2026 Yima Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in July)

A Deep Dive into Yima: A Touch of the Soul Sometimes we think that a trip needs to be far-reaching and involve visiting countless attractions to be worthwhile. But this trip to Yima made me realize that the depth of travel is far more important than speed and distance. When you're willing to slow down, explore the alleyways, and linger in a restaurant filled with the aroma of hot soup, allowing every encounter to have warmth and a story, Yima truly unveils its beauty. This Yima itinerary combines ancient grottoes and temples, family-friendly parks, authentic local cuisine, and the natural beauty of mountain campsites and towering peaks. Whether under a clear sky with white clouds, amidst the vibrant autumn foliage, or in the forest after a rain, every scene here holds unexpected charm. Even unexpected storms, perhaps it is precisely because of this that the memories of the trip are more layered, allowing us to weather life's storms with greater confidence. Attractions in Detail 1. Hongqing Temple Grottoes A landmark cultural landscape in Yima, this grotto houses Buddha statues and murals frozen in time. Walking up the mountain path, accompanied by birdsong and a gentle breeze, entering the grottoes feels like stepping into a thousand years of history. Don't rush; take a moment to chat quietly with the elders who care for the place and hear tales of the temple's past. Address: Hongqing Temple, County Road 035, Yima City, Sanmenxia City, Henan Province Opening Hours: Open year-round, all day 2. Mao Mao Children's Paradise A must-visit for families with children! With innovative, safe, and fun facilities, it's a paradise for kids to unleash their energy. Adults can chat with local parents and experience the warmth and simplicity of the Yima people. Address: West side of Changyuan East District, Yima City, Sanmenxia City 3. Peace Hotel If taste is the most tender memory of travel, then the Peace Hotel is a must-visit. We recommend trying a bowl of authentic hot soup or local specialties; only in the vibrant atmosphere of Yima can your appetite be truly awakened. Address: Building 7, Kuangkou Village 4. Qingfeng Mountain Hiking in the early morning or evening brings a refreshing coolness and the scent of fresh camphor trees. From the summit, you can see the mountains and the city skyline. The trees turn golden in autumn, offering a tranquil atmosphere even on rainy days. Hiking shoes are recommended; you can capture incredibly soothing photos of the canyons and distant mountains along the way. Address: 150 meters west of National Highway 310, Yima City, Sanmenxia City Hours: 08:00-19:00 5. Diyan RV Campground For outdoor enthusiasts, Diyan RV Campground is the perfect place to unwind and gather. Watching the clouds on a sunny day, stargazing on an autumn night, and listening to the wind on a rainy day are all exquisite experiences. If you'd like, chat with the campground owners about their lives—you might discover some surprising insights. Address: Xinqu Street, Yima City, Sanmenxia City, Henan Province Practical Travel Tips 1. The attractions in Yima are not far apart, so it's recommended to hire a car or take a taxi for sightseeing, which is easier than driving yourself. 2. There is a large temperature difference between day and night in the grottoes and mountainous areas, so it's advisable to bring an extra jacket and non-slip shoes. 3. The food in Yima tends to be plentiful. The Peace Hotel is popular and may have a wait during peak hours, so it's recommended to make reservations in advance. 4. "Don't be afraid to get lost on your journey." Occasionally, deviate from your route and wander into the alleys and streets, chatting with locals. You'll discover that Yima's stories and depth far exceed your expectations. 5. Pay attention to weather changes at your campsite. Check the forecast in advance. If it rains and the mountain roads become muddy, be extra careful. A trip to Yima is not just a journey, but a deep breath for the soul. Every stop and conversation allows you to experience the true essence of travel. With courage and an open mind, perhaps the next encounter will reveal a better version of yourself. #YimaTravel #SlowTemperatureIn-DepthTravel #TravelReflections #TravelStories #MountainLife

Hidden in Yima Village, Zhouquan Town, Tongxiang, Hulu Island is an eco-friendly lake island campsite surrounded by water on all sides. It offers a peaceful countryside and water town atmosphere, free from city noise. This spot combines camping, family activities, pet interactions, and scenic water views all in one place. It’s free to enter and offers great value, making it perfect for family trips, friends’ gatherings, or light camping to relax and enjoy a charming rural getaway. 