (AA) CNY 40–55 / Yellow River carp (AA) CNY 35–50 (spicy braised is best with rice) & Red willow barbecue CNY 2–3/skewer + Rice wine/brick tea. Souvenirs: Go to Songjiachuan morning market/river embankment farm stalls: hollow noodles, Wubu red dates, aged vinegar, millet, dried dates with walnuts; don't buy "Yellow River strange stones/consecrated jade" at scenic spots.🙅 💡 Truths · September days are warm (18–26°C), October mornings and evenings are 3–9°C. A light down jacket + trench coat + hat + lip balm are essential; there is no shelter by the Yellow River.🌬️ · 1:00 PM–4:00 PM: Relax in the room. Before 9:00 AM and after 5:30 PM, the Stone City/Erqi/Bridge are most magical; at noon, the stone walls reflect light, and there is no shade. · The Stone City cliff edges have loose soil; don't lean over for photos. The Erqi waves are rapid; don't go down to the wet beach, and don't trust "free wild ferry boats." · Visit Liu Qing's former residence with respect; don't step on the roots of the jujube trees. Don't cross the border on the Shanxi side to take "check-in photos." · Wubu is not a "stopover between Suide and Jiaxian," but the Yellow River yellowing on an autumn afternoon, the creaking of the Stone City's broken gates, noodles drying under the eaves, and rows of red date baskets— · The slowness of the south is water; the silver of Wubu is the Yellow River waves; when the wind blows, you become that phrase at the foot of the Stone City wall: "Here, we have the Qin-Jin voice."🍂

Suide in September and October is the most "stylish" county in Northern Shaanxi. 🥢 The Wuding River gently embraces the city, rows of cave dwellings line the loess slopes, and stone lions have been crouching on walls for 800 years. The wind carries the scent of oil swirl pastries, lamb offal soup, yellow steamed buns, and Minjie noodles, while the melodies of Xintianyou folk songs like "Thirty-Mile Shop" and "Driving the Pack Animals" drift by—don't rush to Yan'an or Xi'an; stay in the old town, explore the "Soul of Stone," walk along the Wuding River, and listen to the suona horns at the end of Helong Bridge in the evening—that is what it means to be the "famous prefecture under heaven." 💰 Budget (3 days, 2 nights, low-cost version) · Stay: Small hotels in the old town/Qianshi Bridge/Wuding Riverside, ¥90–140/night. Hostels are rare but old hotels are clean. October is cheaper than summer. 🛏️ · Eat: Lamb offal soup ¥10–15, oil swirl pastry ¥4–6, yellow steamed bun ¥3–5, Minjie noodles ¥10–14, Wan tuo ¥5–8, stewed lamb (split cost) ¥40–60. Total per day: ¥50–65. · Transport: Trains/high-speed trains from Xi'an/Yulin to Suide are convenient. County buses ¥1–2, taxis start at ¥7–8. Carpooling to Guojiagou/Forty-Mile Shop ¥10–30. · Tickets: Shihun Square/Qianshi Bridge/Wuding Riverside/Suide Old Town alleys/Han Dynasty Stone Carving Museum (bring ID, closed Mondays)/Forty-Mile Shop Stone Carving Street are all free. Some film villages (like Guojiagou) charge about ¥20–30. Slow travel "Old Town + Stone Carvings + Riverside" costs almost nothing. 👉 3 days, 2 nights: ¥280–400; add a film village for about ¥320–440. 🏛️ Recommended attractions (romantic loess scenery without spending money) 1. Shihun Square + Qianshi Bridge (Free, before 9:00 AM/after 6:30 PM): Thousands of stone lions, each with a different pose. When the sunset hits the stone, you'll instantly understand the "simple courage" of Northern Shaanxi. 🦁 2. Suide Old Town Alleys (Free): Cave dwelling gates, aunties selling yellow steamed buns, old men repairing sickles, old "Thirty-Mile Shop" slogans on walls. It hasn't been over-renovated, which is why it's a true historic town. 🍂 3. Wuding Riverside Park (Free, after 5:30 PM): The river is calm, the poplars are yellow, and the lights on Helong Bridge form a string. The distant loess plateau glows blue. You'll be happy to walk until your shoe soles wear out. 4. Han Dynasty Stone Carving Museum (Free, closed Mondays): Carvings of Han Dynasty carriages, farming, and hunting. Ducking in here at noon to escape the dry autumn heat is ten times more rewarding than scrolling on your phone. 🏛️ 5. Forty-Mile Shop Stone Carving Street (Free): Workshops line the river. Lions, hitching posts, door piers, and kang-head lions. Watching the master craftsmen hammer away is fascinating even if you don't buy anything. 🔨 6. Guojiagou/Film Village (approx. ¥20–30, choose one): Filming locations for "Ordinary World" and "Life." Cave courtyards, old mills, loess cliffs—don't miss this if you're a literature fan. But don't try to rush to Yan'an on the same day; Suide itself is worth slowing down for. 🗺️ Slow-paced itinerary (relaxed version) D1 Arrive in Mingzhou: Arrive in Suide, stay in the old town → Eat lamb offal soup + oil swirl pastry + yellow steamed bun → 1:30 PM–4:30 PM: Relax in your room (avoid the dry autumn sun) → 6:00 PM: Photos at Qianshi Bridge → Night market: Wan tuo + Minjie noodles. D2 Stone and River: 9:30 AM: Han Dynasty Stone Carving Museum → 11:00 AM: Listen to Xintianyou in the old town alleys → 4:00 PM: Walk along the Wuding River and Helong Bridge → Evening: Small portion of stewed lamb (split cost). D3 Choose one for stone carvings: A. Forty-Mile Shop to see workshops + buy a small kang-head lion (optional); B. Relax in a Guojiagou cave courtyard. For a slow trip, choose A; the "Soul of Stone" in Suide is stronger there. D4 (Optional): Morning market: Buy yellow steamed buns/oil swirl pastries/millet/red dates/small stone lion souvenirs → Return to Yulin/Go to Mizhi. 🍜 What to eat (Northern Shaanxi palate: Lamb + coarse grains + stone-ground aroma) · Lamb offal soup (¥10–15, chili oil + cilantro + bun cubes; drinking it on a cool autumn morning makes you sweat) 🐑 · Oil swirl pastry (¥4–6, flaky layers, perfect with lamb soup) & Yellow steamed bun (¥3–5, sweet millet flour, date paste is the best) & Minjie noodles (¥10–14, mixed-grain noodles + over a dozen side dishes you add yourself) · Wan tuo (¥5–8, steamed buckwheat cut into pieces, topped with spicy vinegar and garlic; the Northern Shaanxi version of liangpi but heartier) & Stewed lamb (split cost ¥40–60, wild thyme removes the gamey taste, soup is white and meat is tender) & Pin sanxian (¥18–25, pork and lamb meatballs with daylily and wood ear mushrooms in one pot) · Red willow skewers ¥2–3/skewer + Rice wine/brick tea + Fresh red dates. Souvenirs: Go to the old town morning market/Qianshi Bridge farmers market for yellow steamed buns, oil swirl pastries, millet, Suide red dates, and small stone lion souvenirs. Don't buy "Yellow River Jade/consecrated kang-head lions" at tourist spots. 🙅 💡 Honest advice · September days are warm (18–26°C), October mornings and evenings are 2–8°C. Bring a light down jacket, trench coat, hat, lip balm, and hand cream. The wind by the Wuding River cuts like a knife. 🌬️ · Relax in your room from 1:00 PM–4:00 PM. The best time for photos at Shihun/Riverside is before 9:00 AM or after 6:30 PM. At noon, the loess reflects light, and there's no shade in the film villages. · Bring your ID for the Stone Carving Museum (closed Mondays). Don't step on stone debris in Forty-Mile Shop workshops, and don't climb on wild cliff caves in Guojiagou. · Smile at the shepherds before taking photos in the old town. Don't wear tank tops when entering old temples/mosques. Don't ride the stone lions for "funny" photos. · Suide is not just a "stopover near Yulin," but the sight of yellow poplars along the Wuding River on an autumn afternoon, oil swirl pastries fresh out of the pan, stone lions tilting their heads, and Xintianyou melodies drifting from the end of the alley— The slowness of the Jiangnan region is like water; the slowness of Suide is like the loess. When the wind blows, you become one of those "Suide people" at the cave entrance. 🍂

Before last year's National Day, I found cheap flights from Wuhan to Yulin. You can see the Loess Plateau, and Yulin is only a few hours' drive from Ordos, so you can visit both places at once. Itinerary Sept 30 | Fly from Wuhan to Yulin, rent a car at the airport, Hongshixia > Mahuangliang Loess Geological Park Oct 1 | Zhenbeitai > Hongjiannao > Gonggegou Danxia > Mausoleum of Genghis Khan > Shengshui Grassland Oct 2 | Kubuqi Desert, Yinken Desert, watch the sunset at Wild Beach, eat Mongolian food Oct 3 | Ordos Cultural Industry Park > Junwang Mansion > Tibetan Buddhist temple Oct 4 | Ordos Zoo (hold a lion cub), drive to Suide Oct 5 | Suide Shuangshui Village > Dang Family Manor > Shihun Square > Mizhi Li Zicheng Palace > Wanfodong Grottoes; return to Yulin city in the evening Oct 6 | Old Town, museum, fly back to Wuhan Highlights ✅ You must buy the local Ordos annual tourism pass! It needs to be activated one day in advance! It includes the Mausoleum of Genghis Khan, several deserts, the zoo, and the cultural industry park. ✅ Self-driving tip for holidays: try to arrive at all popular attractions as early as possible! Camel rides, desert cable cars, and zoo entrances will have super long lines if you arrive late. ✅ The attractions are widely scattered across a vast area. Overall, it won't be overcrowded, but you will still have to queue for recreational activities. ✅ Recommendations: Mahuangliang hiking, Gonggegou Danxia, and Wanfodong Grottoes are budget-friendly. ✅ Renting a car in Yulin is much cheaper than in Ordos. I recommend renting in less popular cities. Attractions The cliff carvings at Hongshixia are rustic and photogenic, and the riverbed landscape is very unique. Best to go early. Mahuangliang Loess Geological Park, a filming location for "Candle in the Tomb: The Lost Caverns"! I recommend taking the scenic shuttle bus + short hikes. The loess gullies, old cave dwellings, lakes, and sunflowers all connect, creating a vast and healing landscape that you absolutely cannot see in the south. Hongjiannao has poor value for money; not recommended. Highly recommend Gonggegou Danxia, a great place for free hiking. During the National Day holiday, avoid the crowded Xiangshawan and visit the nearby Kubuqi and Yinken deserts instead. Ride camels first when you arrive, then do other activities, otherwise you'll have to queue. The annual pass covers everything. Highly recommend Wild Beach! You can bring a sandboard, and there are camel rides too. Despite being in a nomadic region, the Junwang Mansion features exquisite and delicate residential carvings, full of antique charm. Zoo: The park is large, and the animals have plenty of space to roam, making it feel very wild. Holding a lion cub is fun; it costs ¥50 per person and requires queuing. Shuangshui Village is an authentic northern Shaanxi cave dwelling village. The jujube trees by the roadside have sweet and delicious fruit. Dang Family Manor is rustic and grand, though it's a bit of a drive on mountain roads. Shihun Square is a must-see. Wanfodong, an original, rustic grotto by the roadside, is filled with Buddha statues and is free, climbable, and fun.

