Southern Shaanxi

Introducing Southern Shaanxi

Southern Shaanxi refers to the southern part of Shaanxi Province. From west to east, the three prefecture-level cities in Southern Shaanxi are Hanzhong, Ankang and Shangluo.

Shaanxi is bordered by the Qinling Mountains to the north and the Bashan Mountains to the south, with the Han River flowing eastward through it. Hanzhong and Ankang in southern Shaanxi exhibit distinct southern characteristics in their natural conditions, primarily cultivating rice, with oranges and tea being abundant. Rice and pasta are staple foods. The dialects of Hanzhong and Ankang, especially Hanzhong, are similar to those of Sichuan and Chongqing. The dialect of northern Shangluo is similar to Shaanxi Mandarin (a form of Central Plains Mandarin, also known as Guanzhong dialect). Counties in the west and south have a wide variety of dialects, including Xiahu dialect, Hakka, Jianghuai dialect, and Southwestern Mandarin.

In March 2013, the development of three cities in southern Shaanxi was incorporated into national strategies, with Beijing and Tianjin providing special funding support. This was a significant boon for the region, as it marked its inclusion and elevation to a national strategic level. For Shaanxi, this marked the full inclusion of another national plan, following the "Development Plan for the Guanzhong-Tianshui Economic Zone" and the "Revitalization Plan for the Shaanxi-Gansu-Ningxia Revolutionary Base Areas." It also served as a centralized resettlement site for the Southern Shaanxi Migrant Relocation Project.

Climate and best time to travel

It has a northern subtropical continental humid monsoon climate, located in the upper reaches of the Han River, backed by the Qinling Mountains to the north and the Daba Mountains to the south. The terrain is high in the north and south and low in the middle. The central part is the Hanzhong Basin, which is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Ancient Han Terrace, Ying Lake, Nangong Mountain, and Jinsi Grand Canyon;

It is recommended to play for about 3 hours.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for Southern Shaanxi

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Southern Shaanxi is a region rich in history, famous for its cultural heritage, including ancient temples, traditional architecture, and being a key area for the development of Taoism. It played an important role in Chinese history and was an influential region during several dynasties.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Southern Shaanxi is located in the southern part of Shaanxi Province. It can be accessed by taxi, private car, or bus from Xi'an. There is no metro system connecting to the area directly, but buses are available from major transportation hubs.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The region is open year-round. The best times to visit are during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its best. Summer can be hot, and winter may be cold, though it offers a peaceful atmosphere.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee for specific attractions varies but generally falls between 50 to 150 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through local tourism websites.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons to avoid long queues, especially for popular attractions. Booking 1-2 days before visiting is ideal.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploring the main attractions of Southern Shaanxi typically requires 1-2 days, depending on the specific sites and activities you plan to do, such as hiking or visiting historical sites.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The must-see highlights include the ancient temples, traditional villages, and scenic mountain views. Notable spots include the Duling Mausoleum and the Longmen Grottoes. You should also visit local villages to experience the authentic Shaanxi culture.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and English-speaking guides can be requested for some popular sites. Audio guides in multiple languages may be available at major attractions.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Top viewpoints include mountain peaks and the scenic areas around ancient temples and historical sites. The Longmen Grottoes and surrounding landscapes offer fantastic photo opportunities, as do the village settings with traditional architecture.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with a visit to historical sites like the Duling Mausoleum and Longmen Grottoes, followed by hiking in the mountains. Take time to visit a local village and enjoy the traditional culture and food.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits or light shows are not common in this region, as it is more focused on nature and culture. However, some temples may offer evening prayer sessions, which can provide a unique experience.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Southern Shaanxi is generally less crowded compared to major tourist destinations like Xi'an. The least crowded times are weekdays, especially in the mornings or during the off-season in winter.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available at most attractions. Local food vendors offer snacks and drinks, and souvenir shops sell traditional crafts.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

While some areas are accessible for elderly and children, more challenging hiking trails and some temple grounds may not be suitable for disabled visitors. It’s best to check specific attractions for accessibility information.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and credit cards are widely accepted in most areas. However, it’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller villages or remote areas where card payment may not be available.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are small local restaurants offering Shaanxi cuisine such as noodles, dumplings, and lamb dishes. For more options, you can travel back to Xi'an for a wider variety of restaurants.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian food options are widely available. Halal food can be found in certain areas, especially near Muslim communities, but may be limited in more rural areas.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are a few small hotels and guesthouses near the scenic area. For more luxurious options, you can stay in Xi'an and take day trips to Southern Shaanxi.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Terra Cotta Warriors, Mount Huashan, and the city of Xi'an. These can easily be combined for a full day trip from Southern Shaanxi.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops selling traditional Shaanxi crafts such as hand-painted pottery, local teas, and silk products.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Taxi, bus, and private cars are the best options to continue your trip. For travel to Xi'an or other major destinations, the high-speed train is a good choice.