2025 Baihe Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in August)

Absolutely the most niche and underrated gem I've visited in recent years. The second most fun homestay I've stayed at during summer. 2-day, 1-night summer escape guide to Baihe County, Ankang – sharing with you! **Itinerary** **Day 1**: Lion Mountain Pedestrian Street – Han River Gallery – Homestay Drive 4 hours from Xi'an to Baihe, a small mountain town near Xunyang. With its ups and downs, it's like a mini 8D magical version of Chongqing. Head straight to "Lion Mountain Pedestrian Street" – first stop: Huang Family Steamed Noodles. A dream come true for lovers of chili oil and sesame paste! The pedestrian street is packed with eateries and stalls selling fresh produce, full of local charm. In the afternoon, stroll along the Han River Gallery. Feel the breeze and capture trains crossing the bridge – super cinematic! The riverside drive offers stunning views of the emerald-green Han River. At dusk, check into the mountaintop homestay – swim, sip coffee, and unwind. **Day 2**: Longtan River – Qiao'er Gully – "Little Waist" Elevator – Old Town Citywalk Morning: Longtan River, a 30-minute drive from town. A cool, secluded gorge like Xisi Gou, with crystal-clear pools and cascading waterfalls. Plenty of shade and temps around 20°C – perfect for kids. Afternoon: Qiao'er Gully, the most surprising old street in southern Shaanxi. A 500-year-old downhill path lined with historic houses, stone steps, and grand courtyards... Its winding alleys rival Chongqing's mountain trails. At the foot of the hill, ride the viral "Little Waist" elevator (¥3/ride) back to the old town. Feels like you're on the 1st floor... but you're actually on the 20th! The rooftop observatory offers epic views. The old town buzzes with life – motorcycles everywhere. A citywalk here feels like time-traveling to Chongqing, with homes, hotels, and schools clinging to the mountainside. **Where to Stay** This trip's highlight: *Secluded Countryside · Taste of Green Papaya* homestay, newly opened this year. The star? A treehouse with a slide – straight out of a Bali jungle retreat! Kids can slide right out of their room – so cool. With a café, restaurant, and infinity pool (kids can splash right in their room), this riverside hillside spot offers breathtaking views and total relaxation.

Beat the heatwave! Just a drive🚗 away from Xi'an, discover the "Taste of Green Papaya Homestay" in Baihe County, Ankang, Shaanxi, where you can embrace a refreshing 25°C summer for just 300+ RMB per person! 🌲 Stay in a Fairytale Forest Cabin 10 woodland cabins are nestled against the mountains, with every window framing a landscape painting🏞. The highlight? The slide treehouse—kids will squeal with delight as they zoom down their private slide, bringing fairytales to life! There are also 11 riverside-view rooms to choose from. 💦 Mountain-Top Pool + Cloudside Coffee The infinity pool sparkles like a blue gem💎—dive in to instantly cool off! After swimming, head to the treetop café for an iced latte☕ and watch the clouds drift by. The restaurant, located at the highest point of the resort, offers a spacious setting that can accommodate up to 40 guests, perfect for team-building events, parties, or evening gatherings. 🚩 Nearby Attractions ▫ 20-min drive to explore the 600-year-old Qiao'er Gully Ancient Town ▫ 40-min drive to experience the natural mist at Kanzi Waterfall ▫ 30-min drive to hike up the mountain for breathtaking views⛰ ▫ 40-min drive to Longtan River🐟 📍 Navigation: Qunli Village, Chengguan Town, Baihe County, Ankang, Shaanxi ✨ Tips: Treehouses are in high demand! Families should book the slide room, while couples will love the riverside terrace rooms.

