Southern Shaanxi, the Little Jiangnan, Relax and Enjoy Ankang! This guide will help you explore the Qinba Mountains and waters

If you're looking for a place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of the city, why not turn your attention to Ankang in southern Shaanxi? Many people might still be unfamiliar with Ankang, but it's truly a hidden gem! It has mountains, waters, delicious food, and best of all, fewer crowds, beautiful scenery, and affordable prices. I visited recently and immediately recommended it to many friends. Today, I'll share my travel experience in Ankang with you, and let's talk about how to enjoy this "Pearl of Qinba"! First stop: Ying Lake — Shaanxi's "Thousand Island Lake" If you come to Ankang and don't visit Ying Lake, it's like you haven't really been! This is the largest man-made lake in Shaanxi Province, with a wide water surface and islands scattered like stars. We took a boat to the islands, feeling the lake breeze on our faces — it was so pleasant! The main islands like Jinluo Island and Cuiping Island are all worth exploring. Especially the Luofeng Tower on Jinluo Island; climbing to the top offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Ying Lake’s beauty! I recommend spending at least half a day here, strolling slowly and soaking in the magnificent water-and-sky scenery. Remember to bring sunscreen and a hat, as the UV rays on the lake are quite strong. Second stop: Xiangxi Cave — a great place to seek tranquility and explore history Not far from the city, Xiangxi Cave is a Taoist grotto site. The area is lush with trees and flowing streams, making it especially cool in summer. Walking up the stone steps, you’ll see cliff inscriptions and ancient Taoist temples on both sides, rich in historical and cultural atmosphere. What attracted me most was the "Heavenly Ladder" — it’s a bit steep, but the view from the top is amazing! If you enjoy hiking and cultural sites, this place is a must-visit. The whole trip takes about 2-3 hours, so wear comfortable shoes. Third stop: Stroll the ancient city and experience Ankang’s slow life Ankang Ancient City is right by the Han River, with bluestone paths, old houses, and a lively local vibe. We went in the evening, walking on the ancient city wall, watching the sunset over the shimmering Han River — it was very healing. The ancient city has many unique shops and shows the daily life of locals, not a commercialized tourist town. I recommend trying local specialties like steamed noodles and kangkang bread, eating as you walk to truly taste the authentic flavors of Ankang. About accommodation and transportation For accommodation, it’s best to stay by the Han River or in the city center for easy access to dining and shopping. We stayed in a riverside guesthouse with a beautiful night view. As for transportation, Ankang has both train and high-speed rail stations, making it very convenient to get there from Xi’an — just over an hour by high-speed train. Within the city, you can take taxis or buses between attractions, and it’s quite affordable. Tips: · Ankang has distinct seasons; spring and autumn are the most comfortable. In summer, be sure to protect yourself from the sun, and if you want to see snow, visit Nangong Mountain in winter. · If you like spicy food, you’re in luck! Ankang cuisine leans toward Sichuan flavors, with many dishes spicy and very appetizing. · If you have extra time, you can also visit the nearby Fengyan Ancient Terraced Fields and Zhongba Grand Canyon for excellent natural scenery. Ankang is a perfect place to relax and vacation. There aren’t many tourists or commercialized atmospheres, just beautiful mountains, waters, scenery, and a slow pace of life. Wishing you a happy trip in Ankang!