1. Core Campsite Information · Detailed Address: Hulu Island Eco Campsite, Yima Village, Zhouquan Town, Tongxiang, Jiaxing · Admission: Free entry, no general ticket required; some recreational activities charge separately · Opening Hours: Open all day (recommended visiting time 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM, best scenery at dusk) · Contact: Call the campsite in advance to confirm camping spots and activity availability · Highlights: Surrounded by water, pine forest camping, waterfront boat houses, pet playground, children’s beach, observation tower, wild rice meals/barbecue, Hulu-themed cultural products—truly a top rural family outing destination 2. Transportation Guide Self-driving (Highly Recommended) 1. From Jiaxing city center: Navigate to Hulu Island, Yima Village, Tongxiang; about 50 minutes drive with good road conditions 2. From Tongxiang city center: About 30 minutes drive directly to the destination 3. Parking: Free dedicated parking lots around the campsite with ample spaces; just a few minutes’ walk to the island after parking Public Transport Take a bus from Tongxiang city to Zhouquan Town Yima Village stop, then a 10-minute taxi or bike ride to the island. Public transport is inconvenient, so self-driving is recommended. 3. One-Day Itinerary 9:00-9:30 Arrival and First Impressions of the Water Town Secret Arrive from the city, park, and walk onto the island. Stroll along the circular path surrounded by water, enjoy the fresh greenery and pine forest breeze, instantly escaping city stress. Find a perfect camping or picnic spot early, especially under the shady pines on weekends. 9:30-11:30 Family Fun Time, Full of Childlike Joy 1. Children’s Beach Play: The campsite’s private sandy beach has fine sand where kids can dig and build castles, enjoying half a day of beach fun without traveling far. 2. Pet Interaction and Feeding: The pet playground features small pigs, goats, peacocks, rabbits, and other gentle animals. Bring carrots or greens to feed them up close and take adorable photos. 3. Non-powered Playground: Free access to climbing frames, treehouses, swings, letting kids run, jump, and climb freely while parents relax. 11:30-13:30 Rustic Delights, Leisurely Lunch The campsite offers diverse food options, so no need to bring complicated ingredients: 1. Wild Rice and Barbecue: Under the pine trees, there’s a dedicated wild rice stove and barbecue grill. You can pre-book a set meal (128-228 RMB for multiple people) with flavorful wild rice or rent a grill to bring your own food, or order barbecue sets to enjoy authentic outdoor cooking. 2. Simple Picnic: Bring snacks, fruits, or boxed meals, spread a picnic mat under the shade, and enjoy a relaxed meal with campsite coffee. 3. Nearby Food: After exploring the island, visit Yima Old Street to try signature Yima wontons and authentic local snacks, which are delicious and affordable. 13:30-15:30 Leisure and Scenic Relaxation 1. Climb the Observation Tower: Ascend the 4-story tower for a 360° panoramic view of the lake island, water town countryside, and water source protection area. The breeze refreshes you and makes for stunning photos. 2. Waterfront Boat House Check-in: The unique milky-white boat houses on the lake are popular photo spots. Sitting by the boat house offers a special water camping vibe. 3. Coffee Break: At the Formula Coffee under the tower, order a drink and relax by the lake, chatting or daydreaming, enjoying the slow rural pace. 15:30-17:00 Camping Rest and Cultural Shopping 1. Pine Forest Camping Rest: Set up tents or tarps (bring your own or rent on-site) under the dense pines, sunbathe, play board games or frisbee, and enjoy a lazy camping time with good shade even on sunny days. 2. Island Walk and Sightseeing: Walk the circular path, admire the water town lake views and countryside scenery, and maybe spot squirrels and other wildlife, experiencing pristine nature. 3. Hulu Cultural Shop: Visit the Hulu cultural store in Yima Village to pick up gourd crafts, handmade accessories, and other unique souvenirs to take home island memories. 17:00-18:00 Sunset Encounter and Departure In the evening, the sunset casts a beautiful glow over the lake and pine forest. Take atmospheric sunset photos, pack up, and end a pleasant day trip with an easy return. You can also stay longer to enjoy the peaceful island night. 4. Must-Play Highlights Summary 1. Zero-Barrier Camping: Free entry, bring your own gear or rent tents and tarps on-site. Suitable for beginners and lazy campers alike, with pine shade and waterfront comfort. 2. All-Age Fun: Children’s beach, pet playground, and non-powered facilities for kids; observation tower, coffee breaks, and camping for adults; ATV off-road, real-life CS, and boat rides for young people—fun for the whole family. 3. Excellent Water Town Ecology: Surrounded by water with well-preserved natural forest, fresh air, and cooler temperatures than the city—ideal for summer cooling and spring outings. 4. Great Value: Free entry, mostly free children’s activities, affordable dining, with a full day of fun for 50-100 RMB per person and no hidden costs. 5. Unique Cultural Features: Exclusive Hulu IP, various gourds planted, distinctive cultural products combining play and experience. 5. Travel Essentials Checklist 1. Basics: Sun hat, sunscreen, arm sleeves (for strong spring/summer UV), mosquito repellent/lotions (many insects in grass and pine forest), portable wet wipes, power bank, tissues 2. Family Must-Haves: Children’s sand toys, change of clothes (kids get dirty playing in sand), snacks, water bottles 3. Camping Gear: Bring picnic mats, tents, tarps or rent on-site 4. Others: Carrots and greens for feeding pets, camera, pet leash (pets allowed on-site, please keep them leashed) 6. Practical Tips 1. Weekends and holidays are busy; arrive before 9 AM to secure good pine forest camping and picnic spots. 