Ningshan travel guide and discussion

Driving deep into the Qinling Mountains and turning into Qinglongya Village, you'll find Lost Villa (Ningshan) nestled halfway up the mountainside in this valley, backed by a ridge and hidden among the shadows of the trees. With a forest coverage rate of over 90%, the air you breathe in is cool with pine needles—heavy and substantial. The public area is perched high on the ridge, where floor-to-ceiling windows frame the entire mountain into a living, breathing canvas of green. Sink into the sofa and it feels like you're nestled in the folds of the mountain. The guest rooms descend along stone steps; as you walk down, it gets quieter, as if you're leaving the worries of the outside world behind, layer by layer. There's nothing obstructing the view from the balcony. In the morning, mist drifts up from the valley floor, creeping in in soft clusters; in the evening, you don't need to do anything—the breeze just comes to you, slowly unwinding the tension in your body. The swimming pool is suspended on the mountainside, its surface capturing the light of the sky and the shadows of the mountains. Stand on the cafe terrace for a while, and all you see is endless green, layer upon layer. The restaurant hugs the mountainside, so every time you look up while dining, you're met with the colors of the mountain. There's no pressure to do anything here. There's a stream at the bottom of the slope; you can take a slow walk along the path or just sit and daydream. Time flows slowly deep in the Qinling Mountains—slow enough that you finally remember that it's perfectly fine to just stay in the mountains. Whether you take photos or not is up to you. The mountain has quieted everything that needed to be quieted for you. Lost Villa (Ningshan)

Every summer, I want to take the kids into the mountains. A two-hour drive from Xi'an lets you escape into the "natural air conditioner" deep in the Qinling Mountains. Ningshan, Shaanxi, is a cool little town hidden in the foothills of the Qinling Mountains. The average summer temperature is around 22°C. As you gain altitude, the heat is filtered away layer by layer. Standing in the mountains in the evening, the mountain breeze carries the scent of grass and trees. The perceived temperature is only 16–17°C. It’s not the harsh cold of an air-conditioned room, but the refreshing, natural coolness of the wild that makes your pores relax. Everywhere you look, there are lush green forests and clear streams, and the air is filled with the scent of soil and pine needles. The best part is that there really is a homestay here, nestled quietly in the greenery against a mountain ridge, featuring an infinity pool hanging over the cliff. You can hear the sound of the stream as soon as you open the door. As soon as the kids put down their luggage, they grab their little buckets and rush to the pool, and adults can finally slow down their pace among the streams and green mountains. 📍 [2-day, 1-night unhurried cool getaway] Day 1: Drive about 2 hours from Xi'an to Qinglongya Village, Chengguan Town, Ningshan County, and check into the homestay on the mountainside of the Qinling foothills. In the afternoon, soak in the cliffside infinity pool while looking at the Qinling mountains. In the evening, have afternoon tea at the 270-degree panoramic glass cafe and watch the sunset dye the mountain ridge a warm orange. In the evening, have a meal at the Ye You Shi restaurant, featuring Ningshan specialties made with locally sourced ingredients, full of authentic, smoky flavor. Day 2: In the morning, drive 7 minutes to take the kids into the forest park in the valley. Hike along the stream for some stream trekking, splash in the water, and catch fish, all under the shade of the trees. In the afternoon, return to the homestay to continue playing in the pool, or ride a bike around the mountains. After having enough fun, head back home at a leisurely pace. 🏨 [Mountain courtyard in the Qinling foothills] The homestay we stayed at this time has 26 guest rooms that "grow" within the nature interwoven with high mountains and streams. Outside the floor-to-ceiling windows is the Qinling mountain scenery with wind blowing through green waves, maximizing the feeling of escaping the world. The most comfortable part is the cliffside infinity pool. The edge of the pool perfectly connects with the distant green mountains. Playing in the water with the Qinling mountains as a backdrop is safe and photogenic, like a mirror reflecting the blue sky and white clouds. The rooms are equipped with floor-to-ceiling windows, and you can see the pool and distant mountains as soon as you open the door. The kids put on their swim rings and rushed into the water as soon as they put down their luggage. Adults sat by the pool drinking coffee and watching the kids splash around. This sense of relaxation is much more comfortable than air conditioning. 🎯 [Three highlights tested with kids] 🏊 Splash party in the cliffside pool: The afternoon sun shines on the water, and the edge of the pool is the entire range of the Qinling Mountains. The kids sit on the shallow steps, using small buckets to splash water on the adults. Water splashes everywhere, and they can't stop laughing. This feeling of playing happily in the mountains and water is much more comfortable than an indoor pool. 💦 Stream trekking time in the valley forest park: It only takes a 7-minute drive to reach the forest park in the valley. Hike along the stream for some stream trekking; the water is so clear you can see every grain of sand and stone at the bottom. The kids roll up their pant legs and step into the cool stream water, bending down to turn over stones to look for small shrimp underneath. Occasionally, they giggle when splashed by water, and they wouldn't want to move for the whole afternoon. ☕ Slow time in the panoramic cafe: In the evening, have afternoon tea at the 270-degree panoramic glass cafe, with the entire Qinling mountain scenery spread out before your eyes like a painting. The kids lie on the window counting the distant mountain peaks, while adults drink coffee and daydream. This kind of unhurried evening is especially healing. 💡 [A few practical tips] The temperature difference between morning and evening in the mountains is large, so be sure to bring a light jacket. The stones by the stream are slippery, so non-slip water shoes are a must. Bring extra clothes as you'll easily get wet while playing in the water. Bring enough mosquito repellent; there are quite a few bugs in the valley. You can also arrange a visit to the nearby Shibazhang Waterfall and Tongchewan Rafting on the way. It's perfect for playing in the water in summer. The homestay has limited availability, so remember to book in advance during peak season. After this two-day, one-night trip, the whole family was immersed in the coolness of the pool and the greenery of the mountain stream. The kids played until they ran out of energy, and the adults were also completely relaxed. It's truly rare to have such a comfortable and relaxing family time during the summer vacation.

looking for a place to disappear for two days. Flew from Shenyang to Xi'an, rented a car, and drove south. As I passed through the tunnels, the road narrowed and the trees grew denser. About 2 hours later, I arrived. Lost Villa, Ningshan. The name comes from the "Classic of Mountains and Seas". It wasn't until I stayed here that I understood why it's called "a forgotten place of beauty". The buildings follow the natural terrain, never stealing the spotlight from the mountains. With thick walls, deep eaves, latticework, and picture windows, the sunlight is filtered into a soft glow, making the distant mountains look like framed paintings. The room features large floor-to-ceiling windows. I could lie there, watching the mountains and the clouds slowly drifting over the peaks. With Dyson, TOTO, Marshall, and aromatherapy, you can live comfortably even in the mountains. In the afternoon, I had coffee at the café, watching the wind rustle the leaves. At night, I sat by the fire pit, the wind carrying the scent of grass and trees. I looked up. The Milky Way. The kind you can't see in the city. No rushing to tourist spots. On sunny days, I watched the stars; on rainy days, I listened to the rain. Friends from Shenyang, just fly to Xi'an and drive for 2 hours, and you can be a mountain dweller for two days. 📍Lost Villa (Ningshan)

This holiday season, don't want to squeeze into crowded tourist spots? Just want to find a quiet mountain retreat to enjoy a peaceful meal and chat with family? Then come to the "Heart of the Qinling Mountains"—Ningshan, with its 96% forest coverage. 🌿 About the stay The public areas are perched high on the ridge, with guest rooms cascading down the mountainside. Every room features floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows or a terrace. Open the door to lush mountain greenery. Watch the mountain mist rise from the valley in the morning, and sit on the balcony to catch the breeze and relax in the evening. 🎑 The ritual of reunion The restaurant is nestled into the mountainside, featuring 270° panoramic glass windows. Look up while dining to see the layered mountain scenery of the Qinling Mountains. At night, the butler will light a bonfire in the fire pit. The family can sit around the fire and watch the moon rise over the mountains. 👨‍👩‍👧 Traveling with kids made easy Featured room type: Starry Slide Family Room, with an in-room slide and children's play area. Additionally, there is a small sandy area downstairs for kids to play. Every few rooms, there is a shared activity area equipped with a refrigerator, TV, and simple kitchen. Rent a small courtyard for the family and enjoy a lively holiday. 🌕 This year, bring your reunion into the mountains. No noise, just family, a bonfire, the moon, and the quiet Qinling Mountains. Lost Villa (Ningshan Branch)

