Xisigou

Introducing Xisigou

Xisigou is located in Taipingyu, Huxian County, 50 kilometers from Xi'an, on the northern slopes of the Qinling Mountains. It is one of the earliest leisure routes favored by Xi'an travelers. The gully is shaded by trees and gurgling streams. A cement road has now been built all the way to the entrance of Xisigou, making transportation very convenient. It is always bustling with traffic on Saturdays. Xisigou is home to many farmers, most of whom are honest. The village currently charges an entrance fee of 5 yuan per person. For larger groups, the fee can be reduced to 3 yuan per person.

The water in Xisigou is not very strong, but flows slowly, and the trees are tall and straight. It's relatively safe inside the ditch. The only thing to be careful about is walking in the grass: leeches and nematodes can sting.

The 25-kilometer-long gully is flanked by steep peaks, clear water, and lush trees, offering numerous natural attractions. Tianmen Waterfall, with its nearly 100-meter drop, is home to nine crystal-clear pools. Yixiantian (One Line Sky), Longwozi (Dragon Nest), and natural stone caves are alluring, and the legend of Shimen is captivating. The gully is shaded by trees and gurgling streams. A cement road now extends all the way to the entrance of Xisigou, making it easily accessible. Visiting on Saturdays is always a bustling scene, and Xisigou boasts many farmhouses.

Climate and best time to travel

The temperate monsoon climate makes it suitable for travel in all four seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Amidst the lush green mountains of the Qinling Mountains, I once again marveled at the unique topography of Guanzhong. The transition between plains and mountains is so abrupt and natural here, a mere few dozen kilometers feels like a completely different world. It's no wonder that Guanzhong, nestled among mountains, has long been considered a prime location for feng shui. The vast Qinling Mountains have preserved many pristine secrets even in today's highly developed human civilization.

It is recommended to play for about 3 hours.

Tickets

5 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

8:00-17:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Xisigou

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

Xisigou is a natural site that features a combination of stunning landscapes and ancient cultural significance. The area is known for its geological features, including unusual rock formations and ancient caves that have historical importance for the region.

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

Xisigou is located in the outskirts of Xi’an, Shaanxi Province. The easiest way to reach the site is by taxi or private car. Public buses are available but may require transfers. It’s best to use a taxi for convenience.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Xisigou is open daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the landscape is most vibrant. Early mornings are less crowded.

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

The entrance fee is approximately 40 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the site directly or online through local travel booking platforms.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory, but it is recommended during peak seasons, such as holidays. Booking a day or two in advance is usually sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Xisigou typically takes 2-3 hours, depending on your interest in hiking and photography. It is advisable to allocate time for a leisurely walk around the site and exploration of the surrounding natural areas.

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

Must-see highlights include the unique rock formations, scenic viewpoints, and the surrounding natural landscapes. The hiking trails that lead to the best viewpoints are also a major attraction.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides are also offered in Chinese, but there may be limited availability in other languages like English. It is recommended to check for availability in advance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are along the hiking trails where you can capture panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and rock formations. The natural rock arches and caves provide excellent photo opportunities as well.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the entrance and follow the marked hiking trails, taking your time to explore the rock formations and caves along the way. The main viewpoint at the top offers the best panoramic views of the area.

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

Night visits and light shows are not available at Xisigou. The site is best explored during daylight hours, especially for the hiking trails and scenic views.

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

Xisigou can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are weekday mornings, especially during the off-peak tourist seasons in late autumn and early spring.

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

Basic facilities include toilets, rest areas, and drinking water stations along the main trails. There are no large restaurants, but small food vendors are available near the entrance, offering local snacks and refreshments.

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

The hiking trails may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors, as some areas are steep or uneven. It is recommended to check with the site in advance to ensure accessibility for specific needs.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted at the entrance and for small purchases, but mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are more commonly used for tickets and purchases at the site.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are small food stalls near the entrance offering local snacks and drinks. For more extensive meals, head to Xi’an city center, which has a wide range of restaurants offering traditional Shaanxi cuisine.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at the local food stalls, although vegan and halal options may be limited. It’s advisable to carry your own snacks if you have specific dietary requirements.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several budget hotels and guesthouses in Xi’an city center, which is about a 30-40 minute drive from Xisigou. It is recommended to stay in Xi’an for easier access to the site and other attractions.

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

Nearby attractions include the Terracotta Army, Mount Hua, and the Xi’an City Wall. All of these are easily accessible for a full day of exploration from Xisigou.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir shops near the entrance selling local handicrafts, postcards, and snacks. Typical souvenirs include traditional Chinese tea sets, paper cuttings, and local snacks like persimmons.

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

After visiting Xisigou, taxis or private transportation are the best options to continue your journey to other parts of Xi’an or nearby attractions. Public transportation is available but may be less convenient.