Where to go on holiday trips? 8 must-see destinations from Hubei
Preface
In the first week of September, I felt that time passed so slowly. I wished I could travel through a time machine to half a month later. Don’t ask me why. It’s just an elementary school topic, let’s talk about it by looking at the pictures.
Celebrating Mid-Autumn Festival with a full moon at home isn't about where you go, but being where your family is. While parents are well and children are still around, do your best to show them the world. Holidays are short, time is tight, and planning is slow. It's easy to miss out on worthwhile destinations. I wonder if these 10 places will inspire you.
1. Leisure and escapism
1. Transportation
Xianning Jiugong Mountain
Self-driving: Navigation point "Jiugong Mountain Scenic Area"
Transportation: Take the train to Yongxiu Station and then navigate to Jiugong Mountain Scenic Area.
Xinyang Jigong Mountain
Self-driving: Navigation point "Jigong Mountain Scenic Area"
Transportation: Take the train to Xinyang East Station and then navigate to Jigong Mountain Scenic Area.
2. A secluded sanctuary
1) Jiugong Mountain – a natural oxygen bar
The hustle and bustle of city life often makes one yearn for escape from the mundane world, but the world is so vast that it seems no place is immune to the worries of worldly affairs. Even a glimpse of a sky filled with stars and the Milky Way is a luxury for children raised in big cities. But when the natural oxygen bar of Jiugong Mountain comes into view, everything becomes possible. At an altitude of 1,657 meters, you stand shoulder to shoulder with the Milky Way, conversing with the stars. Close your eyes and you can almost hear their laughter.
The temperature here is just right. Set up a tent, lie on the ground, shelter under the sky, and find peace of mind. Here, there's no work pressure, no worries, only the laughter of family and the fresh mountain air. If you're lucky, you might wake up at the first light of dawn, watching the white windmills of the alpine wind farm begin to spin, the sunrise and the flowing sea of clouds, a scene reminiscent of a fairyland, filled with poetic romance.
You said I can find places to see the Milky Way, the sunrise, and the sea of clouds, but what about Yunzhong Lake, Central China's largest alpine lake? The panoramic view from above doesn't give it the feel of a small town within a city, but it's actually a high mountain lake. Due to its advantageous geographical location, it's surrounded by clouds and mist, creating an aura of ethereal beauty, hence the name "Yunzhong Lake." During the Mid-Autumn Festival, spending time with family amidst the clouds and mist is truly a magical experience.
2) Jigong Mountain – A Journey Across Centuries
Jigong Mountain, known as "the place where the Qing divides Henan and Chu, and where the Three Rivers are straddling the border," boasts eight natural wonders: Buddha's light, sea of clouds, rime, rime, rosy clouds, exotic flowers and plants, bizarre peaks and rocks, and waterfalls and springs. It's no wonder even Chairman Chiang Kai-shek and Madame Soong Mei-ling chose to visit this place. Gazing at the mountain from this height, one instantly feels a sense of grandeur, akin to a glimpse of the surrounding mountains.
For those who've long lived in cities and inhaled smog, a two-day stay here is sure to give your lungs a refreshing air bath. The mountain's diverse architectural styles, dating back to the late Qing Dynasty and early Republican era, truly live up to its reputation as a "Museum of International Architecture." At its peak, Jigong Mountain boasted 500 villas and houses from 23 countries, including the United States, Britain, France, Germany, Russia, Japan, China, Belgium, the Netherlands, the Philippines, Thailand, Portugal, North Korea, Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Finland, Spain, Greece, Austria, and Switzerland. Here, you can traverse the streets of the Republican era and experience the charm of its architecture.
As the old train slowly rolls along, the delicate fragrance of golden osmanthus wafts through the window, and the whistle begins to roar. What's the oldest train you've ever been on? A green one? A freight train? Here, you can see the original steam locomotive: steam-powered, narrow tracks, a soot-covered stoker, and completely manually operated. It asserts its existence in a unique way, transporting you back to the 18th century. Experiencing the power and charm of the steam age with your children, taking a journey through the centuries, I think it's a truly wonderful experience.
Along the way, you will see a relaxing hot spring resort, the Pinghan Railway Museum with historical traces, a town with unique cultural characteristics, and an interesting animation park. At its end is the Borden Forest Park, known as the "treasure pot of nature". This is the largest bald cypress park in the country. You will definitely regret it if you don't visit it.