⛰️ Always thought Southern Shaanxi was just about the Qinling and Bashan Mountains, but after returning from Ankang, the Han River alpine log cabin B&B I posted on my social media blew up with inquiries! ⛰️ 270° panoramic Han River views + a wooden slide that keeps kids entertained non-stop. Want the full guide? Here you go! 👇🏻 · 【Divine Experience · Sleeping Inside a Han River Painting】 ———————————————— 🏡 Forest Slide Treehouse (A must for families!) ✅ Secret treetop hideaway: 10 log cabins nestled among ancient trees 🌳, where you can open the window to touch clouds and leaves. The steel-frame elevated design is super eco-friendly! ✅ Private slide straight to the forest: Kids zoom from their room into the mountains 🍃, while you lounge on the terrace watching boats drift along the Han River. Mountain mist drifts onto the balcony—so breathtaking! ✅ Attention to detail: Brand toiletries + Dyson hairdryer + bamboo pendant lights, plus a sweet goodnight soup delivered by the butler—truly thoughtful. · 【Luxury Pool Suite (Couples, this one’s for you!)】 ———————————————— ✅ Infinity pool with mountain views: Float by the edge to scoop clouds and gaze at the Han River’s grand bend! Beyond the glass walls, sea-like clouds roll, and a white dress swirl makes for Bali-worthy photos. ✅ Private stargazing hot spring + rectangular skylight: Soak under a galaxy that seems to pour into the water. Morning mist weaves through geometric architecture—pure magic! · 【3-Day, 2-Night Itinerary】 ———————————————— 𝐃𝐀𝐘❶: Live in the Clouds ⏰14:00 Check-in: Sip welcome papaya drink, laze on the terrace watching Han River boats. ⏰16:00 Fun: Dive into the infinity pool for mirror-like sky photos or sip coffee in the café, listening to mountain breezes. ⏰19:00 Chase the light: Claim a window seat at the restaurant! Golden sunset + blue-hour nightscape = photo heaven. ⏰21:00 Night whispers: Listen to mountain winds and insects while sipping sweet soup, then look up to a galaxy above. 𝐃𝐀𝐘❷: Explore Nearby Secrets ⏰9:00 Breakfast: Wild mountain veggies + nutritious rice porridge + soy milk and free-range eggs. ⏰10:30 Kanzi Waterfall: 45 mins from the B&B, hike 20 mins into a hidden valley waterfall. ⏰14:00 Miaoshan Village: Summit for a bird’s-eye view of the Han River’s Ω-shaped bend! Stop by Liangshui Butterfly Lake for a splash. ⏰18:00 Qiao’ergou Ancient Town: Stroll Ming-Qing stone-step houses—when lanterns light up, it’s straight out of *Spirited Away*! 𝐃𝐀𝐘❸: Heavenly Morning ⏰7:00 Mist-watching: Laze in bed as Han River fog turns into a "milk sea" 🌫️. ⏰9:00 Breakfast: Enjoy a leisurely meal or snooze a little longer. ⏰10:00 Village walk: The B&B’s Qunli Village is dotted with homes, veggie patches, and orchards—stroll through idyllic countryside views. · 🏠 B&B: Secluded Countryside · The Taste of Green Papaya Rural Resort 📍 Address: Qunli Village, Chengguan Town, Baihe County, Ankang City, Shaanxi