In August, the city heatwave hits, and you always want to find a place to escape the sweltering heat. Drive for two hours into the heart of the Qinling Mountains, arrive at the Zhongnan-zhi-nan Homestay Cluster, and meet Dalezhiyie. · This newly opened property is hidden in Ningshan, a small, inconspicuous town on the map. The car winds up the mountain road ⛰️, the green outside the window gets thicker, and the temperature 🌡️ drops inch by inch. · At that moment, the summer restlessness seemed to dissipate all at once. · 🏠 Stay in the mountains, and time slows down · The homestay is located halfway up the mountain, with public areas at the top and guest rooms cascading down the mountainside, with deeper greenery behind the ridge. · The guest rooms feature natural wood tones, with rammed earth walls retaining a rough texture and vintage wooden beams 🪵 overhead. Each room has a private tea-tasting area 🍵 and a balcony. Guests always sit on the balcony for a long time—facing the mountain view, zoning out, clearing their minds, or closing their eyes to rest. Doing nothing, the mountain itself will give you a response. · The hair dryers are Dyson, and the speakers are Marshall; the details hide an understated quality. · Between several guest rooms, there is also a shared activity living room, equipped with a refrigerator, TV 📺, and simple kitchen utensils. If you come with a few friends, you can chat 💬 and cook 🍳 here, like having a little home in the mountains. · ☕ The cafe and pool suspended on the mountain · There is a cafe on the mountain, with panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows framing the entire greenery of the Qinling Mountains. Order a latte ☕️, sit by the window 🪟, and the mountain scenery is fluid. The swimming pool faces the mountain view, reflecting the sunset in the evening. Not many people go into the water; more people lie by the pool and watch the sky. · The cafe here currently focuses on classic options: Americano, latte, mocha, and cappuccino. However, people come here more for the view. · 🍲 The local auntie's stove hides the most authentic flavors · The restaurant staff are basically all locals from Ningshan. Stir-fried cured meat with potato buns 🥩, stir-fried dried potato slices with cured meat 🥔... The potato buns are handmade by the aunties every day; you can't buy the finished product, you can only eat it here. · Breakfast is semi-buffet, with both Chinese and Western options. In the evening, the butler will deliver a bowl of goodnight sweet soup 🍲. After drinking it and tucking yourself into bed, the night in the mountains is complete. · 🎨 There is more than one way to spend days in the mountains · Besides zoning out and eating, there are many experiences in the property. · Coffee grounds can be made into handmade tags, and wooden boards can be used for printing patterns; both adults and children can play. Because it's cool in the mountains, there will be a bonfire 🔥 activity after dark, where everyone sits around the fire to watch the stars ✨. · 🏡 Dalezhiyie (Ningshan Branch) 📍 Daxigou, Qinglongya Village, Chengguan Town, Ningshan County, Ankang City, Shaanxi Province 🚗 Self-driving recommended, about 2.5 hours from Xi'an · People come here with different expectations. But no matter what they come for, they all quiet down in these mountains in the end. · If you also want to slow down your summer, you don't have to go too far. Deep in the Qinling Mountains, a 22℃ summer is waiting for you.

Do you ever get this feeling? When you stay at a hotel, everything is perfect, but you always feel like a "guest." · After staying at Yinju Xiangli · Xiaoyulin for two days, I felt like a "child returning home." · 🏠 Nine detached courtyard houses, each one feels like your own home · Xiaoyulin has nine detached courtyard houses, scattered along the mountain terrain⛰️. All feature a two-story detached layout with a private courtyard, which can accommodate families of three, groups of friends, or small team-building events. With private entrances and courtyards, there is no interference, and the spacious distance between buildings means you won't have to deal with the awkwardness of noisy neighbors or crowded vacation spots. Each building comes with a private courtyard where you can sit quietly, enjoy the breeze, drink tea🍵, and chat, fully immersing yourself in the solitude of the mountains. It offers plenty of space for family trips or group vacations. · The guest rooms have a cozy, healing vibe—no flashy "influencer" decor, just gentle textures that are pleasing to the eye. The entire house features large floor-to-ceiling windows🪟, so when you open your eyes, you are greeted by rolling green mountains and misty🌫️ forests—truly allowing you to enjoy the mountain view from your bed. The suites have an airy layout, complete with a living room, private bathroom, and leisure area, ensuring a high level of comfort. Surrounded by lush mountain greenery🌳, the environment is quiet and serene. At night, far from city light pollution, you can see a sky full of stars when the weather is clear, making for a very peaceful sleep. · 🍳 No pre-made meals, just the authentic taste of the mountains · I have to highlight their food! It is a huge plus✨. They refuse to use mass-produced pre-made meals. All ingredients are sourced from local seasonal produce in Ningshan, including mountain mushrooms🍄, fresh wild vegetables, and local free-range eggs🥚—the ingredients are fresh and substantial. The kitchen is run by local villagers, and the cooking style is light and gentle, using less oil and seasoning to best preserve the natural freshness of the ingredients. Every meal is an authentic taste of mountain life. · 👵 Gentle service from locals, truly heartfelt · Most of the homestay staff are local villagers from the surrounding area, providing service that is sincere, straightforward, and uncommercialized. There are no stiff, scripted lines. From guiding you during check-in to carrying your luggage🪟, every detail is handled with care. What surprised me was that the butler would personally come to greet us at meal times and even gift us local seasonal fruits🍇, offering gentle and thoughtful service throughout. The simplicity ingrained in the locals is something that no standardized service can replicate. · 🌲 A slow-paced, relaxing mountain experience · The homestay has complete amenities! An infinity pool🏊 by the mountain, a scenic café☕️, and a "coffee in the morning, drinks at night"🍹 experience—all in one place. After meals, you can walk along the mountain trails, where the evening breeze, streams, and forests provide a fully healing experience. · Nearby attractions like Shangbahe National Forest Park, Ningshan Old Street, Canglongxia Scenic Area, and the Crested Ibis Protection Base are all within easy reach, making short trips very convenient. It is currently undergoing continuous upgrades, so future experiences will be even richer. · 🏠 Yinju Xiangli · Xiaoyulin 📍 Qinglongya Village, Chengguan Town, Ningshan County, Ankang City, Shaanxi Province 🚗 Transport | 2.5 hours drive from Xi'an 🐶 Pet-friendly | Furry friends welcome · If you are looking for a place where you can truly "live in the mountains," rather than just staying in a hotel in a different location—Xiaoyulin is worth the trip.

