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Hanzhong City, located in southern Shaanxi Province and known simply as "Han," has been named one of China's ten most beautiful towns and is known as the "hometown of the Han people." A must-go point on the journey from Xi'an to Chengdu, Hanzhong has been a haven for human habitation since the Shang Dynasty. It is also a major cradle of the culture of the Han and Three Kingdoms periods, and a focal point for military battles. Liu Bang and Zhuge Liang both used Hanzhong as their military bases, earning it the reputation of "the birthplace of the Han people and the treasure trove of China."
From mid-March to late April, you can come to Hanzhong to enjoy the rapeseed flowers. The blooming rapeseed flowers, the wheat seedlings and the green mountains and waters interspersed among them, form a beautiful landscape in the Hanzhong Basin.
Tangjiawan Flower Viewing Spot
Every year in late March, over 100,000 mu (approximately 16,000 acres) of rapeseed in Mian County enters peak bloom. From afar, the fields and mountains resemble a giant golden carpet, a breathtaking sight that attracts tourists from all over the world to enjoy the blossoms. The county's rapeseed plantings cover over 100,000 mu (approximately 16,000 acres) primarily in towns like Laodaosi, Xinjiezi, Tonggousi, Zhoujiashan, Wenquan, Yuandun, and Fuchuan.
Hanzhong Shimen Plank Road Scenic Area
Built between cliffs, it is very steep. When you walk on it, the unfathomable Shimen Reservoir is under your feet. You can't help but think of the hardships the ancients went through to build this plank road thousands of years ago. You have to admire their talent and wisdom.
Hanzhong Lavender Manor
The manor mainly grows lavender, accompanied by roses, lilies, wisteria, and more than 10 other flowers and other vanilla plants. It covers an area equivalent to the size of 20 standard football fields. It is a comprehensive garden manor with lavender and vanilla as its theme in southern Shaanxi.
Recommended number of days for visiting: about 2 days
Hanzhong has a history of over 2,300 years and was a strategic location during the Three Kingdoms period. It served as a military and cultural hub due to its position in the Han River valley and proximity to the Qinling Mountains.
Hanzhong is in southwestern Shaanxi province. You can reach it by train or bus from Xi’an or Chengdu, and local taxis or buses provide access to city attractions. Walking is convenient within the city center.
Most attractions are open from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. The best time to visit is spring (April–June) or autumn (September–October) for comfortable weather and scenic beauty.
Entrance fees vary: Hanzhong Museum is free, while some parks or historical sites charge ¥20–¥50. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online through local travel platforms.
Advance booking is generally not required except for group tours or peak season visits, where 1–2 days ahead is recommended.
1–3 days, depending on the number of attractions visited and outdoor activities.
Guided tours are available in Chinese. English tours or audio guides can sometimes be arranged through local travel agencies.
Start with the city center and museum, walk along historic streets, then visit Han River Scenic Area. Dedicate a day to hiking or exploring nearby mountains if possible.
Night walks along city walls are popular, and some parks may have evening illumination. Special cultural or festival tours may be offered seasonally.
Weekdays and non-holiday periods are less crowded. Festivals or national holidays attract larger crowds.
Main city attractions are accessible. Some mountainous areas or historic sites with stairs may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors.
Mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) and cards are widely accepted. Some small vendors may only take cash.
Vegetarian options are available in local restaurants; halal food is available in some city eateries—checking in advance is recommended.
Variety of hotels in Hanzhong city: budget, mid-range, and a few higher-end options near the city center.
Souvenirs include local snacks, Hanzhong beef products, handicrafts, and cultural items related to the Three Kingdoms period.
Trains and long-distance buses connect Hanzhong to Xi’an, Chengdu, and nearby cities. Local taxis and car rentals are convenient for nearby sightseeing.