⛰️Taste of Green Papaya offers the best vantage point overlooking the Han River, making it a perfect weekend getaway ⛰️But that's not all—the surrounding scenery is equally breathtaking, with hidden gems known only to locals. Less crowded yet stunning, let's explore together~ —————— 🧭Taste of Green Papaya: 3-Day Vacation Guide —————— **Day1️⃣: Arrival at the Retreat** Depart in the morning and check in by 2 PM. 🌈Perched on a hillside, the retreat boasts rooms with exceptional views and seasonal berries. Take time to unwind and disconnect from city life. 🌈From 4–6 PM, enjoy the infinity pool (1m depth, free access) or relax at the café, watching the clouds drift by. 🌈Dine before 7:30 PM to catch the golden hour of sunset or the blue hour afterward—prime time for photos. 🌈Nights here are serene, where even the rustle of leaves in the wind feels refreshing. **Day2️⃣: Exploring Nearby** Wake up naturally—the best way to vacation. 🚗Fuel up with a nutritious breakfast before heading out to nearby hidden spots. 🚗Morning: Visit **Kanze Waterfall**, a local secret. A 20-minute hike leads to emerald pools—perfect for a day under a camping canopy. 🚗Noon: Climb **Miaoshan Village** for a view of the Han River’s grand bend, then drive 20 minutes to **Cool Water Butterfly Lake**. 🚗Evening: Stroll through **Qiao’ergou Ancient Town**, where Ming-Qing architecture meets the river, especially enchanting at night. 🚗Return to find sweet bedtime soup in your room. Gaze at the stars before drifting off. **Day3️⃣: Homeward Bound** Dawn mist transforms the retreat into a fairy tale. ☁️Wake early to admire the Han River’s fog from your window with a pour-over coffee—embracing life’s simple joys. ☁️Ideal for a morning workout; the fresh air is invigorating. ☁️Check for belongings before leaving. Take unused toiletries—they’re yours to keep. ☁️Though vacations end, may the tranquility of Green Papaya linger in your memories. ——— 🏠Retreat Info **Name**: Secluded Countryside · Taste of Green Papaya Rural Resort **Address**: Chengguan Town, Baihe County, Ankang City, Shaanxi **Rooms**: 10 luxury treehouses, 11 scenic guestrooms **Amenities**: River-view dining, infinity pool, observation deck **Transport**: Drive recommended (direct navigation)

Just 4 hours from Xi'an lies a fairytale town blooming with mountain flowers. My first visit to Baihe, Ankang left me breathless upon arriving at the homestay—it was like stepping into a storybook! A woodland library where fairies might dwell, surrounded by vibrant wildflowers in every hue. As the sun set, the sky blazed with orange twilight while warm golden light bathed everything. In that moment, I felt utterly healed! 📍Baihe County, Ankang City 🏠Secluded Countryside · The Taste of Green Papaya Homestay 🚗4-hour drive from Xi'an; trains also available to Baihe Tips: 1️⃣ Summer brings abundant mosquitoes, especially in the mountains—pack insect repellent 2️⃣ Wear comfortable shoes! Explore Baihe town dubbed "Little Chongqing of Southern Shaanxi"—its legendary slopes and stairs live up to the hype 3️⃣ Search "Ankang Baihe The Taste of Green Papaya" to book. Multiple room types available—prioritize the treehouse for a unique two-level experience complete with a children's slide.

Xi'an 2 Days 1 Night Family Trip: Stay in Fairy-tale Forest Cabins & Play by Waterfalls A hidden gem route in southern Shaanxi that 99% of people don't know about~ Even during holidays, it's rarely crowded~ Perfect for a 2-day 1-night getaway from Xi'an or Shiyan! 📍: Baihe County, Ankang Dubbed "Little Chongqing", this mountainous town sits at the border of Shaanxi and Hubei with stunning landscapes. It's a pity I discovered it so late~ If you enjoy escaping crowds, summer retreats, water activities, ancient towns, and 3D mountain cityscapes, Baihe is a must-visit! 🚗 Itinerary: - 2-hour drive from Shiyan / 4-hour drive from Xi'an - Check into a homestay in Baihe - Afternoon visit to Maoshan Viewing Platform 📍Shamao Mountain Battle Site Cultural Square - the views here are breathtaking 🌱 Overlooks Baihe County, but the mountain road is steep with some narrow sections. After parking, walk 200m along the ridge to reach the platform. - Evening stroll at Qiaoergou Ancient Town 🌱 A 685m-long Ming-Qing dynasty street built along the mountainside, preserving 500+ years of history with many original structures. Two entrances (upper/lower) - recommended to walk downhill to save energy. Take the elevator near the lower exit for the return trip. 🌱 Next morning: Longtan River Scenic Area 👉 A wonderful surprise! Perfect for family water play and summer retreats with shaded paths and cool temperatures. Staff confirm abundant water flow year-round - no dry season! 👉 Wander through stunning waterfall clusters (3hrs, very relaxing). Water quality meets drinking standards. Ticket: ¥59 (free under 1.2m). 👉 Nearby free Kanzhi Waterfall is also great in summer (best after rain). Visit if time allows. 🌱 Accommodation: Secluded Village - Taste of Green Papaya New 2023 homestay 20mins from Baihe town. Our forest cabin had a spiral slide from terrace to woods - kids adored it! 🌱 Floor-to-ceiling windows frame Han River views. Excellent service includes butler assistance, welcome fruits, and kids playing freely while adults enjoy papaya wine on the terrace. 🌱 Delicious meals available. EV charging in parking lot. 🚗 Distances: - 15mins to Qiaoergou - 30mins to Shamao Mountain - 50mins to Longtan River - 45mins to Kanzhi Waterfall For more relaxation, consider 3 days 2 nights. Can combine with Bagua City Xunyang for extended trip: 👉 Route: Xi'an → Baihe → Xunyang → Xi'an ✅ Tips: - Bring mosquito repellent & sun protection - No food sold at Longtan River - pack water & snacks