Having been to Ningshan 6 times, my advice is: don't treat it as a place to just check off tourist spots. Treat it as a "home in the Qinling Mountains," stay a while, and breathe slowly. There are no crowded tourists here, just 96% forest coverage and a 21°C summer. --- 📍 Where is Ningshan? How do I get there? Ningshan is in the northwest of Ankang City, Shaanxi Province. It is the "green barrier" directly south of Xi'an, and getting there from Xi'an is faster than going to many of Xi'an's suburbs. 🚗 Driving (highly recommended): Take the Xi'an-Hanzhong Expressway. The total distance is about 180 km, and it takes 1.5–2 hours to get there directly. There are many tunnels, so remember to turn on your lights and watch your speed. 🚌 Bus: There are direct buses from Xi'an Chengnan Passenger Station, departing on a rolling schedule from 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Tickets cost 58–68 CNY, and the trip takes about 2.5 hours. Follow the "Xi'an Chengnan Passenger Station" WeChat official account to book tickets online. 🗺️ Itinerary (classic 3-day, 2-night version) Day 1: Depart from Xi'an → Arrive in Ningshan County at noon → Afternoon: Yuwan Village (paddy field train, Crested Ibis Museum, Natural Bookstore) → Evening: Stay in the county, eat at the Cunguang Night Market. Day 2: Morning: Tongchewan rafting (underground river rafting through caves, a full experience) → Afternoon: Canglong Gorge (Qinling Moss Valley, free or low-cost admission, wade in the water and take photos) → Evening: Stay at the Zhongnan Zhinan homestay cluster. Day 3: Morning: Shangbahe National Forest Park or Youranshan Alpine Wetland → Afternoon: Chenghuang Temple (Golden Duck Floating Boat ancient architecture) → Return trip. 🏡 How to choose accommodation? 💰 Best value (county): Xiangzhou Hotel, Samsung Hotel. Standard rooms are around 298 CNY, and it's the most convenient for dining and getting around. 🌿 Quality vacation (homestay cluster): The Zhongnan Zhinan homestay cluster is the largest boutique homestay cluster in southern Shaanxi. It has introduced brands like Daluozhiye, Hidden Village, Fly Bird, and Jinglan, with a total investment of 215 million CNY. It features cliffside infinity pools and panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows. The room rates are higher, suitable for those who want to completely relax. 🌾 Pastoral experience (Yuwan Village): Luchai Shanjii Homestay, Daotianshe Homestay. Stay by the rice fields and be woken up by birds in the morning. 😋 Food recommendations (order these and you won't go wrong) 🥇 Stir-fried potato cakes with cured meat: The soul of Ningshan farm food. The potato cakes are crispy on the outside and glutinous on the inside, and the cured meat is salty and fragrant. The fat coats the potato flavor—you'll be hooked after one bite. 🥈 Ningshan steamed basin: A traditional main dish. Lotus root, pig's trotters, chicken chunks, meatballs, and egg dumplings are layered and steamed in a large pot. The soup is rich and the meat is fragrant. 🥉 Fairy tofu: Made from Qinling alpine leaves and natural mineral water. It is light green, delicate, and fragrant. You can't eat this anywhere else. Other must-eats: Sour and spicy konjac, stir-fried starch noodles with cured meat, braised pig's trotters with chestnuts, braised chicken with Ningshan mushrooms. 🍢 Cunguang Night Market: Over 40 local delicacies, including potato cakes, pickled vegetable cold fish, and charcoal-grilled whole lamb. The atmosphere is lively. ⚠️ Tips to avoid pitfalls (experience gained from 6 trips) 1. Rafting will get you soaked: You must bring a change of clothes. Buy a waterproof phone pouch with a float at the entrance of the scenic area. Wear water shoes; flip-flops will be washed away by the water. 2. Don't enter the valleys on rainy days: Heavy rain can easily cause flash floods. Never go to stream-type scenic spots like Zhaoyang Valley or Canglong Gorge on rainy days. 3. No signal on some roads: Download offline maps in advance. Signal in the canyons is intermittent. 4. No trespassing in protected areas: Private hiking, crossing, and camping are prohibited in the core protected areas of the Qinling Mountains. Pingheliang, the Ningshan section of Niubeiliang, and the main ridge belt above 2,000 meters are all in restricted areas. 5. Avoid weekends in July and August: Wenshui River is most crowded then. There are far fewer people on weekdays, and the experience is completely different. 6. Watch out for insects and snakes in Zhaoyang Valley: The vegetation is dense, and there are many mosquitoes in summer. Don't walk into the woods randomly along the way. 💎 Four hidden gems recommended ① Yuwan Village (pastoral secret) 🌾 11 km from the county, natural Tai Chi landform, hundreds of acres of ecological rice fields. You can take a retro rice field train through the ridges, check out the Crested Ibis Museum, and zone out at the Natural Bookstore under the sky. The train is 25 CNY/person, and parking at the village entrance is free. Dining is 80–150 CNY per person. ② Canglong Gorge (Qinling Moss Valley) 🍃 Known as the "Qinling Moss Valley," it is full of stones covered in emerald green moss and crystal-clear streams. Admission is 40–58 CNY (often discounted online). Walk along the stream for about 2 km; you can take off your shoes and wade in the shallows. Wearing light-colored clothes makes for great photos. ③ Shangbahe National Forest Park (natural air-conditioned room) 🌲 98% forest coverage, with over 5,000 negative oxygen ions per cubic centimeter. Admission is 50 CNY, including a shuttle bus. Recommended route: Ape Man Valley Plank Road → Sanzhuxiang Viewing Platform → Qianchi Pool Waterfall → 10,000-acre alpine meadow. The alpine meadow at an altitude of 2,100 meters still has wildflowers in midsummer. Spread out a picnic mat and have lunch facing the sea of clouds. ④ Ziwu Plum Garden (winter limited) 🌸 The largest plum garden in the northwest, with over 120 acres, 10,000+ plum trees, and 147 varieties. Open for free (requires advance reservation on the "Ningshan Tourism" platform during peak season). The peak flowering period is mid-February to mid-March. Red and white plum blossoms bloom in the snow, with a subtle fragrance. Nearby is the "Wangmei Shanju" homestay cluster and plum blossom banquets. 💰 Per capita consumption reference (2 days, 1 night) · Budget: Round-trip bus 116 CNY + county accommodation 150 CNY + dining 100 CNY + tickets 100 CNY ≈ 466 CNY/person · Comfortable: Self-driving fuel and tolls about 200 CNY/person + homestay 400 CNY + dining 200 CNY + tickets 150 CNY ≈ 950 CNY/person · Quality: Boutique homestay cluster 800–1,500 CNY/night + dining 300 CNY + experience projects 300 CNY ≈ 1,500–2,000 CNY/person 🎒 Pre-trip checklist ✅ Change of clothes (must get wet while rafting) ✅ Water shoes/non-slip sandals ✅ Waterproof phone pouch (with float) ✅ Sunscreen (strong UV at high altitude) ✅ Mosquito repellent spray ✅ Offline maps ✅ Thin jacket (large temperature difference between morning and evening; you need a quilt at night in the 21°C summer) The beauty of Ningshan is not in any one scenic spot, but in the fact that after you stay, you realize that you really don't need to turn on the air conditioning on summer nights, that there can be so many stars, and that time can be so slow. I've been 6 times, and I'll go a 7th. ✨