2. New Representatives of Freehand Painting
1. Transportation
Yaoluoping, Yuexi County, Lu'an City
Self-driving: Navigation point "Yaoluoping National Nature Reserve"
Transportation: Take the train to Lu'an Station and then navigate to Yaoluoping National Nature Reserve.
Wanxi Great Rift Valley, Jin'an District, Lu'an City
Self-driving: Navigation location "West Anhui Great Rift Valley"
Transportation: Take the train to Lu'an Station and then navigate to the Western Anhui Great Rift Valley.
Sanhe Ancient Town, Feixi County, Hefei City
Self-driving: Navigation point "Sanhe Ancient Town"
Transportation: Take the train to Hefei South Station and then navigate to Sanhe Ancient Town
Wanfo Lake, Shucheng County, Lu'an City
Self-driving: Navigation point "Wanfo Lake"
Transportation: Take the train to Hefei South Station and then navigate to Wanfo Lake.
2. A place of artistic conception
1) Yaoluoping – A paradise on earth
This is a national nature reserve, where ancient geological history and a complex ecological environment have shaped a unique and diverse range of biological resources and natural landscapes. It bears the unusual yet beautiful name of Yaoluoping. While it may appear ordinary at first glance, if you carefully experience its unique charm, you might just fall in love with its secluded and tranquil environment. Its top-notch air quality and green, pollution-free environment offer a tranquil retreat reminiscent of a paradise, offering a temporary escape from worldly concerns and a perfect escape from the world.
"Ten-mile Gallery, shrouded in mist and rain, a fairyland on earth evokes a dream." Ten-mile Gallery, an undeveloped canyon deep in the mountains, stretches over ten miles. It boasts a perpetual abundance of exotic flowers and plants, and lush forests and bamboo groves. After all, "picturesque" best describes its scenery. Watching the cascading waters splashing white flowers in the river, the place feels imbued with a sense of vitality and spirituality.
"The setting sun and the lone wild goose fly together, the autumn water and the sky are the same color." Autumn is no longer a color of melancholy. The touch of red when I look up allows me to see its bright coat, and also gives me a deeper understanding and love for the colors of autumn.
2) Anhui and Anhui: Ancient Style and Beautiful Artistic Concepts
Sanhe Ancient Town
"White walls, black tile horse-head walls, and a gurgling river beside a bridge." Sanhe Ancient Town, formerly known as Quezhu, Quewei (Zhu), and Que'an, is a famous historical and cultural town in China, boasting a history of over 2,000 years and exemplifying the Hui style of architecture. Admiring the scenery from the ancient bridge or passing under it by boat, gazing at the houses on the shore, offers a visual experience of a bright, elegant, and rhythmically layered beauty. For lovers of ancient water towns, this is a truly worthwhile visit.
Sanhe Ancient Town is famous for its ancient alleys, streets, bridges, city walls, temples, forts, houses, and teahouses. At night, the town is peaceful and tranquil, with its doors and windows closed. A closer look reveals two main roof styles: gabled and stepped. The gabled roof, shaped like the Chinese character "人," has a narrow, flat gable; the stepped roof, like the Chinese character "品," has gables that range from one to four layers. The horse-head walls, shaped like magpie tails, feature staggered, black-and-white panels that function as both fireproofing and partitions. A must-see for those interested in ancient architecture!
Western Anhui Great Rift Valley
Known as China's answer to the "Great Rift Valley of East Africa," the Great Rift Valley in western Anhui boasts a towering mountain range seemingly split in two by divine power, creating a narrow, V-shaped rift valley. The valley's walls are craggy and craggy, with a myriad of forms. The scenery offers both the vibrant beauty of China's canyon landscapes and the tranquility of a serene, ethereal landscape. A unique geological scenic spot in China, the natural pass that lies here remains virtually uncrossed without climbing tools, creating a formidable barrier that even a single individual can hold against ten thousand.
Tips: The Great Rift Valley was originally named Biwangyan. Legend has it that Zhang Xianzhong, leader of the late Ming Dynasty rebels known as the Eight Great Kings, hid his remaining troops here to avoid encirclement by the Qing army. He established a lookout tower at the valley entrance and carved stone flags, thus amassing a powerful army. The scenic area still retains historical relics such as three pass gates, a commanding platform, and a grain storage cave.
