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At Hanzhong Horse Drinking Pond, visitors can enjoy exploring the serene pond area surrounded by lush green landscapes. It is perfect for leisurely walks, enjoying nature, and appreciating the historical significance of the location. The pond is also famous for its association with the legendary story of the horses drinking from it, making it a fascinating spot for history enthusiasts.
Hanzhong Yinmachi, also known as East Lake, is located in the southeast corner of Hantai City, Hanzhong City, Shaanxi Province. Covering an area of 6,358 square meters, it is one of the scenic spots and historical sites in Hantai District. Legend has it that Liu Bang, while stationed in Hanzhong, watered his horses in the pool, hence the name Yinmachi. Within the scenic area, a stone couplet remains: "The divine dragon can bring rain to the people; the drinking horses cherish the spirit of the Red Emperor." Yinmachi is one of the Eight Scenic Spots of Hanzhong. According to the "Hanzhong Prefecture Chronicle," the East Pagoda (Jingming Temple Pagoda) of Jingming Temple, located at the East Gate of Hanzhong, casts its shadow into the pool whenever the sun is low, earning it the nickname "East Pagoda, West Shadow," a scene that has drawn endless admiration from visitors.
The southeast corner of the Yinmachi wall features a beautifully shaped, multi-angled eaves, painted beams, and carved pillars, forming an intricately constructed three-story pavilion. Surrounding the Yinmachi pond are small courtyards, earthen walls, tiled roofs, and old-style doors and windows. This is the last remaining traditional neighborhood in the city center, maintaining a rare tranquility and peace.
Hanzhong Yinmachi is located in the Qinba climate zone, at the junction of the subtropical and southern temperate zones. Its climate is characterized by a northern subtropical humid monsoon climate. Its characteristics include mild winters, mild summers, warm and humid weather, and distinct four seasons, with both rain and heat occurring simultaneously. This makes it a great place to visit in all seasons.
The Yinma Pond, with its inscription of "The divine dragon brings rain to the common people, and the drinking horses cherish the spirit of the Red Emperor," and the "Eastern Pagoda, Western Shadow," one of the Eight Scenic Spots of Hanzhong, are also known as "Hanyang Xiaosi Pagoda, its shadow flying into East Lake." The southeast corner of the Yinma Pond's city wall features beautifully shaped multi-angled eaves, with painted and carved beams, forming an exquisitely designed Santai Pavilion. The old-style neighborhood surrounding the Yinma Pond is tranquil and peaceful.
It is recommended to play for about 2 to 3 hours.
15 yuan/person.
08:00~17:00.
The Hanzhong Horse Drinking Pond is an iconic historical site, known for its association with the famous story from Chinese history, where horses allegedly drank from the pond during military campaigns. It is an important cultural and historical landmark in the region, offering insights into ancient military logistics and traditions.
The Hanzhong Horse Drinking Pond is located in Hanzhong, Shaanxi. It can be reached by taxi from Hanzhong city center, which takes about 15-20 minutes. Public transport options such as buses might be available, but taxis are generally the most convenient option.
The attraction is generally open from 8 AM to 6 PM. The best times to visit are early mornings or late afternoons during weekdays when it is less crowded. Weekends and holidays tend to be busier.
Entrance to the Hanzhong Horse Drinking Pond is typically free. However, if there are special events or exhibitions, there might be a small entrance fee. Tickets can usually be bought onsite or through local tourism platforms for any special activities.
Booking tickets in advance is generally not necessary for regular visits, but it is recommended for special events or during peak seasons. Booking a day or two in advance is sufficient.
A visit to the Hanzhong Horse Drinking Pond typically takes 1-2 hours. If you plan to explore the surrounding area and take photos, you may want to set aside additional time.
The main highlight is the pond itself, surrounded by tranquil landscapes. The area also features historical plaques and markers that describe the significance of the site and its connection to ancient military campaigns.
Guided tours may be available in Chinese, and you can inquire about them on-site. Audio guides in Mandarin and possibly English may also be offered to enhance the experience.
The best viewpoints are near the pond itself, where you can capture the scenic surroundings. The gentle slopes and distant hills offer perfect backdrops for photos, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Start your visit by walking around the pond to take in the views and read the historical markers. Then, take a leisurely stroll through the surrounding park to enjoy nature before heading back to the entrance.
There are no regular night visits or light shows at the Hanzhong Horse Drinking Pond. However, special tours or events may occur during certain festivals, so it's worth checking for any seasonal activities.
The site tends to be less crowded during weekdays, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon. Weekends and public holidays may see more visitors.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available on-site. There are no major food or water vendors, so it is advisable to bring your own refreshments. Souvenir shops may be present in the area.
The Hanzhong Horse Drinking Pond is relatively accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, with pathways and areas to rest. However, some parts of the surrounding terrain may be more challenging for those with mobility issues.
Cash is accepted for any purchases or donations on-site. Mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly accepted at most places around the attraction.
There are no major restaurants inside the Hanzhong Horse Drinking Pond, but nearby Hanzhong city offers several dining options, including local Chinese restaurants that serve regional specialties.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at many restaurants in Hanzhong city. Halal food may also be found, particularly at establishments catering to Muslim visitors.
There are various accommodations available in Hanzhong city, ranging from budget hotels to more luxurious options. Popular choices include local hotels and guesthouses, which offer easy access to the Hanzhong Horse Drinking Pond.
Other nearby attractions include the Wuhou Temple, Hanzhong Museum, and the Xixiang Ancient City. These sites can be easily visited in a day trip from the Hanzhong Horse Drinking Pond.
Souvenir shops near the Hanzhong Horse Drinking Pond offer local handicrafts, traditional Chinese items, and regional souvenirs like silk products and embroidered goods.
After visiting, taxis or rental cars are the best options for continuing your trip to other local attractions or for heading to Hanzhong city for further exploration.
