May Day Holiday Self-driving Guide from Yangquan to Southern Shaanxi

Yangquan Self-driving Guide to Southern Shaanxi: A Poetic Journey through the Qinba Mountains Driving from Yangquan, Shanxi, all the way to southern Shaanxi, this self-driving tour will take you through a splendid scroll of history and nature. Here is a carefully prepared self-driving guide to southern Shaanxi for an unforgettable journey. I. Preparation 1. Vehicle Inspection: Conduct a comprehensive inspection of your vehicle's tires, brakes, engine oil, coolant, etc., to ensure it is in optimal condition. Check the locations of auto repair shops along the way in advance in case of emergencies. 2. Documents and Materials: Be sure to bring your ID card, driver's license, vehicle registration certificate, vehicle insurance policy, and other necessary documents. Prepare a moderate amount of cash for unexpected expenses. 3. Packing List: Pack clothes according to the weather in southern Shaanxi. Bring toiletries, skincare products, sunscreen, sunglasses, an umbrella, and other daily necessities. Prepare common medications such as cold medicine, antipyretics, gastrointestinal medicine, and motion sickness medicine. Bring your camera, mobile phone, charger, and power bank to capture beautiful moments. II. Itinerary Planning The entire journey from Yangquan to southern Shaanxi is approximately 680 km. It is recommended to travel over two days to avoid driving fatigue and enjoy the scenery along the way. 1. Day 1: Yangquan - Linfen - Xi'an - Itinerary: Depart from Yangquan in the morning and drive along the G5 Jingkun Expressway for about 300 km. Arrive in Linfen in approximately 3.5 hours. Visit the Yao Temple and experience the ancient sacrificial culture and historical heritage. In the afternoon, continue along the G5 Jingkun Expressway to Xi'an, approximately 300 km, which takes about 4 hours. After arriving in Xi'an, visit the Bell and Drum Tower Square to admire the unique charm of Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture and experience the ancient city's charm. - Food Recommendations: In Linfen, try the beef ball noodles, where chewy noodles are paired with spicy beef balls, a truly irresistible dish. Xi'an offers a wide variety of cuisine. Rou Jia Mo (meat sandwich), Yang Rou Pao Mo (mutton stew), and Liang Pi (cold noodles) are all must-try delicacies. - Accommodation Recommendations: It is recommended to stay in a hotel near the Bell Tower for convenient transportation, abundant food options, and easy access to attractions and dining. 2. Day 2: Xi'an - Hanzhong (Southern Shaanxi) - Itinerary: After breakfast, depart from Xi'an and drive along the G5 Jingkun Expressway for about 280 km. Arrive in Hanzhong in approximately 3.5 hours. Visit the Gu Han Tai, the palace of Liu Bang when he was the King of Han in Hanzhong, and experience the rich historical and cultural heritage. In the evening, visit Yinma Pond to enjoy the lake scenery under the sunset glow. - Food Recommendations: In Hanzhong, try Re Mi Pi (hot rice noodles), where soft and glutinous rice noodles are paired with spicy seasonings, a refreshing and delicious dish. Cai Doufu (vegetable tofu) has a delicate texture and is rich in nutrients, making it a local specialty. - Accommodation Recommendations: It is recommended to stay in a hotel or homestay in Hantai District for convenient travel and a better experience of local life. III. Southern Shaanxi Attractions Guide Southern Shaanxi has beautiful scenery and numerous attractions. Here's a 3-4 day self-driving itinerary to explore the essence of southern Shaanxi. 