Hidden Paradise in the Depths of the Qinling Mountains

Liuba County, located in Hanzhong City, Shaanxi Province, lies deep in the heart of the Qinling Mountains and is known as the "Little Jiangnan of Qinling." With its picturesque landscapes, distinct four seasons, magnificent natural scenery, and rich cultural heritage, it's an ideal destination for summer retreats, autumn foliage viewing, and hiking. Here’s a detailed Liuba travel guide covering attractions, food, accommodations, and tips to help you plan your trip effortlessly! Must-Visit Attractions 1. Zibai Mountain National Forest Park - Zhang Liang Temple: The secluded retreat of the famous Han Dynasty statesman Zhang Liang, featuring well-preserved ancient architecture and a tranquil environment. - Alpine Meadows: Lush green grass and wildflowers in summer, perfect for camping and photography. - Tiankeng (Sinkhole) Cluster: Mysterious and spectacular natural sinkholes formed by karst topography. Admission: ¥60/person (includes Zhang Liang Temple). 2. Liuba Old Street A Ming-Qing style ancient street with cobblestone paths and wooden houses, exuding nostalgic charm. Best visited in the evening when the lanterns illuminate the street. 3. Huoshaodian Town - Shizigou Pasture: Alpine meadow scenery with grazing cattle and sheep, reminiscent of Swiss pastures. - Lovers' Valley: Streams, waterfalls, and primeval forests, ideal for hiking and picnics. 4. Taizi Ridge The best spot for autumn foliage, where the mountains are ablaze with vibrant colors. The winding mountain road is perfect for driving or cycling. 5. Shimen Plank Road (Nearby Attraction) Part of the ancient "Baoxie Road," this cliffside plank path is steeped in history. A detour here lets you experience the perilous journeys of ancient travelers. Liuba Food Recommendations 1. Local Dishes - Liuba Smoked Bacon: Made from Qinling black pork, rich in smoky flavor, fatty yet not greasy. - Stewed Free-Range Chicken with Wild Mushrooms: Tender chicken and wild mushrooms in a savory broth. - Acorn Jelly: Made from acorn starch, smooth-textured and served with a spicy-sour sauce. 2. Snacks & Drinks - Vegetable Tofu: A Hanzhong specialty, tofu curdled with vegetable juice, best paired with chili sauce. - Walnut Cake: Crispy and sweet, made with high-quality local walnuts. - Honey Wine: Brewed from local wild honey, sweet and light—perfect for a casual drink. Budget Accommodations Liuba offers affordable homestays and guesthouses: 1. Liuba County Town - Liuba Hotel: Standard rooms around ¥120/night, clean and conveniently located. - Old Street Inn: Rustic charm starting at ¥100/night, ideal for artsy travelers. 2. Zibai Mountain/Huoshaodian Town - Farmstays: ¥50–80/night, including breakfast and dinner, for an authentic mountain experience. - Campgrounds: Summer camping costs ¥30–50/person. 3. Near Taizi Ridge - Red Leaf Villa: The best base for autumn foliage viewing, with standard rooms around ¥150/night. Tip: Book in advance during peak season (July–October); prices are lower in the off-season. Travel Tips & Money-Saving Hacks 1. Best Time to Visit - Summer (June–August): A cool retreat with average temperatures of 22°C, great for hiking and camping. - Autumn (September–November): A paradise for photographers with stunning fall colors. - Winter (December–February): Serene snowscapes for travelers seeking tranquility. 2. Transportation - Self-Drive: ~4 hours from Xi’an, 1.5 hours from Hanzhong, with scenic routes. - Bus: Direct buses from Hanzhong Bus Station take ~2 hours. - High-Speed Rail + Private Car: Take the train to Hanzhong, then hire a car (~1.5 hours). 3. Money-Saving Tips - Choose farmstays: All-inclusive meals and lodging offer great value and local immersion. - Hike instead of taking shuttle buses: Some Zibai Mountain spots are walkable, saving on transport fees. - Travel off-peak: Avoid National Day and Labor Day holidays for lower accommodation rates. Conclusion Liuba is a hidden gem in the Qinling Mountains, blending breathtaking nature with idyllic rural life. Whether you’re hiking, exploring ancient sites, or savoring mountain delicacies, it’s the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle. Pack your bags and embark on a slow-paced adventure in Liuba! 🌄🍃