A Village Uniquely Belonging to the 22°C Summer ‖ Slow Down and Feel the Zen of Mountains and Waters

Ningshan is a hidden summer retreat deep in the Qinling Mountains, perfect for slowing down and embracing the Zen-like tranquility of its landscapes. If time allows, extend your trip to Liuba's Lover Valley and Shizigou Pasture (2.5 hours from Ningshan), where you can experience the healing sight of alpine meadows dotted with grazing cattle and sheep. 🌄 **I. Core Cool Spots in Ningshan** 1. **Muer Valley** - **Highlights**: Pristine streams and cascading waterfalls, shaded hiking trails ideal for cooling off; over 90% forest coverage with abundant negative oxygen ions. - **Activities**: Stream trekking, forest meditation, photography (waterproof gear recommended). 2. **Chaoyang Valley** - **Highlights**: Dubbed "Little Jiuzhaigou of Shaanxi," featuring emerald pools, layered waterfalls, and virgin forests with water temperatures below 20°C year-round. - **Tips**: Gentle trails make it family-friendly; visit in the morning to avoid brief afternoon crowds. 🚗 **II. Must-Visit Nearby Destinations** - **Foping County (~1.5-hour drive)** - **Qinling Giant Panda Breeding Base**: Observe wild pandas in a shaded, cool environment; higher activity in summer. - **Yaojingtan (Fairy Pool)**: A secluded alpine lake with mirror-like blue waters, surrounded by forest trails for light hiking. - **Shiquan County (~2-hour drive)** - **Zhongba Grand Canyon**: Deep gorge with riverside walkways, 5~8°C cooler than urban areas; includes one-way shuttle for effortless exploration. - **Houliu Water Town**: Boat rides on the Han River with evening breezes, paired with a rustic fishing village dinner. 🏕️ **III. Unique Experiences & Activities** - **Stargazing Camping** Summer stargazing at campsites like Tianhua Mountain, with tent rentals and clear Milky Way views. - **Intangible Cultural Heritage Workshops** In Xi’an’s Yongxingfang, try ancient papermaking or Tang tri-colored pottery (advance booking required). - **"Around Qinling" Tourist Train** A guided, hassle-free ride from Xi’an linking Ankang, Hanzhong, and Ningshan, ideal for relaxed summer travel. 🍲 **IV. Dining & Accommodation** - **Stay** - **Ningshan Xiangzhou Hotel (5★)**: Spacious rooms with breakfast; book 3 days ahead in summer. - **Boutique Stays**: Foping’s "Mountain Retreat" series (e.g., Shanmi Ju) or Liuba’s Bookhouse B&B, blending into nature 🌿. - **Eats** - **Ningshan**: Bamboo shoot stew with free-range chicken, "Fairy Tofu" (leaf jelly). - **Foping**: Foping Sanxiang (steamed dishes), Cornus juice (local specialty, refreshing). 📅 **V. 3-Day Itinerary** **Day 1**: Xi’an → Foping (1-hour high-speed rail) - AM: Panda Base + Foping Old Street lunch. - PM: Yaojingtan → Drive to Ningshan, stay at Xiangzhou Hotel. **Day 2**: Ningshan Exploration - Full day: Muer Valley hike + Chaoyang Valley picnic (bring water shoes). **Day 3**: Ningshan → Shiquan → Return - AM: Zhongba Grand Canyon. - PM: Houliu boat ride → Back to Xi’an. ⚠️ **VI. Tips** - **Discounts (2025 Summer)**: - Free entry for national exam takers with ID (covers 18 sites like Zhuque Forest Park). - Shaanxi’s ¥20M travel vouchers for tickets/hotels (via "Shaanxi Cultural Tourism" platform). - **Transport**: - Self-driving recommended (mind mountain curves); alternatively, take high-speed rail to Hanzhong/Foping + shuttle buses. - **Gear**: Sun protection, mosquito repellent, dry bags; light rain gear for July-August showers.