Tongchewan Leisure Scenic Area | A Qinling summer getaway for water fun and unique underground rafting Tongchewan Leisure Scenic Area is located in Tongchewan Town, Ningshan County, Ankang, in the heart of the Qinling Mountains along the Wenshui River. It is a national 4A-rated scenic area. Combining thrilling rafting, an outdoor water park, and canyon forest hiking, it is a cool and comfortable summer destination and a popular spot for summer getaways and water-based recreation in southern Shaanxi. Basic information Opening hours: 8:30 AM–5:30 PM. Rafting and the water park are only open in summer. Tickets: Admission to Canglongxia is purchased separately; rafting and Happy Water World are separate paid attractions, with discounted combo tickets available. Recommended duration: 3–5 hours Core highlights Tongchewan Rafting Known as the "No. 1 Rafting in the Qinling Mountains," the river course is 5.6 km long and takes about two hours. It features a rare 200-meter underground tunnel rafting experience in Shaanxi. With many sharp bends and rapids along the way, it offers both thrilling and leisurely rafting options, allowing you to enjoy both rushing rapids and gentle water play. It is the most popular summer activity here. Happy Water World An outdoor water park nestled among the mountains and water. It features a full range of facilities, including a super funnel slide, rainbow slides, and a wave pool. The pace is relaxed, making it suitable for family trips to play in the water and beat the heat. Canglongxia Forest Park A deep, primitive canyon with a stream running through the valley floor and trails following the water. Strange rocks, waterfalls, and clear pools are scattered throughout the forest. With dense vegetation and abundant negative oxygen ions, it is a forest oxygen bar perfect for hiking, trekking along the stream, escaping the noisy crowds, and enjoying the tranquility of the mountains. Chenghuang Temple An ancient Qing Dynasty building with a legendary story about a golden duck floating on a boat. The ancient architecture is built near the water and has a rich cultural atmosphere. Shifotai (Little Penglai) A high platform of giant rocks offering a panoramic view of the Wenshui River valley with a wide field of vision. Shibazhang Waterfall A waterfall with a significant drop in the mountains. The water cascades down, surrounded by lush greenery, creating a cool and quiet atmosphere. Recommended routes One-day cool water play route Visitor Center → Canglongxia forest hiking and oxygen intake → Lunch and rest → Experience Tongchewan Rafting → Play in the water at Happy Water World → Return Leisure hiking route Visitor Center → Chenghuang Temple → Shifotai → Canglongxia loop trail → Shibazhang Waterfall → Return Transportation Driving: Take the Xihan Expressway and exit at Ningshan (Tongchewan). The scenic area is 3 km away. It takes about 2–2.5 hours from Xi'an and about 1.5 hours from downtown Ankang. Parking is available at the scenic area. Public transport: Take a bus from Xi'an Chengnan Passenger Station to Ningshan and get off at Tongchewan Town. From Ankang, take a bus to Ningshan County and transfer to a bus to Tongchewan Town. Public transport schedules are limited, so driving is recommended. Tips 1. For rafting, be sure to bring a waterproof bag for your phone, a change of clothes, quick-dry clothing, and non-slip water shoes. 2. During heavy rain, the river water level rises, and rafting may be temporarily suspended. Please check the weather before you travel. 3. Some sections of the canyon trails are damp and slippery; watch your step while hiking. 4. The sun is strong at noon in summer, so take sun protection measures. 5. Rafting can easily splash water, so do not carry valuables on the boat. 6. Water activities are mainly open from June–August. During other periods, the main attractions are the forest landscapes like Canglongxia. 7. There is a large temperature difference between day and night in the mountains. Change into dry clothes promptly after playing in the water to avoid catching a cold. 8. Swimming in the wild in the canyon is prohibited as the water conditions are complex.

Southern Shaanxi Road Trip Tested Guide🌿 Qinba Landscapes | Must-Visit Attractions + Authentic Food Culture + Souvenir Pitfall Avoidance Drive 3 hours from Xi'an to Southern Shaanxi! Embraced by the Qinling and Bashan mountains with the Han River flowing through, this region blends Northern boldness with Southern gentleness. The cuisine fuses Qin, Chu, Ba, and Shu flavors—sour, spicy, fresh, and fragrant. With both stunning landscapes and rich culture, this guide summarizes the pitfalls so you can just copy the itinerary for your road trip. 📍 Must-Visit Attractions in Three Major Areas | Tested Recommendations + Pitfall Avoidance ✅ Hanzhong Area | Little Jiangnan of the Northwest, Birthplace of Han Culture ▫️ Zibashan Mountain + Zhangliang Temple (Liuba) Highlights: Alpine meadows, sea of clouds, and legendary autumn foliage. Zhangliang Temple features towering ancient cypresses; experience the culture of the "Master Strategist" of the Han Dynasty. A dual hit of culture and nature. Pitfalls: Huge temperature difference at the summit; bring a jacket even in midsummer. You won't see the meadows on foggy days, so check the weather forecast before leaving. ▫️ Fengyan Ancient Terraces (Hanyin) Highlights: Tens of thousands of acres of Ming and Qing Dynasty terraces. Rapeseed flowers cover the fields in spring, and golden rice waves roll in autumn. Free to view, perfect for photography. Pitfalls: The distance between viewing platforms is long, so driving is most convenient. Do not step on the crops. ▫️ Hanzhong Museum (Gu Hantai) Highlights: Free with reservation! Features the "Thirteen Treasures of Shimen" and is the core exhibition hall for Han culture. Understand the spirit of the Han Dynasty. Pitfalls: The exhibition hall is small; 1 hour is enough. ✅ Ankang Area | Pearl of Qinba, Selenium-Rich Land of the Han River ▫️ Yinghu Lake | The Thousand-Island Lake of Shaanxi Highlights: Clear blue water, thousands of islands, and Han River scenery. A landmark water feature of Southern Shaanxi. Pitfalls: Admission and boat tickets are sold separately; the boat ticket is mandatory. Souvenirs at roadside stalls near the pier are heavily overpriced; buy with caution. ▫️ Zhongba Grand Canyon (Shiquan) Highlights: Canyon streams, cascading waterfalls, and a forest oxygen bar. A top choice for summer heat relief and playing in the water. Pitfalls: The scenic area will temporarily close during heavy rain when stream levels rise. Be sure to wear non-slip shoes. ▫️ Houliu Ancient Town Highlights: Built along the Han River, it has little commercialization. A quiet, pristine ancient town. Free to wander, and the sunset by the river in the evening is stunning. Pitfalls: The town is small and can be explored in 1 hour; no need to set aside a whole day. ✅ Shangluo Area | Wellness Capital of the Qinling Mountains, Ancient Qin-Chu Road ▫️ Dihua Ancient Town Highlights: Hometown of Jia Pingwa. Lotus ponds, Song-Jin border city ruins, and Qin-Chu border culture. Free to visit. Pitfalls: Best in summer for the lotus ponds; scenery is ordinary in other seasons. ▫️ Jinsixia Canyon Highlights: A cluster of canyon waterfalls, dense forests, and hiking for fresh air. A representative of Qinling canyons. Pitfalls: The entire hike is very long; those with average stamina should pace themselves. 🍲 Southern Shaanxi Specialty Food Culture | A Fusion of Qin, Chu, Ba, and Shu, Focusing on Sour, Spicy, Fresh, and Fragrant Staple food in Southern Shaanxi is mainly rice. The flavors blend Sichuan, Chu, and Qin styles, emphasizing local ingredients and wild produce. There is a local saying: "If you don't eat sour for three days, you'll walk wobbly." Sour and spicy are the soul of the cuisine✨ ✅ Must-Eats in Hanzhong ▪️ Hanzhong Hot Rice Noodles + Vegetable Tofu (Intangible Cultural Heritage Snack): Rice milk steamed into noodles, smooth and chewy, paired with vegetable tofu. Sour, spicy, and appetizing—the soul of Hanzhong breakfast. ▪️ Ningqiang Spicy Chicken: Firm chicken meat with a fragrant, spicy red oil. ▪️ Zhenba Cured Meat: Smoked with cypress branches, salty, fragrant, and rich. Stir-fried with bamboo shoots or garlic sprouts, it's incredible. ✅ Must-Eats in Ankang ▪️ Ankang Steamed Noodles: Different from Hanzhong rice noodles, these have a rich vinegar aroma and a chewy texture. A standard breakfast for locals. ▪️ Ziyang Steamed Basin: A grand dish for Ankang banquets. Slow-stewed with free-range chicken, lotus root, and egg dumplings. Fresh, rich, and savory. ▪️ Kangkang Mo: Sesame baked flatbread. Crispy and long-lasting, a great snack for the road. ✅ Must-Eats in Shangluo ▪️ Shangzhi Meat: A traditional Qin-Chu dish. Pork belly steamed on a bed of wild Shangzhi greens. Fatty but not greasy. ▪️ Shangluo Black Rolled Noodles: A local specialty with a faint charred aroma. ▪️ Potato Mochi: Made by pounding potatoes, dipped in pickled vegetable soup. Soft, sticky, and appetizing. 🥜 Southern Shaanxi Souvenir Shopping | Worth Buying + Pitfalls ✅ Recommended Purchases Ziyang Selenium-Rich Maojian Tea, Xixiang Beef Jerky, Yangxian Black Rice, Zhenba Cured Meat, Chestnuts, Walnuts, Konjac Dried Snacks. 💡 Tip: Buy at county supermarkets or local long-standing shops for better value. ❌ Souvenir Pitfalls to Avoid💣 1. Wild gastrodia and codonopsis sold by mobile vendors in scenic areas are often overpriced and easily faked. Do not buy traditional Chinese medicinal materials in scenic areas. 2. Many ordinary products are casually labeled "selenium-rich" to raise prices. Look for certified geographical indication products. 3. Be cautious with roadside farmhouse honey, as much of it is adulterated with sugar. Check the expiration date on vacuum-packed cured meat; loose cured meat has a high salt content. 📅 3-Day 2-Night Road Trip Reference Route Day 1: Depart from Xi'an → Zhashui → Dihua Ancient Town, stay in Danfeng | Try Shangluo Shangzhi Meat and Potato Mochi for dinner. Day 2: Danfeng → Shiquan Houliu Ancient Town + Zhongba Grand Canyon, stay in Shiquan | Check out the Han River night view, eat Ankang Steamed Noodles and Steamed Basin. Day 3: Fengyan Ancient Terraces → Return trip, purchase souvenirs in the county town. ⚠️ General Pitfalls for Southern Shaanxi Road Trips💣 1. Mountain roads have many sharp turns; slow down on curves. Beware of falling rocks during the rainy season. Mobile signal is weak in many mountain areas, so download offline maps in advance. 2. Temperature differences between day and night in the mountains are huge. Bring a light jacket when entering the mountains. There are many mosquitoes and insects in the forests, so have mosquito repellent ready. 3. Confirm unit prices before ordering at farmhouse restaurants in ancient towns. Try to eat in county towns, as restaurants around scenic areas are more expensive. 4. Do not pick wild fruits, wild vegetables, or wild mushrooms at will; there is a risk of poisoning. 5. Visibility is poor in high-mountain scenic areas on foggy days. If the weather is bad, it is recommended to give up on going up the mountain.