A Red Exemplar Village on the Loess Plateau | Haojiaqiao Scenic Area Complete Travel Guide 🎫Ticketing Information Location: Haojiaqiao Village, Zhangjiabian Town, Suide County, Yulin City, approximately 10 kilometers southwest of the county seat. Admission: Free; sightseeing bus tickets are optional; guided tours are available by appointment at a separate cost. Opening Hours: 08:00-18:00; Exhibition Hall: 09:00-17:00, Closed on Mondays (except public holidays). Suggested Visit Duration: 2-3 hours Best Time to Visit: 9:00 AM -11 AM: Light is ideal for visiting the exhibition hall; spring and autumn offer comfortable views of the Loess Plateau; suitable for daytime visits by red tourism study groups. 🏞Key Highlights 1. Haojiaqiao Revolutionary History Memorial Hall: The main exhibition hall of the scenic area, featuring numerous precious old photos, manuscripts, and agricultural tools, fully recounting the history of Haojiaqiao's revolutionary history in 1943, including its grassroots research, the Great Production Movement, and the slogan "Every village learns from Haojiaqiao, everyone learns from Liu Yuhou," tracing the village's complete journey from a model rural area in the border region to a national model for poverty alleviation. 2. Xi Zhongxun's Former Residence: An authentic Shaanxi cave dwelling courtyard, recreating the original office and living scenes, preserving simple furnishings, allowing visitors to relive the years of visiting the grassroots. 3. Qi Xin's Former Residence: The cave dwelling site, restoring the scene of running a literacy night school and organizing mass learning, recording his past dedication to serving the people in the countryside. 4. Liu Yuhou's Former Residence: The former residence of model worker Liu Yuhou, a traditional loess farmhouse courtyard displaying farming tools used during land reclamation, offering a glimpse into the arduous struggles of ordinary farmers in that era. 5. Former Township Government Site: A former cave dwelling courtyard used for grassroots government offices, recreating the working environment of rural areas in those days. 6. Model Square: A themed memorial square, suitable for group photos and a meeting point for red tourism study tours. 7. Folk Culture Mural Corridor: A 300-meter-long painted corridor depicting scenes of farming in northern Shaanxi throughout the four seasons, rich in loess landscape. 8. Digital Immersive Experience Hall: Multimedia exhibits with light and shadow, immersing visitors in historical moments and enhancing the overall experience. 9. Rural Trail: Stroll through the fields outside the village, past loess terraces and orchards, experiencing the beautiful rural landscape of the new era. 🗺Tour Route ▶Classic Panoramic Loop (Recommended) Visitor Center → Sightseeing Bus Stop → Model Square → Folk Mural Corridor → Haojiaqiao Revolutionary History Memorial Hall → Xi Zhongxun's Former Residence → Qi Xin's Former Residence → Liu Yuhou's Former Residence → Former Township Government Site → Digital Experience Hall → Rural Pastoral Trail → Return Trip ▶Simplified Check-in Route Model Square → Revolutionary History Memorial Hall → Several Key Cave Dwellings and Former Residences, Quickly Checking In at Key Red Sites ▶Suide One-Day Self-Driving Tour Haojiaqiao Scenic Area → Mingzhou Ancient City, Stone Soul Square → Dang Family Manor 🚗Transportation Guide By Car: Navigate to Haojiaqiao Scenic Area Visitor Center. Approximately 15 minutes drive from Suide County. The road is paved with asphalt and rural roads; be careful of curves. Free parking is available at the scenic area. Public Transportation: There are currently no direct buses from Suide County. Taxis are available from the county seat. Rural buses are infrequent and inconvenient for the return trip, so they are not a priority option. For group study tours, chartering a car from the county seat is recommended for flexible scheduling. 📌Travel Tips 1. The village has many loess slopes and some dirt roads; wear non-slip sports shoes. 2. The ultraviolet radiation is strong on the Loess Plateau; bring sunscreen. It can be windy on the plateau; bring a light jacket. 3. Do not touch the cave dwellings or exhibits in the exhibition halls; please do not use flash photography. 4. Maintain quiet and solemnity in the red-themed areas. 5. Study tour groups are advised to book a professional guide in advance. 6. Convenience stores are scarce in the village; bring your own drinking water. 7. Do not step into farmland on the village trails; protect the crops. 8. Protect the ancient cave dwellings and courtyards; do not carve on the walls. 9. Country roads are muddy after rain; walk slowly and watch your step. A Red Exemplar Village on the Loess Plateau | Haojiaqiao Scenic Area Complete Travel Guide 🎫Ticketing Information Location: Haojiaqiao Village, Zhangjiabian Town, Suide County, Yulin City, approximately 10 kilometers southwest of the county seat. Admission: Free; sightseeing bus tickets are optional; guided tours are available by appointment at a separate cost. Opening Hours: 08:00-18:00; Exhibition Hall: 09:00-17:00, Closed on Mondays (except public holidays). Suggested Visit Duration: 2-3 hours Best Time to Visit: 9:00 AM -11 AM: Light is ideal for visiting the exhibition hall; spring and autumn offer comfortable views of the Loess Plateau; suitable for daytime visits by red tourism study groups. 🏞Key Highlights 1. Haojiaqiao Revolutionary History Memorial Hall: The main exhibition hall of the scenic area, featuring numerous precious old photos, manuscripts, and agricultural tools, fully recounting the history of Haojiaqiao's revolutionary history in 1943, including its grassroots research, the Great Production Movement, and the slogan "Every village learns from Haojiaqiao, everyone learns from Liu Yuhou," tracing the village's complete journey from a model rural area in the border region to a national model for poverty alleviation. 2. Xi Zhongxun's Former Residence: An authentic Shaanxi cave dwelling courtyard, recreating the original office and living scenes, preserving simple furnishings, allowing visitors to relive the years of visiting the grassroots. 3. Qi Xin's Former Residence: The cave dwelling site, restoring the scene of running a literacy night school and organizing mass learning, recording his past dedication to serving the people in the countryside. 4. Liu Yuhou's Former Residence: The former residence of model worker Liu Yuhou, a traditional loess farmhouse courtyard displaying farming tools used during land reclamation, offering a glimpse into the arduous struggles of ordinary farmers in that era. 5. Former Township Government Site: A former cave dwelling courtyard used for grassroots government offices, recreating the working environment of rural areas in those days. 6. Model Square: A themed memorial square, suitable for group photos and a meeting point for red tourism study tours. 7. Folk Culture Mural Corridor: A 300-meter-long painted corridor depicting scenes of farming in northern Shaanxi throughout the four seasons, rich in loess landscape. 8. Digital Immersive Experience Hall: Multimedia exhibits with light and shadow, immersing visitors in historical moments and enhancing the overall experience. 9. Rural Trail: Stroll through the fields outside the village, past loess terraces and orchards, experiencing the beautiful rural landscape of the new era. 🗺Tour Route ▶Classic Panoramic Loop (Recommended) Visitor Center → Sightseeing Bus Stop → Model Square → Folk Mural Corridor → Haojiaqiao Revolutionary History Memorial Hall → Xi Zhongxun's Former Residence → Qi Xin's Former Residence → Liu Yuhou's Former Residence → Former Township Government Site → Digital Experience Hall → Rural Pastoral Trail → Return Trip ▶Simplified Check-in Route Model Square → Revolutionary History Memorial Hall → Several Key Cave Dwellings and Former Residences, Quickly Checking In at Key Red Sites ▶Suide One-Day Self-Driving Tour Haojiaqiao Scenic Area → Mingzhou Ancient City, Stone Soul Square → Dang Family Manor 🚗Transportation Guide By Car: Navigate to Haojiaqiao Scenic Area Visitor Center. Approximately 15 minutes drive from Suide County. The road is paved with asphalt and rural roads; be careful of curves. Free parking is available at the scenic area. Public Transportation: There are currently no direct buses from Suide County. Taxis are available from the county seat. Rural buses are infrequent and inconvenient for the return trip, so they are not a priority option. For group study tours, chartering a car from the county seat is recommended for flexible scheduling. 📌Travel Tips 1. The village has many loess slopes and some dirt roads; wear non-slip sports shoes. 2. The ultraviolet radiation is strong on the Loess Plateau; bring sunscreen. It's also windy on the plateau; bring a light jacket. 3. Do not touch the cave dwellings or exhibits in the exhibition halls; please do not use flash photography. 4. Maintain quiet and solemnity in the red-themed areas. 5. Study tour groups are advised to book a professional guide in advance. 6. Convenience stores are scarce in the village; bring your own drinking water. 7. Do not step into farmland on the village trails; protect the crops. 8. Protect the ancient cave dwellings and courtyards; do not carve on the walls. 9. Country roads are muddy after rain; walk slowly and watch your step.

Some cities don't shout about themselves, but they leave a lasting impression. I've picked 8 of them—not too many tourists, but solid reputations. If you've been to 3, you're definitely a seasoned traveler. 1️⃣ Mianyang | Sichuan Beichuan Qiang City Tourist Area is the place I most want you to visit in Mianyang. It's not a tourist trap where you just breeze through; it's a village you can leisurely explore for half a day. ⏰ Arrive before 10:00 AM while the fog is still lingering; the watchtowers and stone walls look great in photos. The afternoon light is harsh and can wash out your pictures. 📍 Start from the visitor center, head to the Qiang Folk Museum, then see Yuwang Bridge. It's a smooth route with no backtracking. 🍜 For lunch, grab a bowl of Qiang-style cured meat noodles in Leigu Town. They're savory, filling, and cheaper than inside the scenic area. ⚠️ There's a big temperature difference between day and night in the mountains, so bring a light jacket even in summer. Check official announcements for ticket prices and opening hours on the day of your visit. If you're traveling with seniors, I recommend taking the sightseeing car. Hiking enthusiasts can take the loop trail, which takes about 2 hours. 2️⃣ Weifang | Shandong Qingzhou Ancient City Tourist Area. I didn't have high expectations at first, but I ended up walking until my legs were sore and I still didn't want to leave. ⏰ It's most comfortable after 5:00 PM. When the lanterns light up and the stone roads reflect the glow, it looks ten times better than during the day. 📍 The area around the intersection of Ouyuan Street and Beimen Street is packed with time-honored shops. You'll find surprises just by turning into any alley. 🍜 Buy some Misan-dao at Longsheng Pastry and eat them while they're warm. The tofu pudding shop next to the Hengwang Mansion archway only sells until 10:00 AM. ⚠️ It gets crowded on weekends. If you want photos without people, get there before 8:00 AM. Entry to the ancient city is free, though some small attractions charge separately. It's great for couples to stroll around, and also good for kids to see old architecture. The stone roads are slippery after rain, so wear anti-slip shoes. 3️⃣ Jincheng | Shanxi Huangcheng Xiangfu Ecological Cultural Tourism Area. The name sounds serious, but it's actually really fun to explore. ⏰ Get there right when it opens and head straight for the inner city. You can enjoy half an hour of peace before the tour groups arrive. 📍 You have to climb Heshan Tower; the stairs are steep, but it's worth it. Walking through the hidden soldier tunnels is cool and refreshing, especially in summer. 🍜 Outside the scenic area, order a serving of Yangcheng braised liver with millet porridge at a local farmhouse restaurant—that's how the locals eat. ⚠️ Don't buy so-called "antiques" at the entrance; just look. Show times vary daily, so ask when you arrive. There are a lot of stairs, so if you're with seniors, pace yourselves. Autumn is the best time to visit—red leaves against the castle walls make for great photos. 4️⃣ Chenzhou | Hunan Chenzhou is my personal top recommendation. Gaoyiling Danxia, Dongjiang Lake, and Mangshan Five-Finger Peak—any one of these is a winner. ⏰ For the morning mist at Dongjiang Lake, you need to be early. Arrive at Bridge No. 2 before 6:30 AM, or the mist will clear. The light at Gaoyiling is softest after 4:00 PM. 📍 Walking the "dragon spine" ridge at Gaoyiling, with cliffs on both sides, will make your legs weak but the photos are worth it. Take the cable car up to Mangshan Five-Finger Peak; seeing the sea of clouds depends on your luck. 🍜 Have a bowl of Qifengdu fish noodles in the city for breakfast—it's spicy enough to wake you up. Eat salmon by Dongjiang Lake; they serve it multiple ways. ⚠️ Some sections of Gaoyiling don't have guardrails. Wear anti-slip shoes and don't get too close to the edge for photos. The Danxia colors are more vibrant in the rainy season, but the paths are slippery. It's great for young people with good stamina. If you're with kids, taking a boat on Dongjiang Lake is more relaxing. 5️⃣ Yulin | Shaanxi I'd call Yulin's Wave Valley the "fingerprint of the Earth." Hongshixia and the Jiaxian Yellow River each have their own character. ⏰ Enter Wave Valley after 3:00 PM when the sunlight hits at an angle, making the textures clearest. Hongshixia is cool in the morning, perfect for a slow walk. 📍 Take the Flame Danxia route at Wave Valley, which takes about 3 hours. For the Jiaxian Yellow River, watch from Xianglu Temple; the river turns golden at sunset. 🍜 Try Pin Sanxian and fried bean milk on Yulin Old Street—cheap and filling. Grab a Suide Youxuan while it's hot; it's super crispy. ⚠️ It's windy at Wave Valley, so keep your hat on tight. Some areas are off-limits; don't climb over fences. The fine is one thing, but the damage is worse. Self-driving is most convenient as the attractions are far apart. Visit in October when the sky is high and clear—everything looks crystal clear in photos. 6️⃣ Zhangzhou | Fujian Yunshuiyao Ancient Town, Nanjing Tulou, and the Coastal Volcanic National Geopark—Zhangzhou has both mountains and the sea. ⏰ Yunshuiyao is most beautiful in the early morning, with the waterwheel turning and more locals doing laundry by the stream than tourists. Go to the Volcanic Island in the afternoon to see the basalt columns exposed at low tide. 📍 At Nanjing Tulou, see the "Four Dishes and a Soup" at Tianluokeng and take panoramic shots from the viewing platform. Walk the ancient path at Yunshuiyao and sit under the banyan trees for a while. 🍜 Eat Hakka stuffed tofu and preserved mustard greens with pork inside the Tulou—homemade by the locals. In Zhangzhou Ancient City, try the four-fruit soup with grass jelly. ⚠️ Some Tulou charge extra to go upstairs, so ask first. It's windy on the Volcanic Island, so be careful with skirts. Great for families, as there's plenty of space for kids to run around in the Tulou. It's hot in summer, so bring sunscreen and mosquito repellent. 7️⃣ Chongqing Dazu Rock Carvings, Jinyun Mountain, Wulong Karst, and the Yangtze Three Gorges—Chongqing is more than just Hongya Cave and hot pot. ⏰ Get to the Dazu Rock Carvings right when it opens; you can get a clear shot of the Reclining Buddha without anyone blocking the lens. Hike Jinyun Mountain in the afternoon and watch the sunset at Lion Peak in the evening. 📍 Walk to the end of the Three Natural Bridges in Wulong and look up at the sinkhole. Take a cruise through the Yangtze Three Gorges; the Qutang Gorge section is the most spectacular. 🍜 Try the Youting crucian carp in Dazu—spicy, numbing, and tender. In Wulong, have a bowl of mutton with rice. In the city, grab a bowl of noodles and eat on the street in the morning. ⚠️ The elevators and cable cars in the Wulong scenic area cost extra, so budget accordingly. Book your Three Gorges cruise in advance; buying last-minute is expensive. Taking a cruise is the most relaxing way to travel with parents. Hiking enthusiasts should head to Jinyun Mountain; the trails are well-developed, and you can reach the summit in two hours. 8️⃣ Huangshi | Hubei Chengyue Island was a pleasant surprise in Huangshi. It's not big, but it's just the right amount of quiet. ⏰ Go in the evening. The lake reflects the sunset over Cihu Lake, and locals are out walking their dogs—it's full of local life. 📍 A walk around the island takes about 40 minutes, and the bridgehead is the best spot to watch the sunset. Bring a coffee and just sit there; no one will rush you. 🍜 Leave the island and head into the city for Huangshi Gangbing—crispy and sweet. Potato slices and fried skewers are favorites among students. ⚠️ There isn't much commercial activity on the island, so bring your own water. There are few lights at night, so watch your step. Perfect for some alone time or a romantic stroll for couples. Come in spring when the willow trees by the lake are just turning green; even the breeze feels soft. None of these 8 places became popular through hype. Pick a weekend, buy a ticket, and go. How many have you been to? Let us know in the comments.

