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Explore the natural beauty of Mapaoquan by hiking the surrounding trails. Visit the waterfalls, enjoy the tranquil atmosphere, and take photographs of the landscape. Relax by the water, enjoy a picnic, or simply enjoy the peaceful environment away from the bustle of city life.
Mapao Spring, located in Shangnan County, Shangluo City, Shaanxi Province, is one of the famous scenic spots in Bailong Gorge. After passing the Immortal Stone and turning a corner around a strange rock formation, you'll suddenly hear a rush of water, like applause, and see a spring bursting forth from beneath a boulder. This is the famous "Mapao Spring."
Legend has it that during the Qin and Han dynasties, a woman named Su, pregnant, fled to a place where she could suppress a rebel army. Passing through this region, she encountered scorching heat and drought, leaving soldiers exhausted and horses utterly thirsty. Over half the soldiers were wounded or sick. Having just given birth to a prince, Su, frail and weighed down by the intense heat, hunger, and thirst, fainted and fell from her horse. In this critical moment, her horse, the Black Dragon, neighed and pawed the ground. Suddenly, a flash of white light appeared, revealing a clear spring. Overjoyed, Su and her fellow soldiers drank heartily.
This spring was cool and sweet. After drinking from it, the soldiers' hunger, thirst, and ailments were instantly relieved, and their morale was greatly boosted. The spring's water gurgled endlessly, refreshingly cool and pure. One glance at it was a sight to behold, and a sip left a lasting aftertaste. Hence the name "Divine Spring." The empress ascended the rock, mounted her horse, and led her troops into battle against Wang and Yu. Later generations named this spring "Macao Spring." While this legend cannot be verified, it adds to the spring's mystique.
The warm temperate semi-humid monsoon climate features four distinct seasons, with rain and heat occurring in the same season, and distinct dry and wet seasons in the summer and winter. Avoid the cold winter and travel in spring, summer, and autumn.
Anyone who has seen Mapao Spring is invariably astonished by the endless gurgling of water. The spring, as big as a fist, is surrounded by several smaller springs. The water surges vertically upward, creating bubbles of varying sizes. Standing by the spring, one can't help but marvel at nature's wonders. The water is so abundant and abundant, it's as if the entire mountain were filled with spring water. It's always so clean and clear.
It is recommended to play for about 20 minutes.
Included in the ticket for the Golden Canyon, RMB 95 per person
07:30-16:30
Mapaoquan is known for its beautiful natural scenery, featuring cascading waterfalls and rich biodiversity. It is a peaceful destination for nature lovers and offers a quiet retreat from urban life. It also has historical significance as a popular spot for local cultural activities.
Mapaoquan is located in Shaanxi Province, near the city of Baoji. To reach the area, visitors can take a taxi or private car from Baoji. Public transportation options are available, but they may require transfers to smaller buses or taxis to reach the site directly.
The attraction is open year-round. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and the surrounding nature is at its most vibrant. Summers can be quite hot, and winters can be cold, but they offer a quiet, serene experience.
The entrance fee for Mapaoquan is generally low, around 30-50 CNY. Tickets can be bought at the entrance, and some travel platforms may offer online purchasing options during peak tourist seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory, but it is advisable to do so during busy seasons to avoid long lines. Booking a few days in advance is usually sufficient.
To fully explore Mapaoquan, including the waterfalls, scenic trails, and surrounding nature, you will need around 3 to 4 hours. A more relaxed visit with plenty of time for photography and relaxation could take up to a full day.
Key highlights include the waterfall area, serene walking trails, and picturesque natural landscapes. The quiet surroundings and the peaceful atmosphere are major draws for visitors.
Guided tours may be available during peak seasons, but they are typically offered in Mandarin. Audio guides in Mandarin may also be available, but English-speaking guides may be rare.
The best photography spots are near the waterfall, where the landscape offers dramatic scenery. The surrounding hills and forested areas provide excellent backdrops for nature shots.
A recommended route is to start by visiting the waterfall area, followed by a leisurely walk along the scenic trails. If time permits, relax by the water or visit the nearby observation points for panoramic views.
Night visits or light shows are not currently available at Mapaoquan. It is primarily a daytime attraction, with visitors exploring its natural beauty during daylight hours.
Mapaoquan is less crowded compared to other major tourist destinations, but it can get busy during weekends and holidays. The least crowded times are during weekdays, especially in the mornings or late afternoons.
The attraction has basic facilities, including toilets, rest areas, and some local shops selling snacks and souvenirs. Bring your own water and food if you plan to stay for an extended period.
The main areas are accessible for elderly and children, though some parts of the hiking trails may be challenging. For disabled visitors, the accessibility may be limited, especially on certain rugged paths.
Cash is still commonly used, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted. It's advisable to carry a mobile payment app to ease transactions.
There are a few local restaurants and cafes near Mapaoquan offering traditional Shaanxi cuisine, including noodles, dumplings, and other local dishes. Nearby cafes may serve drinks and light snacks.
Vegetarian options are available at some local restaurants. Halal food may also be found in the area, as Shaanxi is home to a significant Muslim population.
There are several guesthouses and budget hotels near Mapaoquan, as well as mid-range accommodations in Baoji, which is about a 30-minute drive from the attraction.
Nearby attractions include the Famen Temple, a renowned Buddhist site, and the Qianling Mausoleum. Both are located within a few hours' drive from Mapaoquan and can easily be combined in a day trip.
Yes, there are souvenir shops at the entrance and around the area. Common souvenirs include local handicrafts, traditional Chinese artwork, tea, and dried fruits from the region.
After visiting, taxis or private cars are the most convenient transportation options to continue your journey. Public buses are also available but may require a transfer in nearby towns or cities.