After passing through the First Gate, one climbs through the gap between the two mountains. Arriving at the Second Gate, one can only walk on a wooden path, walking on the stream between the mountain walls, and walking to the narrowest part of the crevice, which is only wide enough for one person to pass through. Going forward, one can see the Line of Sky, the Sky-peeking Cliff, the Cloud Ladder, etc. After passing through the Third Gate and climbing up to the Hero Pavilion, one can enjoy the magnificent scenery of the entire Grand Canyon. Across the entire Great Rift Valley, one can see rugged rocks and gurgling springs everywhere.
Wanfo Lake Scenic Area
Wanfo Lake is a 5A-rated lakeside scenic area centered on the lake. Its 66 islands, large and small, resemble the backs of green turtles and the appearance of giant crocodiles emerging from the water. Scenic spots such as Peach Blossom Island, Swallow Island, Golden Coast, Wind Island, and Huicui Mountain Forest, each with its own unique charm, are sure to captivate you. The diverse natural and cultural landscapes blend seamlessly like an ink painting. Take a boat ride on the lake, soaking in the scenery and letting the gentle breeze caress your face – it's truly a relaxing experience.
3. Slow pace of life
1. Required equipment
1. Clothing: quick-drying underwear, travel sports shoes
2. Sunscreen, sun protection clothing, sun hat, sunglasses, rain gear, etc.
3. A small backpack or waist bag to carry small items when riding
4. Personal documents, camera, backup power supply, personal commonly used medicines, etc.
2. Cycling niche areas
1) Wuhan Mulan Lake – Leisure Loop
Once upon a time, I fell in love with the joy of island cycling. Xiamen, Taiwan, Hainan, Qinghai...all became popular cycling destinations, but time and money never seem to go hand in hand. Perhaps, sometimes we focus too much on form, often missing the scenery right at our doorstep. Located in Huangpi, Wuhan, adjacent to Mulan Mountain and 60 kilometers from downtown Wuhan, lies Mulan Lake. With its abundant waters, vibrant birds, and picturesque mountains and clear waters, it's hailed as the Pearl of Jingchu and the Back Garden of Wuhan, yet it's a niche destination.
The spacious cycling path is shaded by trees on both sides. Here, you can ride slowly and leisurely, enjoying the autumn images brought by flowers and plants; you can also ride at lightning speed and enjoy the thrill brought by speed.
When the lake breeze gently caresses your face, stop to look at the sky in the distance, feel the flow of the lake water, and let your heart become peaceful and comfortable. The fast pace of life may have already exhausted you. Exercise is your best way to recharge. Of course, if you want to pose by the lake, that's also great. Remember to keep a beautiful posture and a handsome expression.
2) Guilin Yangshuo – A picturesque cycling route
Guilin, an ancient city steeped in culture, boasts a rich cultural heritage spanning over 2,000 years. Jingjiang Palace, Elephant Trunk Hill, Two Rivers and Four Lakes, East-West Alley, Yangshuo West Street, and the Li River are all renowned landmarks. Today's theme is Yangshuo. After all, "Guilin's landscapes are the best in the world, and Yangshuo's are the best of Guilin." Let's take a look at the full view. Doesn't it feel like a film set? Surrounded by mountains, a river flowing through its center. Cycling through such a picturesque landscape suddenly brings a poetic feeling.
September is a great time to visit Guilin, with perfect temperatures and plenty of time to relax. The tranquil Li River is right before your eyes, allowing you to walk right down to the water's edge, treading on the cozy goose-warm stones and caressing the clear water. Cycling through the vast bamboo greenways is a delightful experience. If you've already entered the secret realm of the Yulong River, don't hesitate to stop and pose for photos!
While boating on a lake is the most relaxing experience, what should one do on the Li River? A red song looms large in my childhood: "A small bamboo raft drifts down the river, towering green mountains on either side." While it doesn't quite describe the scenery here, it feels incredibly fitting. Sitting on a bamboo raft, feeling the towering mountains and the clear water, I exclaim heartfeltly, "Beautiful!" A sense of joy overflows the image.
