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Huayang Scenic Area is located in Huayang Town, Yang County, at the southern foot of the Qinling Mountains in Hanzhong City, Shaanxi Province, 76 kilometers away from the county seat. The tourist area consists of Huayang Ancient Town and Changqing National Nature Reserve, with an average altitude of 1,700 meters. The mountain and water scenery is characterized by "high, cold, strange, dangerous and beautiful". "One mountain has four seasons, and ten miles have different weather." It is known as China's "treasure house of animal and plant ecological resources."
The simultaneous appearance of the "Four National Treasures"—the crested ibis, giant panda, golden monkey, and takin—in the same area is a rare sighting both domestically and internationally. In particular, giant pandas, internationally hailed as "living fossils," are densely distributed throughout the area, numbering over 120, representing one-third of the Qinling Mountains' total population. Over 50% of these individuals are occasionally seen in the wild, with numerous sightings of brown-and-white and pure-white pandas, making them of great ornamental and scientific value.
Huayang Scenic Area has been named "China's Best Cultural Ecotourism Destination," "China's Famous Cultural Tourism Ancient Town," "National Red Tourism Classic Scenic Area," and "Shaanxi Provincial Party History Education Base" by both the central and Shaanxi provincial governments. Huayang Scenic Area is a comprehensive tourist attraction integrating elements of an ancient town, the Red Revolution, ecology, rural scenery, and natural resources.
Huayang Scenic Area has a northern subtropical inland monsoon climate, with distinct seasons, abundant sunshine, and a mild and humid climate. The heaviest rainfall occurs in July, September, and October. The best time to visit is from March to June.
Huayang Ancient Town, covering an area of approximately 7 square kilometers, was established as a market town during the Qin and Han dynasties and as a county seat during the Tang and Song dynasties. With a history spanning over 2,000 years, it is a renowned post station, a strategic military hub, and a major economic and political center.
Built in the early Qing Dynasty, the ancient theater is approximately 8 meters high, 15 meters long, and 12 meters wide. Its rectangular floor plan features two floors, and its roof is covered with gray tubular tiles, with raised corners and wind chimes. During festivals, people gather here to beat gongs and drums while Qinqiang opera renditions unfold on stage. The square in front of the theater, known as "Xilouba," was a place where Huayang residents engaged in cultural and entertainment activities and exchanged goods.
The former site of the headquarters of the 25th Red Army. On March 8, 1935, the 25th Red Army, with Cheng Zihua as the commander, Xu Haidong as the deputy commander, and Wu Huanxian as the political commissar, came to Huayang and found that the mountains here were large and the forests were deep, making it easy to defend but difficult to conquer. They decided to establish a revolutionary base and set up the headquarters in the Yu Family Compound in Hongshiyao Village.
Huayang Revolutionary Martyrs Monument. At the end of July 1935, the Huayang Soviet Area and the Huayang Guerrillas experienced 143 days of blood and fire. During this period, 67 people including Yangxian Soviet government cadres, county party committee couriers, Red Army wounded and guerrillas were arrested by the enemy and died heroically. They left a glorious page in the revolutionary history of Yangxian.
In 1988, the Yang County Party Committee of the Communist Party of China and the Yang County People's Government built the "Revolutionary Martyrs Monument" in the Huayang Revolutionary Base to commemorate the martyrs who sacrificed their lives in the revolutionary struggle. It stands majestically on the hilltop of Yanjialing in Huayang Town, and can be seen from miles around. It has become a highlight of the ancient town of Huayang and an important place for revolutionary traditional education for young people.
Changqing Ecological Tourism Area is a comprehensive ecological tourism area on the southern slope of the Qinling Mountains, integrating rare animal and plant viewing, ecological sightseeing, scientific research and study, adventure, leisure and vacation.
In addition, there are the Tangluo Road Ecological Tourism Line, the Qinling Rare Plant Bonsai Garden, the Hongyagou Red Tourism Line, the Xiaohuayang Rural Scenery Tour, the Yuanyang River Wildlife Viewing Line, the Longyin Gorge Ecological Tourism Line, the Crested Ibis Garden, the Panda Ridge, the Golden Monkey Valley, etc.
It is recommended to visit for 1 to 2 days.
120 yuan/person.
8:00~17:30.
Huayang Scenic Area is known for its rich natural beauty and cultural heritage. The area is significant for its historical role as a place of natural preservation and spiritual importance, with landmarks like Huayang Temple, which attracts visitors seeking both natural and cultural experiences.
Huayang Scenic Area is located in Hanzhong, Shaanxi. The best way to reach the area is by taxi or bus from Hanzhong city center. Public transport options are available, though taxis are more convenient for direct access to the scenic area.
The scenic area is open year-round, but the best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and the landscapes are at their most beautiful. Opening hours are generally from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
The entrance fee to Huayang Scenic Area is around 60 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site, and some online platforms may also offer the option for advance booking, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary, but it is recommended during peak travel seasons (such as national holidays). Booking 1-2 days in advance should suffice if you wish to secure tickets.
Plan to spend about 3 to 4 hours exploring the scenic area. This will give you time to hike the trails, visit key landmarks, and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and they offer insights into the natural history and cultural significance of the area. Audio guides may be available for rent at the entrance.
Start by visiting Huayang Temple, then follow the trail to the scenic spots like the waterfalls and viewpoints. A circular route around the river and forest trails is ideal for a well-rounded experience.
Night visits are not typically available, and there are no light shows. The attraction is best experienced during daylight hours, especially to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Huayang Scenic Area can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times to visit are on weekdays, especially in the early mornings or late afternoons.
Basic facilities, including toilets and rest areas, are available throughout the park. There are a few food vendors selling local snacks, but bringing your own water and snacks is recommended for longer visits.
The main areas of Huayang Scenic Area are accessible, but some of the hiking trails may be challenging for elderly visitors or those with mobility issues. It’s advisable to check specific routes for accessibility before visiting.
Cash is widely accepted, but mobile payments (Alipay and WeChat Pay) are the most convenient for most visitors. Credit cards may not be accepted in some areas, so it’s advisable to use mobile payment options or carry cash.
There are a few local restaurants offering traditional Shaanxi cuisine near the entrance of the scenic area. If you're looking for more variety, you can find more options in Hanzhong city.
Vegetarian options are available in local restaurants. However, halal food options may be limited in the immediate area, so it's advisable to check ahead or dine in Hanzhong city for more variety.
Several hotels are located near Hanzhong city center, including budget and mid-range options. The "Hanzhong International Hotel" and "GreenTree Inn Hanzhong" are both conveniently located for those visiting Huayang Scenic Area.
Nearby attractions include the Baoxie Temple, the Hanzhong Museum, and Mount Qinling. These can easily be combined for a full day trip from Huayang Scenic Area.
Souvenir shops near the scenic area sell local handicrafts, including wooden carvings, tea sets, and traditional clothing. Popular items include local specialty teas and handmade items from the Shaanxi region.
Taxis and local buses are the most convenient transportation options for continuing your trip. For longer travels, the Hanzhong Railway Station is accessible for trains to nearby cities.