Panlong Mountain Ancient Architecture, Hometown of Li Zicheng | Complete Travel Guide to Li Zicheng's Palace 🎫Ticketing Information Location: Xinggong East Road, Yinzhou Street, Mizhi County, Yulin, on Panlong Mountain Tickets: Adults 30 yuan; Li Zicheng Palace + Jiang Family Manor combined ticket 50 yuan Preferential policies: Seniors aged 60-64 and full-time students (with valid ID) get half price; Seniors aged 65 and above, children under 1.2 meters, active military personnel, and disabled persons (with valid ID) get free admission Opening hours: Summer (April-October) 08:00-17:30 (last entry at 17:00); Winter (November-March) 08:00-17:00 (last entry at 16:30) Suggested visit duration: 1.5-2 hours Best time to visit: 9-11 am and after 16 pm for a stunning panoramic view of Mizhi Old Town 🏞Key attractions 1. Li Zicheng's Horseback Statue: The iconic sculpture at the entrance, imposing and the first photo spot upon entering the park. 2. Yue Lou (乐楼): A well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty stage with well-preserved wood carvings and paintings. Now a Shaanxi paper-cutting themed exhibition hall, it exudes an antique charm. 3. Meihua Pavilion & Pengsheng Lou (捧圣楼): Octagonal pavilions with exquisite designs. Climbing the 90 stone steps along the mountainside, one feels increasingly elevated. 4. Ertianmen (二天门): The central gate of the palace, with red walls and stone steps, a popular spot for taking photos in ancient style. 5. Yuhuangge (玉皇阁) (Lansheng Lou): The highest point on the mountainside, offering panoramic views of the entire Mizhi cave dwelling ancient city. The old town's houses stretch as far as the eye can see, a complete panorama of this loess town. 6. Qixiangdian (李子成纪念馆): The main hall of the palace, featuring numerous pictures, texts, and artifacts that tell the complete story of the eventful life of Li Zicheng, the rebel leader. 7. Zhaoqing Palace (兆庆宫): The former sleeping quarters, now housing an exhibition on the history of Mizhi women, showcasing stories of Mizhi's female figures. 8. Eastern Han Dynasty Stone Relief Exhibition Area: A collection of Han Dynasty stone carvings from northern Shaanxi, depicting scenes of carriages and horses, and agricultural activities, possessing significant historical and cultural value. 9. Panlong Mountain Panoramic View: The entire ancient architectural complex is arranged along the mountainside, with red walls and black tiles, offering panoramic views of the loess gullies. 🗺Tour Route ▶Classic Hiking Loop (Recommended) Entrance Plaza → Chuang Wang Bronze Statue → Music Pavilion → Plum Blossom Pavilion → Pengsheng Pavilion → Second Heavenly Gate → Jade Emperor Pavilion (for panoramic views) → Qixiang Hall (Li Zicheng Memorial Hall) → Zhaoqing Palace Exhibition Hall → Hiking down the back mountain path → Exit ▶Easy and Concise Route Plaza Check-in → Ascend the stone steps directly to Jade Emperor Pavilion for a panoramic view of the city → Visit Qixiang Hall, a gentle return journey, reducing the time spent climbing. ▶Mizhi One-Day Self-Driving Itinerary Li Zicheng's Palace → Mizhi Cave Dwelling Ancient City → Jiang Family Manor 🚗Transportation Guide By Car: Navigate to Li Zicheng's Palace, located in the center of Mizhi County. A small free parking lot is available at the scenic area entrance. The old town roads are narrow, so drive carefully and slowly. Public Transportation: Take a bus from Yulin Bus Station to Mizhi; a taxi within Mizhi County will take you directly to the scenic area entrance for the starting fare. You can also ride an electric scooter. High-Speed ​​Rail: Arrive at Suide Station and transfer to Mizhi. 📌Travel Tips 1. The mountain steps are continuous and dense, with some steps being quite steep. Wear non-slip sports shoes, and elderly people should walk slowly. 2. It is windy at the top of the mountain; bring a light jacket. The ultraviolet radiation is strong, so take precautions against sunburn. 3. Do not touch the ancient building wood carvings and portrait stone artifacts. Flash photography is prohibited on artifacts in the exhibition halls. 4. It is recommended to choose a guided tour to learn about the history of the late Ming Dynasty for a better experience. 5. The palace is adjacent to the free Mizhi Cave Ancient Town; after your visit, you can stroll through the old town's streets and alleys. 6. There are few shops inside the scenic area; please bring your own drinking water. 7. Do not climb the undeveloped trails on the back mountain; only use the official tourist trails. 8. The steps are slippery after rain; please watch your step while hiking. Panlong Mountain Ancient Architecture, Hometown of Li Zicheng | Complete Guide to Li Zicheng's Palace 🎫Ticket Information Location: Xinggong East Road, Yinzhou Street, Mizhi County, Yulin, on Panlong Mountain Tickets: Adults 30 yuan; Li Zicheng Palace + Jiang Family Manor combined ticket 50 yuan Preferential policies: Seniors aged 60-64 and full-time students (with valid ID) get half price; Seniors aged 65 and above, children under 1.2 meters, active military personnel, and disabled persons (with valid ID) get free admission Opening hours: Summer (April-October) 08:00-17:30 (last entry at 17:00); Winter (November-March) 08:00-17:00 (last entry at 16:30) Suggested visit duration: 1.5-2 hours Best time to visit: 9-11 am and after 16 pm for a stunning panoramic view of Mizhi Old Town 🏞Key attractions 1. Li Zicheng's Horseback Statue: The iconic sculpture at the entrance, imposing and the first photo spot upon entering the park. 2. Yue Lou (乐楼): A well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty stage with well-preserved wood carvings and paintings. Now a Shaanxi paper-cutting themed exhibition hall, it exudes an antique charm. 3. Meihua Pavilion & Pengsheng Lou (捧圣楼): Octagonal pavilions with exquisite designs. Climbing the 90 stone steps along the mountainside, one feels increasingly elevated. 4. Ertianmen (二天门): The central gate of the palace, with red walls and stone steps, a popular spot for taking photos in ancient style. 5. Yuhuangge (玉皇阁) (Lansheng Lou): The highest point on the mountainside, offering panoramic views of the entire Mizhi cave dwelling ancient city. The old town's houses stretch as far as the eye can see, a complete panorama of this loess town. 6. Qixiangdian (李子成纪念馆): The main hall of the palace, featuring numerous pictures, texts, and artifacts that tell the complete story of the eventful life of Li Zicheng, the rebel leader. 7. Zhaoqing Palace (兆庆宫): The former sleeping quarters, now housing an exhibition on the history of Mizhi women, showcasing stories of Mizhi's female figures. 8. Eastern Han Dynasty Stone Relief Exhibition Area: A collection of Han Dynasty stone carvings from northern Shaanxi, depicting scenes of carriages and horses, and agricultural activities, possessing significant historical and cultural value. 9. Panlong Mountain Panoramic View: The entire ancient architectural complex is arranged along the mountainside, with red walls and black tiles, offering panoramic views of the loess gullies. 🗺Tour Route ▶Classic Hiking Loop (Recommended) Entrance Plaza → Chuang Wang Bronze Statue → Music Pavilion → Plum Blossom Pavilion → Pengsheng Pavilion → Second Heavenly Gate → Jade Emperor Pavilion (for panoramic views) → Qixiang Hall (Li Zicheng Memorial Hall) → Zhaoqing Palace Exhibition Hall → Hiking down the back mountain path → Exit ▶Easy and Concise Route Plaza Check-in → Ascend the stone steps directly to Jade Emperor Pavilion for a panoramic view of the city → Visit Qixiang Hall, a gentle return journey, reducing the time spent climbing. ▶Mizhi One-Day Self-Driving Itinerary Li Zicheng's Palace → Mizhi Cave Dwelling Ancient City → Jiang Family Manor 🚗Transportation Guide By Car: Navigate to Li Zicheng's Palace, located in the center of Mizhi County. A small free parking lot is available at the scenic area entrance. The old town roads are narrow, so drive carefully and slowly. Public Transportation: Take a bus from Yulin Bus Station to Mizhi; a taxi within Mizhi County will take you directly to the scenic area entrance for the starting fare. You can also ride an electric scooter. High-Speed ​​Rail: Arrive at Suide Station and transfer to Mizhi. 📌Travel Tips 1. The mountain steps are continuous and dense, with some steps being quite steep. Wear non-slip sports shoes, and elderly people should walk slowly. 2. It is windy at the top of the mountain; bring a light jacket. The ultraviolet radiation is strong, so take precautions against sunburn. 3. Do not touch the ancient building wood carvings and portrait stone artifacts. Flash photography is prohibited on artifacts in the exhibition halls. 4. It is recommended to choose a guided tour to learn about the history of the late Ming Dynasty for a better experience. 5. The palace is adjacent to the free Mizhi Cave Ancient Town; after your visit, you can stroll through the old town's streets and alleys. 6. There are few shops inside the scenic area; please bring your own drinking water. 7. Do not climb undeveloped trails in the mountains behind the palace; only use the official hiking trails. 8. The steps are slippery after rain; please watch your step while hiking.

