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Explore the ancient structures and traditional architecture of Yanping Village, engage with the local community to learn about their customs, and enjoy scenic walks through its picturesque rural landscape. The village offers a glimpse into the lifestyle of rural Shaanxi, with opportunities to visit local farms and sample regional specialties.
Yanping Village, located in Xuanwo Town, Hanyin County, Ankang City, Shaanxi Province, was founded during the Qianlong reign of the Qing Dynasty, boasting a 250-year history. Immigrants from Hunan, Hubei, and Guangdong settled and thrived here, relying on their own hands and wisdom to continuously develop and grow. Yanping Village boasts several renowned tourist attractions, including the Yanping Terraces, Taiping Fort, and the Old School, which attract numerous visitors and significantly enhance the village's popularity.
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.
There are several famous tourist attractions in Yanping Village, including Yanping Terraces, Taiping Fort and the Old School.
The Yanping Rice Terraces, with their expansive terrain, beautiful ecological environment, pristine form, crisscrossing paths, flowing lines, high mountains and long rivers, and interlaced wooden houses, fully showcase the natural beauty, ancient simplicity, form, and cultural beauty of the terraces. The changing climate of the four seasons makes the ancient terraces even more graceful, resembling a fairyland on earth. From a high vantage point, the view is magnificent and majestic.
Taiping Fort, located on Taibai Mountain in Group 6 of Yanping Village, was built by Wu Shangming, the ancestor of the Wu family immigrants, in the fifth year of the Jiaqing reign of the Qing Dynasty, as a refuge from bandits. Taiping Fort, nestled against the mountain's slopes, is surrounded by steep cliffs on the south, north, and west. Below the cliffs is Longwanggou, and to the east lies Zhaiziya. Taiping Fort was primarily built to defend against banditry and the White Lotus Rebellions and the Taiping Rebellion. Research on Taiping Fort holds significant historical significance for studying the local activities of the two Qing Dynasty peasant uprisings and provides valuable insights into the construction period of the Fengyan Terraces.
The old schoolhouse was built in the late Qing Dynasty by Wu Chuntai, a sixth-generation descendant of the Wu family who moved to Yanping. It consists of two courtyards, enclosed by walls and a gate, and contains over 30 rooms. The front hall is separated from the main house by a patio behind it. The gate and parts of the main house are still well preserved.
It is recommended to play for about 3 hours.
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Yanping Village is known for its deep historical roots and cultural heritage, particularly linked to Shaanxi’s agricultural practices. The village has preserved many ancient structures, including traditional homes and local temples, that reflect the lifestyle and architecture of past centuries.
Yanping Village is located about 30 km from the city of Ankang in Shaanxi Province. It can be reached by taxi or private car from Ankang or other nearby towns. There are also buses from Ankang that travel to the village.
Yanping Village is open year-round. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant. Avoid peak summer months when it can be hot and crowded.
There is generally no entrance fee for visiting the village itself, but certain cultural events or activities may require a fee. Tickets for specific events or guided tours can typically be bought on-site or through local tour operators.
Booking in advance is not necessary for general visits. However, if you plan to participate in special activities or cultural events, it’s best to book tickets a few days in advance.
A visit to Yanping Village typically takes about 2-3 hours. If you plan to explore nearby attractions or engage in activities such as local farming experiences, it could take a full day.
Key highlights include the traditional village houses, local temples, and the surrounding natural beauty. Don't miss the scenic walk through the village’s agricultural areas, where you can observe traditional farming methods and sample fresh produce.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, but some English-speaking guides may also be available by prior arrangement. Audio guides are not typically provided.
Best viewpoints include the hills around the village, which offer panoramic views of the rural landscape. The traditional architecture of the village also makes for great photography opportunities, especially during the golden hour before sunset.
Start by exploring the main street of Yanping Village to admire the local architecture. Then, take a walk to the outskirts for views of the agricultural land and local farms. End your visit by attending a local cultural performance or visiting a nearby temple if available.
There are no regular night visits or light shows in Yanping Village. However, the village offers a peaceful ambiance in the evening, and a sunset visit can provide a unique experience with beautiful lighting for photography.
Yanping Village is not usually overcrowded. To avoid crowds, it is best to visit during weekdays or in the off-season, especially in the winter or early spring when fewer tourists visit.
There are basic facilities such as public toilets and small food stalls offering local snacks. The village has limited rest areas and shops, but you can find local handicrafts and fresh produce in the area.
Due to the village's rural and traditional nature, accessibility may be limited, especially in the hilly or uneven areas. Elderly or disabled visitors may find it challenging to navigate some parts of the village.
Cash is widely accepted, and mobile payments such as Alipay or WeChat Pay are commonly used for most transactions in the village.
Nearby, there are a few local eateries offering traditional Shaanxi cuisine, such as noodles, dumplings, and lamb dishes. These are typically small family-run restaurants.
Vegetarian and halal food options are somewhat limited in the village, but vegetarian dishes like stir-fried vegetables and noodles are available. You may need to inquire about halal food in advance.
There are a few guesthouses and hotels in Ankang, which is about 30 km from Yanping Village. For more options, you can stay in Ankang and take a day trip to the village.
Nearby attractions include the scenic Baota Mountain, the Ankang Museum, and the beautiful Qinglong Gorge. These are all accessible within a short drive and can be combined into a day trip.
Yes, there are small shops selling local handicrafts, including woven textiles, pottery, and souvenirs made from bamboo and wood. You can also find regional foods like honey and dried fruits.
After visiting Yanping Village, the best way to continue your trip is by taxi, private car, or local bus. Ankang is easily accessible by public transport from the village.