2. No open fires allowed; barbecue and wild rice cooking must use designated areas and equipment; follow fire safety rules. 3. The island’s ecology is excellent; please protect the environment by packing out your trash to preserve this water town secret. 4. After visiting, explore Yima Old Street and Changning Street to experience the charm of Jiangnan water towns and taste authentic snacks for a richer trip. 5. Be cautious in water areas, watch children closely, and avoid dangerous lakeside spots. Hulu Island Campsite Zion·Nanhu Select | Yuli Lakeside | A Warm Hotel (Jiaxing High-Speed Rail South Station Branch)

Spring is the perfect time for a mountain outing in Sanmenxia! Eleven green mountains including Ganshan, Gaoyangshan, Niangniangshan, Sihe Mountain, Hanshan, Yanzishan, Guanyunshan, Yuhuangshan, Shaoshan, Xianmenshan, and Qingfengshan are renewing their beauty one after another, inviting you to a spring rendezvous where nature and culture intertwine. [Ganshan National Forest Park] Ganshan National Forest Park in Henan is a national 4A-level scenic area, only 20 kilometers from Sanmenxia city center. It features 84 peaks with the highest peak at 1884.64 meters; four rivers including Qinglongjian River originate here. The forest coverage exceeds 98%, with negative oxygen ions ranging from 4000 to 10,000 per cubic centimeter. The park is home to over 2,100 plant species and more than 110 animal species, including 8 nationally protected animals. Climb high to enjoy the greenery, listen to streams and watch birds, and breathe in the fresh mountain air—it's a natural wellness haven. [Gaoyangshan · Wentang Hot Spring Town] Gaoyangshan in Shanzhou is a dormant volcano with a main peak elevation of 558.6 meters. Wentang Village at its foot has been famous for its healing hot springs since the Han Dynasty, with hot spring poems dating back to the Tang Dynasty. Now it is a unique area combining spring outings, historical sites, and hot springs: over 200 hot spring hotels are distributed along the mountain. The spring water contains 34 trace elements including metasilicic acid and strontium, meeting national standards for natural drinking mineral water. Nearby are Tang Dynasty cliff carvings and the Longxing Temple ruins. After a spring hike, soaking in a warm spring pool is just as the ancients wished. [Niangniangshan] Niangniangshan in Lingbao, at the easternmost end of the Lesser Qinling Mountains, stands at 1563 meters. It is a 2.5 to 3 billion-year-old fault geological relic, known as the "Central Plains Geological Textbook." The spectacular stone waterfall is breathtaking, with 38 types of mineral deposits and rugged, vigorous granite landforms. Hiking here reveals ancient geological forces and the mountain’s majestic and serene presence. [Sihe Mountain Apple Town] Sihe Mountain in Lingbao averages 800–1200 meters in elevation, with selenium-rich soil and large temperature differences between day and night, making it "Asia’s highest mountain orchard." The town is one of Henan Province’s first forest-themed towns, featuring a 5D Apple Museum, century-old apple orchards, and a camping and stargazing platform. Enjoy spring blossoms and autumn fruit tasting, where pastoral poetry meets modern experiences. [Hanshan] Hanshan’s main peak, Laoyacha, rises to 2413.8 meters, the highest peak in Henan Province, known as the "Roof of Henan." The provincial forest park is covered with primeval forests and crisscrossed by unique rock formations and ravines, combining the grandeur of the north with the elegance of the south. From the summit, you can overlook the continuous ridges of the Qinling Mountains and feel the vastness and tranquility of the mountain peak. [Yanzishan] Yanzishan in Lingbao is a national AAAA-level scenic area and national forest park covering 72,000 acres. Centered around Changshou Gorge, it connects Shengshui Gorge, Baishou Gorge, and Tianshui Gorge. The locust tree forest stretches like a sea, with a high forest coverage rate. Walking through the gorge in spring, listening to water flowing over stones and watching forest birds flutter, it’s an ideal choice for light hiking and natural healing. [Guanyunshan] Guanyunshan in Lushi has a main peak elevation of 1866 meters, with tens of thousands of meadows floating like clouds. The sea of clouds, windmills, cattle and sheep, and ancient oak forests form a moving painting; the Laolongtan Waterfall is cool and deep, and the Shimen Ancient Village quietly guards the mountain hollow. In spring, enjoy rhododendrons against the snow; in summer, escape the heat; in autumn, pick wild fruits; in winter, track the snow—perfect all year round. [Yuhuangshan National Forest Park] Yuhuangshan, a main branch of the Funiu Mountain range, reaches a maximum elevation of 2057.9 meters with 98% forest coverage and over 250,000 ancient trees. Attractions include Yuhuang Pavilion, the Knife