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Located at the foot of Qingshiguan, 10 kilometers south of Moujiaba in Nanzheng County and approximately 30 kilometers from Hanzhong City, it is a brilliant pearl nestled on the northern slopes of the Daba Mountains in Micang. Surrounded by towering mountains, overlapping peaks, crisscrossing canyons, undercurrents of the sea, and verdant pines and cypresses, its dense shade shrouding the sky.
The most dazzling scenic spot in the scenic area is Guanyin Cave. Guanyin Cave is located at the bottom of Xiaonanhai Canyon between two mountains. It is connected to Dafo Cave, Jiulong Cave and Yudongzi. There are underground rivers in the cave, layered cliffs, stalagmites, Dragon Palace, Dinghai Magic Needle, Golden Lotus Stone Waterfall, Ancient Stone Qinyin, Sky Ladder Plank Road and other wonders.
The mysterious and wondrous Guanyin Cave, rising over 100 meters at its highest point, is as vast as a palace, with caves within caves, each step offering a breathtaking view. The river valley within the cave is over ten meters deep, wide at its widest point like a lake, and narrow enough only for small pleasure boats. The emerald green water snakes through the canyon like a giant dragon.
Boating through the cave sea is like wandering through the " Little Three Gorges . " Climbing the underwater ladder, you'll arrive at the wondrous Dragon Palace. This palace, hidden deep within the cave's heart, sits atop a structure resembling several ancient castles strung together. Countless stone pillars and stalagmites of various shapes, sizes, and colors hang suspended in the air and line the ground, appearing mysterious and magnificent under the light.
Walking along the man-made plank road, between the rock cliffs and the giant stalactite waterfall, a golden columnar stalactite comes into view, like a huge needle inserted into the bottom of the cave. Legend has it that the " magic needle that stabilizes the sea " turned the vast ocean into land, and the place got its name Xiaonanhai from this.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 2-4 hours
45 yuan/person
8:00-18:00
Xiaonanhai is a picturesque reservoir in Hanzhong, Shaanxi, known for its natural beauty and historical significance. The area has long been a source of water for the local agricultural communities and is surrounded by mountains, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers.
Xiaonanhai is located in Hanzhong, Shaanxi Province. It is best reached by private car or taxi from the city center, which takes about 30 minutes. There are limited public transportation options, so renting a car or using a taxi is recommended for ease of access.
Xiaonanhai is open year-round, with no specific opening hours, as it is a natural site. The best times to visit are in the spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and the surrounding landscapes are at their most beautiful.
There is no entrance fee for visiting the Xiaonanhai area as it is a public outdoor attraction. However, certain activities such as boat rentals or guided tours may incur additional costs. Tickets for these activities can be bought onsite.
Advance booking is not necessary for entry to the site. However, if you plan to book boat rides or guided tours, it's advisable to make reservations a day in advance, especially during peak seasons.
A visit to Xiaonanhai typically takes around 2-3 hours, depending on whether you engage in activities like hiking or boating. If you're just exploring the area, 1-2 hours is sufficient.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be available upon request, but it's advisable to check in advance.
The best photography spots are near the water’s edge, where you can capture the reflection of the mountains in the reservoir. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best lighting for photos.
Start by walking along the edge of the reservoir for scenic views. Then, explore the nearby trails in the surrounding mountains for a more immersive nature experience. If you prefer water activities, consider a boat ride across the reservoir.
There are no night visits or light shows at Xiaonanhai. The area is best enjoyed during the day, particularly in the morning or late afternoon for the best views and atmosphere.
Xiaonanhai can get crowded during weekends and holidays. To avoid crowds, it's recommended to visit on weekdays, particularly in the morning hours.
The site has basic facilities including toilets and drinking water. There are also small local shops offering snacks and beverages, but it's advisable to bring your own supplies for a more comfortable visit.
The area is relatively accessible, but the terrain near the reservoir and on hiking trails can be uneven. Elderly visitors or those with disabilities may find it challenging to navigate some areas, so be cautious and plan accordingly.
Cash is widely accepted, and mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly used. Credit cards may not be accepted on-site, so it's best to rely on cash or mobile payments.
Vegetarian options are available at some local restaurants, and halal food can also be found in certain places, especially in Hanzhong city, which has a Muslim population.
There are small souvenir shops near Xiaonanhai selling local crafts, such as handmade pottery, traditional Chinese art, and souvenirs related to the region's culture.
