Yulin Travel Guide 2026: Top Attractions, Local Food & Travel Tips | Trip.com

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About Yulin

5℃

Recommended length of visit

2-4 days

Local currency

CNY

Must-visit attractions in Yulin

Looking for things to do in Yulin? We provide up-to-date info on everything from must-see scenic spots to local hangouts.

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Best Things to Do

Fall Viewing

Recommended stays in Yulin

Discover the most popular places to stay in Yulin, complete with recommendations from fellow travelers and special hotel offers

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High-tech Development Zone/Wanda Plaza

Yulin Old Town/Confucius Temple Cultural Tourism Pedestrian Street

Must-try food in Yulin

Want to eat like a local? Don't miss out on these top Yulin dishes and foodie spots.

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Yulin itinerary ideas

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Yulin Area 3-Day Trip: Desert Forts and Red Rock Wonder

3 Days
  1. DAY01Red Stone GorgeZhen Bei Tai
  2. DAY02Shimao Ruins of ShenmuYulin Old StreetYulin Ancient City
  3. DAY03Tongwancheng Archaeological Site ParkThe Wave Valley Scenic Area
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Yulin 2-Day Trip: Red Canyons and Frontier Echoes

2 Days
  1. DAY01The Wave Valley Scenic AreaTongwancheng Archaeological Site Park
  2. DAY02Yulin Old StreetRed Stone GorgeZhen Bei TaiMahuangliang Loess Geopark
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Yulin 2-Day Trip: Desert Hues and Danxia Drama

2 Days
  1. DAY01Red Stone GorgeZhen Bei TaiYulin Old Street
  2. DAY02Danxia Landform Shiguang RockThe Wave Valley Scenic AreaMaowusu Desert
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Traveler photos and experiences

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National Geographic didn't lie—I'm absolutely speechless. — traveler post in Yulin

National Geographic didn't lie—I'm absolutely speechless.

No need to travel abroad. The Loess Plateau hides these frozen red waves of the earth 🌋 Layers of red rock rise and wind, with every texture a mark carved by time. Only by standing here in person can you truly grasp the awe of this geological wonder. If you want to avoid the crowds during the October holiday, I highly recommend coming to Wave Valley for a leisurely hike. 📍Shaanxi Wave Valley Scenic Area ✈️Fly into Yuyang Airport, then take a taxi or rent a car to drive yourself. 🚄Take the high-speed train to Jingbian Station, then take a taxi from the station. ✅Recommended route Visitor Center - Glass Bridge - Flame Danxia - Liubo Terrace - Fenjing Terrace - Red Wall Danxia - Yibudengtian - Off-road Park - Yixiantian - Escalator - Thousand-meter Gallery - Shiguang Terrace - Danxia Rose - Huishou Bridge - Shenshu Bridge - Elephant Trunk Mountain - Longxin Rock - Scenic Area Exit ✅Must-visit Danxia spots 1️⃣Flame Danxia Layers of red sandstone surge like burning red waves. Under the sunlight, the rock textures are incredibly vivid, offering maximum visual impact. You can rent a spacesuit in the scenic area; standing among the red rocks, you can snap sci-fi blockbuster photos of the Martian surface in a second. 2️⃣Red Wall Danxia On one side are majestic, steep red cliffs, and on the other is the vast, boundless Loess Plateau. The strong contrast in landforms creates a powerful atmosphere. Looking out from a high vantage point, the red rocks meet the wilderness, creating an overwhelming sense of grandeur. 3️⃣Geocentric Danxia This area brings together core attractions like Yixiantian, the Thousand-meter Gallery, and Longxin Rock, offering rich geological layers. Yixiantian is especially stunning; at noon, sunlight pours through the gaps in the rock walls, wrapping the red rocks in golden light. The atmosphere of light and shadow is perfect, and any shot you take will look like a stunning, high-quality photo.

