Hanzhong Qingmuchuan: A Stunning Peach Blossom Wonderland

First Encounter with Qingmuchuan In the hustle and bustle of city life, sometimes you need a spontaneous trip to seek out those corners forgotten by time. Qingmuchuan, an ancient town hidden in the heart of the Qinba Mountains in southern Shaanxi, was the destination of my journey. Unlike the well-known Lijiang or Fenghuang, it attracts every soul longing to escape the noise with its unique tranquility and rustic charm. Setting Off on the Journey At dawn, as the first ray of sunlight pierced through the mist, I had already shouldered my backpack and set off for Qingmuchuan. As the vehicle slowly entered the mountainous area, the city's clamor was gradually replaced by lush forests. Outside the window were endless mountain ranges and occasional wisps of cooking smoke, evoking longing and heightening anticipation for the ancient town’s scenery. Impressions of the Ancient Town Upon entering Qingmuchuan, the first thing that caught my eye was the mottled stone-paved road, as if whispering stories of a thousand years. The town nestles by the mountains and water, with most buildings made of wooden structures from the Ming and Qing dynasties, exuding a simple yet elegant charm. The stilted buildings along the river reflect in the clear water like a moving ink painting. Walking here, time seems to slow down, naturally making one slow their pace to savor this tranquility. Exploring Historical Sites Within the town, the must-see spots are the Weifutang Residence and Huilongchang Old Street. The Weifutang Residence, a historical witness of Qingmuchuan, showcases the former owner's prestigious status with its grand scale and exquisite carvings. Strolling along Huilongchang Old Street, shops line both sides, selling local snacks and handmade crafts, each step full of surprises. Here, I tasted authentic Qingmuchuan cold noodles and walnut buns, the pure flavors still lingering in my memory. Natural Beauty Beyond the town itself, the surrounding natural scenery of Qingmuchuan is equally breathtaking. I chose a day to hike along mountain trails to explore the nearby Jinlong Gorge. In the canyon, the stream babbles, birds sing in the secluded mountains, and every step is an intimate encounter with nature. Standing atop the mountain overlooking the entire Qingmuchuan ancient town, all worries seemed to drift away with the wind, leaving only inner peace and satisfaction. Nightfall Descends When night falls, Qingmuchuan reveals another charm. The town’s lights gradually brighten, blending with the starry sky to create a warm and mysterious atmosphere. I stayed at a riverside inn, and at night, sitting by the window listening to the gentle lapping of the river against the shore, my heart was filled with gratitude for this trip. Here, I found long-lost tranquility and rediscovered the beauty of life. Conclusion Qingmuchuan, a small yet charming ancient town, left a deep impression on me in its unique way. Here, time seems stretched, giving people the chance to savor every detail of life. If you are tired of the fast pace of the city, why not take a walk in Qingmuchuan? I believe you will find your own peace and beauty here. 1. Preparation Before Travel - Best Travel Season: April to October is the best time to visit. Spring and autumn have pleasant weather, summer is cool with an average temperature of 22°C, and winter is colder with fewer tourists. - Ticket Information: The ancient town ticket combo costs 60 yuan, covering main attractions. Students and seniors get half price with valid ID. 2. Transportation Guide - Self-driving: From Xi’an, take Jingkun Expressway → Hanzhong → Shitian Expressway Jingkun Expressway (towards Guangyuan) → Qingmuchuan exit, about 6 hours in total; from Chengdu, take Jingkun Expressway → Guangyuan → Qingmuchuan exit, about 4.5 hours; from Lanzhou, take Lanhai Expressway → Pingmian Expressway → Jingkun Expressway → Qingmuchuan exit, about 7 hours. - Public Transport: Take a train to Yangpingguan Station, then transfer to a shuttle bus to Qingmuchuan, about 1.5 hours, ticket price 25 yuan; or take a direct bus from Hanzhong Bus Station to Qingmuchuan, 3 trips daily, about 4 hours, ticket price 60 yuan. 3. Must-Visit Attractions - Huilongchang Old Street: The core area of the ancient town, preserving over 120 Ming and Qing residences. The Wei Residence is the highlight of the old street, with three courtyards and exquisite carvings, ticket 30 yuan. - Qu Family Mansion: A blend of southern Shaanxi and northern Sichuan architectural styles, with a secret treasury from the Republic of China era in the backyard. Free guided tours are available to learn about the family’s rise and fall. - Furen Middle School: Founded in 1942 by local gentry, the school has a well-preserved Republic of China auditorium. The school history museum is open for visits every Wednesday afternoon. - Hongshengkui (Dry Boat House): A Qing Dynasty high-class brothel shaped like a boat, with a secret escape passage on the third floor and carved windows on the second floor, ideal for photographing the old street. 4. Food Recommendations - Walnut Bun: A Qingmuchuan specialty snack, small as a porcelain cup, orange-yellow in color, crispy and delicious, available at Zhang’s old shop in the middle section of Huilongchang. - Hot Mianpi (Noodles): Wang’s Mianpi at the old street entrance is worth trying, served with vegetable tofu and chili oil that is fragrant but not overpowering. - Futang Banquet: Also called “Thirteen Flowers,” a local specialty feast available for reservation at Wei Family Inn, featuring dishes like crispy pork, steamed ribs with rice flour, and braised pork.