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Walking along the Ningshan Ziwu Ancient Plank Road is a must. The historical wooden plank road offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Visit nearby temples and cultural sites to experience local traditions. Hike the scenic paths to explore the natural beauty and immerse yourself in the local culture.
The Ningshan Ziwu Ancient Plank Road was an important passage in ancient China, particularly during the Han and Tang dynasties, connecting the capital Chang'an to Hanzhong, Bashu, and other southern regions. The Ziwu Road stretches 420.5 kilometers, stretching from Zikou, 60 kilometers south of Xi'an, to Wukou, 80 kilometers east of Yangxian County.
The Ziwu Ancient Plank Road served as a post road from Chang'an to Ankang, Hanzhong, and Bashu. Ancient people considered Zi (Zi) to be north and Wu (Wu) to be south. This post road, crossing the Ziwu Valley, is known as the Ziwu Ancient Plank Road. This plank road was carved into a steep cliff face. The plank road was constructed by carving a hole into the cliff face. Wooden stakes were then driven into the hole, and then covered with wood to create a pedestrian path. In essence, this plank road is more like a suspended wooden bridge than a road. It passes through Ningshan County. The Ziwu Ancient Plank Road, also known as the "Lychee Road," served as a passage from Fuling in eastern Sichuan, through Xixiang, to Ningshan, and on to Chang'an. Even today, in Guanghuojie Town and Jiangkou Town in Ningshan County, near Xi'an, the stone pits carved into the cliff face by our ancestors can still be seen. Alongside this ancient plank road, there are more than ten cultural and natural landscapes scattered around, including cliff carvings, Tang army ruins, bamboo forest Bagua formation, Tieban Peak, stone formations, etc.
The Ningshan Ziwu Ancient Plank Road, located in eastern Sichuan, provides a passage from Fuling through Xixiang to Ningshan, leading to Chang'an. Stone caves carved deep into the cliffs by ancient people can still be seen in Guanghuojie Town and Jiangkou Town in Ningshan County, near Xi'an. Scattered along this ancient plank road are over ten cultural and natural attractions, including cliff carvings, Tang Dynasty military ruins, the Bagua formation in the bamboo forest, Tieban Peak, and stone formations, making it a suitable destination for travelers in all seasons.
Cliff carvings, ruins of the Tang Dynasty military camp, the Bamboo Forest Bagua Formation, and Tieban Peak;
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The Ningshan Ziwu Ancient Plank Road dates back to the Tang Dynasty and was an essential trade and transportation route for locals. This ancient road system, built on steep cliffs, allowed goods and people to traverse otherwise impassable mountain terrain. Today, it’s a popular historical and cultural attraction that offers insight into ancient engineering and local heritage.
The Ningshan Ziwu Ancient Plank Road is located in Ningshan County, Shaanxi Province. To reach the site, you can take a bus or taxi from Ankang, the nearest city. The road is situated in the mountains, so hiking is required once you approach the general area. Local guides can assist in navigating the area.
The road is accessible year-round, but it’s best visited in spring and autumn when the weather is mild. The site is open throughout the day, but it's recommended to visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the most pleasant temperatures for hiking.
The entrance fee is approximately 50-100 RMB, depending on the season. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through various travel platforms. It’s advisable to check in advance for any special discounts or group rates.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons or holidays. A few days ahead is typically sufficient for securing tickets, but during busy times, booking a week in advance may ensure availability.
Exploring the Ningshan Ziwu Ancient Plank Road typically takes 2-3 hours, depending on your pace and how many surrounding areas you wish to visit. If you plan to hike or visit nearby temples, allocate up to half a day for a more relaxed experience.
The main highlight is the ancient plank road itself, which winds through cliffs offering stunning views. Other highlights include the historical bridges, stone carvings, and temples located nearby. The scenic mountain vistas are also not to be missed.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin and English, offering a detailed history of the road and the surrounding area. Audio guides may also be available in Mandarin, depending on the season and availability. It’s best to arrange for a guide in advance if you want a more informative experience.
There are several excellent viewpoints along the plank road itself, where you can capture the dramatic views of the surrounding cliffs and valleys. The highest points offer sweeping panoramic shots, while the wooden pathways make for interesting photographs with the ancient engineering in the background.
Start at the entrance of the plank road and walk along the wooden paths, taking time to enjoy the natural surroundings. Stop at the scenic viewpoints for photographs. If you have time, visit nearby temples or cultural sites before completing the loop back to the entrance.
Night visits are not generally available as the area is remote and not typically open after dark. However, special cultural events or tours may be offered during the peak tourist season, especially during local festivals.
The area can be crowded during weekends and national holidays, especially in summer. The best times to visit are on weekdays, early mornings, or later in the afternoon, particularly in the off-season (spring and autumn).
Basic facilities, including toilets and rest areas, are available at the entrance and along the road. Food and water may be available for purchase at the entrance or nearby markets. It’s recommended to carry your own water and snacks for the hike.
Due to the steep terrain and narrow pathways, the Ningshan Ziwu Ancient Plank Road is not easily accessible for elderly or disabled visitors. It may be challenging for young children as well. It’s important to consider physical fitness before attempting the hike.
Cash is commonly used in the area, though some places may accept mobile payments like Alipay or WeChat Pay. It’s advisable to carry cash, especially when traveling in more remote regions.
There are a few local eateries and small restaurants near the entrance, offering regional Shaanxi cuisine. For more variety, consider dining in Ankang, which has more options for international and local meals.
Vegetarian options are generally available, with many local dishes featuring vegetables and tofu. Halal food may be found in the city of Ankang, where there is a larger Muslim population. Vegan options are more limited but can be found in certain restaurants.
Accommodations near the Ningshan Ziwu Ancient Plank Road are limited but can be found in the nearby town of Ningshan or Ankang. Options range from budget hotels to more comfortable guesthouses.
Nearby attractions include the Zhenping County Historical Sites, the Yan'an Revolutionary Memorial Hall, and the Liujiaxia Dam. You can easily combine a visit to the plank road with a trip to these other historical and scenic sites.
Souvenir shops near the Ningshan Ziwu Ancient Plank Road offer items such as local handicrafts, traditional clothing, and small souvenirs like keychains and postcards. Regional snacks and teas may also be available.
To continue your trip, you can take a bus or taxi to nearby cities like Ankang, which offers further transportation options to other parts of Shaanxi province. Local taxis or private hire vehicles are the most flexible way to get around.
