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Explore the scenic landscapes of Yanghugou, enjoy the picturesque hiking trails, and immerse in the serene atmosphere. Take in the natural beauty and visit the nearby temples and cultural sites for a deeper understanding of the region's history.
The Yanghugou Ecological Tourist Area, located at the intersection of Benxi and Huanren counties, became a key transportation hub after the completion of the Benxi-Huanren Highway. Located in the hilly region of the Changbai Mountain range, Yanghugou still retains its pristine secondary forest.
The tourist area has dense forest vegetation, a pleasant climate, beautiful mountains and clear waters, and is surrounded by the Reservoir National Forest Park. The vast blue waves divide it into countless strangely shaped peaks. You can take a boat trip to see many natural landscapes such as Xiaoao Mountain, Sancenglazi, Wangjiang Tower, Mamian Stone, Tiger Cave, etc., and the Wunv Mountain, which is famous for its myths and legends, is also among them.
The best time to view the red leaves in Benxi is from late September to mid-October. During this period, the vibrant colors of red, yellow, and green foliage hang from branches or drift along the banks of ditches and streams.
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Yanghugou is a tranquil valley with natural beauty, known for its cultural heritage and historical sites. The area is significant for its role in local folklore and its peaceful setting which has attracted both tourists and scholars interested in the region's traditional architecture and rural life.
Yanghugou is located in Benxi City, Liaoning Province. You can reach it by taxi or bus from Benxi city center. It is recommended to hire a local taxi or use private transport for easier access to the valley.
The area is open throughout the year. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild, and the scenery is at its most vibrant.
The entrance fee is around 20 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or via local online ticketing platforms for convenience.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance, but it is recommended during peak seasons or weekends. Booking a day or two in advance is ideal.
It typically takes 2-3 hours to explore the area, depending on the trails you take and the time you spend at the cultural sites.
The must-see highlights include the beautiful hiking trails, the serene natural pools, and the cultural temples scattered throughout the valley. The main areas are the scenic viewpoints and the historical monuments.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and it is possible to hire a local guide at the entrance for a more detailed tour of the area.
The best photography spots are the overlooks of the valley, especially during sunrise and sunset when the lighting is perfect. The temple structures and natural waterfalls also make great subjects.
Start by exploring the main entrance area and walking along the central trail. After visiting the temples, take the elevated viewpoint trail for the best panoramic views of Yanghugou.
There are no night visits or light shows available. The site is best enjoyed during the day, as the natural surroundings are its primary attraction.
The site is not usually very crowded, but weekends and public holidays may attract more visitors. The least crowded times are weekdays, especially in the early morning.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available. There are small food vendors offering snacks, but no large restaurants or shops on-site.
The main trails are relatively easy for children and elderly visitors, but some paths may be challenging for disabled visitors due to uneven terrain.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay or Alipay) are more commonly used. Credit cards are not widely accepted in the area.
There are no major restaurants inside the site, but small local eateries and cafes are available in the nearby towns. Local specialties include Liaoning-style dumplings and noodles.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in the nearby restaurants, though halal options may be limited in this area.
There are several mid-range hotels in Benxi City, providing convenient access to Yanghugou. Booking a hotel in the city center is recommended for easy transport to the site.
Nearby attractions include Benxi Water Caves, the Benxi National Forest Park, and several other scenic areas in the Benxi region that can be visited in a day trip.
There are no souvenir shops inside Yanghugou, but local markets in Benxi sell traditional crafts such as pottery, calligraphy, and locally made textiles.
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Didi are the best options for continuing your trip. Public transportation is also available from Benxi city center to other nearby attractions.