1. Day 1: Hanzhong - Qingmuchuan Ancient Town - Morning: After breakfast in Hanzhong, drive to Qingmuchuan Ancient Town, enjoying the magnificent scenery of the Qinling Mountains along the way. Located at the junction of Shaanxi, Gansu, and Sichuan provinces, Qingmuchuan Ancient Town is known as the "place where one foot steps into three provinces" and preserves many Ming and Qing Dynasty buildings. Stroll along Huilongchang Ancient Street and experience the ancient town's simplicity and tranquility. - Noon: Enjoy local cuisine in the ancient town, such as Mu Tong Yu (fish cooked in a wooden bucket), where the fish is tender and the soup is delicious. He Tao Mo (walnut cake) is a crispy and delicious local snack. - Afternoon: Visit the Wei Family Courtyard, a grand and exquisitely structured building that blends Chinese and Western architectural styles, and learn about its historical stories. Ascend Huilong Pavilion for a panoramic view of the ancient town and the beautiful countryside. - Evening: Stay in a homestay within the ancient town to experience the local atmosphere. The ancient town is beautifully lit at night, offering a unique charm. 2. Day 2: Qingmuchuan Ancient Town - Liping National Forest Park - Morning: Wake up early to enjoy the tranquility of the ancient town again, then drive to Liping National Forest Park, which integrates mountain, forest, water, rock, climate, and rural landscapes. After entering the scenic area, take a sightseeing bus to Jianxia Gorge to admire the steep cliffs and unique rock formations. - Noon: Enjoy local farmhouse dishes at the restaurant in the scenic area, such as Tu Ji Tang (free-range chicken soup) and La Rou Chao Sun (stir-fried bacon with bamboo shoots), made with fresh, local ingredients. - Afternoon: Head to Yunvfeng Peak, enjoying the dense forests and clear streams along the way. Ascend Yunvfeng Peak for a panoramic view of the park. Afterward, visit Fenglin Waterfall and experience its majestic momentum. Take photos under the waterfall as a souvenir. - Evening: Stay in a hotel or farmhouse near the scenic area. Take an evening stroll outdoors, breathe in the fresh air, and admire the starry sky. 3. Day 3: Liping National Forest Park - Ankang - Yinghu Scenic Area - Morning: After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Ankang, enjoying the scenery of southern Shaanxi along the way. Upon arrival in Ankang, visit Yinghu Scenic Area, known for its vast waters, numerous islands, and clear lake water. Take a boat tour to admire the lake and mountain scenery and experience the tranquility and beauty of nature. - Noon: Enjoy the Yinghu fish feast at a restaurant near Yinghu. The fish is tender and cooked in various ways, such as steaming, braising, and stewing. - Afternoon: Visit Cuiping Island, a lush and scenic island with many recreational facilities where you can relax. Afterward, visit Jinluo Island, where you can climb the Luofeng Pagoda for a panoramic view of Yinghu and its beautiful lake scenery. - Evening: Stay in a hotel in Ankang city. Visit the Ankang night market and try local snacks such as Zheng Mian (steamed noodles) and Kang Kang Mo (baked flatbread). 4. Day 4: Ankang - Zhashui Cave - Return Trip - Morning: After breakfast, drive to Zhashui Cave, a natural scenic area featuring cave landscapes. The cave is filled with a dazzling array of stalactites. Visit Foyedong Cave and Tiandong Cave to admire the wonders of nature. - Noon: Enjoy local cuisine in Zhashui County, such as Zhashui Jiao Tuan (stirred noodles), which has a smooth texture and is served with a sour and spicy soup. Yangyu Ciba (potato cake) is another local specialty. - Afternoon: Depending on your schedule, embark on your return journey, concluding your pleasant self-driving tour of southern Shaanxi. If time permits, take a break at a service area along the way and enjoy the scenery. IV. Precautions 1. Traffic Rules: Strictly observe traffic rules, pay attention to speed limits and road conditions, especially when driving on mountain roads. Reduce speed and be cautious of curves and steep slopes. 2. Weather Changes: The climate in southern Shaanxi is changeable. Check the weather forecast before traveling and bring rain gear and appropriate clothing. In case of inclement weather, find a safe place to park and wait it out. 3. Visiting Scenic Areas: Follow the rules in scenic areas, protect the environment, and do not litter. Pay attention to the opening hours and ticket policies of scenic areas and plan accordingly. During peak tourist seasons, book tickets and accommodation in advance. 4. Parking: Parking conditions vary in different scenic areas and towns in southern Shaanxi. Park in designated parking lots or spaces to avoid fines or towing.