Where to go for Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day? Today, I'm not talking about Dali and Lijiang, nor Xi'an and Chengdu. I've unearthed four hidden gem towns – mountains, water, ancient architecture, delicious food, and so few people that you can practically have the entire scenic area to yourself. You can comfortably enjoy your trip for just over 1000 yuan per person. Take advantage of the crisp autumn air and bookmark this! 🏞️ First Stop: Fengxin, Jiangxi | A "Pure" Town of Zen-Inspired Landscapes Recommended Duration: 2 days Fengxin is located in Yichun, just an hour and a half drive from Nanchang. What impressed me most here was its profound tranquility. Baizhang Temple on Baizhang Mountain is the birthplace of the "Pure Rules of Zen Buddhism." The stone inscription handwritten by Liu Gongquan still stands, and the temple maintains the ancient custom of "no work, no food." The mountain isn't high, but the forest coverage is 92%. In autumn, walking through it, you're surrounded by bamboo forests and a light mist, the air filled with the scent of pine needles. 🌿 How to Visit (2 Days): · Day 1: Baizhang Temple → Hiking along the Longtan Trail behind the temple → Stay at a farmhouse in Baizhang Village · Day 2: Luobotan Eight Immortals Waterfall Group → Song Yingxing Memorial Hall → Sunset viewing at Liaohe Park in the county town 🌅 Transportation: Driving is recommended. It takes about 1.5 hours from Nanchang via the Changtong Expressway; alternatively, you can take a bus to Fengxin County and then transfer. Reservations: Baizhang Temple is free. Luobotan entrance fee is about 45 yuan (book online in advance). Song Yingxing Memorial Hall is free with your ID card. ✅ Local Food: Fengxin spoon-shaped pork with rice crust porridge is a perfect match. Other options include rice noodles with shredded pork in sauce, stir-fried fern with cured meat, Ai Mi Guo (a type of rice cake), and Huangyuan rice cake. You can eat your fill for around 40-50 yuan per person. Experience: Here, there is no commercial hustle and bustle; it feels more like stepping into a living mountain village and ancient temple. In the evening, sitting in a farmhouse courtyard watching the bamboo forest and listening to the stream, you'll feel completely at peace. 🌱 Important Notes: The temperature difference between day and night is significant in the mountains; remember to bring a light jacket in September and October. The trails are slippery, so wear non-slip shoes. Dress appropriately and remain quiet when entering temples. Second Stop · Yulin, Shaanxi | Danxia Landform and the Great Wall in the Camel City of the Northwest Recommended Duration: 3 days Yulin is the most "hardcore" of these four. It's home to Zhenbeitai, one of the three wonders of the Great Wall, and also the Jingbian Wave Valley—the red Danxia landform known as "China's Antelope Valley." In October, the Danxia landform in Yulin is a vibrant red, and the vegetation along the Great Wall turns brownish-yellow. Every shot is a masterpiece under the light and shadow. Crucially, there are very few tourists here. 🏜️ Itinerary (3 days): · Day 1: Yulin Old Street (Liulou Qijie) → Hongshixia Cliff Carvings → Zhenbeitai for "Red Mountain Sunset" 🌄 · Day 2: Jingbian Wave Valley (Flame Danxia, ​​One Line Sky, Water Danxia) → Tongwancheng Ruins (along the way) · Day 3: Shenmu Hongjiannao (China's largest freshwater lake in the desert) → Erlintu Grassland, return trip Transportation: Xi'an high-speed rail to Yulin takes about 2.5 hours, or you can fly to Yuyang Airport; taxis are readily available within the city, but for inter-county travel, hiring a car or driving yourself is strongly recommended (attractions are often 50-150 kilometers apart). Reservations: Hongshixia and Zhenbeitai are each 30 yuan (combined ticket 50 yuan), Wave Valley is about 90 yuan including shuttle bus. For popular attractions, it is recommended to make reservations 1 day in advance through the official WeChat account. ✅ Local Delicacies: Hengshan stewed mutton is tender and flavorful, perfect with millet cake; a breakfast of mutton offal soup and Suide fried dough twists costs only 15 yuan; the night market also offers bowl-shaped steamed buns, fried soy milk, and sea buckthorn juice. Travel Experience: Standing on Zhenbeitai, watching the Great Wall wind its way through the autumn colors like a dragon's spine, the desolation and vastness are something southern cities can't offer. Walking into the "One Line Sky" at Wave Valley truly feels like stepping on the surface of Mars. 🌅 Precautions: The temperature difference between day and night in northern Shaanxi is extreme; bring a light down jacket in the mornings and evenings; remember to use sunscreen due to strong UV rays; never step on the Danxia landforms; supplies are limited in scenic areas, bring your own drinking water. Third Stop · Jiyuan, Henan | Mountains, Rivers, Monkeys, and Temples of the Hometown of Yu Gong Recommended Duration: 3 days Jiyuan is small, yet it encompasses the story of "Yu Gong Moving Mountains," Wangwu Mountain (the first Taoist grotto), the Yellow River Three Gorges, Taihang macaques, and the thousand-year-old Jidu Temple—all within one city. September and October are the most comfortable months, neither too hot nor too cold, perfect for leisurely walks. What surprised me most was the Yellow River Three Gorges—the emerald green canyons formed by the Xiaolangdi Reservoir, known as the "Northern Thousand Island Lake." Boating through them, the red cliffs reflected in the green water were far more stunning than I had imagined. 🌊 How to go (3 days): · Day 1: Climb Tian Tan Peak at Wangwu Mountain → See the thousand-year-old ginkgo tree at Yangtai Palace → Stay overnight in Wangwu Town · Day 2: Xiaolangdi Viewing Platform → Yellow River Three Gorges boat trip (Gushan Gorge, Longfeng Gorge, Bali Gorge) · Day 3: See Taihang macaques at Wulongkou → Visit the ancient Jidu Temple → Enjoy Yellow River carp in the city Transportation: Take the high-speed rail to Jiyuan East Station; driving from Zhengzhou/Luoyang takes about 1.5-2 hours; the scenic areas are scattered, hiring a car for about 300 yuan/day is the most convenient option. Reservations: Wangwu Mountain 65 yuan, Wulongkou 40 yuan, Jidu Temple 30 yuan, Yellow River Three Gorges free but boat ticket 80 yuan; during peak season, it is recommended to make reservations one day in advance through "Henan Cultural Tourism Pass" or the scenic area's official WeChat account with your real name and ID card. ✅ Local Food: The soul of breakfast is "Egg Flip" (5 yuan a serving), along with local bread, acorn jelly, Yellow River carp, and beef balls. The South Street Night Market is a place where you can eat until you're stuffed. Travel Experience: The sea of ​​clouds and thousand-year-old ginkgo trees at Wangwu Mountain are calming; the macaques at Wulongkou are clever and cute, but don't look directly at them or tease them; the boat trip on the Yellow River Three Gorges is the most relaxing part. The whole town has a slow pace, perfect for unwinding. 🌿 Important Notes: Bring a jacket and non-slip shoes due to the large temperature difference in the mountains; keep your distance when feeding monkeys and do not feed them your own food; the Xiaolangdi Dam is most spectacular during June and July when it regulates water and sediment, while September and October offer views of the emerald water dam; for self-driving, take the Taihang Highway No. 1 for stunning scenery. Fourth Stop · Luoping, Yunnan | A Hidden Autumn Paradise of Waterfalls and Buyi Ethnic Customs Recommended Duration: 2 days Many people only know about Luoping's rapeseed flower fields in spring, but they don't know that autumn in Luoping is truly a time of "fewer crowds and more beautiful scenery." The Jiulong Waterfall Group is renowned as "Nine Dragons and Ten Waterfalls, a Wonder of Southern China." The main waterfall, Shenlong Waterfall, is 56 meters high and 112 meters wide, and during the high-water season, double rainbows often appear in the mist. In October, the water volume is still abundant, but there are so few tourists that you can have the entire viewing platform to yourself, making it excellent value for money. 🌈 How to Enjoy (2 Days): · Day 1: Jiulong Waterfall Group (Shenlong Waterfall, Lover's Waterfall, Panoramic Viewing Platform) → Evening: Watch the sunset at Jinji Peak Forest. 🌄 · Day 2: Bamboo Rafting on the Duoyi River → Watch a Buyi ethnic performance and experience making flower rice. → Return trip. Transportation: Kunming high-speed train to Luoping takes about 1.5 hours; public transportation between scenic areas is limited, so it is recommended to hire a car (about 200-400 yuan/day) or drive yourself. Reservations: Jiulong Waterfall ticket is about 60 yuan (57 yuan online); during the off-season, admission to Jinji Peak Forest is free after 5:30 PM, perfect for sunset photography. ✅ Local Cuisine: Buyi five-colored flower rice is soft, sticky, and fragrant; sour bamboo shoot fish is spicy and appetizing; there's also Fule crispy pork, fried river shrimp, and Luyi cured pork. A good meal can be had for around 20-30 yuan per person. Experience: Approaching Shenlong Waterfall, the roar of the water is deafening, and the spray hits your face. Standing on the panoramic viewing platform overlooking the ten-tiered waterfall, you'll truly get goosebumps. Bamboo rafts drift leisurely on the Duoyi River, flanked by Buyi villages, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle. 🌅 Precautions: The stone paths around the waterfall are slippery, so be sure to wear non-slip river shoes; bring a waterproof phone case when approaching the waterfall on a bamboo raft; be aware of the strong ultraviolet radiation at high altitudes; respect farmland and avoid trampling on rapeseed fields. In conclusion: These four places each have their own soul—Fengxin is Zen, Yulin is vast, Jiyuan is wondrous, and Luoping is beautiful. They aren't super popular tourist destinations, but they're all at their most beautiful in September and October, and the cost is really low—you can enjoy a leisurely trip for just over 1000 yuan per person. 🌅 Travel off-peak, leave the National Day crowds behind, and go and enjoy the true scenery in solitude. Which one do you like best? Tell me in the comments, and I'll post a detailed itinerary in the next post. Where to go for Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day? Today, I'm not talking about Dali and Lijiang, nor Xi'an and Chengdu. I've unearthed four hidden gem towns – mountains, water, ancient architecture, delicious food, and so few people that you can practically have the entire scenic area to yourself. You can comfortably enjoy your trip for just over 1000 yuan per person. Take advantage of the crisp autumn air and bookmark this! 🏞️ First Stop: Fengxin, Jiangxi | A "Pure" Town of Zen-Inspired Landscapes Recommended Duration: 2 days Fengxin is located in Yichun, just an hour and a half drive from Nanchang. What impressed me most here was its profound tranquility. Baizhang Temple on Baizhang Mountain is the birthplace of the "Pure Rules of Zen Buddhism." The stone inscription handwritten by Liu Gongquan still stands, and the temple maintains the ancient custom of "no work, no food." The mountain isn't high, but the forest coverage is 92%. In autumn, walking through it, you're surrounded by bamboo forests and a light mist, the air filled with the scent of pine needles. 🌿 How to Visit (2 Days): · Day 1: Baizhang Temple → Hiking along the Longtan Trail behind the temple → Stay at a farmhouse in Baizhang Village · Day 2: Luobotan Eight Immortals Waterfall Group → Song Yingxing Memorial Hall → Sunset viewing at Liaohe Park in the county town 🌅 Transportation: Driving is recommended. It takes about 1.5 hours from Nanchang via the Changtong Expressway; alternatively, you can take a bus to Fengxin County and then transfer. Reservations: Baizhang Temple is free. Luobotan entrance fee is about 45 yuan (book online in advance). Song Yingxing Memorial Hall is free with your ID card. ✅ Local Food: Fengxin spoon-shaped pork with rice crust porridge is a perfect match. Other options include rice noodles with shredded pork in sauce, stir-fried fern with cured meat, Ai Mi Guo (a type of rice cake), and Huangyuan rice cake. You can eat your fill for around 40-50 yuan per person. Experience: Here, there is no commercial hustle and bustle; it feels more like stepping into a living mountain village and ancient temple. In the evening, sitting in a farmhouse courtyard watching the bamboo forest and listening to the stream, you'll feel completely at peace. 🌱 Important Notes: The temperature difference between day and night is significant in the mountains; remember to bring a light jacket in September and October. The trails are slippery, so wear non-slip shoes. Dress appropriately and remain quiet when entering temples. Second Stop · Yulin, Shaanxi | Danxia Landform and the Great Wall in the Camel City of the Northwest Recommended Duration: 3 days Yulin is the most "hardcore" of these four. It's home to Zhenbeitai, one of the three wonders of the Great Wall, and also the Jingbian Wave Valley—the red Danxia landform known as "China's Antelope Valley." In October, the Danxia landform in Yulin is a vibrant red, and the vegetation along the Great Wall turns brownish-yellow. Every shot is a masterpiece under the light and shadow. Crucially, there are very few tourists here. 🏜️ Itinerary (3 days): · Day 1: Yulin Old Street (Liulou Qijie) → Hongshixia Cliff Carvings → Zhenbeitai for "Red Mountain Sunset" 🌄 · Day 2: Jingbian Wave Valley (Flame Danxia, ​​One Line Sky, Water Danxia) → Tongwancheng Ruins (along the way) · Day 3: Shenmu Hongjiannao (China's largest freshwater lake in the desert) → Erlintu Grassland, return trip Transportation: Xi'an high-speed rail to Yulin takes about 2.5 hours, or you can fly to Yuyang Airport; taxis are readily available within the city, but for inter-county travel, hiring a car or driving yourself is strongly recommended (attractions are often 50-150 kilometers apart). Reservations: Hongshixia and Zhenbeitai are each 30 yuan (combined ticket 50 yuan), Wave Valley is about 90 yuan including shuttle bus. For popular attractions, it is recommended to make reservations 1 day in advance through the official WeChat account. ✅ Local Delicacies: Hengshan stewed mutton is tender and flavorful, perfect with millet cake; a breakfast of mutton offal soup and Suide fried dough twists costs only 15 yuan; the night market also offers bowl-shaped steamed buns, fried soy milk, and sea buckthorn juice. Travel Experience: Standing on Zhenbeitai, watching the Great Wall wind its way through the autumn colors like a dragon's spine, the desolation and vastness are something southern cities can't offer. Walking into the "One Line Sky" at Wave Valley truly feels like stepping on the surface of Mars. 🌅 Precautions: The temperature difference between day and night in northern Shaanxi is extreme; bring a light down jacket in the mornings and evenings; remember to use sunscreen due to strong UV rays; never step on the Danxia landforms; supplies are limited in scenic areas, bring your own drinking water. Third Stop · Jiyuan, Henan | Mountains, Rivers, Monkeys, and Temples of the Hometown of Yu Gong Recommended Duration: 3 days Jiyuan is small, yet it encompasses the story of "Yu Gong Moving Mountains," Wangwu Mountain (the first Taoist grotto), the Yellow River Three Gorges, Taihang macaques, and the thousand-year-old Jidu Temple—all within one city. September and October are the most comfortable months, neither too hot nor too cold, perfect for leisurely walks. What surprised me most was the Yellow River Three Gorges—the emerald green canyons formed by the Xiaolangdi Reservoir, known as the "Northern Thousand Island Lake." Boating through them, the red cliffs reflected in the green water were far more stunning than I had imagined. 🌊 How to go (3 days): · Day 1: Climb Tian Tan Peak at Wangwu Mountain → See the thousand-year-old ginkgo tree at Yangtai Palace → Stay overnight in Wangwu Town · Day 2: Xiaolangdi Viewing Platform → Yellow River Three Gorges boat trip (Gushan Gorge, Longfeng Gorge, Bali Gorge) · Day 3: See Taihang macaques at Wulongkou → Visit the ancient Jidu Temple → Enjoy Yellow River carp in the city Transportation: Take the high-speed rail to Jiyuan East Station; driving from Zhengzhou/Luoyang takes about 1.5-2 hours; the scenic areas are scattered, hiring a car for about 300 yuan/day is the most convenient option. Reservations: Wangwu Mountain 65 yuan, Wulongkou 40 yuan, Jidu Temple 30 yuan, Yellow River Three Gorges free but boat ticket 80 yuan; during peak season, it is recommended to make reservations one day in advance through "Henan Cultural Tourism Pass" or the scenic area's official WeChat account with your real name and ID card. ✅ Local Food: The soul of breakfast is "Egg Flip" (5 yuan a serving), along with local bread, acorn jelly, Yellow River carp, and beef balls. The South Street Night Market is a place where you can eat until you're stuffed. Travel Experience: The sea of ​​clouds and thousand-year-old ginkgo trees at Wangwu Mountain are calming; the macaques at Wulongkou are clever and cute, but don't look directly at them or tease them; the boat trip on the Yellow River Three Gorges is the most relaxing part. The whole town has a slow pace, perfect for unwinding. 🌿 Important Notes: Bring a jacket and non-slip shoes due to the large temperature difference in the mountains; keep your distance when feeding monkeys and do not feed them your own food; the Xiaolangdi Dam is most spectacular during June and July when it regulates water and sediment, while September and October offer views of the emerald water dam; for self-driving, take the Taihang Highway No. 1 for stunning scenery. Fourth Stop · Luoping, Yunnan | A Hidden Autumn Paradise of Waterfalls and Buyi Ethnic Customs Recommended Duration: 2 days Many people only know about Luoping's rapeseed flower fields in spring, but they don't know that autumn in Luoping is truly a time of "fewer crowds and more beautiful scenery." The Jiulong Waterfall Group is renowned as "Nine Dragons and Ten Waterfalls, a Wonder of Southern China." The main waterfall, Shenlong Waterfall, is 56 meters high and 112 meters wide, and during the high-water season, double rainbows often appear in the mist. In October, the water volume is still abundant, but there are so few tourists that you can have the entire viewing platform to yourself, making it excellent value for money. 🌈 How to Enjoy (2 Days): · Day 1: Jiulong Waterfall Group (Shenlong Waterfall, Lover's Waterfall, Panoramic Viewing Platform) → Evening: Watch the sunset at Jinji Peak Forest. 🌄 · Day 2: Bamboo Rafting on the Duoyi River → Watch a Buyi ethnic performance and experience making flower rice. → Return trip. Transportation: Kunming high-speed train to Luoping takes about 1.5 hours; public transportation between scenic areas is limited, so it is recommended to hire a car (about 200-400 yuan/day) or drive yourself. Reservations: Jiulong Waterfall ticket is about 60 yuan (57 yuan online); during the off-season, admission to Jinji Peak Forest is free after 5:30 PM, perfect for sunset photography. ✅ Local Cuisine: Buyi five-colored flower rice is soft, sticky, and fragrant; sour bamboo shoot fish is spicy and appetizing; there's also Fule crispy pork, fried river shrimp, and Luyi cured pork. A good meal can be had for around 20-30 yuan per person. Experience: Approaching Shenlong Waterfall, the roar of the water is deafening, and the spray hits your face. Standing on the panoramic viewing platform overlooking the ten-tiered waterfall, you'll truly get goosebumps. Bamboo rafts drift leisurely on the Duoyi River, flanked by Buyi villages, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle. 🌅 Precautions: The stone paths around the waterfall are slippery, so be sure to wear non-slip river shoes; bring a waterproof phone case when approaching the waterfall on a bamboo raft; be aware of the strong ultraviolet radiation at high altitudes; respect farmland and avoid trampling on rapeseed fields. In conclusion: These four places each have their own soul—Fengxin is Zen, Yulin is vast, Jiyuan is wondrous, and Luoping is beautiful. They aren't super popular tourist destinations, but they're all at their most beautiful in September and October, and the cost is really low—you can enjoy a leisurely trip for just over 1000 yuan per person. 🌅 Travel off-peak, leave the National Day crowds behind, and go and enjoy the true scenery in solitude. Which one do you like best? Tell me in the comments, and I'll post a detailed itinerary in the next post.

Day 1️⃣ Hongshixia (attraction ticket: CNY 30) – Cliff carvings + Yuxi River🌊 Morning: Head straight to the calligraphy treasure house on the cliff and feel the awe of the thousand-year-old carvings!📜 Afternoon: Stroll by the river, encounter a little girl gazing at the canyon, the Yuxi River at sunset is stunning~🌅 Day 2️⃣ Zhenbeitai (attraction ticket: CNY 30) – First Terrace of the Great Wall + Yulin Great Wall🏯 Morning: Climb the terrace to overlook the desert frontier, full of desolate vibes!💪 Afternoon: Walk along the Ming Great Wall ruins and feel the weight of history~🎯 Day 3️⃣ Yulin Old Street (free admission) – Six towers + Shaanbei cave dwellings🏠 Morning: Wander through the six drum towers of the old city, every shot is a blockbuster📸 Afternoon: Dive into the alleys for Shaanbei snacks, full of local life🔥 🍜 Treasure food list: ① Yulin lamb noodles (old shop, CNY 18/bowl): Rich broth and chewy noodles, soul-satisfying! ② Pin San Xian (street stall, CNY 15/serving): Meatballs, wood ear mushrooms, and tofu, a perfect comfort food~ ③ Suide Youxuan (roadside, CNY 3/each): Crispy layers, so good you won't want to waste a single crumb! ⚠️ Tips for avoiding pitfalls: ① Hongshixia is backlit in the afternoon, remember to go in the morning for photos📷 (the sunset is beautiful, but you'll need lighting for portraits) ② It's super windy at Zhenbeitai, wear a hat and scarf🧣 or you'll be blown away in minutes ③ Large temperature difference between day and night in September, a jacket is a must! ④ The Old Street night market is livelier than during the day, recommended to visit at night🎉 ⑤ Yulin Yuyang Airport has flights, and the high-speed rail from Xi'an takes 2 hours, super convenient! 💰 Cost reference: Hongshixia CNY 30 + Zhenbeitai CNY 30 + Old Street free = CNY 60 for attraction tickets Transportation: Xi'an North to Yulin by high-speed rail takes 2 hours and costs about CNY 180. The 3-day trip can be done for CNY 500–800 per person.

