Shangzhou District Travel

Shangzhou District, Shangluo, Shaanxi — Heart of the Qinling Mountains, source of the Danjiang River. Explore the geological wonder of Jinsi Canyon, cruise the landscape painting of Xian'e Lake, and experience the ecological charm of 'Qinling's most beautiful is Shangluo'. 3-day 2-night deep dive tour includes geological wonders, lake and mountain scenery, and cultural experience.

1700+
Years of City History
1
5A-Level Scenic Area
300+
Animal and Plant Species
30+
Intangible Cultural Heritage Projects
Panoramic view of Jinsi Canyon landscape in Shangzhou
Jinsi Canyon - Qinling Marvel Gorge
National 5A-level scenic area, an ecological secret realm known as the 'First Marvel Gorge of Qinling'

Shangzhou District Three-Day Two-Night Eco-Tour

Explore the magical gorges of Qinling, cruise alpine lakes, experience Shangluo culture, taste Qinling flavors, and experience the unique charm of Shangzhou's landscape and humanity

Duration
3 Days 2 Nights
Main Destinations
Jinsi Canyon, Xian'e Lake, Shangluo Museum
Suitable For
Nature lovers, Photography enthusiasts
Budget Per Person
¥900-¥1300
01
Canyon Exploration
Jinsi Canyon National Geopark
Highlights

Arrive in Shangzhou, check into hotel then head to Jinsi Canyon Scenic Area, visit the three major gorges of White Dragon Gorge, Black Dragon Gorge and Blue Dragon Gorge, and admire the Danxia landforms and waterfall groups.

Attractions
Jinsi Canyon Scenic Area
National 5A-level scenic area, famous for canyon landforms and waterfall groups, known as the 'First Marvel Gorge of Qinling', with a forest coverage rate of 98%.
White Dragon Gorge
Core scenic area of Jinsi Canyon, with deep gorges, clear streams, featuring White Dragon Waterfall, Rainbow Waterfall and other landscapes, cool and pleasant in summer.
Danjiang Source
Source of the Danjiang River, the largest tributary of the Han River. Crystal clear water quality, pristine surrounding ecology, an important water conservation area.
Practical Info
Accommodation Recommendations
  • Jinsi Canyon Resort Hotel
  • Shangzhou City Center Hotel
  • B&B Near Scenic Area
Photography Tips
  • Best lighting in the morning
  • Bring wide-angle lens
  • Tripod needed for waterfall shots
Travel Tips
  • Large temperature difference in the canyon, bring a jacket
  • Wear non-slip hiking shoes
  • Eco-friendly vehicles available in the scenic area
02
Lake and Mountain Views
Xian'e Lake · Erlong Mountain · Danjiang Rafting
Highlights

Full day touring Xian'e Lake Scenic Area, morning boat ride on the lake, afternoon climb Erlong Mountain observation deck, evening experience Danjiang rafting.

Attractions
Xian'e Lake
The largest alpine lake in Qinling, with a water area of 5,000 mu and seven small islands in the lake, picturesque scenery, known as the 'Pearl of Qinling'.
Erlong Mountain
Best viewpoint of Xian'e Lake, elevation 1200 meters. From the summit, you can overlook the entire lake area. On clear days, the Danjiang River appears like a ribbon.
Danjiang Rafting
The best way to experience Qinling landscape, the rafting covers about 8 kilometers with both calm and rapid sections, suitable for all ages.
Practical Info
Transportation Guide
  • Direct bus from Shangzhou Bus Station
  • About 1 hour drive
  • Recommended to depart at 8 AM
Ticket Info
  • Xian'e Lake: ¥80
  • Boat Ride: ¥60
  • Rafting: ¥120
Travel Tips
  • Windy on the lake, bring windbreaker
  • Bring change of clothes for rafting
  • Restaurant available in the scenic area
03
Cultural Shangluo
Shangluo Museum · Lianhua Lake Park · Specialty Shopping
Highlights

Morning visit Shangluo Museum to learn about history and culture. Afternoon stroll through Lianhua Lake Park. Evening purchase Shangluo walnuts, wood ear mushrooms and other specialties before returning.

Attractions
Shangluo Museum
National third-grade museum, showcasing Shangluo's historical culture and natural resources, housing over 5,000 artifacts, a window to understand Shangluo culture.
Lianhua Lake Park
The largest urban park in Shangzhou city center, with lotus flowers in the lake and pavilions in the garden, a great leisure spot for citizens.
Shangzhou Specialty Center
One-stop shopping for Shangluo walnuts, black wood ear mushrooms, shiitake mushrooms, gastrodia elata and other specialties.
Practical Info
Souvenir Recommendations
  • Shangluo Walnuts
  • Black Wood Ear Mushrooms
  • Shiitake Mushrooms
  • Gastrodia Elata
  • Honey
Return Trip Suggestions
  • Allow 2 hours to get to Shangluo Station
  • Specialties can be mailed
  • Taxi starting fare in city center is 5 yuan
Travel Tips
  • Museum closed on Mondays
  • Lianhua Lake night scenery is more beautiful
  • Bargaining possible at specialty center

Must-Try Foods in Shangzhou District

Shangzhou Braised Vegetables

Shangluo traditional famous dish, braised with over ten ingredients including pork, tofu, vermicelli, rich in flavor and nutrition.

Walnut Cake

Shangluo specialty snack, filled with local walnuts, crispy outer shell and sweet inner filling, one of the most beloved breakfast items for locals.

Pickled Vegetable Jiaotuan

Shangzhou farmhouse delicacy, cornmeal jiaotuan served with pickled vegetables, chili and other seasonings, sour and spicy appetizing, a winter warming treat.

Danjiang Fish Feast

Using wild Danjiang fish as main ingredient, prepared as pickled vegetable fish, dry-braised fish, fish ball soup and other whole fish feasts, highlighting fresh flavor.

Shangzhou District Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
  • Spring (Apr-May): Mountain flowers in bloom, pleasant climate
  • Autumn (Sep-Oct): Colorful forests, crisp autumn weather
  • Summer: Jinsi Canyon summer resort
Must-Experience Activities
  • Jinsi Canyon Hiking
  • Xian'e Lake Boating
  • Danjiang Rafting
  • Tasting Braised Vegetables
Budget Reference
  • Tickets: approx. ¥260
  • Accommodation: ¥180-300/night
  • Meals: ¥60-100/day
  • Transport: approx. ¥150
  • Total: ¥900-1300
FAQ
  • Does Jinsi Canyon require hiking? → Has gentle trails and steps
  • Is Xian'e Lake worth staying overnight? → Recommended to return to city accommodation
  • Must-buy specialties in Shangluo? → Walnuts, black wood ear mushrooms
  • Best rafting season? → June-September