Three days in Jiaozuo shattered my spending philosophy

Jiaozuo August Travel Guide｜Cool off, play in the water, and enjoy delicious food—this trip is absolutely addictive!

Just got back from Jiaozuo, and I’m sun-kissed to a “caramel color” but so happy I’m flying! 🌞 This small city in Henan hides the grandeur of the Taihang Mountains, the fairy-like charm of Yuntai Mountain, and tons of hidden culinary gems. Jiaozuo in August is cool and fun—truly a summer paradise～🎒

Jiaozuo is located in northwest Henan, on the southern foothills of the Taihang Mountains, known for its mountain and water tourism. Recently, the sunset at Hongshi Gorge in Yuntai Mountain and the rafting at Qingtian River have been super popular, with locals buzzing about them!

📅 Super detailed 3-day itinerary
Day 1: Yuntai Mountain Hongshi Gorge + Zifang Lake
⛰️ Morning: Head straight to Yuntai Mountain Scenic Area. The red rock cliffs of Hongshi Gorge are stunning! Wear bright clothes for great photos, and don’t forget sunglasses for sun protection.
🍜 Noon: Eat Hui noodles at “Lao Gen Mountain Villa” outside the scenic area. The soup is rich and meaty, a local favorite.
🌌 Evening: Watch the night view at Zifang Lake, where the lake reflects the starry sky—max romance!

Day 2: Qingtian River Rafting + Shennong Mountain
💦 Morning: Go rafting at Qingtian River! The current isn’t too strong but super refreshing. Remember to bring a waterproof phone case.
🍢 Noon: Try wild mountain vegetables at “Farmhouse Courtyard” near the scenic area. The stir-fried bamboo shoots are incredibly fresh!
🦅 Evening: Watch the sunset at Shennong Mountain. The wind at the summit blows away all fatigue, and photos look like you’re in the clouds!

Day 3: Chenjiagou Tai Chi + Jiaying Temple
🥋 Morning: Learn a couple of Tai Chi moves in Chenjiagou. The master is very patient, even beginners can get the hang of it (but don’t expect to become a pro instantly, haha).
🍲 Noon: The lamb Hui bread at “Taiji Mountain Villa” is a perfect match—the bread soaks up the soup and is super satisfying.
🏯 Evening: Night tour at Jiaying Temple. The ancient architecture’s light show is breathtaking, and every snap looks like a masterpiece!

🔥 Must-visit local spots
1️⃣ Yuntai Mountain Hongshi Gorge: Red rock canyon + clear water, a must-go!
2️⃣ Qingtian River Rafting: Cool and thrilling, great for photos.
3️⃣ Shennong Mountain: The purple-golden peak offers panoramic views, full of fairy-like charm～
4️⃣ Chenjiagou (free!): The birthplace of Tai Chi, an amazing cultural experience.
5️⃣ Jiaying Temple: Yellow River culture + ancient architecture, the night view is dreamy.

🏨 Accommodation recommendations
🛏️ Near Yuntai Mountain: Jiaozuo Yuntai Mountain Hotel
Feature: Mountain views from the window, super convenient walking distance to the scenic area, and the owner even gave local specialties as gifts!

🛏️ City center: Jiaozuo Yingbin Hotel
Feature: Established five-star, attentive service, and a breakfast buffet with so many options you’ll be spoiled for choice～

🚌 Transportation tips
Day 1: Book the Yuntai Mountain direct shuttle on Trip.com, 1 hour from city to scenic area, hassle-free!
Day 2: Rent a car for a day tour (bookable on Trip.com), seamless connection between Qingtian River and Shennong Mountain.
Day 3: Combination of bus and taxi. Chenjiagou is remote, but the drivers are super friendly and will guide you!

💬 Personal impressions
✅ Pros: The water quality at Yuntai Mountain is amazing! Qingtian River rafting offers great value.
❌ Cons: The sun is intense, sunscreen is a must or you’ll turn into a “red kid”; some mountain paths are steep, wear sports shoes!

🍜 Food recommendations
1️⃣ Hui noodles: Rich soup, not greasy, chewy noodles—you’ll want a second bowl!
2️⃣ Wild mountain vegetables: Stir-fried bamboo shoots + cold fern salad, refreshing and light.
3️⃣ Lamb Hui bread: Bread soaked in lamb soup, incredibly satisfying with every bite～
4️⃣ Huaifu donkey meat: Braised tender and flavorful, perfect with garlic sauce!
5️⃣ Wuzhi oil tea: Salty and rich, a bowl for breakfast warms your stomach and keeps you full!

💰 Expense summary
🍽️ Food: About 400 RMB for three days (snacks + meals).
🏨 Accommodation: About 600 RMB for two nights (budget + comfortable).
🚗 Transportation: About 300 RMB for car rental + public transport.
Total cost: Around 1300 RMB, the king of cost performance!

⚠️ Tips
🔸 Are Yuntai Mountain tickets expensive? I think they’re worth it, but students remember to bring your ID!
🔸 Don’t bring valuables on the rafting trip; a waterproof phone bag is essential!
🔸 Which dish in Jiaozuo impressed you the most? Let’s battle in the comments～

✨ Jiaozuo really rivals popular cities! Mountains + water + food + culture all in one, hurry to go in August! 👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