Healing is never about grand gestures. Stay here, and you don't have to do anything "important." No rushing to tourist spots, no planning itineraries. After breakfast, take a walk along the stream; in the afternoon, sit in a cafe and daydream; in the evening, watch the mountains from the balcony; at night, sit by the fire. That's all. But when you leave, you feel like you've been completely refreshed. The healing of Qinling is never overwhelming. It doesn't preach grand philosophies or force you to "let go." It just exists quietly—the mountains are there, the clouds are there, the wind is there. When you arrive and open the window, it shares a little of all that with you. And just like that, you find yourself relaxing. Lost Villa (Ningshan Branch)

I was truly healed by this beautiful mountain homestay during my short weekend getaway from Xi'an!! As the brand's first location in the Qinling Mountains, Lost Villa Ningshan is tucked away in the forests halfway up the mountain. The courtyard, built along the mountainside, blends gently into the wild, completely avoiding the crowds and focusing on tranquility and relaxation🌿 The overall style is a timeless, wabi-sabi aesthetic with natural wood, preserving the rammed earth walls and vintage wooden beams of traditional southern Shaanxi houses, making it rustic yet warm. The details are full of understated luxury, featuring LE LABO aromatherapy, Dyson hair dryers, smart bathroom fixtures, and Marshall speakers, ensuring a comfortable and high-end stay. The best part is the view! With floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows throughout the house, you can face the layered green mountains and mountain mist while lying in bed or soaking in the bathtub. Wake up to birdsong and mist in the morning, and sit and wait for the mountain sunset in the evening—the atmosphere is absolutely perfect. The public area on the ridge offers an incredible view, and the popular infinity pool looks like a mirror of the sky embedded in the forest, making it perfect for photos. In the afternoon, sit at the Wild Coffee cafe, drink coffee while feeling the mountain breeze, and let all your fatigue be healed☕ The homestay is pet-friendly and also has family-friendly slide rooms, along with an on-site restaurant and a mountain fire pit, taking care of all your dining and living needs in one place. You don't need to travel far to immerse yourself in the green mountains of the Qinling range—it's perfect for a weekend getaway to recharge! I was truly healed by this beautiful mountain homestay during my short weekend getaway from Xi'an!! As the brand's first location in the Qinling Mountains, Lost Villa Ningshan is tucked away in the forests halfway up the mountain. The courtyard, built along the mountainside, blends gently into the wild, completely avoiding the crowds and focusing on tranquility and relaxation🌿 The overall style is a timeless, wabi-sabi aesthetic with natural wood, preserving the rammed earth walls and vintage wooden beams of traditional southern Shaanxi houses, making it rustic yet warm. The details are full of understated luxury, featuring LE LABO aromatherapy, Dyson hair dryers, smart bathroom fixtures, and Marshall speakers, ensuring a comfortable and high-end stay. The best part is the view! With floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows throughout the house, you can face the layered green mountains and mountain mist while lying in bed or soaking in the bathtub. Wake up to birdsong and mist in the morning, and sit and wait for the mountain sunset in the evening—the atmosphere is absolutely perfect. The public area on the ridge offers an incredible view, and the popular infinity pool looks like a mirror of the sky embedded in the forest, making it perfect for photos. In the afternoon, sit at the Wild Coffee cafe, drink coffee while feeling the mountain breeze, and let all your fatigue be healed☕ The homestay is pet-friendly and also has family-friendly slide rooms, along with an on-site restaurant and a mountain fire pit, taking care of all your dining and living needs in one place. You don't need to travel far to immerse yourself in the green mountains of the Qinling range—it's perfect for a weekend getaway to recharge!

Want to escape the hustle and bustle of Xi'an? Head into the Qinling Mountains 🌲 Find a secluded courtyard hidden in the mountains and slow down your pace of life. The entire homestay is wrapped in the lush greenery of the mountains. With its minimalist wabi-sabi architecture, the earthy yellow walls blend seamlessly into the forest, while large glass windows frame the mountain scenery right into your room. The public outdoor pool faces the mountains, complete with lounge chairs and umbrellas, On sunny days, soak in the pool and look up to see nothing but green mountains—the atmosphere is simply perfect. The rooms are airy and upscale, featuring large floor-to-ceiling windows 🪟 Lie in bed and immerse yourself in views of the mountain forests and sea of clouds. Some room types include a private courtyard terrace, perfect for soaking in a bath, sipping tea, or just daydreaming while enjoying the tranquility of the wilderness all to yourself. The soft furnishings are high-quality and full of thoughtful details, making your stay relaxing and comfortable. You can sit on the terrace to catch the breeze, stroll through the grounds, and escape the noise of traffic and crowds, with only the sound of the wind and birds in your ears. It's perfect for a short weekend getaway, gatherings with friends, or a small family vacation. Leave work stress behind for a while and come to the Qinling Mountains to breathe in the fresh air and recharge 🍃

Xi'an 🚗 2.5h drive Drive through the Qinling tunnel, and you're instantly transported into the mountain forests of southern Shaanxi. All the anxiety and internal friction seem to be shut out by the forest~ This time, I stayed at Lost Villa (Ningshan Branch), nestled on the slopes of the Qinling Mountains. The house blends right into the forest. It's surrounded by chestnut trees and lush greenery. The mountains are filled with fresh negative oxygen ions. No need to rush; just spend two slow, leisurely days here 😌 In the afternoon, order a coffee and a dessert 🍮. The 270-degree floor-to-ceiling windows frame the lush green mountains. Watching the wind rustle the trees 🌲, I just quietly zoned out. Most of the food at the homestay is made from local mountain ingredients. You can really taste the rustic, homey flavors of southern Shaanxi~ When night falls, that's when the mountains are at their most romantic ✨. The bonfire is slowly lit, and we watch a traditional shadow puppet show. Waving sparklers in hand, the evening breeze carries the scent of grass and trees. If you're lucky, look up and see the entire brilliant galaxy spread out above you. It's a sight that's hard to find in the city 🌃. 📍 Lost Villa (Ningshan Branch)