The autumn city walk routes I take every friend to when they visit Beijing… — traveler post in Yulin

The autumn city walk routes I take every friend to when they visit Beijing…

🍂Autumn in Beijing is as fleeting as a beautiful dream~ I've put together 5 autumn wandering routes. Wait for autumn to arrive, then set off to capture the beautiful golden autumn light~ . 🍂Route 1 Lao She Memorial Hall - Wusi Avenue - Changchun Hall - Jingshan Park - Forbidden City Turret - Forbidden City - Zhongshan Park - Friendship Hotel 🍂Route 2 Ditan Park - Qinglong Hutong - Yonghe Temple - Guozijian - Beiluogu Lane - Yellow Tile God of Wealth Temple - Nanluogu Lane - Gulou Street - Shichahai 🍂Route 3 Dongbuyaqiao Hutong - Baochao Hutong - Andingmen Inner Street - Xiguan Hutong - Dongsi 13th Alley - Xinsi Hutong - Dongsi 12th Alley - Bing Xin Memorial Hall 🍂Route 4 Olympic Forest Park North Garden West Gate - Sacred Tree - Pink Muhly Grass Sea - Peach Blossom Valley - Ecological Corridor - Ten Scenes Sculptures - Olympic Forest Park Ginkgo Forest - South Gate "Big Nail" Ginkgo Forest 🍂Route 5 Old Summer Palace Ginkgo Avenue - Old Summer Palace Pingxiang Pavilion - Summer Palace Back Lake - Huazhongyou - Four Great Regions - Tower of Buddhist Incense - Garden of Harmonious Interests - Seventeen-Arch Bridge . 🍂Must-visit spots in autumn📷 1️⃣Wusi Avenue A street where autumn arrives relatively early, with retro architecture and golden streetscapes that are super beautiful 2️⃣Qinglong | Dongbuyaqiao | Dongsi 12th Alley | Xiguan Hutong Quiet and uncrowded, the golden white ash trees along the road create a great atmosphere. Drinking coffee under the trees, checking in at the golden heart tree, etc., full of autumn light and shadows 3️⃣Lao She Memorial Hall | Bing Xin Memorial Hall Lao She Memorial Hall is full of persimmons on the branches, and Bing Xin Memorial Hall is filled with the fragrance of books. Head to the hutongs for a literary autumn date 4️⃣Jingshan | Zhongshan Park Red walls and ancient buildings set off against golden ginkgo trees. As the autumn wind sweeps by, yellow leaves flutter, filling your eyes with the autumn charm of the capital 5️⃣Forbidden City | Forbidden City Turret Golden ginkgo leaves set off the red walls and flying eaves. You'll fall in love with autumn in Beiping at a glance 6️⃣Old Summer Palace | Summer Palace The Old Summer Palace Ginkgo Avenue is covered in golden fans, and Pingxiang Pavilion reflects colorful leaves on the water. The Summer Palace Back Lake is filled with golden leaves reflecting on the water, hiding the autumn poetry of the imperial gardens 7️⃣Olympic Forest Park Autumn in the Olympic Forest Park is so rich: golden ginkgo, dreamy pink muhly grass, red maples, and daisies. Every step is a new color 8️⃣Beiluogu Lane · Yellow Tile God of Wealth Temple The only remaining imperial yellow tile ancient temple in Beijing. Built in the Ming Dynasty and bestowed with yellow tiles by the Yongzheng Emperor, it is a treasure of the capital for enjoying autumn and praying for blessings. After renovation and opening, the main hall, the Imperial Household Department, and the creative merchandise stalls are integrated, making it more spacious and easier to explore, and also extra photogenic. The white ash trees next to the temple are covered in gold as soon as autumn arrives. The warm yellow autumn leaves set off the bright yellow tiles, and the autumn charm unique to the hutongs comes rushing towards you. When passing by here in autumn, you might as well gently touch the Ruyi abacus to get some good fortune, ask for a sign that everything will go smoothly, and browse the interesting creative merchandise to bring home plenty of blessings. . Autumn in Beiping waits for no one. Take advantage of the clear, sunny weather and head out for an autumn date~ .

