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The Taiji City Viewing Area offers a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and the Taiji City ruins. You can enjoy scenic walking paths, visit historical landmarks, and take photos of the breathtaking landscape. The site also offers a peaceful atmosphere for relaxation and reflection on the region's historical significance.
Xunyang, Ankang City, is named after the Xun River. It is a natural Tai Chi city. The Han River and the Xun River converge in the county seat, forming a natural Tai Chi diagram. Yinyu Island and Yangyu Island, facing each other end to end, embrace each other symmetrically, creating a lifelike scene. Most remarkable is that a thousand-year-old cypress tree grows at the position of each of the Yin and Yang fish eyes, remaining lush and green after millennia.
Looking down on the county town from a distance, it displays a typical Tai Chi Bagua diagram, hence the name "Tai Chi City." As early as the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty, a poem described it as follows: "The whole city is full of lights and stars, and a curve of water flows around Tai Chi," proving that the name Tai Chi City has a long history.
Since ancient times, many scholars and poets have written poems to describe the beauty of Taiji City: "Looking down at the rivers and streams, Taiji stands out as a beautiful mountain city", "Looking south to the Han River and north to the Xun River, the rivers lock the Xunyang City; leaning against Lingya in the east and relying on forests and gardens in the west, Taiji City is beautiful and charming."
The subtropical continental monsoon climate is characterized by a humid and mild climate with distinct four seasons, abundant rainfall, and a long frost-free period. Its characteristics are cold and dry winters, rainy summers with frequent summer droughts, warm and dry springs, and cool and humid autumns with frequent periods of rain. Spring, summer, and autumn are the best seasons for travel.
Xunyang Natural Tai Chi City is a unique natural wonder and a non-renewable tourist resource. Key attractions within the city include the Xunyang Confucian Temple, the largest county-level museum in southern Shaanxi, boasting a unique architectural style and a quaint atmosphere. The museum houses over 3,000 cultural relics, including national treasures such as ivory abacus sticks and a polyhedral jet seal set by Dugu Xin from the Northern Wei Dynasty. Other attractions include the Lingya Temple Provincial Forest Park, Meng Da's Tomb, and the Wenxing Pagoda. The natural Tai Chi City can be admired from the Songjialing Observation Deck.
It is recommended to visit for about 1 day.
free
Open all day
Taiji City was a historically important city in ancient China, often associated with the cultural and philosophical development of the region. The viewing area offers a glimpse into its ancient architecture and strategic importance. It is also connected to the historical development of Ankang, making it an essential site for understanding the area's history.
Taiji City Viewing Area is located in Ankang, Shaanxi. To get there, you can take a taxi or hire a car from the city center. Public transportation options are limited, so private transport is recommended for convenience. The site is accessible by walking from nearby parking areas.
The site is open daily from 8 AM to 6 PM. The best times to visit are in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the cooler temperatures and more scenic lighting for photography.
The entrance fee for the Taiji City Viewing Area is approximately ¥40. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance on the day of your visit. Currently, there is no online booking available for this site.
No, you do not need to book tickets in advance. Tickets can be purchased on-site upon arrival, though visiting during peak seasons may require waiting in line.
To fully explore the Taiji City Viewing Area, including walking the scenic paths and visiting the historical landmarks, you will need about 2 to 3 hours.
The must-see highlights include the observation points offering panoramic views, the remains of ancient city walls, and the serene walking trails that provide a glimpse of the natural beauty of the area. The historical landmarks within the site are also noteworthy for those interested in ancient Chinese history.
Guided tours are available at the site, though they are usually in Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be available upon request, but it’s advisable to check in advance for availability.
The best photography spots are from the elevated viewing platforms, which offer sweeping views of the ruins and the surrounding mountains. The view of the old city walls and the natural landscape in the background make for excellent photos.
Start your visit by walking along the main pathway leading to the viewing platforms, where you can take in the panoramic views. Then, explore the historical ruins and follow the scenic trails through the natural surroundings. Finish your visit at the lower observation points for additional views of the area.
Currently, there are no night visits or light shows at Taiji City Viewing Area. The site is primarily open during daylight hours for sightseeing and exploration.
The site can get moderately crowded during weekends and public holidays. For a quieter experience, it’s best to visit on weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.
There are basic facilities at the Taiji City Viewing Area, including toilets and rest areas. Food and water are available at a few small kiosks near the entrance. It’s advisable to bring your own snacks and water if you plan to spend more time exploring the site.
The site is generally accessible to elderly visitors and children, though some of the trails may be uneven or steep. It is recommended to take care when walking in these areas. Disabled visitors may face difficulty navigating some parts of the site, as not all areas are wheelchair-friendly.
Cash is required for ticket purchases and at food stands. Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are accepted, though it is recommended to carry cash as a backup.
There are a few small restaurants and local eateries near the entrance of Taiji City Viewing Area, offering traditional Chinese food and snacks. For more dining options, you can visit Ankang city center, which is a short drive away.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at the local eateries, though halal food may be limited. It’s recommended to check in advance or bring your own food if you have specific dietary requirements.
Several hotels and guesthouses are located in Ankang city, about 20-30 minutes by car from the Taiji City Viewing Area. Popular choices include Ankang Hotel and local boutique hotels offering comfortable accommodations.
Nearby attractions include Baota Mountain and the Ankang Museum. These sites can be easily combined for a full day of sightseeing in the region.
There are small souvenir shops at the entrance of the viewing area selling items such as postcards, local handicrafts, and souvenirs related to the historical sites.
After visiting the Taiji City Viewing Area, taxis or private car rentals are the best options to continue your trip to other attractions. Public buses are also available, but private transport is more convenient for exploring nearby sites.
