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The Pacific Highway in Shaanxi offers a scenic drive with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and countryside. Recommended activities include a road trip along the highway, stopping at historical landmarks, and visiting local villages to experience traditional life and culture. It’s also a great location for photography, especially during sunrise or sunset.
The Taiyang Highway refers to a self-driving highway that runs through the heart of the Qinling Mountains in Shaanxi Province, from Taibai County to Yang County. It is about 700 kilometers long and is known as "the most beautiful scenic avenue in the Qinling Mountains."
This road is the only way to the Huangbaiyuan Scenic Area, known as the "Little Jiuzhaigou of Qinling Mountains". There are scenic spots along the way. You can enjoy the colorful scenery of the Qinling Canyon, feel the beauty of the Xiaoguanzi and Daguanzi slopes and mountains, see Xiaohuashan and alpine meadows. If you are lucky, you can also witness the spectacular sight of the sea of clouds at Daling at an altitude of 2,400 meters.
April to November, best for summer and autumn
The entire journey takes about 3 days, passing through Taibai Mountain, Huangbaiyuan, Huayang Ancient Town and other scenic spots.
No, please refer to the scenic spot details for specific attractions
All day
The Pacific Highway is part of the historical Silk Road route, which once connected China with the West. It is known for its scenic beauty and cultural significance, offering travelers a glimpse into the traditional landscapes and local life of the Shaanxi province.
The Pacific Highway is located in Baoji, Shaanxi, and can be accessed by car or taxi. Public transportation options are available, but a private vehicle or taxi is recommended for a comfortable journey along the highway.
The highway is open year-round for exploration. The best time to visit is during spring or autumn, as the weather is pleasant, and the scenery is at its most vibrant. Avoid peak summer for a more comfortable experience.
There is no entrance fee to travel along the Pacific Highway, as it is a public road. However, some attractions along the way, such as temples or historical sites, may have separate entry fees. Tickets for these sites can be bought on-site or in advance online.
No booking is required to travel along the Pacific Highway. However, if you plan to visit specific attractions along the way, it’s advisable to book tickets for those sites in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Exploring the Pacific Highway can take a full day or more, depending on how many stops you make along the way. For a leisurely trip, allocate at least one full day to take in the views and visit various historical landmarks.
Key highlights include the stunning natural landscapes along the highway, local villages, historical sites such as ancient temples, and scenic viewpoints. Be sure to stop for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Guided tours may be available for specific attractions along the Pacific Highway. Most guides speak Mandarin, but some may offer services in English upon request. Audio guides for certain sites can also be available in multiple languages.
The best photography spots are located at the high vantage points along the highway, where you can capture panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and traditional Chinese architecture.
Start your journey at the southern end of the Pacific Highway in Baoji, and take a leisurely drive northward. Stop at key points of interest, including local villages, historical landmarks, and scenic viewpoints. If time allows, explore nearby attractions like ancient towns or temples.
Night visits are not a common feature along the Pacific Highway, but the highway offers beautiful vistas at dawn and dusk. Special tours or events may be available at specific attractions or during festivals.
The Pacific Highway can be crowded during national holidays and weekends. To avoid the crowds, visit during weekdays or outside of major holiday seasons, such as spring or autumn.
There are several rest areas along the highway where you can stop for food, water, and basic amenities. Toilets are available at key stopping points, and small shops selling local products may also be found along the route.
While the highway itself is accessible by car, the areas around the highway, including some scenic spots and historical landmarks, may have steep paths or uneven terrain, which could be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors. Children and families can enjoy the drive and main viewpoints.
Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly accepted along the highway, and credit/debit cards are accepted at most larger attractions. However, it’s still a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases in local villages.
There are several local restaurants and eateries along the highway that serve Shaanxi cuisine, including noodle dishes, dumplings, and local specialties. Some areas have cafés offering light refreshments and snacks.
Vegetarian options are available in most restaurants along the Pacific Highway, with many dishes focusing on vegetables and tofu. Halal food may be available in areas with Muslim communities, but it’s best to confirm in advance.
There are hotels in Baoji and nearby towns, ranging from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels. Some accommodations are located near key attractions along the highway.
Nearby attractions include the Famen Temple, the ancient city of Xian, and the Qinling Mountains. These landmarks are perfect for a day trip, and they offer a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Souvenir shops selling local handicrafts, tea, and traditional art are found in nearby villages and towns. Popular items include embroidered textiles, pottery, and regional snacks.
After visiting the Pacific Highway, you can continue your journey by bus or taxi. Trains and flights are available from Baoji to major cities like Xi’an and beyond.
