Welcome to Ankang, Shaanxi

Day 1: Xi'an - Xunyang Shu River Ancient Town
Transportation: Take a bus from Xi'an to Xunyang, then transfer to Shu River Ancient Town, about 3.5 hours in total.
Attractions: Upon arrival at Shu River Ancient Town, explore this millennium-old dock town hidden by the Han River. Visit Ming and Qing dynasty buildings such as Huangzhou Hall and the mosque, admire the quaint streets and architecture, and experience the unique charm of the Han River’s historic cargo port. Enjoy a stunning sunset over the river at Huangzhou Hall in the evening.
Food: Taste local specialties like Shu River Eight Delicacies and sour noodle soup.
Accommodation: Stay in a guesthouse within the ancient town, priced around 100-200 RMB.

Day 2: Xunyang - Ankang Ying Lake · Cuiping Island
Transportation: Drive or charter a car to Ankang Ying Lake, about 1.5 hours by car.
Attractions: Avoid the main Ying Lake scenic area and head straight to Cuiping Island, where there are fewer people and clear waters. Rent a fishing boat to tour the lake and possibly encounter a flock of egrets. The island is covered with bamboo forests, perfect for photography.
Food: Enjoy a Ying Lake fish feast by the lake, savoring the tender Han River fish.
Accommodation: Return to Ankang city for accommodation, choosing budget hotels priced around 150-200 RMB.

Day 3: Ankang - Langao Nangong Mountain North Route
Transportation: Drive or charter a car from Ankang to Nangong Mountain in Langao, about 2 hours by car.
Attractions: Take the north route of Nangong Mountain, a less-traveled path where you can hike through the primeval forest and explore the glass plank road. There is a high chance to see the sea of clouds and Buddha’s light at the mountain top. Enter the park before 7:30 AM at the Erlangping entrance for a chance to catch the early morning cloud sea window.
Food: Bring your own snacks or have a simple meal on the mountain.
Accommodation: Stay at the Baren Tribe guesthouse at the foot of the mountain, where you can experience special activities like bonfire parties and bowl-breaking wine rituals.

Day 4: Langao - Shenhe Source Grassland
Transportation: Drive or charter a car to Shenhe Source Grassland, about 1 hour by car.
Attractions: This is the Shaanxi version of "Hulunbuir," featuring grasslands, windmills, wildflowers, and herds of cattle and sheep. At night, lie on the grassland to photograph the windmill starry sky; on clear nights, the Milky Way is visible to the naked eye.
Food: Try specialty dishes such as whole roasted lamb.
Accommodation: Return to Langao county for accommodation.

Day 5: Langao - Shiquan Old Street - Return
Transportation: Drive or charter a car to Shiquan Old Street, about 3 hours by car.
Attractions: Visit the understated Ming and Qing dynasty ancient town of Shiquan Old Street. Stroll through the shops and buy souvenirs like handmade chili sauce and dried tofu, then head back according to your itinerary.
Food: Have an authentic Shiquan grilled fish meal.

Budget Details

Transportation: Round-trip transportation to and from Xi'an varies by travel method, estimated at 500-800 RMB; local charter or public transport costs about 300-500 RMB.
Accommodation: Four nights’ accommodation costs approximately 600-800 RMB.
Tickets: Nangong Mountain ticket around 80 RMB, Shenhe Source Grassland ticket 50 RMB, most other attractions are free or low-cost, totaling about 200 RMB.
Meals: Enjoy various local delicacies, about 30-50 RMB per person per day, totaling approximately 500-800 RMB for 5 days.
Others: Including souvenir purchases, estimated 200-300 RMB.
Wishing you a pleasant journey!