Hongshi Gorge Photo Route — traveler post in Yulin

Hongshi Gorge Photo Route

📸 [How to shoot this route] The core of shooting Hongshi Gorge is "red cliffs against green water." Stand on one side of the gorge to shoot the cliffs on the opposite side, where the ochre-red rock faces and dense inscriptions create distinct layers. Walk down to the water's edge to capture reflections, where the red rocks appear even more vibrant in the water. Climb to a high point on the opposite side to look back. The entire gorge, sand slopes, and distant mountains are captured in the frame, offering the most expansive view. Walking the whole route, you will get the red cliffs, green water, and yellow sand all in one frame, making for great photos. 📷 [Positioning tips] Morning light is direct, making the cliff colors most accurate and the inscriptions clearest. Afternoon side lighting makes the red rock textures look more three-dimensional. When shooting inscriptions, try to face them directly to avoid glare. To capture the depth of the gorge, use the boardwalk as a leading line for a strong sense of perspective. In sections with rapid water, lower your shutter speed to capture the motion of the water, creating a contrast with the static red cliffs. There is a viewing spot at each end of the gorge. Take a panoramic shot from the high point before entering, and take another when leaving to create a sense of completion. ☀️ [Time suggestions] At dusk, the light warms up and the red cliffs seem to light up, making it the best time for photos. On clear autumn days, the blue sky against the red rocks creates a strong color contrast. Mornings are less crowded and quiet, perfect for taking your time to look at the inscriptions. 📌 [Gear reminders] The gorge can be windy and sandy, so bring sunglasses and a sun hat. The area near the water is slippery, so stand firmly while shooting. Please check the scenic area's announcements on the day of your visit for opening arrangements.

Ultimate Chic & Chill Guide: Chengdu's Yulin & Fanghua Street – The Perfect Slow-Life Escape 📸✨ — traveler post in Yulin

Ultimate Chic & Chill Guide: Chengdu's Yulin & Fanghua Street – The Perfect Slow-Life Escape 📸✨

Hey everyone! 📣 If you're planning a trip to Chengdu and want to escape the crowded tourist traps or the city's hustle and bustle, I highly recommend wandering through the Yulin (玉林) and Fanghua Street (芳华街) neighborhoods! This area is absolutely incredible! It's the perfect blend of local Chengdu tradition and modern youth culture. With its cozy, vintage, and homey atmosphere, the streets are lined with stylish designer cafes, aromatic bakeries, thrift stores, and cool art installations. You can easily spend the whole day taking photos and exploring without ever getting bored! 🎨☕️ 📌Route: Metro Station ➡️ Fanghua Street (Grab coffee & snacks) ➡️ Wander over to Fangcao Street ➡️ Finish at Yulin Road (Enjoy the street art & chill evening bar vibes) 📌Pro-tip: Visit between 12:00 PM and 6:00 PM to ensure all the shops are open. 🚇 How to get there (The easiest & most recommended way!): Take Metro Line 8 and get off at Fangcao Street Station (芳草街站). Take Exit D and walk for about 300-400 meters. You’ll find yourself right at Fanghua Street (芳华街) in no time!

Jingbian Wave Valley CNY 90 admission, the flaming Danxia sunset is even more photogenic — traveler post in Yulin

Jingbian Wave Valley CNY 90 admission, the flaming Danxia sunset is even more photogenic