Testing Stone, Japanese larch forests, alpine rhododendrons, drought lotus, wild lilies, and more. Rare animals such as leopards and musk deer inhabit the area, making it a dual secret realm for ecological research and peaceful wandering. [Shaoshan] Shaoshan in Mianchi has a main peak elevation of 1492.9 meters, the highest peak south of the Yellow River and north of the Longhai Railway. "Shaofeng Diecui" (Shaoshan’s layered green peaks) is one of Mianchi’s eight ancient scenic spots. Yunmen Temple, built in the Tang Dynasty, sits on a mountain with typical geological park landforms, with a clear north-south watershed. From the summit, you can view the rushing Yellow River and winding Jian River, where historical echoes and natural rhythms converge. [Xianmenshan] Xianmenshan in Yangshao is a national 4A-level scenic area with a main peak of 1347 meters, featuring quartz sandstone landforms and 95% forest coverage. The Taoxiang Cave and Jiudong are hidden deep in the primeval forest, where purple mountain stones and reddish-brown pottery jars reflect each other, immersing visitors in 7,000 years of Yangshao wine culture. The Twin Glass Sky Bridge, 398 meters long and 380 meters high, soars through clouds, offering distant views of the Yellow River and close views of surrounding peaks, blending romance and grandeur. [Qingfengshan] Qingfengshan in Yima is a provincial forest park. The thousand-acre Cherry Valley will host cherry cultural and art activities in May. Nineteen natural and cultural scenic spots such as Qinwang’s General’s Platform, Mabao Spring, and Shenla Peak are scattered throughout the mountains. Qingfeng Temple, built in the Sui Dynasty and rebuilt in 2002, has a long-standing incense tradition. In spring, stroll along mountain paths to explore ancient sites, enjoy cherry blossoms, and pick fresh fruit—perfect for both activity and relaxation. Come to Sanmenxia and start your unique journey!

Friends coming to Yima for business or travel, listen to me! Stop randomly searching for hotels, after staying here, I immediately want to stock up on vouchers! Location is perfect, a dream for self-driving travelers Right in the city center! Just 5 minutes by car from the Lianhuo Expressway Yima exit, no need to drive around looking for ages. It’s only a 15-minute drive to Mianchi South High-Speed Rail Station, plenty of time to catch your train! Nearby you can walk to Guangming Street, a popular snack street. At night, if you want some local barbecue or snacks, just stroll over. There’s also the Millennium Department Store next door, convenient for buying daily necessities or shopping, and you can go for a run in the adjacent Sports Park in the morning. The best part for self-driving guests! A free huge parking lot! Plus charging stations! Friends driving electric cars no longer need to drive halfway across town looking for a charging spot, this is a total win! 🏨 New Chinese-style ambiance, perfect for photos The moment you enter the lobby, you feel healed! New Chinese-style wooden tea tables, welcoming pine decorations, warm lighting, no cold business hotel vibe at all. It’s very upscale but feels as comfortable as home. The phoenix-patterned hanging paintings and gradient carpets in the corridors add a strong sense of detail. Just snapping a few photos looks like a traditional Chinese style movie scene, many friends asked me on social media where I was vacationing! 🛏️ Rooms so comfortable you won’t want to check out I stayed in the Elegant Melody King Room, and opening the door warmed my heart instantly! Warm yellow lighting, smooth solid wood floors, no cheap plastic hotel feel. There’s a small tea table and chair by the window, after work you can brew a cup of tea, bask in the sun, and watch the street view—more relaxing than being at home. The deep sleep mattress is amazing! Soft but not sagging, after a long day of business, you sink right in. Paired with skin-friendly bedding, even a picky sleeper like me slept through the night without dreams! And the hygiene is top-notch! The bathroom has a dry and wet separation, the shower water pressure is strong, a hot shower instantly washes away all the fatigue. There’s also phone screen casting! After showering, you can lie in bed and binge-watch shows, who wants to go out then! 🤵 Service that’s thoughtful to the core The front desk lady checked me in super fast and spoke softly and kindly. There’s even a robot delivery service! A blessing for social anxiety sufferers, no need to go downstairs for takeout, the robot delivers right to your door, they really get us! The hotel’s 4.8 rating is no fake! Dozens of guests have given perfect reviews. After staying here, I totally get it—from parking to check-in, every detail is thoughtfully considered, plus free cancellation is supported, so no worries if your plans change last minute! Before coming to Yima, I worried about staying in a small place, but this hotel totally won me over! The new Chinese-style decor, insanely comfortable bedding, super convenient location, the cost-performance ratio is maxed out. Paying the price of a budget hotel but getting a star-rated hotel experience! Next time I come to Yima, this is my go-to hotel for sure!