Mingzhou, a thousand-year mountain town | Complete guide to Mingzhou old town 🎫 Tickets Location: Yulin, Suide County, Mingzhou Town, Shushu Mountain area, central Suide county Tickets: the old town area is free. Exhibition halls require ID registration to enter, and some galleries are closed on Mon Opening hours: old town area open all day. Major exhibition halls 9:00 AM–5:00 PM, last entry 4:30 PM, closed Mon (except public holidays) Suggested visit length: 3–4 hours Best time to visit: late afternoon 4:00 PM–sunset, climb to the top to overlook the confluence of the two rivers; spring and autumn have comfortable weather, ideal for strolling the old streets 🏞 Core highlights 1. Shushu Mountain vantage point The old town sits on Shushu Mountain. From the high ground you can see the Wuding River and Dali River winding around the city, offering panoramic views of Suide mountain town. 2. Fusu tomb and Fusu cultural garden A Qin dynasty relic and the burial place of Fusu, the eldest son of Qin Shi Huang. The loess hilltop evokes the Qin and Han era history of the region. 3. Han pictorial stone museum Houses a large collection of Eastern Han pictorial stone carvings—carriages, hunting scenes, and farming motifs—making it a treasure trove of Han stone-carving art in northern Shaanxi. 4. Suide revolutionary history memorial hall A red-themed museum that records Suide's revolutionary years, including exhibits on Li Zizhou, Suide Normal School, and the former headquarters of the 359th Brigade. A popular red-study stop. 5. Yongle Gate (north gate) A well-preserved Ming dynasty gate with remnant rammed-earth walls and old bricks and stones. It is an iconic photo spot. 6. Ming and Qing courtyard clusters Featuring the Gao family mansion, the flower-wall courtyard, the Longzhangbaoyi stone archway, loess cave dwellings alongside old blue-brick houses—authentic northern Shaanxi residences with little commercialization. 7. Old town stone-paved streets Winding stone slopes with uneven levels, scattered old shops and houses—stroll to experience the mountain town's distinctive up-and-down street layout. 8. Tianxia Mingzhou stone archway A representative work of Suide stone carving, this giant stone archway has intricate bas-reliefs and is a must-stop photo point on the way into town to appreciate the county's stone-carving heritage. 🗺 Suggested routes ▶ Classic panoramic loop (recommended) Stone archway photo stop → north gate Yongle Gate → stone-paved old street stroll → Ming and Qing courtyards → Suide revolutionary history memorial hall → Han pictorial stone museum → Fusu tomb cultural garden → Shushu Mountain viewing platform to overlook the city → descend and return ▶ Short photo route North gate → old street → Shushu Mountain viewing platform, for panoramic views, suitable for time-pressed visitors ▶ Suide one-day self-drive Mingzhou old town → Haojia Bridge scenic area → Shihun Square 🚗 Transport guide By car: set navigation to Mingzhou Old Town (Shushu Mountain scenic area), central Suide county. Paid parking is available at the foot of the mountain. The road up is narrow, so driving to the top is not recommended—park and walk up. Public transport: a 10-minute taxi from Suide railway station or bus station will get you to the mountain base. Short taxi rides within the county are convenient. Inside the old town: best explored on foot, with many slopes. 📌 Tips 1. The mountain town has many slopes and uneven steps; wear non-slip athletic shoes. 2. It can be windy at the summit; bring a light jacket. UV is strong, so use sun protection. 3. Do not touch stone carvings or artifacts in the galleries, and avoid flash photography. 4. Some old lanes are still home to residents; do not enter private courtyards without permission. 5. Few shops are on the mountain; bring your own drinking water. 6. If you go up at dusk to watch the sunset, allow plenty of time to descend to avoid walking steep slopes in the dark. 7. Protect the ancient walls; do not carve on bricks or stones. 8. Stone paths are slippery after rain; walk slowly and watch your step

Driving through Suide, Yulin, I never expected to find the biggest surprise of my trip! No shoulder-to-shoulder crowds, just the most rugged and moving stone carving art on the Loess Plateau by the Yellow River! I couldn't help but scream with excitement! I have to recommend this to everyone. 🪨 Shihun Square is hidden on the east bank of the Wuding River (No. 2 Chaoyang Road, Suide County, Yulin City, Shaanxi Province). It is the entrance to the Loess Culture Park, and the highlight is the stone lions here! As a famous hometown of stone lions, the whole square is full of stone lions of all sizes and shapes, so many that you will be dazzled! It is said that every lion's expression has its own soul, and any photo is meme material. 🎫 Here is the key point! Free! Free! Free! Important things said three times! Open 24/7 year-round. Recommended visit time is 1.5–2 hours. For self-driving, navigate directly to Shihun Square; there is a free parking lot at the entrance. For public transport, take Suide Bus Route 2 to Shihun Square Station and you are there. 👀 Since you are here, you must save these highlights of Shihun Square: 1️⃣ World's No. 1 Stone Lion Group🦁 There is a giant lion nearly 20 meters high on both the east and west sides of the square! The male lions are carved from bluestone, with Bixi (mythical creature) bodies, looking majestic! During the day, the sunlight shines on the carved rocks, and the mountain scenery and stone lions complement each other, which is truly stunning! You can take photos with the lion heads on the nearby trail; it is very photogenic! I suggest wearing bright clothes for better contrast. 2️⃣ Lion Pillar Stairway🎢 Besides the giant lions, there are totem pillars over 20 meters high and a stairway made of 34 stone lion pillars! Each lion has a unique expression, some cute and some majestic. Standing in the middle of the stairway and shooting upwards, you can get a cinematic shot in minutes! Climbing the nearby trail to shoot downwards is even more stunning, as if you have walked into a stone lion kingdom. 3️⃣ Cliff Carvings & Ancient City Wall Landscape🧐 The lion images carved on the north cliff are super interesting! You really cannot recognize them if you do not look carefully; it tests your eyesight! In the evening, the sunlight shines obliquely on the carvings, and the light and shadow effects are amazing! Those artistic patterns seem to come alive in the interplay of light and shadow, and it is super atmospheric! 📷 The stone lions in the whole square are some dignified and solemn, some abstract to the point of making people laugh! I really took a lot of lion memes; it is so interesting! Each one seems to be endowed with a soul, full of artistic sense! 🗺️ I have also arranged a surrounding travel guide for you! Shihun Square is in a great location, and you can visit these on the way: ✅ Shushu Mountain Cultural Tourism Scenic Area: Right next door, within walking distance, free admission! You can visit the Tomb of Fusu of Qin and the Han Dynasty Portrait Stone Museum to feel the depth of history! ✅ Mingzhou Ancient City: A 10-minute drive away. The ancient city retains many old Northern Shaanxi alleys. Strolling through them, you can eat local wantuo (buckwheat jelly) and heifen (black bean jelly), full of local atmosphere! ✅ Guojiagou Village: A half-hour drive away. This is the filming location for many Northern Shaanxi-themed movies and TV shows. An authentic Loess Plateau ancient village, super photogenic! ✅ Suide Intangible Cultural Heritage Snack Street: Best to come at night! Have a bowl of Suide lamb noodles, take a bite of youxuan (oily spiral bread), and try the yellow steamed bun. Eat all the Northern Shaanxi snacks in one street! 💡 Tips: 🌞 I suggest coming in the morning or evening, as the sun is gentle, good for photos, and there are fewer people! There are not many restaurants near the square, so you can bring some water and snacks to replenish energy at any time! ⭐️ Actually, the most moving scenery is never the internet-famous spots that require queuing, but this kind of place hidden deep in a small town, carrying the spirit of the locals! If you are tired of the same old scenic spots, you must come to Suide Shihun Square, touch these stones with "soul," and feel the most stunning tenderness of the Loess Plateau.

Mizhi, historically known as Yinzhou, is located in the southern part of Yulin, Shaanxi, in the middle reaches of the Wuding River. It is a famous city in northern Shaanxi, recognized as a "Millennium Ancient County," and named for its "fertile soil suitable for millet, which produces a rice juice as rich as fat." The landscape here is crisscrossed by loess gullies, and it has a long history of millet cultivation. Mizhi millet is a national geographical indication product, reflecting a deep agricultural heritage. Mizhi is rich in culture, with the popular saying "Mizhi women and Suide men" widely known. The legend of it being the hometown of Diaochan is also well-spread, and it is the birthplace of many historical figures such as Li Zicheng, Du Bincheng, and Du Yuming. The area is rich in cultural relics. The Li Zicheng Palace on Panlong Mountain is magnificent, the Yangjiagou Revolutionary Site carries red memories, and cave dwellings like the Jiang Family Manor and Fufengzhai New Courtyard showcase the pinnacle of northern Shaanxi cave-dwelling craftsmanship. The ancient cave city retains its rustic, historic charm. It features both the majestic natural scenery of the Loess Plateau and rich northern Shaanxi folk customs, with intangible cultural heritage like suona music, yangge dance, and paper-cutting passed down through generations. Today, Mizhi integrates historical sites, red culture, and cave-dwelling customs, making it an important tourist destination for experiencing the historical charm of northern Shaanxi, where profound history and loess culture shine together. Mizhi is called "Magical Mizhi" for three reasons: First, it is named for its "fertile soil suitable for millet, which produces a rice juice as rich as fat." The unique soil and water nurture the exceptional quality of Mizhi millet, which has been a tribute grain since ancient times. Second, the folk saying "Mizhi women and Suide men" and the legend of it being the hometown of Diaochan are household names. It is also the birthplace of Li Zicheng, embodying both the grace of beauty and the spirit of heroism. Third, it holds numerous treasures within its loess gullies, such as the exquisite cave-dwelling craftsmanship of the Panlong Mountain Palace and Jiang Family Manor, the red history witnessed by the Yangjiagou Revolutionary Site, and the miracle of ecological governance on the Loess Plateau shown in Gaoxigou. These multiple miracles combine to earn it the reputation of "Magical Mizhi." 🚉 Transportation guide: Mizhi is accessible by high-speed rail, bullet trains, and regular trains. For road travel, there are direct expressways, or you can fly to Yulin Airport and transfer. ⏳ Recommended visit duration: 1–2 days.

This is not an ordinary village in northern Shaanxi but the real-life model of Shuangshui Village from Lu Yao’s novel Ordinary World! ✨ The moment you enter the village, it feels like opening a door to a literary world 🚪 Rows of cave dwellings quietly embedded in the hillside Weathered courtyard walls, rustic millstones, and lush jujube trees Every corner is a replica of scenes from the book 📖 As you stroll through, you’ll see: ☀️ Old man Yu Hou working in the fields 📰 Comrade Sun Yuting reading the newspaper on the bridge 👢 Xiulian busy with household chores 🚬 Secretary Futang smoking thoughtfully on the millstone “Who told you to read so many books and learn there’s a big world beyond Shuangshui Village...” Standing here, you truly understand the deeper meaning of this line 🤔 It turns out the world in literature really exists The ordinary yet extraordinary charm of northern Shaanxi Is waiting here for every dreamer to explore ✨

Haojiaqiao scenic area is located in Haojiaqiao village, Zhangjiabian town, Suide county, Yulin, Shaanxi, about 10 km from the county seat. It is a national 4A-level red tourism site and a national model village for poverty alleviation. The cave dwellings on the Loess Plateau blend with red history here. This is a famous “rural model” in the Shaanxi-Gansu-Ningxia border region. In 1943, revolutionary pioneers led a survey team to stay here for 44 days, conducting in-depth field visits with local people, establishing labor model Liu Yuhou, promoting rent and interest reduction and large-scale production campaigns, sparking a wave of “villages learning from Haojiaqiao, everyone learning from Liu Yuhou.” In 1944, the village was awarded the “rural model” plaque. The core attractions include the revolutionary history memorial hall, former residence of Xi Zhongxun, former residence of Qi Xin, former residence of labor model Liu Yuhou, and the original township government site. The cave dwellings have been restored to their original state, displaying historical photos, documents, and old farming tools, recreating the production and life scenes of the border region at that time. The digital experience hall uses immersive technology to bring red history to life. During the war years, the people of Haojiaqiao actively supported the revolution. In the new era, the village completed poverty alleviation, with a renewed appearance, becoming a model for rural revitalization. Today, the scenic area is an important base for patriotism and red education, attracting visitors from all over to trace revolutionary footprints and appreciate the spirit of rooting among the people and hard work. Here, you can look back on the years of war and experience the changes in the Loess Plateau countryside, drawing strength from the spirit of practical service to the people. ⏳ Duration: Free admission. Visiting time 1 hour to 2 hours.

Jiang family manor is located in Liujiamao Village, Mizhi County. At the entrance, the towering fortress-style walls immediately catch your eye, creating a strong sense of oppression. This is followed by a long sloping path, with a stone road in the middle likely used for carts and horses. The manor was built by Shaanbei merchant Jiang Yaozu and took more than a decade to complete. It has a history of over 100 years. The manor rises step by step along the mountain and is divided into the lower courtyard, middle courtyard, and upper courtyard. Inside the manor are deep wells and gun emplacements, giving it strong defensive capabilities like a military fortress, which reflects the rampant banditry in Shaanbei at the time. Both Jiang family manor and the Dang family manor in Suide display plaques reading “Kuiwu,” indicating that their ancestors achieved military honors. Whether it’s Jiang family manor or Dang family manor, both are products of their era. Their model no longer fits modern society, so decline is inevitable. Jiang family manor has even fewer residents than the Dang family manor and is almost uninhabited. The towering walls and dilapidated buildings quietly await the few visitors who come.

The Dang Family Manor in Suide is a national key cultural relics protection unit and the best-preserved Qing Dynasty castle-style cave dwelling in Suide. The village was built during the Jiaqing period of the Qing Dynasty, with buildings cascading down the mountainside, creating a layout where "the village is a courtyard, and the courtyard is a mountain village." Many houses in the village were locked, but a family of five sisters on the mountainside was very welcoming and invited me in for a tour, providing a detailed explanation. This was their ancestral home, which they now renovate and return to live in during the summer. I tried a bowl of their mulberry jelly, which was refreshing and cooling. Inside, I discovered small doors connecting the courtyards, linking each one from bottom to top, reflecting a strong sense of clan identity. The Dang Family Manor was continuously built by six generations of the Dang family, reaching its peak with over seventy courtyards, a testament to its former glory. Today, only a few dozen people remain in the village, mostly elderly. During my visit, I didn't see a single young person, or even a middle-aged one.

Spend three leisurely days wandering the northern frontier camel city without rushing, balancing the Great Wall’s culture, Danxia landforms, and Shaanbei local life. The pace is relaxed and easy, and here is a comfortable, easy-to-follow itinerary to share with everyone. Day 1: City edge cultural route, slow stroll through the old town and Great Wall scenery All attractions are close together, no long-distance travel needed, perfect for settling in after arrival. Start by exploring Yulin old street, featuring the iconic six-story riding street layout. The bluestone paths connect the bell tower, drum tower, and Xingming tower. Many long-established snack shops are tucked into the alleys. Wander at your own pace and try oil twists and bowl cakes without rushing, soaking in the old town atmosphere. In the afternoon, head to Zhenbeitai, known as the first tower of the Great Wall. No need to climb to the top; the mid-level platform offers a wide view, overlooking the Mu Us Sandy Land and the entire Yulin city. Enjoy the northern wind while taking in the Great Wall’s contours. Spending some quiet time here is very soothing. A short walk from Zhenbeitai is Hongshixia, a red Danxia canyon with hundreds of Ming and Qing dynasty cliff inscriptions, also called the northern stele forest. Take a gentle stroll along the riverside trail. The evening sunlight on the red rocks creates an excellent atmosphere, making it easy to capture great photos. In the evening, return to the Confucius Temple night market, known for carb- and meat-based snacks. The spicy lamb trotters are tender and fall off the bone, and a bowl of hot lamb offal soup warms the stomach, ending the first day’s easy itinerary. Stay near Yulin old street for convenient travel and dining. Day 2: Jingbian wave valley day trip, stunning Danxia secret spot This day is a longer trip to the outskirts. It’s recommended to arrange a carpool on old street in advance, with pick-up and drop-off in the city, so you don’t have to drive yourself. Arrive at Wave Valley in the morning. Choose the gentle and easy routes in the Flame Danxia and Water Danxia areas, avoiding the steep One-line Sky to save energy. The layered red sandstone looks like frozen waves. Light-colored clothes look especially good in photos. Walk slowly along the lakeside trail to admire the unique landscape where clear water meets red rock. Stop for a simple meal at a farmhouse restaurant in Longzhou town. Be sure to try the handmade chopped buckwheat noodles. The lamb meat sauce is fresh and fragrant, and the buckwheat noodles are chewy and help balance the richness. Return to the main viewing platform at sunset. The sun dyes the entire Danxia landscape warm gold, with rich light and shadow layers. This is the best time of day for scenery. After the tour, head straight back to the city. For dinner, enjoy a pot of Shaanbei mixed meat stew with three kinds of meat, meatballs, and vegetables simmered together. The broth is rich and fresh, perfect for relieving the day’s fatigue. Day 3: Pristine ancient town and loess landscape, easy finish to the trip The pace slows on day 3 with no intense travel, focusing on relaxation and healing. In the morning, head to Gaojiapu ancient town, which is free to enter. It was a filming location for The Ordinary World and is minimally commercialized. It preserves the original Ming and Qing dynasty streets and alleys. Old supply and marketing cooperatives, former post offices, and traditional cave dwellings are everywhere. The bluestone roads are flat and easy to walk. When tired, stop at a street-side teahouse to quietly experience the slow life of a Shaanbei town. For lunch in the ancient town, try Suide black noodles and minced grain snacks. These wholesome dishes are light and refreshing, balancing the heavier meat dishes from the previous days. In the afternoon, return to Yulin city. Use the remaining time freely to visit local specialty shops and pick up some Zizhou guo filling or handmade hollow noodles as souvenirs. You can also stroll the old street to catch any snacks you missed. With plenty of time, pack leisurely without rushing. Helpful travel tips 1. Clothing: The Shaanbei area is quite dusty and windy. Bring a sun hat and light jacket. Light-colored clothes suit the Danxia scenery best. 2. Must-try foods: lamb offal soup, lamb chopped buckwheat noodles, mixed meat stew, spicy lamb trotters, oil twists, yellow steamed buns, bowl cakes. Affordable and filling, expect to spend around 20–30 per person. 3. Physical demands: No forced mountain climbing on the whole trip. Each attraction has gentle walking routes suitable for seniors and those who prefer a relaxed pace. 4. Transportation: Use taxis for city attractions. For longer trips to Wave Valley and Gaojiapu, carpooling is the most cost-effective option. 5. Best season: Summer and autumn offer comfortable weather, clear lake water, and more vibrant Danxia colors. This small northern frontier city hidden in the Loess Plateau combines the vastness and depth of the Great Wall with the passionate romance of Danxia. The local snacks are unforgettable. Three days of slow wandering is not enough—it’s quietly added to the list for a second visit.