Friends, I finally set foot on the red sandstone known as China’s Mars. [Attraction] Wave Valley is in Longzhou town, Jingbian county, Yulin, Shaanxi. It is a red sandstone Danxia landform carved by millions of years of wind and water into layered, wave-like patterns. The park has three core areas — Flaming Danxia, Red Cliff Danxia, and Inner-earth Danxia — and is nicknamed China’s Mars. [Culture] The Longzhou area is where the Loess Plateau of northern Shaanxi meets Danxia topography. Locals call this red rock "hongsha mao" (red sand ridge). Yanjia Fort village is the site of an old rammed-earth fortress. The Danxia formed from ancient lake deposits in Jingbian and is a textbook geological outcrop. [Location] South of Wuyang Road, Longzhou town, Jingbian county, Yulin city, Shaanxi province (navigate to "Shaanxi Wave Valley Scenic Area Visitor Center"). [Navigation] Navigate to "Shaanxi Wave Valley Scenic Area Visitor Center" — don’t search for unofficial spots. By car: from Xi’an about 4.5–5 hours, from Yulin about 1.5–2 hours. High-speed rail to Jingbian station plus a carpool is CNY 30 per person for a 30-minute drive to the park. There are no direct shuttle buses from the county seat. [Tickets] Peak season (April–October) adult CNY 90 (includes the glass scenic bridge); low season (November–March) CNY 60. Students half price CNY 45; free for visitors 65 and older and for children under 1.2 m. The sightseeing shuttle is required inside the park. The glass bridge is included in admission. The escalator is optional for CNY 15. The Inner-earth Danxia off-road experience is optional CNY 80–120 per ride. [Routes] Large loop 3–4 hours: entrance → glass scenic bridge → Flaming Danxia Liubotai → Red Cliff Danxia → time tunnel → Inner-earth Danxia narrow passage → kilometer gallery → Yanjia Fort → Huishou Bridge (sunset spot) → exit. Short loop 1 hour: entrance → glass bridge → Flaming Danxia → split viewing platform → return, suitable for elderly and children. [Experience] Before sunset, the Flaming Danxia’s rock faces turn golden-red and the ripples look like frozen waves. Wear white or light blue for the best photos; avoid red. At noon, the Inner-earth Danxia narrow passage creates Tyndall light when sunlight streams in. The water Danxia reflects red rock and blue water; drones can capture aerial shots. [Impression] We entered the park at 3 PM with friends and caught the Flaming Danxia sunset. When the red rock ignited in color, phones wouldn’t stop shooting. It looks wilder than in photos. [Tips] Don’t take the "8 km shortcut" recommended by villagers — it’s easy to get stuck after rain. Do not buy "discount tickets" sold by villagers — they are invalid. UV is strong in northern Shaanxi; hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential. Do not step on the rock surfaces — the landforms are fragile and violators will be fined. Buy the sightseeing shuttle — there is a lot of walking inside the park. [Food] Jingbian stewed mutton soup is fresh and tender (Lao Zhou Mutton Restaurant). Try chopped mutton with buckwheat noodles or handmade noodles topped with air-dried mutton sauce. Sea buckthorn yogurt CNY 7 a cup helps cut the richness. [Lodging] Yaodong guesthouses or farm stays in Longzhou town cost CNY 100–180 in low season (best for sunrise, some include transfers); chain hotels in Jingbian county cost CNY 200–400 and are more family friendly. [Nearby] In Jingbian county: Tongwan city (ancient Xiongnu city ruins) and the Danxia around Longzhou; head south to link with the Yan’an red tourism route, or go north to Yulin Red Stone Gorge. Jingbian Wave Valley

Summit the Sacred Lake in Yubeng to see snow-capped mountains and a sea of clouds — traveler post in Yulin

Summit the Sacred Lake in Yubeng to see snow-capped mountains and a sea of clouds

🐏 [Sacred Lake] A super niche outdoor hiking route in Yulin! Summit the Sacred Lake + light hike in Yubeng, heal yourself with wild beauty~ 🌟 Niche route: Shenmu-Yubeng hiking trail (super healing!) 👉 [Route information] This route can be called the "light hiking" version of Yubeng. It is about 10 km in total with an elevation gain of about 1,200 meters, but it wins with its superb scenery! Plus, it's uncrowded and beautiful~ 🌈 [Sacred Lake scenery] This route is truly uncrowded and beautiful! Although the altitude is not high (about 3,400 meters), the scenery is so healing! Blue skies and white clouds, snow-capped mountains and meadows, rivers and sheep... every shot is a blockbuster! And the entire route is a combination of primeval forests and grasslands, which is very unique~ Especially after reaching the summit, the entire Sacred Lake is in full view; that visual impact is truly stunning!! Standing on the mountaintop watching the sunlight spill onto the lake surface, it really feels like all worries have disappeared... And this route is entirely forest and meadow, super clean! Wild sheep grazing nearby make the whole world feel quiet~ You must go in the morning; the sunlight on the lake is really beautiful... (but remember to protect yourself from the sun...)