If you're looking to see the Li River at night up close, staying in Xingping Ancient Town, nestled along the Li River, is a great option. The unique inns here offer expansive views, offering breathtaking night views. You might even spot fishing boats dotted with stars drifting across the river, creating a striking contrast to the night.
Tips:
1. When you go out, you must pay attention to the safety of your belongings and keep your mobile phone connected for emergency contact.
2. People with severe hypertension, heart disease, cardiopulmonary insufficiency or other diseases that are not suitable for cycling activities are not allowed to participate
3. Yangshuo's climate is affected by the monsoon, and the weather varies greatly from drought to flood, cold to hot, so please keep warm.
4. Photography of beautiful scenery
1. Required equipment
1. ID card, cell phone, and other communication equipment are essential.
2. Cold medicine, stomach medicine, Band-Aids, essential oils, and other common medications.
3. A thermos, some dry food, fruit, and snacks.
4. Toiletries, a change of clothes, and rain gear. 5.
Various photographic equipment, including wide-angle, mid-range, and telephoto lenses, a charger, and a tripod are essential.
6. Clothes suitable for outdoor photography activities, and be sure to keep warm.
7. A headlamp, flashlight, and other light sources are essential.
2. Great location for both travel and photography
1) Shennongjia – Land of Ancient Legends
Shennongjia, a somewhat mysterious place, is said to have once been inhabited by wild men, though this remains unverified. Yet, in autumn, Shennongjia is transformed into a vibrant tapestry of vibrant colors: "Summer at the foot of the mountain, spring at the top; vibrant autumn at the foothills, icy at the top; red, orange, yellow, and green are endless to see, and spring, summer, autumn, and winter are the most difficult to distinguish." This truly captures the beauty of Shennongjia. The sunlight further enhances its beauty.
If you visit Shennongjia and don't see Dajiu Lake, you'll regret it. Its beauty requires time to savor. In the early morning mist, Dajiu Lake seems almost invisible, the water and sky blending into one, creating a "city in the sky" vibe. On clear days, the lake's waters reflect the banks, creating a symmetrical composition that accentuates its wildness.
Think this place is all about scenery? Golden monkeys and sika deer are also a local attraction, roaming freely in Dalongtan and Dajiu Lake. This kind of close encounter with animals is rare in the city.
Tips: Folklore tells of an ancient story: Emperor Shennong, seeking to sample a vast variety of herbs, led his people to a lofty mountain. Seeing the steep slopes and dense forests, he was overjoyed to discover the hidden treasures of rare medicinal herbs. He first taught his people to build wooden huts to avoid danger, then to construct wooden ladders to aid climbing. He collected 400 medicinal herbs and wrote the "Shennong Bencao Jing." To report to the Emperor of Heaven, he erected a wooden altar and ascended a crane to heaven. Later generations, commemorating their ancestor's kindness, named this mountain Shennongjia.
2) Xiaodongjiang River – “Dongting Lake in Southern Hunan”
Xiaodongjiang River is a renowned photography destination, home to numerous outstanding entries in photography competitions. Why is it so famous, and what is its allure? It's not the unique characteristics of its water or the breathtaking scenery, but timing. If you visit at noon, it might seem like ordinary river water, not as mysterious as online rumors suggest. But if you enter before dawn, waiting for the sky to turn white and the morning mist to rise, you'll be amazed by its magic. September is the perfect time to view this scene. A fishing boat, a touch of morning light, a wisp of morning mist, and a woman reminiscent of a Jiangnan water village—is this scene, like a landscape painting, truly captivating?
Having witnessed the dynamic beauty of water, it's natural to discover the magical Danxia Gaoyiling. Countless years of polish and the vicissitudes of life have left their mark here, like a spilled palette of paint. As the morning light illuminates the mountain, its vibrant colors gradually reveal themselves, complemented by the unique wonders of the Danxia landform. It's truly a breathtaking sight, a truly worthy destination for outdoor photography.
I love photographing this kind of scene where the scenery is so big and the people are so small. It makes the beautiful ridge line more prominent and makes people feel that compared with nature, we are so small.
V. Conclusion
Time will not be given to you for free, and money will not be easily obtained. Whether you can have both depends entirely on yourself. How beautiful the scenery on the road is is not the scenery in other people's photos, nor is it the dream in your heart. Only when you take a step forward and go out, the real scenery in your eyes is worth remembering and preserving.
