I'm back from Xiangyang, and I really don't recommend going! Because a song brought me to a city
Hey everyone👋, is there a song that, like a gentle breeze carrying the dust of history and the spirit of chivalry, opens the door to your yearning for a thousand-year-old city? I came here because of the song "Xiangyang": "Xiangyang's beautiful days, leave me drunk with the mountain elder. The Han River flows gently, the ancient city remains, and the wisdom of Longzhong endures for thousands of years." These simple, melodious, and meaningful lyrics vividly showcase Xiangyang's historical charm and cultural appeal, making me eager to explore this city. In February, filled with anticipation, I embarked on a journey to Xiangyang. Check out my travel guide!
🚗Transportation Guide
✈️Airplane: After arriving at Xiangyang Liuji Airport, there's an airport bus to the city center, about a 40-minute ride. You can also take a taxi, making travel convenient.
🚄High-speed Rail: Xiangyang East Railway Station is large and has many trains. After exiting the station, buses and taxis are readily available, making it easy to reach various attractions. City buses mostly operate from 6:00 to 20:00. You can use Alipay or WeChat's transit QR code to pay. Check the bus app in advance for real-time information.
🗺Recommended Itinerary
Day1️⃣: Xiangyang City Wall - Madam City - Zhongxuan Tower - North Street (Stroll through the ancient city, experience the vicissitudes of history, and savor local delicacies)
Day2️⃣: Gulongzhong - Zhuge Liang Square (Explore the culture of the Three Kingdoms and admire the demeanor of the Marquis Wu)
Day3️⃣: Migong Shrine - Xiangyang Tang City Film and Television Base (Appreciate the art of calligraphy and experience the ancient charm of the Tang Dynasty)
🌟Must-See Attractions
📍Xiangyang City Wall: One of the best-preserved ancient city walls in China, with high walls and deep moats, it exudes a simple and profound atmosphere. Walking along the wall, you can overlook the Han River and imagine the battles of the past, feeling the weight and vicissitudes of history📷
📍Gulongzhong: "The mountains are not high but elegant, the water is not deep but clear; the land is not vast but flat, the forest is not large but lush." This is where Zhuge Liang lived in seclusion and where the "Longzhong Plan" was conceived. Entering Gulongzhong, the mountains and forests are tranquil, and the halls and temples are solemn, as if you can hear Zhuge Liang and Liu Bei discussing their strategy.
📌Practical Tips
1. Xiangyang City Wall is free to visit, but some towers charge a fee. You can choose according to your needs. Madam City is an important part of the ancient city wall, and Zhongxuan Tower offers panoramic views. North Street has a variety of food options. Try Xiangyang beef noodles, yellow wine, and other local specialties, paying attention to food hygiene.
2. The Gulongzhong scenic area is quite large. It is recommended to take the sightseeing bus and check the show schedule in advance. Take photos at Zhuge Liang Square and experience Xiangyang's Three Kingdoms culture. Migong Shrine houses a large collection of original calligraphy works by Mi Fu. Please be quiet and respectful of the cultural relics during your visit. Check the performance schedule for the Xiangyang Tang City Film and Television Base in advance. Wearing ancient costumes for photos enhances the atmosphere.
🍜Local Food Recommendations
🥘Xiangyang Beef Noodles: Xiangyang's signature dish, featuring chewy noodles, large chunks of flavorful stewed beef, and a spicy and fragrant red oil broth. Pair it with a bowl of sweet yellow wine to ward off the cold and start your day full of energy👍
🍘Yicheng Crayfish: Although February is not the peak season for crayfish, some restaurants still serve them. The large, plump crayfish are cooked with a unique sauce, resulting in a bright red color and delicious flavor that lingers on the palate.
🏨Hotel Accommodation
📍Xiangcheng District: GreenTree Inn Xiangyang Ancient City, located near the ancient city, offers convenient transportation, comfortable rooms, and views of the surrounding area, allowing you to experience the charm of the ancient city.
📍Fancheng District: Crowne Plaza Xiangyang, situated in a bustling area with convenient transportation, offers a variety of shopping and dining options nearby, providing a comfortable stay after a day of exploring.
💖Travel Experience
During these three days in February in Xiangyang, I felt as if I had traveled through a thousand years, immersed in the rich historical and cultural atmosphere. The majesty of the Xiangyang City Wall, the tranquility of Gulongzhong, and the delicious food all captivated me. Humming "Xiangyang" and strolling through the streets, I truly felt the city's charm. Everything here is like a profound history book, and I look forward to returning to explore this ancient land again💕