During our visit to Baihe County, we explored some incredible locations that are perfect for capturing stunning photos. If you’re planning a trip, here are three must-visit spots we highly recommend! Hanjiang River Scenic Area 🌊 We took a relaxing boat ride along the Hanjiang River and were mesmerized by the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and clear waters. The best time to visit is in the late afternoon when the golden sunlight reflects beautifully on the river, creating a perfect setting for photography. If you love peaceful landscapes, this is a must-see spot! 📍 Address: Hanjiang River Scenic Area, Baihe County, Shaanxi, China Jiuchong Mountain National Forest Park 🌲 Exploring Jiuchong Mountain was an unforgettable experience. The lush forests, winding trails, and hidden waterfalls made every step feel like a discovery. We recommend visiting in the early morning when the mist covers the mountain, adding a magical touch to your photos. If you enjoy nature and hiking, this is the place to be! 📍 Address: Jiuchong Mountain National Forest Park, Baihe County, Shaanxi, China Qingjiang Ancient Town 🏯 Walking through Qingjiang Ancient Town felt like stepping back in time. The well-preserved streets, traditional architecture, and historic bridges provided endless photo opportunities. Sunset is the best time to visit, as the warm lighting enhances the town’s charm and makes for stunning shots. We highly recommend exploring this cultural gem! 📍 Address: Qingjiang Ancient Town, Baihe County, Shaanxi, China Baihe County is full of natural wonders and cultural treasures. We had an amazing time exploring these beautiful locations, and we’re sure you will too! 📷✨ #discoverchina #vacation #travel

In China, there is a place like this, a small county hidden on the border of Shaanxi and Hubei. The city is built along the mountains, with the Han River running through it. Curious friends may ask, where is this small county hidden on the border of Shaanxi and Hubei? What different scenery is there? With these questions and curiosity, let's talk about Baihe County today. Baihe County is under the jurisdiction of Ankang City, Shaanxi Province. It is named after the Baishi River in the territory and is located in the eastern part of Ankang City. It is adjacent to the Han River in the north, facing Yunxi County, Hubei Province across the river. The east and south are adjacent to Yunyang District and Zhushan County, Hubei Province, and the west is connected to Xunyang City, with a regional area of 1,450 square kilometers. It is surrounded by Chu in the east, north, and south, and is the throat of the Central Plains into Shaanxi and Sichuan. In ancient times, it was known as "the head of Qin and the tail of Chu." During the Spring and Autumn Period, this area belonged to the State of Ju and was called Xi. From the Warring States Period to the Qin Dynasty, this area belonged to Chu and later to Qin. Qin set up Xi County. During the Southern and Northern Dynasties, the Southern Dynasty Liang abolished Xi County, set up Yangchuan County in the south of this area, and set up Xiongchuan County in the north of this area. In the twelfth year of Chenghua in the Ming Dynasty (1476), Baihe County was established. The mighty Han River flows out of Shaanxi from here and flows through Yunxi County, Hubei Province.