Yulin travel guide: Best time to visit and what to wear · Best season: May to October is ideal. The grasslands are green and the Danxia landforms are vividly colorful, with average temperatures between 10–28℃, very comfortable. July and August are summer retreat months, but midday ground temperatures can be high, so sun protection is necessary. · What to wear: Yulin has a dry climate with large temperature differences between day and night. Even in summer, it’s recommended to bring a light jacket. For outdoor spots like Wave Valley and Hongjian Lake, be sure to prepare a wind and sand mask, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and high SPF sunscreen. Must-visit core attractions Yulin’s attractions are spread out. It’s recommended to divide your visit into two routes: “urban cultural” and “surrounding nature.” 1. City and nearby areas (1–1.5 days recommended) · Zhenbeitai: The largest beacon tower among the Ming Great Wall ruins, known as the “first tower of the Great Wall.” Climb the tower to overlook the desert scenery. Visiting at sunset is recommended. · Hongshixia: Only 2 km from Zhenbeitai, featuring red cliffs facing each other with the Yuxi River running through the gorge. The cliff walls have many cliff inscriptions, called the “Stele Forest of the Frontier,” perfect for photos. · Yulin ancient city (Six towers and riding street): Preserves the old street layout from the Ming and Qing dynasties, with six towers including the Drum Tower, Bell Tower, and Kaige Tower lining the street. Visit in the evening or at night when red lanterns light up for a great atmosphere. You can also visit the Shaanbei Folk Museum to learn about local culture. · Mahuangliang Loess Geological Park: Filming location for “Ghost Blowing Lamp: Longling Maze.” The park features loess peak forests and Danxia canyons. Entrance is free (tour bus ticket required). 2. Outskirts and surrounding areas (1 day each recommended) · Jingbian Wave Valley: Yulin’s most popular internet-famous spot. Red sandstone has weathered over hundreds of millions of years to form wave-like patterns called “time fingerprints.” The core area includes Flame Danxia, Earth Core Danxia, and One Line Sky. Do not step on undeveloped rocks. · Gaojiapu ancient city: Main filming location for “Ordinary World,” the real prototype of the former Xixian County. It is less commercialized and retains the authentic Shaanbei ancient city style, perfect for a leisurely stroll. · Hongjian Lake: China’s largest desert freshwater lake, known as the “pearl of the sand sea.” In July and August, you can see the endangered black-headed gull. The lakeside is windy with vast scenery. Yulin food map Yulin is located in a farming and herding transition zone. The local cuisine is salty and savory, with lamb as the star ingredient. · Must-try signature dishes: · Mixed three delicacies: Yulin’s signature dish combining pork, lamb, and chicken in a rich broth, the highest standard for guests. · Hengshan stewed lamb: Tender meat without gamey taste, best enjoyed boiled in plain water to highlight freshness. · Old Yulin twelve dishes: Traditional banquet dishes including mixed three delicacies, spinach stewed with shredded meat, eight-treasure rice, and more. To experience this, order a set meal at an old-established restaurant. · Street snacks: · Lamb offal soup: The soul of Yulin breakfast, rich broth with plenty of ingredients, always paired with youxuan (a crispy layered flatbread torn and soaked in the soup). · Wantuo: Made from buckwheat noodles, served cold or stir-fried. Spicy liver wantuo is a perfect match. · Other recommendations: fried soy milk (sweet, crispy outside and tender inside), minjie, Suide youxuan, Qingjian pancakes. · Where to eat: Yulin old street and Confucius Temple night market are concentrated areas with many choices and a great atmosphere. Transportation and itinerary planning · Long-distance transport: Direct flights to Yulin Yuyang Airport are available, with a 30-minute taxi ride to the city center. High-speed trains and regular trains arrive at Yulin Station, which is the most convenient. Be careful not to buy tickets to Shenmu Station or Suide Station by mistake. · City transport: Taxi starting fare is 6–8 yuan to reach city attractions. For distant spots like Wave Valley (Jingbian) and Hongjian Lake (Shenmu), it’s recommended to rent a car or take a tourist shuttle from Yulin bus station. · Classic 3-day itinerary reference: · Day 1: Arrive in Yulin → Hongshixia → Zhenbeitai → Yulin old street (night market). · Day 2: Rent a car to Jingbian → Wave Valley (watch sunset) → stay in Jingbian or return to city. · Day 3: Gaojiapu ancient city (filming location of “Ordinary World”) → Mahuangliang Geological Park → return trip. Tips to avoid pitfalls 1. Ticket booking: For popular spots like Hongjian Lake, it’s recommended to buy tickets online in advance. Some attractions (like Wave Valley) have specific opening hours, so confirm before visiting. 2. Avoid scams: Do not buy so-called “Warring States red agate” souvenirs at attraction entrances, as most are dyed quartz. It’s more cost-effective to buy red dates, millet, and other specialties at large supermarkets in the city. 3. Safety reminder: Some undeveloped areas in Wave Valley have dangerous terrain. Do not take risks by entering wild paths just to take photos.

✨Suideshi Hun - the stone carving miracle on the Loess Plateau✨ This is the cultural soul of Suide, Shaanxi! A legendary square that tells stories through stone. Let’s take a closer look~ 🗿 【Shocking! The world’s largest lion】 · These 19.5-meter giant stone lions are true works of art! · Made from over 1,000 pieces of stone · The male lion holds Manjushri, the female holds Guanyin · The base is the legendary auspicious beast Bixi 💫 Inside is a stone lion museum with over 300 precious stone lion exhibits dating from the Han and Tang dynasties! 📍 Address: No. 2 Chaoyang Road, Suide County, Yulin City, Shaanxi Province 🆓 Free admission! Free parking! 🕒 Open all day (no time limit) 🚗 【Practical tips】 1️⃣ Driving is the most convenient! Navigate directly to "Suideshi Hun Square" 2️⃣ Ride-hailing is hard to get within the county 3️⃣ Plan to spend 1–2 hours here 4️⃣ Visit at dusk for the most magnificent view of the stone lions in the sunset! 🌅 This is a perfect place to connect with the Loess Plateau civilization. A must-visit for stone carving art lovers! Take advantage of the low crowds and limited awareness to experience this shock firsthand~

🌟 must-visit spots: 🦁 giant stone lions: two 20-meter-tall stone lions stand at the village entrance, an incredible sight! Definitely the village’s most photogenic hidden gem❣️ every shot looks like a masterpiece📸 🏮 commune archway: a rustic gate decorated with red lanterns, with the bold characters "Shigejie Commune" full of vintage charm! This is the village’s welcoming landmark~🚪 🏚️ cave dwellings and old houses: unique homes of the Loess Plateau! Some still have elderly residents living there. Corn cobs 🌽 and spring couplets 🏮 hanging by the doors bring a lively atmosphere~ 🛑 a legendary little street: "kırık sokak" stone path winds through the village, flanked by weathered old stone walls and adobe houses. Walking here feels like time ⚡️ flowing backward! 🎨 historical marks: Red slogans like "Defeat the enemy wind high" and "Develop the northwest" stand out vividly on the cliff walls! Layers of slogans from different eras record the village’s turbulent history📜 🚩 red landmarks: The village party branch on Banpo hill still hangs a wooden sign reading "Shuangshui village production team," perfectly preserving memories of that special era✨ 🌾 pastoral scenery: In the distance, terraced fields, cornfields, and the deeply furrowed loess hills showcase typical northern Shaanxi landscapes! Best to visit at sunrise or sunset for stunning light🌅 📍 current overview: · Young people are now rarely seen in the village · Many cave dwellings have become "empty nests" · Lush greenery in summer🌿 · A strong sense of desolation in winter❄️ (PS: It looks like the village may be completely abandoned in a few years, so those who want to visit should hurry!)

1. Shennongjia In July and August, the temperature in Shennongjia’s forests is pleasant. The dense primeval forest creates a natural oxygen bar, and the mountain streams are cool and refreshing. There are many forest trails with fresh, humid air and well-controlled mosquitoes, making it ideal for family hiking. Visitor flow is well distributed, so it’s never overcrowded. Far from the city heat, you can immerse yourself in a pristine natural sanctuary. It’s a great choice for summer cooling and wellness. 2. Xingyi From July to August, rainfall is abundant. The Wanfenglin forest is lush and green, and the Malin River Gorge waterfalls are spectacular and roaring. The gorge stays especially cool. Compared to popular cities in Guizhou, this area has fewer tourists and high-value guesthouses. You can cycle through the countryside, cool off in the gorge waters, enjoy authentic local flavors, and spend moderately. It’s a hidden gem for off-peak summer water fun and cooling in Guizhou. 3. Yichun In July and August, Yichun’s temperature is very comfortable. The vast red pine primeval forest shades the sky, and the streams are crystal clear. The city is surrounded by forest, with excellent air quality and a sparse, peaceful population. You can hike in the forest or play by the river. Local prices are affordable, the pace of life is slow, and you can escape the southern summer heat to enjoy a cool, natural summer in northeast China. 4. Songyang In July and August, Songyang mountain homes in southern Zhejiang are very cool. Ancient villages hide among green mountains, with rolling tea plantations. There’s no noisy commercialization, the local customs are simple, and farmhouse guesthouses are quiet and cozy. Spend the day exploring ancient villages and tea hills, and enjoy the evening mountain breeze. The pace is slow and relaxing, perfect for office workers to escape the city and enjoy a peaceful, slow vacation. 5. Zalantun In July and August, the small northern city of Zalantun is mild and comfortable. The Yalu River banks are lush with vegetation, and gentle mountain breezes keep the air fresh without humidity. As a classic northern summer retreat, the scenery is beautiful and the city is clean and tidy. Parks are shaded by trees, local specialty foods are abundant, and there are few tourists. It offers great value and is a low-key, comfortable summer leisure town in the north. 6. Wulong In July and August, the grasslands of Fairy Mountain are cool and pleasant. The Tian Sheng San Qiao (Three Natural Bridges) and caves maintain a constant temperature year-round, instantly blocking out the heat when you enter. Attractions are well arranged, and visitor flow is orderly without crowding. You can explore the karst gorge and stroll the alpine grasslands. Transportation is convenient, with many dining and lodging options. The mountain and water scenery is grand and magnificent, making summer visits very comfortable. 7. Jianshui From July to August, Jianshui’s climate is mild and gentle. The frequent rain adds an elegant charm to the ancient city. The Seventeen-Arch Bridge is full of historic charm, old residences are everywhere to explore, and the streets and alleys are filled with distinctive Yunnan snacks. Life in the small city is slow and relaxed, and tourists take their time without rushing. Riding the small train around the city outskirts is very suitable for a slow-paced summer food and leisure trip. 8. Suide On the Loess Plateau, Suide is dry and cool in July and August, with no humid or stuffy weather. The ancient city has a rich historical background, with simple, natural streets and alleys. Shaanbei-style cuisine is diverse and affordable. There are few tourists here, so the travel experience is quiet and free. You can enjoy the loess culture and a cool vacation. It’s a very off-the-beaten-path destination in northern Shaanxi.

On the second day of the Yulin trip, it indeed started to rain, and quite heavily. So today was mainly spent indoors, with the first stop being the Shaanbei Folk Custom Museum. The museum is located at the northwest corner of the ancient city, very close to the hotel. Yulin is situated in northern Shaanxi, where the folk culture of Shaanbei represents the local laborers' pursuit of existence and continuity of life. It embodies the survival order of the Shaanbei people and is rich in content and meaning, reflected in all aspects of daily life and production, characterized by its ancient, diverse, and original traits. The closed geography, open history, and traditional customs of Shaanbei give its folk culture a distinct Greater China flavor while also showcasing a unique frontier regional charm, vivid and lively. From the foyer into the exhibition halls, themes such as the foundation of survival, the flavor of the homeland, the clothing of the loess plateau, living spaces, the soul of life, craftsmanship, and the spirit of the times gradually unfold. Historically, Shaanbei was a borderland where the vast desert dunes meet the Loess Plateau, where nomadic culture and farming civilization blend, and where the Great Wall and the Yellow River converge. Long-term wars forced the people of Shaanbei on the loess highlands to live under harsh and isolated survival pressures, leading to a lifestyle of “working at sunrise, resting at sunset, drinking from wells, and eating what they farm.” With constant conflicts between north and south and regular exchanges between east and west, Shaanbei’s cuisine gained more variety. The distinctive Shaanbei flavors not only delight the palate but also offer a chance to savor the Chinese stories behind these delicacies. The clothing colors of the Shaanbei Loess Plateau may seem simple but contain extremely rich aesthetic connotations, reflecting the profound influence of regional factors on people’s aesthetic concepts to varying degrees. The solar worship songs, dances, and yangko folk performances for deity worship in Shaanbei embody the wisdom, joys, sorrows, and reverence of the local laborers, carrying the profound respect of the Shaanbei people for their original state and life experiences. The ancient and diverse Shaanbei culture, after thousands of years of integration and development, has nurtured a vast array of intricate crafts with broad themes and rich content. Each craft represents a dedication to the spirit of craftsmanship, and every step in the process is a continuation of cultural and artistic heritage. Inside the museum, a corridor made of Shaanbei dough flowers is truly stunning. This intangible cultural heritage, still called “Zi Tui” in the Huaining River basin, straightforwardly reveals the origin of the Cold Food Festival and the dough flower tradition. Zi Tui refers to Jie Zitui, a loyal minister of the Jin state during the Spring and Autumn period, who once “cut flesh to offer to his lord” during Duke Chong’er’s exile. After Chong’er regained his throne as Duke Wen of Jin, Jie Zitui retired with his mother to Mount Mian. To force him out, Duke Wen set fire to the mountain, but Jie Zitui died embracing a willow tree. Filled with remorse, Duke Wen decreed a fire ban on the day of Jie Zitui’s death, marking the Cold Food Festival to mourn him—this is the festival’s origin. Every old artifact’s era representation condenses the collective memory of the Shaanbei people, and every traditional craft tells the ordinary lives of Shaanbei residents. Let the city keep its memories, let people remember their nostalgia—the museum’s significance lies precisely in this.

