Best Backpacking Destinations in Huilong, China
1. Fenghuang Ancient Town
A charming UNESCO-listed town with traditional Tujia architecture and bustling markets.
- Cultural Immersion: Experience authentic Tujia culture, traditions, and festivals.
- Shopping Paradise: Discover unique handicrafts, souvenirs, and local delicacies.
- Night Markets: Enjoy vibrant night markets with various food options and live performances.
2. Wuyuan Huangshan
Stunning natural landscape with sea of clouds, rice terraces, and ancient villages.
- Sea of Clouds: Witness the breathtaking sight of sea of clouds over Huangshan Mountains.
- Rice Terraces: Explore the beautiful and serene rice terraces in Wuyuan village.
- Ancient Villages: Visit traditional Hui-style villages with unique architecture and crafts.
3. Taibai Mountain
China's first national park offering diverse landscapes, including forests, alpine meadows, and glaciers.
- Hiking Trails: Enjoy various hiking trails for different skill levels.
- Wildlife Spotting: Spot rare and endangered species like the giant panda and golden monkey.
- Glacier Views: Admire the spectacular glaciers at the highest peaks of Taibai Mountain.
4. Jiuhuashan Mountains
A sacred Taoist mountain range with numerous temples and unique natural wonders.
- Temple Exploration: Visit ancient temples, including the famous Golden Summit Temple.
- Natural Wonders: Witness unique natural phenomena like the Sea of Clouds and the Precipice Walkway.
- Taoist Practices: Learn about Taoism, its beliefs, and practices at the various temples.
5. Zhangjiaje National Park
Stunning landscape of towering sandstone pillars and lush forests.
- Hiking Trails: Challenging hikes with breathtaking views of the unique landscapes.
- Photography Opportunities: Capture memorable photos of the iconic pillars and scenic vistas.
- Local Culture: Immerse in local Tongzi culture, including traditional music and dance performances.
6. Hukou Waterfall
The second largest waterfall in China, located at the confluence of the Yellow River and Han River.
- Powerful Waterforce: Witness the powerful force of the cascading water.
- Scenic Views: Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and river valleys.
- Photography Opportunities: Capture stunning photos of the waterfall from various viewpoints.
7. Danxia Landform Geopark
Stunning red cliffs, valleys, and canyons created by sandstone and mineral deposits.
- Hiking Trails: Explore various hiking trails with different difficulty levels.
- Photography Opportunities: Capture breathtaking photos of the unique red cliffs and landscapes.
- Natural Phenomena: Witness natural phenomena like wind erosion and water erosion.
8. Shanghai Giant Salamander Reserve
The only place in the world where you can find the Shanghai giant salamander, a critically endangered species.
- Endangered Species Conservation: Contribute to conservation efforts for the Shanghai giant salamander.
- Hiking Trails: Enjoy various hiking trails through the lush forested area.
- Local Cuisine: Try local dishes featuring the Shanghai giant salamander, if available.
9. Kunming Stone Forest
A stunning natural wonder with towering limestone pillars forming a 'stone forest'.
- Hiking Trails: Explore various hiking trails within the stone forest.
- Photography Opportunities: Capture stunning photos of the unique stone pillars and landscapes.
- Biodiversity: Discover diverse plant and animal species found within the stone forest.
10. Lijiang Old Town
An ancient town with Naxi culture, narrow cobbled streets, and traditional architecture.
- Cultural Immersion: Experience the unique Naxi culture and traditions.
- Shopping Paradise: Discover traditional crafts, textiles, and local delicacies in the markets.
- Architecture: Admire well-preserved Naxi architecture and traditional buildings.
11. Tiger Leaping Gorge
One of the deepest gorges in the world, offering spectacular views and hiking trails.
- Hiking Trails: Challenging hikes with breathtaking views of the gorge.
- Photography Opportunities: Capture memorable photos of the steep cliffs and cascading waters.
- Local Culture: Learn about local Naxi culture, including their traditional music and dance.
12. Pudacuo National Park
A beautiful national park featuring various landscapes like lakes, forests, and meadows.
- Hiking Trails: Explore various hiking trails with different difficulty levels.
- Wildlife Spotting: Spot rare and endangered species like the giant panda, golden monkey, and white-lipped deer.
- Natural Phenomena: Witness natural phenomena like the Sea of Clouds and alpine lakes.
13. Xishuangbanna National Nature Reserve
A tropical rainforest reserve with diverse wildlife and ethnic minorities.
- Wildlife Spotting: Spot rare and endangered species like the Asian elephant, golden cat, and gibbon.
- Ethnic Minorities: Learn about various ethnic minorities like the Dai, Yao, and Bulang.
- Tropical Rainforest: Explore the lush tropical rainforest and its diverse plant life.
14. Yading Nature Reserve
A pristine nature reserve featuring sacred mountains, ancient temples, and diverse wildlife.
- Hiking Trails: Explore various hiking trails with breathtaking views of the sacred mountains.
- Wildlife Spotting: Spot rare and endangered species like the giant panda, snow leopard, and red panda.
- Cultural Immersion: Experience local Tibetan culture, traditions, and religious practices.
15. Jinsha Site Museum
An archaeological site believed to be the ancient capital of the Shu Kingdom, home to the first discovered gold artifacts.
- Archaeology and History: Learn about ancient Chinese civilization and the rich archaeological finds.
- Cultural Immersion: Experience local cultures, traditions, and contemporary Chengdu life.
- Museum Experience: Visit the modern museum with interactive displays and exhibits.