Just back from Shaanxi Wave Valley! This hidden photo spot is absolutely legendary — traveler post in Yulin

Just back from Shaanxi Wave Valley! This hidden photo spot is absolutely legendary

Just back from Shaanxi!! Take my advice 🚶‍♀️ 90% of people miss this crimson secret spot!! I can't keep these stunning photo spots to myself anymore 😭 Tested the whole route myself—it's a no-brainer, with no detours and no traps!! Save this now 👇 📝 Route guide Glass Observation Bridge 🔜 Flame Danxia Flowing Wave Terrace 🔜 Piano Trail 🔜 Red Wall Danxia 🔜 Time Tunnel 🔜 Earth Core Danxia 🔜 A Thread of Sky 🔜 Thousand-Meter Gallery 🔜 Huishou Bridge 🔜 Shenshu Bridge 🔜 Dragon Heart Rock 🔜 Exit The whole route takes about 3 hours 🕒. No backtracking, and the experience is top-notch 💯 📸 Secret photo spots revealed 🌉 Glass Observation Bridge Overlook the entire crimson canyon from high above. The grandeur is breathtaking ✨ Transparent glass under your feet + a bottomless abyss—thrilling and fun!! Every shot looks like a blockbuster 📷 🔥 Flame Danxia The Martian landscape 🌋 is truly beyond words!! Layers of wavy red rocks spread across the entire valley Wear an astronaut suit 👨‍🚀 for an explosive social media post; my friends thought I went to outer space 👽 ☀️ A Thread of Sky The narrow crevice is amazing! At noon, sunlight pierces through the stone gap The red rocks glow, and every photo is wallpaper-worthy 🖼️ 🪨 Thousand-Meter Gallery The rock textures are smooth and healing, winding and long like a piece of art carved by nature 🎨 🌁 Huishou Bridge Turn around to see the winding boardwalk + layered Danxia valleys The view is so open it makes you want to scream—instant cinematic vibes 🎬 🌇 Shenshu Bridge If you don't wait for the sunset, you've wasted your trip!!! In the evening, the sunset spills over the entire rift valley, and warm orange light covers the red rocks It's like the Creator spilled their palette 🌄 breathtakingly beautiful!! ⚠️ Tips from someone who's been there ❶ There are many stairs throughout the route!! Be sure to wear comfortable, soft-soled shoes—don't ask me how I know 😭 ❷ Go to A Thread of Sky at noon!! The light and shadows are legendary 🎯 ❸ Save Shenshu Bridge for the evening!! The sunset is truly worth the wait!! 📍 Address: Shaanxi Jingbian Wave Valley Scenic Area (Navigate directly there; self-driving or chartering a car is recommended for convenience 🚗)

3 days, 2 nights in Yulin, Shaanxi: From prehistoric stone cities to the "Little Huashan of Northern Shaanxi" — traveler post in Yulin

3 days, 2 nights in Yulin, Shaanxi: From prehistoric stone cities to the "Little Huashan of Northern Shaanxi"

Finally found a 3-day, 2-night itinerary for Yulin, Shaanxi! 4,300-year-old prehistoric stone city + China's largest desert freshwater lake + Hometown of the Yang Family Generals + "Little Huashan of Northern Shaanxi" The whole trip is uncrowded, a must-visit for history buffs and photography lovers 🗿💧 Must-visit attractions 🏜️ 1️⃣ Shimao Museum + Shimao Ruins "The largest prehistoric stone city in East Asia," dating back a thousand years earlier than Sanxingdui. First, visit the Shimao Museum (free) at the foot of the mountain to see jade artifacts and stone carvings, then head to the ruins area to see the outer city's east gate and the city wall ruins. Standing outside the 4,000-year-old city wall overlooking the Loess Plateau is breathtaking 2️⃣ Gaojiapu Ancient Town A Ming Dynasty Great Wall military fortress and the filming location for "Yuanxi County" in "Ordinary World." Free admission. Climb the Zhongxing Tower for a bird's-eye view of the checkerboard-patterned streets, explore the old supply and marketing cooperative and the state-run restaurant, and finish with a bowl of lamb noodles for the full frontier atmosphere 3️⃣ Hongjiannao The "Pearl of the Desert" on the border of Shaanxi and Inner Mongolia, and China's largest desert freshwater lake. The lake water is as blue as the sea, with flocks of Relict Gulls flying over the reed marshes. There are sand off-roading and water activities, and the sunset is stunning 4️⃣ Erlintu Grassland A "Northern Shaanxi grassland" about 18 km from Hongjiannao, where grasslands, lakes, and sand dunes all come together in one view. Free admission. Go horseback or camel riding, camping, stay in a yurt, and eat roast whole lamb. The sunset in the evening is incredibly healing 5️⃣ Yangjia City Also known as the Ancient City of Linzhou, the hometown of the Yang Family Generals, a national protected cultural site. Free admission. See the ancient city walls, beacon towers, and the thousand-year-old cypress tree planted by Yang Ye 6️⃣ Erlang Mountain Located 1 km west of Shenmu city center, it's known as the "Little Huashan of Northern Shaanxi." A complex of temples is lined up along the knife-edge ridge, suspended over the Kuye River. Climb to the top to see the river flowing through the city. It's an easy 2-hour hike 📅 3-day, 2-night itinerary Day 1: Shimao Museum > Shimao Ruins > Gaojiapu Ancient Town > Stay in Shenmu city center Day 2: Hongjiannao (morning) > Erlintu Grassland (afternoon) > Stay in Shenmu city center Day 3: Yangjia City (morning) > Erlang Mountain (afternoon) > Return trip 🚄 Transportation | First, arrive in Yulin (Yuyang Airport/Yulin Station). Drive via the Yushen Expressway for about 1–1.5h to Shenmu, or take the intercity train for about 1.5h ⚠️ Tips | Strong UV rays and large temperature differences between day and night. Bring sunscreen + a windbreaker. Hongjiannao and Erlintu Grassland are in the same direction, so it's recommended to visit them in one day. The steps at Erlang Mountain are steep, so wear non-slip shoes