Under the blue sky, Suide Shuangshui Village resembles a painting of northern Shaanxi life, imbued with the hues of time. Stone-built cave dwellings with crumbling walls and broken eaves stand silently on the mountain slopes. Among the rough stones, one can still discern the warmth of the craftsmen's hands from yesteryear, and the mottled wall plaster seems to narrate the struggles of Sun Shaoping and others from "Ordinary World." A few budding trees peek out from the cracks in the stones, their tender green new leaves intertwining with withered brown grass, swaying in the May breeze, embodying the cycle of life. Every piece of loess here is steeped in profound memories: the winding paths on the slopes were once trodden by the footprints of herders; the collapsed chimneys seem to still carry the smoke from farmhouses; and the window frames, eroded by wind and rain, perhaps once reflected the silhouettes of scholars reading by lamplight. Looking up, the sky is clear as if freshly washed, with white clouds, like wisps of cotton, drifting low over the mountain ridges, casting light and shadow upon the weathered stone walls. In the flickering light and shadow, one almost hears the Xintianyou (folk songs) from the plateau traversing time and space, echoing through the ravines. The beauty of Shuangshui Village is its unadorned simplicity, its composure forged by enduring hardships. It slows down time, allowing every speck of dust to carry a story, quietly guarding the spiritual home of a generation within the folds of the Loess Plateau. Address: Guojiagou Village, Mantangchuan Town, Suide County, Yulin City, Shaanxi Remote village, self-driving or taking a taxi from Suide is recommended.

Don't want to be crowded during holidays? Reverse travel straight to the Shaanbei Grand Loop! Personally tested, almost no tourist crowds throughout the trip, no queues for photos, very low prices for food and accommodation, niche and healing 🌿 Yulin, a low-key ancient city hidden in northern Shaanxi Historically a key military town on the nine borders, the Ming Great Wall runs across the entire area Zhenbeitai is known as the First Tower of the Great Wall 🏯 Nomadic and agricultural civilizations blend and collide here, full of profound heritage Not only rich in culture, but the natural scenery is also stunning Deserts, Danxia landforms, lakes, and plateaus all in one trip A loop tour to see thousands of sights in northern Shaanxi, with excellent cost performance! 🚗 Shaanbei Five-Day Grand Loop Route Guide Day 1: Yulin → Hanging Temple Grottoes → Wanfo Cave (Wangshagou Grottoes) → Li Zicheng's Palace → Yaodong Ancient City → Baiyun Mountain Temple → Xianglu Temple → Stay in Jia County Day 2: Jia County → Chang Family Manor → Jiang Family Manor → Yangjia Valley → Shuangshui Village (Suide) → Dang Family Manor → Stay in Suide Day 3: Suide → Zhongshan Grottoes → Wave Valley → Stay in Jingbian Day 4: Jingbian → Tongwan City → Boluo Ancient Castle → Red Stone Gorge → Zhenbeitai → Stay in Yulin Day 5: Yulin Weicheng (Six-Story Riding Street) → Abacus Museum → Shaanbei Folk Customs Museum → Shaanbei Folk Song Museum → Leisurely stroll to fill in any gaps ✅ Travel advice: Self-driving or chartered car preferred, prioritize SUVs for better adaptation to mountain and desert roads 📒 Thoughtful Travel Tips ❶ Lazy route for Yulin Weicheng: Lingxiao Tower → Camel Statue → Zhenyuan Gate → City Wall → Wenchang Pavilion → Wanfo Building → Xingming Building → Bell Tower → Bell Tower Alley, all on the way without detours; ❷ Accommodation is best around Yulin Weicheng, very convenient for sightseeing, eating, and checking in at historical sites;

“Women from Mizhi, men from Suide,” this folk saying has made Mizhi famous. But the charm of this “thousand-year-old county” goes far beyond that—it is the nation’s only “Cave Dwelling Ancient City,” a model for ecological restoration on the Loess Plateau, and a Shaanbei food town full of everyday life and warmth. 🏜️ Why visit Mizhi? Three irresistible reasons 1. Step into a “living” cave dwelling museum: Mizhi Cave Dwelling Ancient City is the only ancient city in China built entirely in the cave dwelling style. This is not a recreated ancient street; locals still live in Ming and Qing dynasty-style cave courtyard homes, full of authentic daily life. 2. Explore Shaanbei culture and the spirit of Gaoxigou: This is the hometown of Diaochan and the birthplace of the King of the Rebels, as well as a red revolutionary site. Gaoxigou Village has transformed the loess gullies into a “South of the Great Wall” landscape, a place to experience the hardworking spirit of Shaanbei people. 3. For the delicious flavors of the “Millet Hometown”: Mizhi millet is a nationally recognized geographical indication product, with porridge that is golden and translucent and rich in millet oil. Additionally, specialties like donkey intestine and lamb offal stew leave a lasting impression. 🗺️ How to explore? Core attractions and recommended routes Recommended 2 days 1 night or 1-day in-depth tour: Morning (History & Culture Route): · Li Zicheng’s Palace: Built against the mountain, grand in scale, learn about the legendary life of the King of the Rebels. · Mizhi Cave Dwelling Ancient City: Stroll along East Street and North Street, watch traditional blacksmithing and mooncake baking, and touch the traces of time. Afternoon (Ecology or Art Route): · Route A (Ecological Model) Gaoxigou Village: Climb high to overlook terraced fields and forest seas, visit the Millet Museum, and watch a live Yangge opera. · Route B (Artistic Secret) Wanfo Cave / Ge’ao Shop: The Wanfo Cave grottoes are exquisitely stunning; Ge’ao Shop is a sketching base on the Loess Plateau, full of artistic atmosphere. Evening and Accommodation: · Wohu Bay / Xiangfeng Mountain: Hike to watch the sunset and overlook Mizhi’s night view. · Accommodation suggestions: Stay in the county town (such as Jintai or Meihao Yizhi) for convenient transportation, or stay in cave dwelling homestays to experience warmth in winter and coolness in summer. 🍜 What to eat? Food and accommodation guide Must-try foods: For breakfast, millet porridge with lamb offal stew; for lunch, donkey intestine (eat with garlic), mixed three delicacies, and yellow millet steamed buns; for late-night snacks, head to the night market at the intersection of Yinzhou Middle Road to try grilled skewers and spicy lamb hooves. Popular local shops: Changqiang Donkey Meat (famous for donkey meat), Feng Yong Roujiamo, and Xiao Jun Lamb Offal Stew are all old favorites among locals. Accommodation options: For comfort, choose Meihao Yizhi (near Diaochan Park, excellent service) or Jintai Hotel (near the night market, breakfast features specialty pig trotters); for an authentic experience, stay in farmhouse cave dwellings in Gaoxigou. 💡 Essential tips before you go · Best seasons: May (when mountain flowers bloom) and September-October (clear autumn skies, golden grain ears, and ripe apples). · Transportation: Train (take a high-speed train from Xi’an/Yulin to Mizhi Station) or self-driving (navigate to the county town, roads are in good condition). · Clothing and customs: The Loess Plateau is windy and sandy; bring lip balm and a scarf. Do not step on the thresholds when entering cave dwellings, and turn off flash when taking photos to protect cultural relics.

🌟 **Mizhi Yaodong Ancient City 1-Day Adventure Guide|Enter the "Loess Plateau Cave Museum" for just 90 RMB per person! From Li Zicheng's Palace to Century-Old Cave Courtyards, Unlock a More Thrilling Shaanbei Blind Box than "The Legend of the King of Rebels"** 🏮--- · *🔥Highlight Opening:** “The moment I touched the kang surround painting in the century-old cave dwelling, the entire earthen hill suddenly echoed with Xintianyou folk songs—The paper-cutting grandma paused her scissors: ‘Girl, the kang you’re sleeping on was once slept on by Li Zicheng and sat on by Diao Chan!’ Sunlight passed through the winding Yellow River lantern array, dyeing the cave face golden. Suddenly, I saw a shepherd on the opposite hill waving his whip. It turns out the folk song ‘Mizhi’s wives and Suide’s men’ is carved on the lintel of every cave door!” 🎨--- · *📅Itinerary Overview** · *Cost**: 90 RMB/person (all-inclusive for food and activities, excluding major transportation) · *Time**: 1-day Loess Plateau style adventure (recommended 8 AM to 9 PM) · *Theme**: Cave Dwelling Architecture + King of Rebels Culture + Intangible Cultural Heritage Experience · *Suitable for**: Architecture lovers, history buffs, photography poets, folk culture enthusiasts--- · *🚌Transportation Tips (Budget 20 RMB)** 1️⃣ **How to get there authentically?** · Take a shuttle bus from Yulin/Suide to “Mizhi County” (10-15 RMB) · Walk from the county town to the ancient city (walkable throughout the city) · ✅ Hidden perk: Tell the bus driver “I want to see the most beautiful cave dwellings,” and he will stop at the Yangjiagou Revolutionary Site 2️⃣ **Cave Dwelling Survival Rules** · Wear dark clothes! Dust inside caves sticks easily · Bring lip balm! The Loess Plateau is as dry as a desert · Pro tip: Learn from cave owners to distinguish “Ming-style” and “earth-dug” cave dwellings--- · *🕰️12-Hour Adventure Schedule** · *Morning**: · 8:00 AM **Li Zicheng’s Palace** (30 RMB ticket, see the King of Rebels’ dragon throne + cave-style palace) · 9:30 AM **Yaodong Ancient City Old Street** (Free! The only pure cave dwelling ancient city in China) · *Noon**: · 12:00 PM **King of Rebels Feast** (25 RMB per person, must-try: donkey intestine sausage + yellow millet bread + three-flavor combo) · *Afternoon**: · 1:30 PM **Jiang Family Manor** (20 RMB ticket, pinnacle of Shaanbei manor architecture) · 3:00 PM **Century-Old Cave Courtyard Experience** (40 RMB/night for accommodation, optional) · 4:30 PM **Paper-cutting/Stone Carving Workshop** (15 RMB experience fee, take home your own work) · *Evening**: · 6:30 PM **Stargazing Platform to Watch the Milky Way** (Free, the Loess Plateau night sky is extremely clear) · 8:00 PM **Nine-Bend Yellow River Lantern Festival** (Seasonal free event, most spectacular during the first lunar month) · 9:00 PM Leave satisfied with your “paper-cut incense painting” (10 RMB at cultural shop) · *📸Top Photo Spots**: · Aerial shot of cave dwelling clusters (requires climbing the opposite hill) · Symmetrical composition of Li Zicheng’s Palace (best light at 10 AM) · Light and shadow inside caves (sunlight slanting in at 3-4 PM) · -- · *💰Cost Breakdown (Loess Budget Travel)** | Item | Cost | Money-Saving Tips | |----------------|-------|--------------------------------------| | Local Transport| 20 RMB| Pure walking + shuttle bus | | Core Tickets | 50 RMB| Choose 2 main spots (student discount available) | | Food Budget | 25 RMB| King of Rebels feast + snacks + millet porridge | | Experience Fees| 15 RMB| Choose either paper-cutting or stone carving | | Emergency Supplies| 5 RMB| Mask + hand cream | | **Total** | **115 RMB** | Can be reduced to 90 RMB without experiences | · -- · *⚠️Lessons Learned** 1️⃣ **Timing Mysteries**: · Avoid dust storm season (March-April) when loess dust fills the air · Visit at dawn or dusk for the richest cave light and shadow layers · Best seasons: May (mountain flowers bloom) and September (golden grain ears) 2️⃣ **Dining Codes**: · “Donkey intestine sausage” must be eaten with garlic (local soul flavor) · “Yellow millet bread” with chili (King of Rebels’ marching ration) · Before drinking “millet porridge,” say “liao za lie” (Shaanxi dialect compliment) 3️⃣ **Ancient City Taboos**: · Do not step on cave door thresholds (considered dragon’s spine) · Do not use flash photography on kang surround paintings (protect ancient art) · Do not enter unoccupied cave courtyards casually (risk of collapse) 4️⃣ **Hidden Perks**: · Singing Xintianyou exempts you from Jiang Manor guide fee · Help elders dry red dates to exchange for paper-cut artworks · Surnames “Li,” “Jiang,” or “Gao” can trace roots here (common Mizhi surnames) · -- · *🎁Secret Spots Only Old Mizhi Locals Know** · **Listen to Cave Breathing at Midnight**: Caves have special echoes late at night · **Hidden Underground Granary**: Jiang Manor has a Ming Dynasty underground grain storage system · **King of Rebels’ Treasure Cave**: Folk legend says there’s a secret passage under Li Zicheng’s palace · **Free Wonder**: Winter solstice “Cave Swallows the Sun” (sunlight reaches the deepest cave bottom) “Every cave in Mizhi is steeped in the desolation of Xintianyou and the sweetness of millet—you can feel the residual warmth of Diao Chan’s bronze mirror, the grindstone marks from Li Zicheng sharpening his knife, and the poems written on walls by sent-down youth.” “Here, ‘weighty’ is a livable verb—you taste the toughness of donkey meat and the fierceness of yellow wine with your tongue, collect the multi-layered sounds of sheep herds and wives calling children with your ears, and measure the deepest fusion of loess layers and human wisdom with your footsteps.” “The most precious ticket on the plateau is temperature—spend 40 RMB for a night’s stay in a cave dwelling, and you hold a living fossil of Chinese cave-dwelling civilization.” “When ancient cities become mere replicas, Mizhi is reciting the ‘living loess epic’ with every cave. There are no fake sets here, only the plateau sculpting hardship into home over three thousand years—how resilience becomes art, how ordinary earth births legends. Set off now to claim the ‘cave dwelling gene’ in every Chinese bloodline.” 🌅---

