Why bother with the south of China when you have Longnan?

In March, the breeze is gentle, the sun is warm, and the earth gradually awakens, brimming with the breath of spring. If you're yearning for a trip away from the hustle and bustle during this beautiful season, Longnan is definitely a treasure trove you can't miss ✨. With its mountains and rivers, and rich culture, it boasts both picturesque natural scenery and a profound historical heritage. Now, follow this guide and start your spring journey in Longnan!

🗺️ Itinerary

Day 1: Guane'ergou - Experience the wonders of nature

Morning: After arriving in Longnan, head straight to Guane'ergou Scenic Area 🎫. Guane'ergou is like a fairyland forgotten by time, with deep canyons, cascading waterfalls, and crystal-clear lakes. Stroll along the boardwalk, breathe in the fresh air, and feel the embrace of nature 🌳.
Noon: Enjoy local specialties at a farmhouse restaurant near the scenic area, such as mashed potatoes 🥔, a soft and glutinous dish with a spicy seasoning that leaves a lasting impression.
Afternoon: Continue to explore Guane'ergou, admire the different attractions, and take photos at Swan Lake, Tongtianmen, and other spots 📷. Each spot is an excellent backdrop.

Day 2: Wanxiang Cave - Explore the magical underground world

Morning: Head to Wanxiang Cave, a magical underground cave known as the "No. 1 Cave in China." Inside the cave, stalagmites stand tall, and stalactites are in various shapes. Under the illumination of the lights, you'll feel as if you're in a magical fairyland 🧚‍♀️.
Noon: Have lunch at a restaurant near Wanxiang Cave and try Longnan's "Lever Noodles." The noodles are chewy, and the soup is fresh and delicious 🍜.
Afternoon: After visiting Wanxiang Cave, you can go to the nearby Chaoyang Cave to experience the charm of Taoist culture and enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding magnificent scenery.

Day 3: Bikou Ancient Town - Enjoy the gentle charm of a water town

Morning: Head to Bikou Ancient Town, which is known as the "Little Southern China of Gansu." Stroll along the bluestone streets of the ancient town, feel the antique atmosphere, and admire the white-walled, black-tiled buildings 🏮.
Noon: Savor the local specialty, Tofu Noodles, in the ancient town. The delicate tofu is paired with smooth noodles, creating a unique flavor.
Afternoon: Take photos at the ancient town's pier or take a boat trip on the river and enjoy a leisurely time 🚢.

📸 Photo Spots

- Guane'ergou: The calm lake of Swan Lake is a great place to take pictures, with the surrounding green mountains and trees complementing each other. Tongtianmen is magnificent and spectacular, and it's very impressive to take pictures below it. There is also Colorful Lake, where the lake water shows colorful colors under the sunlight. No matter how you take pictures, they will look good 🌈.
- Wanxiang Cave: The various unique stalactites in the cave are natural photo props, such as the "Sea-Stabilizing Needle" and "Wanxiang Updates" scenic spots. Remember to turn on the flash to capture the magical effect.
- Bikou Ancient Town: The ancient streets, piers, and teahouses of the ancient town are all excellent places to take pictures. Put on Hanfu, and you'll feel like you've traveled back to ancient times.

🍱 Food Recommendations

- Mashed Potatoes: A Longnan specialty, mashed potatoes are made by steaming potatoes and mashing them into a mud-like shape, then mixing them with vinegar, garlic juice, chili oil, and other seasonings. The taste is soft, glutinous, sour, and spicy.
- Lever Noodles: The noodles are pressed with a wooden lever, so they are particularly chewy. The noodles are as thin as hair, and the soup is delicious. With the addition of scallions, coriander, and other seasonings, the taste is very tempting.
- Tofu Noodles: Smooth tofu and chewy noodles are the main ingredients, combined with unique seasonings for a rich, fragrant, and pleasant taste.
- Longnan Jelly: Made from pea flour or buckwheat flour, it has a smooth taste and is served with chili oil, vinegar, minced garlic, and other seasonings. It is a refreshing and thirst-quenching delicacy.

🏠 Accommodation Recommendations

- Wudu District: If you choose to visit Guane'ergou on the first day and Wanxiang Cave on the second day, you can stay in Wudu District. There are many hotels and B&Bs to choose from here, and the transportation is convenient with a wide variety of restaurants. I recommend Longnan Jindu Hotel, which has complete facilities and attentive service; or choose some cost-effective B&Bs, such as "Shiguangli B&B," which has a warm environment and can make you feel at home.
- Bikou Ancient Town: If you are visiting Bikou Ancient Town on the third day, it is recommended to stay in an inn in the ancient town, such as "Bikou Inn." It has an excellent location, and you can feel the atmosphere of the ancient town as soon as you go out. You can also enjoy the night view of the ancient town at night.

❗ Precautions

- Weather changes: The temperature in Longnan in March is changeable, and the temperature difference between morning and evening is large. Remember to bring warm clothes, such as coats and sweaters 🧥.
- Scenic Area: The roads in Guane'ergou and Wanxiang Cave Scenic Areas are slippery. Pay attention to safety when visiting and wear comfortable sneakers 👟.
- Food Experience: Longnan's food tastes strong. If you can't eat spicy food, remember to tell the restaurant in advance to put less chili 🌶️.
- Ancient Town Protection: When visiting Bikou Ancient Town, protect the environment and buildings of the ancient town, do not scribble, and maintain the original flavor of the ancient town.

March in Longnan is a feast for the eyes and taste buds, and a journey for the soul. I hope this guide will help you spend a wonderful holiday in Longnan and leave you with unforgettable memories 💕.