Avoid the National Day crowds! 5 fun and budget-friendly hidden gems — traveler post in Yulin

Avoid the National Day crowds! 5 fun and budget-friendly hidden gems

01 Sichuan · Jinkouhe Grand Canyon🌊 📍Address: Jinkouhe District, Leshan City, Sichuan Province. Navigate to Jinkouhe Grand Canyon Scenic Area The Dadu River is flanked by thousand-meter cliffs, with the narrowest part of the canyon only a few dozen meters wide. The iconic water highway features towering cliffs on both sides and emerald green water below, offering a powerful visual impact. 🎫Admission: Free 🏠Accommodation: Small price increase during National Day; good options available for around 150 yuan per person 🚗Tips: Self-driving is recommended. The mountain roads have many curves, so drive slowly and feel free to stop along the way to take photos ✨Hidden gem activity: Visit the Railway Corps Museum for free to learn about the history of the canyon road construction 02 Guangdong · Zhanjiang Nanji Village🌅 The southernmost coast of the mainland, quiet and uncrowded. Head to Dengloujiao in the morning for beachcombing—bring your own tools to dig for clams and collect seashells. In the evening, visit the "Water Convergence Line" to watch the Qiongzhou Strait and Beibu Gulf waters meet, creating a spectacular two-tone sea. 🎫Admission: Free 🍜Food: Oysters are sold by the dozen. Try the boiled seafood and roadside sweet soup for just 3 yuan a bowl 💡Tips: Self-driving is preferred. Avoid buying overpriced seafood at the village entrance; dining at local food stalls offers better value 03 Hubei · Jianshi, Enshi🍂 Avoid the crowds of Enshi Grand Canyon. Jianshi hides pristine karst mountain scenery in autumn. During the National Day holiday, the mountains are a mix of red and yellow, featuring canyons, caves, and pastoral villages. 🎫Many spots are free, and paid attractions mostly cost a few dozen yuan 🏡Accommodation: Homestays in the county town cost 120–180 yuan per person ✨Activities: Take a walk on lesser-known trails around Dixin Valley, drive along country roads to enjoy the autumn scenery, and taste Tujia cured meat and roasted small potatoes 04 Jiangxi · Fuzhou🏮 Compared to the massive crowds in Wuyuan, Fuzhou is very peaceful. In autumn, the rice paddies turn yellow, and the Wenchangli historical district is uncrowded. 🎫Wenchangli is free, and admission to surrounding ancient villages is mostly 20–40 yuan 🍜Food: Try Fuzhou rice noodles, beef offal, and other Jiangxi snacks. The overall cost of living is low ✅Activities: Stroll through the old streets of Wenchangli; drive to Liukeng Ancient Village to see ancient architecture blending with autumn rice paddies 05 Shaanxi · Yulin🐫 An ancient city beyond the Great Wall. The autumn weather during National Day is crisp and clear, offering a great atmosphere for vast northwestern autumn scenery. Visit Zhenbeitai and Hongshixia, and explore the nearby wild Great Wall ruins, which are uncrowded. 🎫Zhenbeitai costs over 30 yuan, and many wild Great Wall ruins are free 🍲Food: Try lamb "pin san xian" and "youxuan" (oily flatbread). Dining is affordable 💡Tips: The temperature difference between day and night in the Northwest is huge, so be sure to pack a thick jacket   💡Travel tips Most of these 5 destinations are free or have low admission fees, and accommodation prices don't increase much during National Day, making them perfect for reverse travel. It is recommended to book homestays in niche areas in advance. In mountainous areas and the Northwest, the temperature difference between day and night is large, so pack a jacket for your trip.