Earth Art: Dancers' footprints generate real-time geological profile projections Material Revolution: Costumes use Yulin's unique mineral dye photosensitive color change 📡 Join the Yangko Metaverse 🎮 Home Access Solutions Simple Version: Mobile App "Yulin Yangko Mirror" Captures movements via camera for scoring Generates a personal dance gene report Professional Version: Home motion capture kit rental Connect to the main stage daily from 19:00 to 21:00 Outstanding motion capture data can be minted into dance NFTs 🏟️ On-site Enhanced Experience AR Glasses Rental (available at four entrances of the ancient city): View dancers' historical lineage trees Real-time translation of Yangko lyrics into multiple languages Highlight upcoming classic moves Brainwave Interaction Zone (special setup at South Gate Wengcheng): Control dancers' costume glow intensity with concentration level Group meditation can change background projection content 🧬 Yangko Gene Preservation Project 🔬 Digital Collection Skeletal motion library: 2.1TB of motion data from 87 veteran artists collected Vocal timbre library: AI separates ambient noise to extract pure vocals Costume pattern library: High-precision scans of 13,000 traditional opera costumes 🚀 Innovation Experiments Astronaut Training Version: Zero-gravity Yangko adapted for space station Deep-sea Exploration Version: For underwater archaeology team’s body coordination training Alien Planet Preset: Yangko variant simulating Mars gravity environment 🎁 Yangko Derivative Universe 🛍️ Wearable Technology Smart Leg Bindings: Record daily gait and transform it into Yangko style Voice-controlled Waist Bells: Automatically compose music based on vocal emotions Holographic Handkerchief: Projects a personal annual dance memory highlight reel 📚 Educational Integration Primary and Secondary School Exercise Version: Simplified moves with video game sound effects Senior Rehabilitation Version: Slow Yangko combined with traditional Chinese medicine meridian theory Yulin Yangko Troupe: A "Living Epic" on the Loess Plateau Yulin Yangko is the most vibrant folk art on the Shaanbei Loess Plateau during the Spring Festival. It is more than just a dance; it is a local cultural gene library written with the body, blending border defense culture, nomadic civilization, and agricultural sacrificial traditions. 🔥 Core Features “Martial Yangko” Lineage Movements are bold and fierce, retaining traces of ancient military formations, with dance steps showing a fusion of frontier beacon fire culture and Mongolian wrestling genes. Umbrella Leader’s Poetic Brain Duel The leader “Umbrella Head” improvises New Year blessing verses, testing quick wit and literary skills, like a street poetry arena. Thousand-Person Nine-Curve Dance On Lantern Festival night, lantern formations are set on the Yellow River beach, with the Yangko troupe leading people through blessings like a dragon and snake dance, creating a breathtaking spectacle. 📍 Must-See Style Map Region Style Keywords Best Viewing Spots Suide Ancient and majestic, living reenactment of Han dynasty stone reliefs County central square, Yihe Town Mizhi Lively and graceful, incorporating elements of the Diao Chan legend In front of Li Zicheng’s temporary palace, Yangjiagou Shenmu Bold and magnificent, with prairie long-tune rhythms Erlang Mountain temple fair, Gaojiapu ancient town Jingbian Desolate and mysterious, with Hunnu sacrificial dance heritage Tongwan City ruins, Zhenjing ancient town 📅 Spring Festival Event Calendar After the 23rd day of the twelfth lunar month: Villages begin “field rehearsals” for Yangko, allowing deep access to authentic practice. From the 2nd to 6th day of the first lunar month: Urban and rural parades start, with performances at the county square daily at 2 PM. From the 13th to 15th day of the first lunar month: Peak period! Nighttime “Lantern Yangko” with fireworks, traditional Yangko competitions in Suide and Mizhi. 16th day of the first lunar month: The ultimate feast “Nine-Curve Tour” in Yulin Ancient City, with tens of thousands participating. 🎭 In-Depth Experience Suggestions Learn Three Moves Phoenix Single Wing Spread: Arms like wings, feet grounded, embodying the resilience of the Loess people. Horse-Riding Squat Stance: Low and steady, derived from border soldier battle steps. Cross Twist Step: Waist and hips draw figure-eight, with nomadic dance rhythm. Understand the Umbrella Leader’s Lyrics Focus on the improvised “four-six phrases,” which include traditional blessings like “bountiful harvest” and witty social commentary full of folk wisdom. Photography Tips Shoot from a low angle looking up to emphasize the grandeur of airborne moments. Close-ups of dancers’ expressions, especially the exaggerated looks of “Man Po” and “Clown” characters. Use slow shutter at night to capture flowing light trails, expressing the ritual feel of the “Nine-Curve Dance.” 🍜 Yangko Surrounding Experiences Before the show: Eat a steaming bowl of lamb offal soup to fend off the cold. After the show: Join the “Yangko Feast” to taste traditional New Year flavors like yellow millet cake and mixed three delicacies. Souvenirs: Customize Yangko paper-cuttings at the Suide Intangible Cultural Heritage Museum or buy handcrafted Yangko mask pendants. 💡 Travel Tips Keep Warm: Shaanbei winter nights can reach -20°C; wear thick cold-weather gear. Accommodation: Lodging is tight during the first lunar month; book ancient city homestays at least two weeks in advance. Transportation: Roads are temporarily restricted during village parades; chartering a car is recommended.

🌄 Yangko Geography Chronicles 📍 Core Style Map: Suide Old Yangko: A gene pool of Han, Mongol, Hui, and other ethnicities, dance steps hiding border war codes Mizhi Tieshuihua: Fusion of Diao Chan legend and rebel king war drums, 70% female dancers Shenmu Coal Sea Yangko: Steampunk mix of miner helmets and sheepskin coats Jingbian Tongwan City Yangko: Time-space overlay of Xiongnu shaman rituals and Qin-Han military formations 🕰️ Annual Yangko Universe Timeline 🧨 Twelfth Lunar Month · Yangko Gene Awakening ▪️ Laba Festival (January 18) | Yangko Skeleton Reassembly Villages draw this year’s dance gene sequence from the cloud-based “Yangko Gene Pool” AI generates custom dance steps based on that year’s climate data: drought years add “rain-praying spins,” bountiful years enhance “harvest trembles” ▪️ Little New Year (January 23) | Mask Forging Ceremony 3D-printed smart masks: built-in micro motors change expressions Special process: last year’s harvested grains ground into pigment base 🏮 First Lunar Month · Multidimensional Yangko Explosion ▪️ Day 1 to 5 | Quantum Entanglement Parade Morning (06:30) Big Dipper Formation: 7 teams dance synchronously according to star positions Noon (12:00) Data Stream Wishes: movement amplitude converted into virtual Yellow River flow speed Evening (18:00) Light and Shadow Symbiosis: drone swarms project dancers’ movement trajectories in real time ▪️ Day 7 to 15 | Metaverse Arena Competition Spatial folding stage: simultaneously presents 7 historical periods of Yulin street scenes AI judging system: Motion capture accuracy to 0.1 millimeter Emotional computing module analyzes dance narrative tension Audience brainwaves participate in scoring (simple headbands required) ▪️ Lantern Festival (February 12) | Ultimate Fusion Gala Midnight (23:00) Grand Yangko for Thousands: Physical space: synchronous dance inside and outside Yulin ancient city walls Digital space: global Yulin netizens remotely join via motion capture devices Cosmic space: International Space Station astronauts perform zero-gravity adapted version 👥 Digital Evolution of Yangko Roles 🤖 Core Role Intelligent Upgrades Traditional roles Cyber equipment Special skills Umbrella Head (Lead Dancer) Laser umbrella: flexible screen on umbrella surface generates poetry in real time Voice control changes entire lighting matrix Barbarian Woman and Man Temperature-controlled clothing: emits different scents as per storyline Releases emotion particles affecting audience dopamine levels Wenwu Body Electromyography suit: captures subtle muscle tremors Motion data generates pipa/suona melodies in real time Peddler Holographic carrying pole: projects Silk Road product list Scan code to redeem real Yulin specialty digital coupons 🎭 Mask Operating System Basic version: expressions follow dancer’s heart rate changes Professional version: AR overlays historical figures (e.g., Diao Chan/Li Zicheng) Flagship version: brain-computer interface directly maps dance imagery 💃 Seven Must-See Yangko Segments 1. North Wind Carving Origin: Shenmu Shimao Site themed Yangko Signature move: dancers stop and start like wind carving sandstone Tech support: motion capture data aids archaeologists studying ancient body language 2. Coal Sea Waves Origin: Yuyang mining area Yangko team Visual spectacle: black costumes with built-in LEDs simulate coal layer sheen Data art: energy expenditure per performance converted to equivalent power generation displayed 3. Tongwan City Soul Origin: Jingbian Xiongnu themed Yangko Time-space folding: dance steps trigger holographic Xiongnu cavalry vs Qin-Han Great Wall guards standoff Acoustic marvel: uses restored Xiongnu Hunbusi instrument digital sound source 4. Wuding River Mourning Origin: Suide tragic Yangko Liquid choreography: dancers’ sleeves contain smart fluid devices simulating river water shapes Environmental narrative: fluid changes color at dance end showing pollution control data charts 5. Hongjian Nao Feather Origin: Shenmu endangered gull protection themed Yangko Biomimicry: flexible exoskeleton mimics migratory bird wing mechanics Ecological connection: dance rhythm syncs with real-time bird population fluctuations in reserve 6. Zhenbeitai Beacon Origin: Yulin Great Wall themed martial Yangko Holographic duel: dancers interact with Ming dynasty soldier projections in attack-defense dialogue Tactile feedback: audience seats warm during “beacon fire” moments 7. Mahuangliang Pattern Origin: Loess geological themed abstract Yangko Earth art: dancers’ footprints generate real-time geological profile projections Material revolution: costumes use Yulin-specific mineral dye photochromic color change 📡 Join the Yangko Metaverse 🎮 Home Access Solutions Simple version: mobile app “Yulin Yangko Mirror” Captures movements via camera for scoring Generates personal dance gene report Professional version: home motion capture kit rental Connects to main stage daily 19:00-21:00 Outstanding motion capture data can be minted into dance NFTs 🏟️ On-site Enhanced Experience AR glasses rental (available at four ancient city entrances): View dancers’ historical lineage trees Real-time translation of Yangko lyrics into multiple languages Highlight upcoming classic moves Brainwave interaction zone (special setup at South Gate Wengcheng): Control dancers’ costume lighting intensity with focus level Group meditation changes background projection content 🧬 Yangko Gene Preservation Plan 🔬 Digital Collection Skeleton motion library: 2.1TB motion data from 87 veteran artists collected Vocal timbre library: AI separates ambient noise to extract pure vocals Costume pattern library: high-precision scans of 13,000 traditional opera costumes 🚀 Innovation Experiments Astronaut training version: zero-gravity Yangko adapted for space station Deep-sea exploration version: for underwater archaeology team body coordination training Alien planet preset: Yangko variant simulating Mars gravity environment 🎁 Yangko Derivative Universe 🛍️ Wearable Technology Smart leg bindings: record daily gait and transform into Yangko style Voice-controlled waist bells: auto-compose music based on vocal emotion Holographic handkerchief: projects personal annual dance memories

The New Year on the Loess Plateau is wild and steaming hot! Turning the Nine-Curve Maze, Beating the Waist Drum, Stomping Troubles into the Earth When celebrating the New Year in Shaanbei, don’t just look at the yaodong cave dwellings! On the loess hills, the most hardcore New Year vibe is exploding—the nine-curve maze made of sorghum stalks looks like a fiery dragon, lantern strings winding around the bends. People walking the maze touch the stalks while chanting “disaster be gone.” When reaching the maze’s center, grandmas hand you a piece of yellow rice cake, saying “Take a bite, and may the coming year go smoothly.” The Ansai Waist Drum team is even wilder—men tie white sheepskin headscarves, red silk ribbons snap loudly in the wind, drumbeats pound on the frozen earth, making your feet tingle. The loess dust flies everywhere, mixed with sweat, wild enough to make your heart race. 📍Must-try List (Tested by Trip.com users) 1. Turn the Nine-Curve Maze · Maze Blessing Rating: ★★★★★ | Duration: 1.5 hours At the maze’s center made of sorghum stalks stands a “Five Grains God” tablet. When walking, follow the lanterns and avoid touching the stalks (elders say touching them will “twist your luck”). The best time is at night, when thousands of lanterns light up the maze, like walking into a path paved with stars. At the exit, there’s a “Blessing Gong” to strike three times, symbolizing “health, safety, and harvest.” 👉Trip.com Tip: Choose “Suide Guojiagou,” the largest nine-curve maze, where you can also learn to sing the “Turn the Nine-Curve Song” with villagers in the local dialect for an authentic experience. 2. Ansai Waist Drum · Loess Carnival Rating: ★★★★★ | Duration: 2 hours Watch the waist drum performance from the “hilltop” to capture shots of men leaping into the air, with arcs of red silk ribbons and flying loess dust in the frame. Must-see moment: the “drum circle” segment, where drummers form a circle and spin, the drumbeats suddenly speeding up like thunder rolling across the plateau, even the paper on the yaodong windows trembling. 👉Trip.com Tip: Check the “Waist Drum Performance Schedule” in advance (two shows daily from the 3rd to the 15th day of the lunar new year), wear non-slip shoes as the slopes can be icy and slippery. 3. Yaodong New Year Goods · Pack the New Year Flavor Rating: ★★★★☆ | Duration: 1 hour Take home the New Year flavor from the cave dwellings: · Yellow Rice Cake: sticky and steamed, wrapped with jujube paste. Grandmas say “Eat it on New Year’s Eve to stick to good fortune.” · Shaanbei Rice Wine: low alcohol, sweet, served in coarse ceramic bowls, one sip warms your whole body. · Paper-cut Window Decorations: cut by Shaanbei women, depicting “Bountiful Harvest,” pasted on windows, fluttering in the wind as if alive. ⚠ Pitfall Guide (Hard-learned lessons from Trip.com users) 1. Don’t wear light-colored clothes! The waist drum performance kicks up flying loess dust. Wear dark jackets and hats, or your hair will be full of dust, looking like a “Terracotta Warrior” in photos. 2. Don’t wander off in the nine-curve maze! Follow the main group; if you get lost, you’ll be “punished” to sing Shaanbei folk songs (villagers will teach, but those who are tone-deaf beware). 3. Stay in a “Yaodong Homestay” (Trip.com rating 4.7)! The kang bed is warm, and the host will bring “oil cake dipped in white sugar” as a late-night snack, saying “Eat it to warm the kang and have sweet dreams.” Around 150 RMB per night, more festive than a hotel. 🚗 2-Day Itinerary (Copy exactly, no pitfalls) Day 1: 09:00 Turn the Nine-Curve Maze in Suide (learn to sing blessing songs) → 12:00 Eat “Eight Bowls” (Shaanbei banquet with crispy pork and yellow rice) 14:00 Watch Ansai Waist Drum performance → 16:00 Learn to beat the waist drum (masters teach basic moves hand-in-hand) 19:00 Stay up New Year’s Eve in a yaodong (gather around the kang eating yellow rice cake) → Overnight in yaodong homestay Day 2: 08:00 Drink “Millet Yellow Tea” (tea made from roasted millet to refresh) → 10:00 Buy paper-cuttings and yellow rice cake as souvenirs 12:00 Eat lamb noodles (drink plenty of soup, lamb fat warms the body) → 14:00 Return trip 💰 Around 400+ RMB per person (including tickets and meals) The New Year in Shaanbei isn’t in delicate decorations, but in the lantern lights of the nine-curve maze, the thunderous beats of the waist drum, and the sticky sweetness of yellow rice cake. Save this guide, book your kang on Trip.com, and let your Spring Festival be filled with the richness of the loess and the passion of the men—celebrate a truly earthy and authentic New Year!