Autumn red leaves are the final burning and passion before entering the bitter cold. People cherish them, so they walk into the mountains to visit. People hunt them, perhaps wanting to hold a brilliant souvenir to survive the long, desolate winter. · Ancient Chinese poets' love for red leaves was never inferior. Tang Dynasty poet Du Mu wrote the widely circulated, "I stop my carriage to admire the maple woods at dusk, the frost-bitten leaves are redder than the flowers of February." In the heart of another poet, Bai Juyi, red leaves seemed scorched by fire, "Like burning but not from fire, like flowers but not waiting for spring." · And whenever I see the Song Dynasty poet Zhu Xi's line, "Thirty miles cut off from the mundane world, white clouds and red leaves drift together," I think of the Qinling Mountains. · Every year from mid-to-late October, the forests are painted in layers of color. The red leaves that the Qinling Mountains gift to the world, whether more or less, are always the best. · 💡 2026 Qinling Red Leaf Season, only 3 weeks a year Coinciding with the 9th anniversary of Feiniaoji, we have decided to launch 2 exclusive routes: a classic "Liuba Autumn Stroll" route, and a new multi-location stay journey from north to south, traversing the autumn colors. Huanglong, Shangluo, and Ningshan join this "Qinling Leaf Hunting Journey." · 1️⃣ Route 1 💬 Longitudinal line · Crossing north to south Xi'an airport pickup - Feiniaoji · Huanglong - Feiniaoji × Yuanbai · Ningshan/Feiniaoji × Yuanbai · Shangluo - Return airport drop-off · After landing in Xi'an, enjoy private car transfers throughout the entire journey. On this 4-day, 3-night trip, you only need to fully immerse yourself in the red, yellow, and purple autumn light along the Qinling Mountains. · River valleys, hills, mountains, forests, majestic clouds, magnificent sunsets, and crisp, fragrant air. The rich scenery outside the window will never make you feel bored. When rain drizzles against the window, thick fog rises in the mountains, and Feiniaoji · Huanglong holds up the lights of a few boat houses, dimly illuminating the traveler's return. Listening to the wind and clouds filling the valley, sleep soundly in the "Walden Pond of the East." · If you want to expand the boundaries of autumn with your footsteps, hike up to Shendaoling, where those colorful spots dot the mountainsides and peaks, all the way to Zhaixing Terrace, to hunt for the autumn wind and red leaves. · Starting from the north and heading south, you can choose to stay in either Shangluo or Ningshan. If you choose Feiniaoji × Yuanbai · Ningshan, congratulations, you are surrounded by red leaves on all sides. As the car drives into Feiniaoji × Yuanbai · Shangluo, the air you breathe is crisp, clear, and pure. · 2️⃣ Route 2 💬 Classic line · Liuba autumn tour Feiniaoji × Kongshan Jiutie · Qinling - Observatory - Zibaishan/Lover's Valley - Shigou Pasture - Taiziling - Zhangliang Temple - Woodworking Workshop - Return · Every autumn, we always return to Liuba. This is where all our stories began and where our original intention lies. This is the 5th autumn that Feiniaoji has guarded in Liuba. We have long become each other's support. The corners of the white houses are dressed in extraordinary attire because of the surrounding fiery golden autumn. More and more travelers come here, moved and healed by this transcendent tranquility. · To help travelers better pursue and hunt for the best autumn light, we have invited local veteran driver-guides who know the roads well and are skilled at photography to lead the way. Airport transfers, private cars, and attentive butlers will accompany you throughout the journey.

📅 Day 1 Xi'an → Ningshan County → Yuwan Village → Jinglu Lanzha Homestay A 1.5-hour drive from Xi'an takes you straight to Ningshan County~ The first stop is a must-try: Southern Shaanxi crispy rice 🍚 The bottom is golden and crispy; it's a meal I must have every time I come to Southern Shaanxi. The authentic, down-to-earth flavor is so comforting 😋 After eating and drinking your fill, drive 18 minutes to Yuwan Village A super gentle, niche village with babbling brooks and lush trees—the atmosphere is spot on! Take a leisurely stroll and take photos, ride the popular little train, and drink coffee by the creek—it's relaxing and great for photos The village isn't big, so a relaxed 1-hour stroll is just right. It's not tiring at all with kids, perfect for relaxing and unwinding~ Then, drive 40 minutes to the homestay. This time, I'm staying at 👉 Jinglu Lanzha It hasn't been open long, the overall environment is clean and elegant, and the service is absolutely amazing! The dedicated butler is always on call, the one-stop service is super thoughtful, and the stay experience is top-notch ✨ My favorite part is the homestay's food! It's not your typical buffet; everything is home-style cooking customized based on local Southern Shaanxi specialties Fresh, authentic, and made with heart—it's such a comfortable dining experience! The homestay includes an exquisite dinner + breakfast the next day, so you don't have to go out to find food—perfect for lazy travelers! In the evening, enjoy the breeze and the mountain night view at the homestay. If the weather is good, you can see the entire starry sky at night ⭐ It's quiet and soothing, a complete escape from the city hustle~ 📅 Day 2 Homestay → Shangbahe Forest Park Sleep in until you wake up naturally, then enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the homestay It's just a 10-minute drive to Shangbahe National Forest Park 🌿 The entire forest is lush and green, the air is incredibly fresh—it truly lives up to its name as a natural oxygen bar! The best part is that it's super family-friendly! You can push a stroller the entire way The paths are flat and easy to walk, no mountain climbing or rushing needed Kids can run around freely and get close to nature, while adults can enjoy a relaxing walk and soak up the fresh air The whole trip is at a slow pace, an immersive experience of the green mountains and clear waters of Southern Shaanxi No crowds, just a gentle breeze and lush greenery—perfect for a relaxing family getaway~

A 2.5-hour drive from Xi'an to the secret realm of the Qinling Mountains Leave all your worries in the wilderness · Wabi-sabi style spaces hidden amidst the lush green forest Walk into the lobby along the light-and-shadow-filled lattice Instantly feel completely relaxed · Infinity pool surrounded by mountains and forests The pool reflects the green mountains and mist The atmosphere of mountains and water in one frame is perfect Relax and unwind with afternoon tea by the pool · Wooden-style rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows facing the mountains and a private terrace Wake up to birdsong in the morning, and sit quietly in the evening watching the mountain mist drift across the valley Sleep in the scenery Attentive butler/coffee/tea/ Simple mountain meals/pet-friendly/everything you need · No need to rush your itinerary; just daydream, hike, or soak in the pool Slow down in the mountains and escape the city hustle This is what a vacation should be 📝 Tips The temperature difference in the mountains is significant, so remember to bring a jacket Nearby attractions: Yuwan Village

The Starry Slide Family Room at Daluozhiye (Ningshan Branch) offers a spacious layout designed specifically for families. With a slide built right into the room, kids can zip down from the mezzanine into their own personal playground, sliding in and out while filling the room with laughter in the heart of the Qinling valley. The 180° panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows offer immediate views of the lush green Qinling Mountains and the mist rolling over the peaks. With children's bathrobes, slippers, and toys provided, kids can play to their heart's content while parents enjoy a well-deserved break. Located in the core ecological zone of the Qinling Mountains, it's just a 3-hour drive from Xi'an. Escape to the mountains for a 22°C summer, where slides, starry skies, and an infinity pool await. Your family's healing vacation starts here. Daluozhiye (Ningshan Branch)

