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Walk along sections of the ancient road, explore nearby ancient towns, and experience the region’s traditional culture. Visit historical landmarks and enjoy scenic views of the surrounding landscapes.
The Qin-Chu Ancient Road, located at the foot of Mount Zhongnan in Qinfeng Village, Yingpan Town, Zhashui County, Shaanxi Province, stretches 25 kilometers. It begins in the south at Xiaoyukou in Yingpan Town, at an altitude of 1,030 meters, and ends in the north at the main peak of Mount Zhongnan, in the Niubeiliang Nature Reserve Experimental Area, at an altitude of 2,604 meters.
The Qin-Chu Ancient Road boasts a long history. It served as a vital thoroughfare from Qin to Chu before the Common Era, carrying silk, grain, and military chariots. It has been a battleground for military strategists throughout the ages. Running from Huamen Tower in the south to Daqianchi in the north, it stretches 15 kilometers. Historical records indicate that a major restoration was carried out in 562 AD , widening the road to 2.5 meters. Since then, it has been continuously restored and used by successive dynasties.
The Qin-Chu Ancient Road traverses the Zhongnan Mountains, carved into a unique location on the northern and southern spine of the Qinling Mountains. Within the scenic area, glacial relics, thousands of acres of azaleas, ten thousand acres of meadows, and exotic flowers and plants can be seen everywhere; fir trees, bamboo forests, and red birch trees are in all their glory; clear springs gurgle, winding streams alternate, lakes and mountains shine, and cascading waterfalls cascade down.
This ancient road, a millennium old, has left behind countless fascinating historical legends and cultural relics. The Flower Gate Tower evokes romantic dreams, the gambling courts exude unbridled charisma, the Thunder-Struck Rock inspires sighs, the merchants at the Lame Man's Inn show their kindness, and the Big Money Pond gathers gold. Taibai got drunk here, Liu Xiu sought refuge here, Xiangzi sang his flute to the heavens, and Taizu gambled away his money. If you don't walk the Qin-Chu Ancient Road and climb Mount Zhongnan, you'll regret it for the rest of your life.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 2-3 hours
65 yuan/person
8:00-17:00
The Qin-Chu Ancient Road is a historical route that was used in ancient China, connecting the Qin and Chu states. It has significant historical value as it was a key trade and military passage.
The Qin-Chu Ancient Road is located in Shaanxi province. It can be accessed by taxi from Xi'an or through local bus services. Some sections can be explored on foot or by bike.
The road itself is open year-round. The best times to visit are during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when the weather is mild and the scenery is most beautiful.
There is no formal entrance fee to visit the road itself, but specific historical sites along the route may charge an entrance fee. Tickets for these sites can be bought on-site or online.
Booking tickets in advance is not generally required, but it is recommended during peak seasons to avoid delays at popular sites.
Exploring the road and its surrounding landmarks typically takes 3-4 hours, depending on your pace and the number of historical sites you plan to visit along the route.
Key highlights include ancient towns along the road, historical military posts, and sections of the road that offer spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and rivers.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, with some English-speaking guides available by request. Audio guides may also be available for certain sites.
The best photography spots are at high vantage points along the road where you can capture the scenic landscape, especially in the morning or late afternoon light.
Start by visiting the ancient towns along the road, then proceed to the military sites and scenic viewpoints for a full exploration of the region’s history and landscapes.
Night visits are not common, but some sections of the road may be illuminated for evening views. Special tours may be available by prior arrangement during certain festivals.
The Qin-Chu Ancient Road can get busy during public holidays and weekends. To avoid crowds, visit during weekdays or during the off-season (winter months).
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available along the route. There are small shops and vendors selling local snacks and drinks.
The road is not entirely paved and may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors. Some sections are more accessible to children and families, particularly around the towns and main sites.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments (e.g., Alipay and WeChat Pay) are more commonly used in the area, especially in towns and at tourist sites.
Local restaurants offer traditional Shaanxi cuisine, such as hand-pulled noodles and lamb skewers. Nearby towns also have tea houses and casual cafes for a break.
Vegetarian and halal food options are available, particularly in the larger towns along the road where diverse cuisine is offered.
Several hotels and guesthouses are available in the nearby town of Xi'an. For a more immersive experience, you can find guesthouses near the road itself.
Nearby attractions include the Terracotta Army in Xi'an, Huaqing Hot Springs, and Mount Huashan, all of which can be combined for a day trip from the Qin-Chu Ancient Road.
Yes, souvenir shops are available selling local handicrafts such as terracotta figures, traditional artwork, and locally produced teas.
After visiting, taxis or local buses can be used to continue the journey to Xi'an or other nearby attractions. The high-speed train network also offers easy access to other cities in the region.
