A Day in Youyang Taohuayuan Is Better Than Three Lives, Three Worlds!

## Youyang Taohuayuan: A Journey to Explore the Real-Life "Xanadu" **I. Introduction** Youyang Taohuayuan, located in Youyang Tujia and Miao Autonomous County, Chongqing, is a national 5A-level tourist attraction. It is named for its striking resemblance to the scenery described in Tao Yuanming's *The Peach Blossom Spring*. With its beautiful scenery of mountains and rivers, idyllic countryside, and simple folk customs, it is a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and return to nature. **II. Best Time to Visit** * **March–April:** Peach blossoms are in full bloom, covering the mountains and fields in a sea of pink, making it the best time to appreciate the flowers. * **September–October:** The weather is crisp and clear, and the forests are ablaze with color, making it a great time to enjoy the autumn scenery. **III. Transportation Guide** * **By air:** Fly to Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport, then transfer to a bus or train to Youyang. * **By train:** Take a train to Youyang Railway Station, then transfer to a bus or taxi to the scenic area. * **By car:** From downtown Chongqing, take the Baotou–Maoming Expressway and Youyang–Yanhe Expressway for about 4 hours. **IV. Must-See Attractions** * **Taigu Cave:** About 3 km long, the cave is filled with stalactites and stalagmites of various shapes, making it feel like a mysterious underground world. * **Xanadu:** Take a boat through the karst cave, and suddenly, a vast expanse of idyllic countryside comes into view, as if you have traveled back in time to ancient times. * **Youzhou Ancient City:** Stroll through the ancient city, experience the Tujia and Miao cultures, and savor local specialties. * **Taohuayuan National Forest Park:** Climb to a high vantage point to admire the magnificent natural scenery and breathe in the fresh air. **V. Local Specialties** * **Youyang mung bean noodles:** Smooth and nutritious. * **Tujia bacon:** Aromatic and savory, fatty but not greasy. * **Oil tea soup:** A traditional Tujia drink that quenches thirst and warms the body. * **Rice tofu:** Soft and glutinous, can be served cold or stir-fried. **VI. Accommodation Recommendations** * **Hotels inside Youyang Taohuayuan Scenic Area:** Convenient for visiting the scenic area, with a beautiful environment. * **Homestays in Youzhou Ancient City:** Experience local customs and enjoy affordable prices. **VII. Travel Tips** * There is a lot of walking involved in the scenic area, so comfortable shoes are recommended. * The weather in the mountains is changeable, so it is advisable to bring rain gear. * Respect local ethnic customs and travel responsibly. * The scenic area is crowded during peak season, so it is recommended to book tickets and accommodation in advance. **VIII. Recommended Itinerary** **Day 1:** Arrive in Youyang, check in to the hotel, visit Youzhou Ancient City, and enjoy local cuisine. **Day 2:** Go to Taohuayuan Scenic Area, visit Taigu Cave and Xanadu, and experience the idyllic scenery. **Day 3:** Go to Taohuayuan National Forest Park, climb to a high vantage point, breathe in the fresh air, and return in the afternoon. Youyang Taohuayuan is a place that will make you linger. It not only has beautiful natural scenery but also a rich folk culture. I hope this guide will help you better plan your trip and embark on an unforgettable journey to "Xanadu"!