You won't believe this! Hidden in the Ningshan Valley, deep in the Qinling Mountains, is a magical resort complex that brings together two top-tier homestay brands: Birdavilla and Yuanbai—the Zhongnan Zhinan Resort Complex! With Birdavilla's warm, natural wood style and Yuanbai's black-and-white minimalist aesthetic, you can experience both in one stay. A natural, cool valley at 21°C—open the window to see mountains and clouds, and every photo you take is wallpaper-worthy! 🌲 A natural, cool valley in the Qinling Mountains at 21°C, the top "summer escape" backyard for Xi'an residents The resort is hidden in Qinglongya Village, Chengguan Town, Ningshan County, located right by the Ziwu Ancient Road. The Qinling valley stays at a constant 21°C, making it exceptionally cool even in midsummer—no air conditioning needed. Surrounded by lush green peaks, you can look up and see misty, rain-kissed landscapes reminiscent of Wangchuan. It's a 2-hour drive from Xi'an, perfect for a spontaneous weekend getaway to completely escape the city hustle. 🏡 Birdavilla × Yuanbai: Experience two top-tier aesthetics in one trip The resort places two completely different mountain living styles—Birdavilla and Yuanbai—among the rolling green mountains. The two buildings are right next to each other, so you can choose your favorite and experience two distinct mountain lifestyles: ✅ Birdavilla features a warm, wabi-sabi wood style, with raw rammed earth textures as a base, warm wooden beams running throughout the house, and layered wooden ceilings that catch the natural light, softening the boundaries of the space ✅ Yuanbai features a black-and-white minimalist design with negative space, where white-walled buildings are embedded into the green mountains and clouds 🛏️ 25 guest rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows: Watch the mountains from your bed The hotel has 25 guest rooms, including Mountain View King/Twin Rooms (65 sqm) and Lingjian One-Bedroom Duplex King Suites (80 sqm). Each room comes standard with panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows and a private terrace. The rooms forgo unnecessary decorations, leaving only clean spaces that let the mountains outside become the best view. The high ceilings ensure the rooms never feel cramped. Soak in the window-side viewing bathtub while facing the valley mist, and easily snap atmospheric, blockbuster-worthy photos. 🌊 Infinity cliff pool + cliffside library: The public areas are full of treasures ✅ Mid-mountain infinity spring water pool: The pool is fed by natural mountain spring water, backed by layers of green mountains. The water reflects the blue sky and mountains. The light is softest at 4:00 PM—take a low-angle shot to instantly get that international vacation vibe ✅ Cliffside library: Quiet and relaxing, with huge glass windows facing the mountains. Order a coffee and slowly while away the afternoon ✅ Niao Cafe: A 270° mountain-view cafe. Enjoy a pour-over coffee in the wabi-sabi wooden building; every photo tells a textured story of the wild mountains 🍽️ Three meals full of mountain flavors: Light, rustic, and super healing Ingredients for all three meals are sourced from the surrounding mountains—wild mushrooms, seasonal wild vegetables, farm-raised chicken, and homemade cured meat. The flavors are light and rustic, perfectly matching the relaxed vibe of mountain living. Breakfast costs 98 CNY/person. 🌄 No need to rush: Drink tea, daydream, and watch the mountains ✅ Open the door in the morning to encounter the morning mist covering the mountains ✅ Sit quietly on the terrace in the evening and wait for the sunset ✅ At night, the valley is quiet and undisturbed; look up to see the entire starry sky ✅ Take a light hike along the mountain trails during the day for an immersive oxygen-rich lung cleanse ✅ Overall, it's quiet and uncrowded, with no throngs of tourists Leave the exhaustion accumulated over the week to the gentle evening breeze of the Qinling Mountains. 🚗 How to get there? 📍 Address: Qinglongya Village, Chengguan Town, Ningshan County, Ankang City, Shaanxi Province 🚗 Self-driving (highly recommended): About 2 hours from Xi'an, direct navigation available ✈️ Flight: Ankang Fuqiang Airport (about 115 mins by car) or Xi'an Xianyang International Airport (about 180 mins by car) 🚄 High-speed rail: Get off at Foping Station, then take a taxi (about 2 hours by car) 💰 Reference price: Mountain View King Room from 999 CNY/night (includes breakfast for 2) 📞 Booking reminder: Opened in 2026, weekends are very popular, booking in advance is recommended 💡 Tips: · Best season: Summer for escaping the heat (June–August); the 21°C natural air conditioning is amazing! Spring and autumn are also excellent for mountain views · Outfit recommendation: Light-colored dresses, which pair perfectly with the green mountains and clouds · The infinity cliff pool is a must-visit; remember to bring a swimsuit! · Afternoon tea at the cliffside library is a must-experience; the light and shadows at sunset are stunning · Recommended stay: 2 days 1 night to slowly experience the slow life of mountain living · There is a large temperature difference between day and night in the mountains; bring a light jacket Birdavilla × Yuanbai Ningshan is truly different from other homestays. It's not a destination for a quick visit, but a living space that allows you to slow down. No need to travel far; come here for a weekend stay and leave the exhaustion accumulated over the week to the gentle evening breeze of the Qinling Mountains. You have to visit the Qinling Mountains—not just for Zhongnan Mountain and Taibai Mountain, but to stay in this dual-aesthetic resort complex hidden deep in the mountains and have a 21°C mountain living dream 🌲

Just 2.5 hours from Xi'an, crossing the Qinling Mountains, driving along the highway, and passing through three tunnels, you arrive in the south, and everything suddenly feels different~ Lost Villa, the homestay brand founded in Moganshan, has come to Shaanxi for the first time, creating a tranquil paradise in Ningshan. You can quietly watch the clouds drift across the sky, and at night, you can see the entire Milky Way. The hotel also thoughtfully prepared sparklers and shadow puppetry. Sipping a little wine while watching the masters perform, sitting by the bonfire—it's indescribably cozy. ⛰️ Head into the mountains and be a carefree traveler for two days 📍 Lost Villa, Ningshan Crested ibis, starry sky, sparklers, shadow puppetry, bonfire, delicious food, negative oxygen ions Breakfast in the morning was also a surprise. I've never seen such a hearty breakfast at a mountain homestay. The noodles and wontons made on the spot by the chef warmed both my heart and my stomach~ Life, you should head into the mountains, not keep things bottled up inside. You don't need navigation in the mountains; just keep walking and you'll always find yourself.

The scene in this video is an everyday moment at Lost Villa (Ningshan). Step out of the public area, and your eyes are filled with green mountains, blue skies, and white clouds; the lush greenery of the Qinling Mountains rushes into view. The steps beneath your feet stretch toward the valley, making every snapshot look like a cinematic masterpiece. The small pool outside the reception area is the true master of ambiance. The water surface acts as a natural mirror, capturing the light, clouds, and the verdant mountain scenery. When the wind blows, the reflection shatters and slowly reforms—this is what the sky looks like. Standing by the pool, the people, the architecture, and the wild mountains merge into one on the water's surface—at that moment, you truly feel that you haven't just checked into a house, but into the very breath of the Qinling Mountains. Lost Villa (Ningshan)

When the city is engulfed by heatwaves, time here moves in slow motion. Ningshan, the heart of the Qinling Mountains, has a forest coverage rate of 96.24% and is known as a "natural oxygen bar in China." Every summer, a cool 21°C is the most common gift here. Lost Villa is hidden deep within this coolness. The infinity pool on the cliff is the highlight here. Backed by rolling mountains, the pool reflects the blue sky and white clouds. When the mountain breeze blows, the reflection shatters and then slowly comes back together. The healing sensation of mountains and water in the same frame can be captured perfectly with a standard camera. As evening falls and the bonfire is lit, the night breeze is cool; look up to see the Milky Way, and look down to see the world below. Lost Villa (Ningshan Branch)

This time, I really stayed in a "forgotten beautiful place" straight out of the Classic of Mountains and Seas. Depart from Xi'an and navigate to "Daluozhiye (Ningshan Branch)." In about 3 hours, you can escape to the core ecological zone of the Qinling Mountains. This mountain homestay, newly opened in 2026, is hidden in a natural oxygen bar with 96% forest coverage. The average summer temperature is only 22°C. It is truly perfect for a summer mountain getaway. · Black-tiled low houses + wabi-sabi design with natural wood textures blend perfectly into the surrounding greenery. The rammed earth walls and vintage wooden beams retain a rustic, countryside charm, while hidden details like Le Labo aromatherapy, Dyson hair dryers, and TOTO smart bathroom fixtures add a touch of luxury. All room types feature 180° panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows. You can watch the sea of clouds rolling and the sunset painting the valley right from your bed. Open the door in the morning, and mountain mist slowly rises from the valley floor. Look up at night, and the starry sky fills your view. · The cliffside infinity pool is the absolute highlight! Backed by the layered Qinling Mountains, the pool water reflects the blue sky and white clouds—stunning from both aerial and eye-level views. The 270° glass cafe uses panoramic floor-to-ceiling glass to frame the entire expanse of green mountain forests. A pour-over coffee paired with the mountain greenery—ultimate relaxation. The mountain campfire pit is perfect for chasing the sunset as it paints the mountains red in the evening, and for gathering around the fire to gaze at the stars at night. Finally, enjoy a nature-sensing experience in the morning. It is truly wonderful. This place is perfect for couples' getaways, photo ops with friends, family trips with kids, or just some alone time to recharge. Take advantage of it being a new spot with fewer crowds and beautiful scenery—book it now!

