Shenmu City Travel

Shenmu City, Yulin, Shaanxi — Location of Hongjiannao, China's largest desert freshwater lake, an important cultural town in Northern Shaanxi, the Energy Capital. 2-day 1-night in-depth tour includes eco-tourism, cultural experience, and culinary exploration.

2000+

Years of City Building History

National Nature Reserve

50+

Cultural Relics and Historic Sites

30+

Specialty Foods

Magnificent landscape of Hongjiannao lake blending with desert in Shenmu

Hongjiannao - Desert Pearl

China's largest desert freshwater lake, a national nature reserve

Shenmu City Two-Day One-Night Culture and Ecology Tour

Visit the desert pearl, climb high to look far, experience Northern Shaanxi ancient town customs, taste Shenmu specialty foods, experience the perfect integration of ecology and culture

                        
Duration
2 Days 1 Night

                        
Main Destinations
Hongjiannao, Erlang Mountain, Gaojiabu Ancient Town

                        
Suitable For
Nature lovers, Culture explorers

                        
Budget Per Person
¥600-¥900

Desert Pearl

Hongjiannao · Eco-Tourism

Highlights

Arrive in Shenmu, check into hotel then head to Hongjiannao National Nature Reserve to visit China's largest desert freshwater lake and experience the wonder of desert and lake coexisting. Afternoon take a boat ride on the lake, observe rare birds, and enjoy the desert sunset in the evening.

Attractions

Hongjiannao

China's largest desert freshwater lake, a national nature reserve with a lake area of 67 square kilometers, known as the "Desert Pearl", a habitat for rare birds such as relict gulls.

Hongjiannao Wetland Park

A wetland ecosystem centered around Hongjiannao, equipped with birdwatching towers, wetland boardwalks and other facilities, an excellent location for observing rare birds.

Practical Info

Accommodation Recommendations

Hongjiannao Hotel
Shenmu City Center Hotel
Erlintu Town Farm Stay

Food Recommendations

Shenmu Braised Lamb
Yellow Millet Cake
Buckwheat He Le Noodles

Travel Tips

Use sun protection in summer
Bring binoculars for birdwatching
Windy on the lake, bring a jacket

Cultural Shenmu

Erlang Mountain · Gaojiabu Ancient Town

Highlights

Morning climb Erlang Mountain to overlook the panoramic view of Shenmu and visit the ancient architectural complex. Afternoon head to Gaojiabu Ancient Town to experience traditional Northern Shaanxi residential styles and local folk culture. Evening purchase Shenmu specialty products and end the pleasant journey.

Attractions

Erlang Mountain

Shenmu's landmark attraction, with Ming and Qing dynasty ancient architectural complexes on the mountain. The summit offers a panoramic view of Shenmu city center, a popular spot for local residents' leisure and fitness.

Gaojiabu Ancient Town

One of the best-preserved Ming and Qing ancient towns in Northern Shaanxi, known as the "First Fortress of Northern Shaanxi". Traditional residences and ancient city walls are well preserved, serving as a filming location for the TV series "The Ordinary World".

Practical Info

Transportation Guide

Walking distance from Shenmu city center to Erlang Mountain
About 40 minutes drive to Gaojiabu
Chartered car or self-driving recommended

Ticket Info

Hongjiannao: ¥60
Erlang Mountain: Free
Gaojiabu Ancient Town: ¥30

Travel Tips

Wear comfortable shoes on ancient town stone roads
Respect local customs
Check expiration dates when purchasing specialties

Must-Try Foods in Shenmu City

Shenmu Braised Lamb

Northern Shaanxi specialty cuisine, using local quality lamb, slow-cooked until tender, with rich and delicious broth, an excellent winter warming dish.

Yellow Millet Cake

Shenmu traditional snack, steamed from yellow millet flour. Soft and sticky texture with a sweet taste, can be dipped in honey or white sugar, a local specialty breakfast.