Lost in Jiangnan? No, this is Xinyang!

Guys, Xinyang in Henan is seriously an underrated gem! With its picturesque landscapes and fragrant tea plantations, it's absolutely worth a visit. Here's your ultimate guide👇

📍Transportation Guide

- High-speed rail: Xinyang East Station is the main hub, with convenient connections to many cities.
- Self-drive: Great option for those from nearby cities, with stunning scenery along the way.

🏞Must-Visit Attractions

- Jigong Mountain Scenic Area: One of China's top four summer resorts, standing over 800m above sea level with dense forest coverage🌳 The Cock-Crowing Peak is a must-see, resembling a rooster at dawn and offering fairy-tale views when shrouded in mist. The area also features many Republic-era buildings, transporting you back in time.
- Nanwan Lake Scenic Area: Known as the "Thousand Island Lake of Central China," its 68 islands dot the vast waters—perfect for a relaxing boat ride. Visit Tea Island for hands-on tea-picking and tasting, or Monkey Island for family fun with playful primates.
- Lingshan Temple: Dating back 1,500+ years to the Northern Wei Dynasty, this was among China's earliest Buddhist temples. Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang personally named it "Shengshou Chan Temple." Unique for housing both monks and nuns who practice with uncut hair, its ancient architecture and solemn main hall offer profound spiritual experiences.
- Wenxin Tea Village: Wander through endless emerald tea fields dressed in traditional harvesting attire. Don't miss the glass observation deck atop the hills—ideal for Instagram-worthy shots with natural tea-scented filters, plus authentic Xinyang Maojian tea tastings.
- Haotang Village: Certified by CCTV as China's most beautiful countryside, its southern Henan-style houses, lotus ponds, and stone bridges look straight out of a Jiangnan ink painting—especially when lotuses bloom in summer. Perfect for leisurely strolls.

🍱Foodie Highlights

- Xinyang Stewed Dishes: Local specialty featuring fresh ingredients slow-cooked in rich broths—pure comfort food.
- Luoshan Pork Intestine Soup: Fatty yet not greasy, with spicy, aromatic broth and chewy intestines—best enjoyed spooned over rice.
- Nanwan Lake Fish: Delicately sweet flesh, whether steamed or braised, showcasing the lake's pristine flavors.
- Xinyang Maojian Tea: Among China's top ten teas, prized for its brisk taste and floral aroma—buy some after plantation visits.

📌Travel Tips

- Attractions are spread out; consider renting a car for flexibility.
- Allocate a full day each for Jigong Mountain and Lingshan Temple; others can be adjusted.
- Check weather forecasts and pack sun/rain protection.

Xinyang is full of surprises—pack your bags and embrace nature's bounty here!