〰️ The mountain road winds through 18 turns, and suddenly, the clouds roll in. The altitude here is exactly 1314. Everything is so romantic it feels unreal. · Night falls early here. After 8 PM, the Milky Way looks like someone scattered crushed diamonds. The breeze is cool, carrying the scent of wild plants. Tucked under a thin quilt, even your dreams feel clear and light. · And during the day? The sound of the stream fills your ears. An old man carrying a hoe grins at you from afar. That smile is like a quilt that has been warmed by the sun. · Occasionally, a golden snub-nosed monkey squats on the treetops outside the eaves. Its fur glistens in the light. You look at it, it looks at you. Then, with a turn, it vanishes. · Encounters in the mountains never require goodbyes. · No tourists, no hawking. Only clouds climbing up from the valley floor, Slowly drifting over the courtyard wall. Time here is unhurried. · Xuetangping is hidden in the heart of the Qinling Mountains. It’s not just scenery. It’s a way of life. · 📍Ankang, Shaanxi | Yinju Xiangli · Xuetangping Boutique Homestay 🚗Self-driving is recommended. The mountain road is beautiful. · Yinju Xiangli · Xuetangping Boutique Homestay

The Qinling Mountains are a completely different world after dark. The lush green mountains and ethereal mists of the day retreat at night, leaving behind only a painting in shades of ink—no mountains, just varying depths of black. The window frame remains, the painting is mounted in rammed earth walls, and the negative space of the image is the night. I turned off the lights, leaving only a warm glow by the bedside. Outside the window, there was no city bustle, no traffic, no human voices. The background music was the sound of the wind walking through the forest—a sound so light, like silk brushing against treetops, or someone turning pages in the distance. The night at Jinglu Lanzha gave me a new understanding of "quiet." It is not the absence of sound, but rather that every sound becomes distinct: which direction the insects are chirping from, what leaves the raindrops are hitting, which valley the wind is coming from. It is as if your hearing has been recalibrated. That night, I found a local gazetteer of the Qinling Mountains in the common area and sat by the floor-to-ceiling window to read for a while. There was no one around, just a warm yellow light overhead and the boundless night outside. Occasionally, I would look up and see my reflection on the glass overlapping with the shadows of the mountains behind me, and for a moment, I could not tell which was more real. Before bed, I stood in the courtyard for a while and looked up at the starry sky. In the night sky, free from light pollution, the Milky Way is visible to the naked eye, and there are so many stars it is almost overwhelming. It reminded me of summer nights counting stars in my grandmother's courtyard as a child; that long-lost sense of security, wrapped in the starry sky, came rushing back. If you are someone who cannot sleep because you are tormented by light pollution and noise in the city, come to Jinglu Lanzha. The nights here will cure your insomnia. Lie down, fall asleep to the mountain breeze, and even your dreams will be quiet.

Push open the door, and the warm, natural wood tatami mats unfold. The feeling under your bare feet instantly melts away your fatigue, making you just want to sit on the floor, brew a cup of tea, and zone out. Sunlight spills into every corner through the floor-to-ceiling windows. The room is bright and clean, and even the air feels clear and sweet. Being here, you can't help but feel completely relaxed. In front of the panoramic floor-to-ceiling glass windows, there is nothing but blue sky, white clouds, and green mountains. The mountains stretch out in layers, and the clouds feel within reach, like a moving painting hanging before your eyes. Step out onto the balcony, feel the mountain breeze on your face, and take in the lush greenery. Take a deep breath of the mountain air, and your fatigue instantly vanishes. The morning in the Qinling Mountains is presented to you in its entirety. In this moment, you will understand that every window at Lost Villa is a painting—comfort inside, mountains and rivers outside. Staying here is like moving your home into nature; watch the clouds roll by during the day, and drift off to sleep under the starry sky at night. A 22°C summer, just a 3-hour drive from Xi'an. The new location is uncrowded and beautiful. We welcome you to come and wake up in the embrace of the Qinling Mountains. Lost Villa (Ningshan Branch)

Departing from Xi'an and heading south through layers of mountains, the stifling heat in the air gradually fades, replaced by the crisp, moist freshness unique to the wilderness. It lies quietly tucked away in the mountain pass of Qinglongya, Ningshan, like an old friend who has been waiting for a long time. There are no flashy signs or noisy crowds—only the rustling of the wind through the bamboo forest and the distant murmur of a stream flowing over stones. Push open the rustic wooden door, and the raw texture of the concrete brick walls greets you—a texture shaped by a century of wind and rain. Yet, stepping inside the room reveals a different world: premium bathroom fixtures, custom solid wood furniture, and soft, skin-friendly bedding. Every detail tells you that "seclusion" here never means compromising on comfort. What moved me most was the boundless green outside the window. Lying in bed, looking through the floor-to-ceiling windows, the Qinling mountains fill your view. I was awakened by birdsong in the morning, and pushing open the window revealed mountains shrouded in clouds and mist. At night, the world fell silent, with only moonlight spilling into the courtyard like a thin layer of white frost. In that moment, I suddenly felt the noise and anxiety of the city drift far away. If you are tired of cookie-cutter, checklist-style travel, why not come here and stay for a few days? Forget about the time, leave your chores behind, and just be—quietly spending time with the mountains, the clouds, and the breeze. 📍Jinglu Lanzha (Qinling Branch)

Leave work on Friday, hit the road, and arrive in the heart of the Qinling Mountains in just 3 hours from Xi'an. ​ You don't need to travel far to find the most healing mountain life hidden deep within the Qinling Mountains. The newly opened Daluozhiye (Ningshan Branch) offers beautiful scenery without the crowds of trendy homestays—just valleys, fresh breezes, starry skies, and the perfect amount of peace and quiet. ​ The rooms feature natural wood decor with bright, airy lighting. Enjoy a bathroom with separate wet and dry areas and a private soaking tub with a view. Wake up to birdsong, spend your day breathing in fresh air and relaxing, watch the sunset in the evening, and count the stars at night. A single weekend is all you need to wash away the fatigue of the week. Daluozhiye (Ningshan Branch)

In 40°C Xi'an, I'm actually happily chowing down on hotpot! This place has brought the breeze of the Qinling Mountains right into the private dining rooms. Once the Jiangshui sour soup starts boiling, the summer heat instantly transforms into a refreshing escape. The soup base is the soul of the meal. It’s not the oily spice of Sichuan and Chongqing, nor the sour spice of Yunnan and Guizhou. It’s the naturally fermented Jiangshui that’s practically in the DNA of Shaanxi locals. Eating this during the dog days of summer is incredibly refreshing! A "mountain wild" hotpot blind box—every ingredient is carefully selected. 🐗 Qinling black pork belly: The quality is top-notch. Swish it for 8 seconds until it's coated in the sour soup; it melts in your mouth, with a meaty flavor infused with natural aromas. 🥩 Angus beef chuck: The marbling is so beautiful you almost don't want to cook it. The milky flavor collides with the sourness of the Jiangshui—it's incredibly tender and flavorful. 🥓 Ningshan cured pork belly: The smoky flavor is the soul provided by fruitwood. It has the perfect ratio of fat to lean meat, and the longer you cook it, the more fragrant it gets. 🍜 Handmade konjac + potato starch noodles: I’m obsessed with this combo! The starch noodles soak up the sour soup—one slurp and you're hooked. The konjac is super friendly for those watching their weight, and it’s low in calories. The skewers are also incredibly competitive. The green chili peppers are grilled to a charred, crispy perfection; the pork belly is sizzling with oil; and the chicken wings are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. A bite of grilled meat followed by a sip of sour soup—it’s truly satisfying. The environment features "New Chinese Zen" aesthetics with bamboo curtains, screens, and dry landscape gardens. Even the tableware is artistic. For less than 100 yuan per person, you can claim a whole summer of coolness from the Qinling Mountains.