Live Your Best Lives
Qiaoergou is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, including lush mountains and rivers. Visitors can enjoy hiking along the scenic trails, explore the traditional villages, and visit local temples. The area is also great for photography, particularly during the spring and autumn seasons when the scenery is at its best.
Qiaoergou, Baihe County, Ankang City, is a must-see ancient street from the Ming and Qing dynasties in southern Shaanxi, a microcosm of 300 years of Han River merchant culture. Baihe, the lowest town on both sides of the Han River in Shaanxi Province, is a picturesque mountain town nestled on the south bank of the Han River. Its charming streets, ingenious bridges, and serene springs are largely concentrated in Qiaoergou Ancient Street in the northwest of the county seat.
Qiao'ergou's name derives from the several stone arch bridges that traverse it, including Changchun, Guanlan, Yaoyue, and Linjiang. Qiao'ergou, also known as Changchunjian, originates from the confluence of springs from Longgang (the northwest Xiuping Mountains). During the Ming and Qing dynasties, the steep cliffs of Longgang in the northwest and Kuixing Mountain in the southeast formed a stream that meandered northward to the south bank of the Han River. Flowers bloomed year-round on both sides, making autumn and winter feel like spring, hence the name Changchunjian.
The ancient charm and tranquility of Qiaoergou are not only preserved in the ancient place names such as mountains, streams and bridges, but also carved on the more than 500-year-old simple and thick bluestone streets and the north gate of the Qing outer city and the stone carvings beside the gate. It is also imprinted in the ancient buildings of Ming and Qing dynasties built along the mountain on both sides of the street and the ancient springs dug on the cliff slope.
The subtropical continental monsoon climate is humid and mild, with distinct four seasons and abundant rainfall, making it suitable for travel in all seasons.
Most of the ancient buildings and antique houses on both sides of Qiaoergou are built along the mountain. On the left, most of them stretch upward along the mountain bank, while on the right, most of them are located on the steep mountain. They are shoulder to shoulder, each with its own shape and staggered, presenting an asymmetrical natural beauty that follows the mountain terrain.
Typical examples include the North Gate of the Qing Outer City, Changchun Temple, Baihe County Gospel Hall, the Geng Family's Jiangnan Hui-style Ancient Residence, and the Tongshan Society's Ancient Residence. The Baihe County Gospel Hall is located about 50 meters from the entrance to Qiaoergou at Hengjiekou. Facing east and west, it borders Qiaoergou to the east and a street lane to the west. It spans three rooms, is 25 meters wide, 7.5 meters deep, and covers an area of approximately 200 square meters. It is a two-story, wood, brick, and tile structure from the late Qing Dynasty.
It is recommended to play for about 3 hours.
free
Open all day
Qiaoergou is a picturesque region in Shaanxi, steeped in natural beauty and cultural history. The area is famous for its traditional villages, ancient temples, and stunning landscapes. It holds cultural significance as a place where the local population maintains traditions and crafts passed down through generations.
Qiaoergou is located in Ankang, Shaanxi, about 100 kilometers from Xi'an. Visitors can take a bus or taxi from Ankang city center to reach the site. Alternatively, a car rental can offer a more flexible way to travel around the region. The area is best explored on foot once there, especially for hiking and sightseeing.
Qiaoergou is accessible year-round. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild, and the natural scenery is most vibrant. The site is open daily, though specific festivals and cultural events may vary in timing.
The entrance fee to Qiaoergou is generally low, around 20-30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased directly at the entrance. For certain special events or activities, advance booking may be required.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for regular visits. However, if attending specific cultural events or peak season visits, it is recommended to book tickets a few days in advance to avoid long queues.
Exploring Qiaoergou fully typically takes about 3-4 hours, depending on your interest in hiking, photography, and exploring the traditional villages. Longer visits can be spent hiking and enjoying the natural surroundings.
Key highlights include the scenic hiking trails, traditional villages, and local temples. Visitors should also make sure to explore the local markets, which offer insight into the region’s crafts and customs. The best photography spots are along the riverbanks and mountain viewpoints.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some English-speaking guides may be available during peak seasons. Audio guides are also available, though they are typically offered in Mandarin.
The best photography spots in Qiaoergou are along the river and in the surrounding mountains. Scenic viewpoints offer panoramic views of the lush valley and traditional village rooftops. Sunset and sunrise shots from the mountain trails are particularly stunning.
A recommended itinerary includes starting with a visit to the village, followed by a hike along the river trail to the nearby temple. Afterward, explore the mountain viewpoints for the best photo opportunities. If time allows, visit local markets and enjoy the regional food.
Night visits or light shows are not a feature of Qiaoergou. The region is best explored during the day when the natural beauty and cultural activities are at their peak. Special tours may be offered during festivals.
The area can get crowded during holidays or festival periods. The least crowded times to visit are during the weekdays or in the off-season, especially in the winter or early spring.
Basic facilities such as toilets, food stalls, and rest areas are available at the entrance and around the hiking trails. There are also small shops selling local souvenirs and snacks along the way.
While Qiaoergou offers beautiful views and easy access from the main road, some of the hiking trails may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can enjoy the village and simpler trails, but some parts of the site require walking or hiking.
Cash is widely accepted, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are also commonly used. It’s advisable to carry some cash for small purchases in rural areas.
Nearby restaurants serve local Shaanxi dishes such as lamb skewers, noodles, and steamed buns. There are also small cafes where visitors can enjoy local tea and snacks.
Vegetarian options are available, particularly in local dishes like vegetable noodles and tofu. Halal food is not widely available in the immediate area, but larger cities nearby may have more diverse options.
There are several guesthouses and small hotels near Qiaoergou, ranging from budget to mid-range. For more luxurious accommodations, visitors can stay in Ankang city, which is about an hour’s drive from the site.
Nearby attractions include the ancient town of Ankang, and visitors can also explore the surrounding mountains and caves. A visit to nearby temples and local cultural sites can easily be combined in a day trip.
Souvenir shops around Qiaoergou sell traditional Shaanxi handicrafts, including pottery, woven textiles, and locally made jewelry. Visitors can also find small souvenirs related to the region’s cultural heritage.
The best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting Qiaoergou are local buses or taxis. Alternatively, renting a car provides greater flexibility for exploring the nearby areas and attractions.