Shenmu Travel | Northern Shaanxi is more than just rugged! The scenery beyond the Great Wall is so healing — traveler post in Yulin

Shenmu Travel | Northern Shaanxi is more than just rugged! The scenery beyond the Great Wall is so healing

🌈 This trip completely overturned my inherent impression of northern Shaanxi! Shenmu hides mountains, rivers, grasslands, ancient towns, and thousand-year-old civilizations. It's uncrowded and beautiful, perfect for a short holiday trip, allowing you to unlock six treasure attractions at once 🏞️ ⛰️ Erlang Mountain A landmark mountain in Shenmu, with ancient buildings and pavilions scattered across the cliffs. Take a leisurely hike up the mountain to overlook the river valley and the panoramic city view. With the mountain breeze on your face, the atmosphere is full of ancient charm. ⚔️ Yangjia City The hometown of the legendary Yang family generals from a thousand years ago. The weathered ancient cypresses and the ruins of the old city walls reveal a deep historical heritage. You can try on armor for photos and immerse yourself in the spirit of loyalty and heroism from a millennium ago. 🏡 Gaojiabao Ancient Town A filming location for "Ordinary World," full of the hustle and bustle of life with its retro old streets and old supply and marketing cooperatives. Stroll through the alleys, taste authentic hanging noodles, and experience the simple, down-to-earth atmosphere of northern Shaanxi. 🗿 Shimao Ruins A prehistoric secret realm dating back 4,300 years! Explore the ruins, see the stone carvings and ancient artifacts in the museum, touch the ancient civilization, and feel the weight of time. 🌊 Hongjiannao A unique freshwater lake in the desert, offering the perfect vibe of seeing the sea in the desert. Wait for the sunset in the evening, when the lake surface is gilded with golden light—gentle and healing. 🌿 Erlintu Grassland Located right next to Hongjiannao, with vast, rolling waves of grass. The pink little train and the musical road are full of fun. The evening breeze is pleasant, and the starry sky at night is stunning. 🎉 Mountains, rivers, grasslands, ancient architecture, and prehistoric civilization—all in one go. Avoid the crowds this National Day and come to Shenmu to unlock niche scenery beyond the Great Wall!

What people are saying about Yulin

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The Wave Valley Scenic Area

Wave Valley in Jingbian, Shaanxi, is truly an underrated scenic spot. The scenery is very unique, the facilities are complete, and the large loop is not difficult, making it accessible to most people.

Anonymous userAnonymous user

Hongjiannao Scenic Area

Hongjiannao Scenic Area is described as "half desert, half sea, a coexistence of desolation and romance." A national AAAA-level scenic area, it's a "pearl of the desert" in the Mu Us Desert. A great place for family trips, definitely worth visiting. The boiled fish at Hongjiannao is delicious! Superb!

若水🍀若水🍀

Erlang Mountain

I came across Erlang Mountain's scenery in a short video online and thought it was magnificent. It's rare to see such a thin mountain range with so many temples and ancient buildings. It truly felt like heaven on earth, so I traveled a long way to see it. Overall, it was quite good and worth the trip. The most important thing was Erlang Temple. Seeing the piercing statue of Erlang Shen, I made a wish to him, hoping it would come true.

杜楠嘟嘟杜楠嘟嘟

Yulin Old Street

This street is beautiful to visit during the day and especially at night. It has a vibrance of locals in the evening, and lots of stores and restaurants. Lots to see and do here. A very night street to slowly walk along and enjoy!

