Xi'an Departure: "Little Jiuzhai" + Ancient Town Lotus Pond

Highlights of the Trip: Nestled in the heart of the Qinling Mountains, Shangluo is known as the "Backyard Garden of Xi'an." Here lies the "Little Jiuzhai"—Jinsi Gorge 🌊, featuring emerald pools, cascading waterfalls, and lush greenery. With an average summer temperature of 22°C, it's the perfect escape! Along the way, visit Dihua Ancient Town 🏮 with its vast lotus ponds, Jia Pingwa's former residence, and enjoy free tastings of Danfeng wine 🍷. A perfect blend of culture and nature, ideal for a spontaneous weekend getaway!

🗓️ Itinerary
Day 1: Xi'an → Shangluo (2h)
- Morning: Explore the Qinling Museum 🏛️ (Free entry; don't miss floors 4-6)
- Afternoon: A tipsy journey at Dongfeng Winery 🍇 (taste sweet red wine + photo ops)
- Evening: Stay overnight at Dihua Ancient Town 🏡, enjoy the moonlit lotus pond ✨

Day 2: Dihua Ancient Town → Jinsi Gorge (1.5h) → Xi'an
- All day: Hike through "Shaanxi's Little Jiuzhai"—Jinsi Gorge 🌿 (must-see spots: Bailong Waterfall, Heilong Pool)
- Afternoon: Return trip, grab some Shangluo walnut cakes 🥮 on the way

⛰️ Must-Visit Attractions
1️⃣ Jinsi Gorge: A hidden canyon paradise with numerous waterfalls and emerald-green lakes reminiscent of Jiuzhaigou. Cool and shady for hiking!
2️⃣ Dihua Ancient Town: Home to vast blooming lotus ponds 🪷, the inspiration for Jia Pingwa's novel "Qinqiang," with a healing night view.
3️⃣ Qinling Museum: An immersive experience to learn about Qinling's ecology, perfect for family outings 📚.
4️⃣ Danfeng Winery: Over a century of winemaking history, free wine tastings, and vintage cellar photo opportunities 🍷.

🍜 Must-Try Foods
- Danfeng Wine: Sweet red wine, a favorite among women, and cheaper when bought directly at the winery!
- Shangluo Walnut Cakes: Crispy and sweet, a reliable snack to grab on the go 🌰.
- Dihua Ancient Town Lotus Leaf Chicken: Infused with the fragrance of lotus leaves, a must-try in the ancient town 🐔.

🏡 Accommodation Tips
- Dihua Ancient Town Inns: Recommended options include "Dihua Post" or inns by the lotus pond, offering views of the pond right from your window, starting at just 100+ RMB per person 💰.
- Near Jinsi Gorge: Opt for a guesthouse near the scenic area entrance for convenience the next day.