I thought Xi’an was already stunning, until I went to Yanchuan… If you want to escape the crowded trendy spots on the weekend and experience something different

I thought Xi’an was already stunning, until I went to Yanchuan… If you want to escape the crowded trendy spots on the weekend and experience some unique local customs, I sincerely recommend you visit Yanchuan County in Yan’an, Shaanxi! Here, there’s none of the hustle and bustle of the Terracotta Warriors, but you’ll find the profound Loess Plateau, the grandeur of the Yellow River Canyon, authentic northern Shaanxi flavors, and plenty of intangible cultural heritage fun. Two days and one night is just the right pace—you can enjoy the scenery, get hands-on experiences, and even stay in a real cave dwelling to experience the life of a “cave home” resident. 🚶‍♂️【Yanchuan Two Days One Night Itinerary】 ✅ Day 1: Qiankun Bay → Qingshui Bay → Yangko Dance Experience → Huifeng Village Sunset → Cave Dwelling Homestay ✅ Day 2: Paper Cutting/Fabric Collage Intangible Cultural Heritage Experience → Apple Orchard Picking → Lu Yao’s Former Residence → Return Trip 🌟【Must-Do Highlights】 1. Qiankun Bay The Yellow River makes a 320-degree S-shaped big bend here. Standing on the viewing platform looking down, the river winds like a giant dragon, flanked by layers of loess hills and ridges. It will leave you speechless—truly breathtaking! It’s best to visit in the morning when the light is good for photos. 2. Lu Yao’s Former Residence If you’ve read *Ordinary World*, you must visit here. The residence consists of several cave dwellings built into the hillside, with a small river in front—quiet and simple. Walking into the cave, you can almost feel Lu Yao’s focus and passion while writing. 3. Intangible Cultural Heritage Hands-On Activities At the Yanchuan County Museum or Cultural Center, you can try paper cutting and fabric collage yourself. Paper cutting tests patience, while fabric collage is colorful and three-dimensional. You can even take your finished work home as a souvenir. Staff will guide you step-by-step, so no experience is needed! 4. Apple Picking Fun Yanchuan is known as the “Hometown of Chinese Apples.” Visiting in autumn means catching the apples at peak ripeness. Step into the orchard, pick a red apple right off the branch, and take a bite—it’s crisp, sweet, and juicy! You’ll also learn how to choose good apples: smooth skin, fresh stems, and heavy weight mean a good fruit. 🍜【Must-Try Foods】 - Yanchuan Zhan Zhan: Similar to hot pot but with skewered vegetables dipped in a secret sesame sauce and chili oil—so addictive you can’t stop! - Northern Shaanxi Stew: A warm pot of pork belly, tofu, potatoes, and vermicelli—perfect for autumn and winter. - Yellow Millet Steamed Buns: Soft, glutinous, and sweet, delicious dipped in sugar or honey without being greasy. 💡【Practical Tips】 1. Big temperature difference! Big temperature difference! Big temperature difference! Important enough to say three times. You might only need a sweatshirt during the day, but at night you’ll want a down jacket. Be sure to bring a thick coat. 2. Transportation advice: Yanchuan’s attractions are a bit spread out, so it’s best to drive yourself or join a local day tour. If using public transport, there are buses from Yan’an city to Yanchuan County, then rural buses or taxis. 3. Accommodation recommendation: Stay in a cave dwelling homestay! Not only unique but also warm (with heating). Recommended are “Qiankun Bay Homestay” or cave hotels near “Wen’an Yi Ancient Town.” 4. Best season: September to November. The Loess Plateau is colorful in autumn, apples are ripe, and the weather is mild. 5. Respect local customs: You can join in the Yangko dance but be mindful of your movements and avoid stepping on others; remember to take off or change shoes when entering cave dwellings. Yanchuan is not a place for a quick visit; it requires you to slow down and feel it with your heart. Here, you’ll discover that Shaanxi is not just Xi’an, but also a land full of stories and vitality.