Abigail Van Der HovenAbigail Van Der Hoven

Zhen Bei Tai

It is worth a visit for history lovers, especially those who love the Great Wall and Ming Dynasty frontier history. The fortress itself is a modern construction, with only a few remaining beacon tunnels and city walls in the far west and east.

jyayoijyayoi

Red Stone Gorge

This scenic spot is really worth visiting. I will bring my parents to visit it again next time. It is beautiful! It makes people linger! The weather was not good this time. I hope it will be sunny next time!

Anonymous userAnonymous user

Baiyun Mountain

Baiyun Mountain, located on the banks of the Yellow River in Jia County, is a famous Taoist mountain. Its terrain runs from northwest to southeast, majestically situated on the west bank of the mighty Yellow River. The mountain is covered with lush pine and cypress trees, and towering cliffs. From a distance, it appears and disappears in the mist. The Baiyun Mountain Taoist temple complex is the largest Ming Dynasty architectural complex in the entire Northwest region, with numerous temples and halls of varying sizes, creating a magnificent and imposing sight.

M37***45M37***45

Tongwancheng Archaeological Site Park

The museum was very well done; although small, it was very well-designed. The children had a great time interacting with the exhibits. The shuttle bus took us to the ruins to experience the grandeur of Baicheng.

cocoliu4139cocoliu4139

Shimao Ruins of Shenmu

Huangchengtai is still under archaeological excavation and can only be viewed from a distance. The outer city, which is open to visitors, offers opportunities to interact with many enthusiastic young people from the Shimao area – a highly recommended experience! Visiting the museum first before coming here will provide a more authentic and concrete understanding of the traces of human life 4,000 years ago!

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Yulin FAQ

How many days should I spend in Yulin?

Based on Trip.com user data, Recommended sightseeing time: 2–4 day(s), allowing you to cover the main attractions while enjoying shopping, dining, and other experiences.

Is Yulin worth visiting?

Yulin is absolutely worth visiting, offering abundant natural scenery, cultural attractions, and unique experiences.
You can explore historical and cultural attractions like Erlang Mountain and Yulin Old Street, admire natural scenery like The Wave Valley Scenic Area and Hongjiannao Scenic Area, and experience exciting local activities like Yulin · Zizhuxian Youth Art Performance《Jiujiangkou》 and Yulin · New Concept Yue Opera《Sun Wukong Battles the White Bone Demon》2026.
If you enjoy natural scenery, cultural exploration, and unique local experiences, Yulin is a destination worth visiting.

What currency is used in Yulin?

The standard currency in Yulin is CNY

How do I exchange currency in Yulin?

Current exchange rate approx.: USD ≈7.0CNY (actual exchange rates depend on the bank). Currency exchange tips:
1. Exchange currency at your local bank before departure, as rates are usually better than at the destination.
2. You can also withdraw cash from local ATMs.
3. Avoid exchanging currency at airports or hotels, as they offer the worst rates.

Destinations near Yulin

Yan'an travel destination

Yan'an

51% Users' choice

1 hr 54 mins

Recommended trip: 2–4 day(s)

Linfen travel destination

Linfen

19% Users' choice

2 hrs 36 mins

Recommended trip: 2–3 day(s)

Pingyao County travel destination

Pingyao County

8% Users' choice

5 hrs 24 mins

Recommended trip: 2–3 day(s)

Lvliang travel destination

Lvliang

5% Users' choice

2 hrs 48 mins

Recommended trip: 2–3 day(s)

Jinzhong travel destination

Jinzhong

3% Users' choice

4 hrs 30 mins

Recommended trip: 2–4 day(s)

Taiyuan travel destination

Taiyuan

2% Users' choice

4 hrs 24 mins

Recommended trip: 2–4 day(s)

Wutai Mountain travel destination

Wutai Mountain

2% Users' choice

6 hrs 18 mins

Recommended trip: 1–3 day(s)

Datong travel destination

Datong

2% Users' choice

5 hrs 12 mins

Recommended trip: 2–4 day(s)

Xi'an travel destination

Xi'an

1% Users' choice

54 mins

Recommended trip: 2–5 day(s)