
Best Backpacking Destinations in Xushan, China
1. Wulingyuan Scenic Area
Explore the breathtaking sandstone pillars and karst landscapes, home to the famous Avatar Mountains.
- Unique Landscapes: Wulingyuan offers unique sandstone pillar formations that are a rare sight.
- Hiking Trails: Offers various hiking trails suitable for backpackers of all levels.
- Night Photography: Ideal location for capturing stunning night sky photographs.
2. Zhangjiaje National Forest Park
Hike through the iconic pillar-studded landscape and experience the Tianmen Mountain Cableway.
- Iconic Landscapes: Zhangjiaje National Forest Park is famous worldwide for its unique rock pillars.
- Cableway Ride: Experience the thrill of riding one of the world's longest cableways at Tianmen Mountain.
- Hiking Opportunities: Offers numerous hiking trails with varying levels of difficulty.
3. Tianmen Mountain
Discover the natural wonders of Tianmen Mountain, including the famous 'Heaven's Gate' cliff.
- Natural Wonders: Tianmen Mountain boasts numerous natural wonders, such as the 'Heaven's Gate' cliff.
- Cableway Ride: Enjoy the scenic cableway ride offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
- Hiking Trails: Provides numerous hiking trails with varying levels of difficulty.
4. Fenghuang Ancient Town
Step back in time and explore the charming Fenghuang Ancient Town, filled with traditional architecture and local culture.
- Historical Landmark: Fenghuang Ancient Town showcases centuries-old architecture and traditional Miao culture.
- Local Market: Visit the bustling local market for unique souvenirs, food, and cultural experiences.
- Boat Trips: Take a boat trip along the Li River to appreciate the picturesque scenery.
5. Jiufotang Temple
Marvel at the intricate architecture and spiritual artistry of Jiufotang Temple, a Taoist temple hidden in Wulingyuan.
- Taoist Temple: Jiufotang Temple is one of the few remaining Taoist temples in Xushan.
- Intricate Architecture: The temple features intricate carvings and delicate artwork that showcase traditional craftsmanship.
- Spiritual Experience: A peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle, offering a spiritual experience for visitors.
6. Yanjiajie Scenic Area
Explore the unique moon-shaped hills and breathtaking views at Yanjiajie Scenic Area within Wulingyuan.
- Unique Landscapes: Yanjiajie is known for its unique moon-shaped hills and picturesque scenery.
- Hiking Trails: Offers various hiking trails suitable for backpackers of all levels.
- Cableway Ride: Enjoy the scenic cableway ride offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
7. Huangshi Village
Experience the magnificent views of the Avatar Mountains from Huangshi Village.
- Avatar Mountains Views: Huangshi Village offers a stunning viewpoint for the famous Avatar Mountains.
- Hiking Trails: Offers numerous hiking trails with varying levels of difficulty.
- Local Food: Try local dishes like rice noodles and spicy Sichuan hotpot in nearby restaurants.
8. Tongtian Avenue
Walk along the stunning Tongtian Avenue, a natural stone-walled pathway within Zhangjiaje National Forest Park.
- Natural Stone Pathway: Tongtian Avenue is a unique natural stone-walled pathway offering breathtaking views.
- Hiking Opportunities: Offers numerous hiking trails with varying levels of difficulty.
- Photo Opportunities: Ideal for capturing stunning photographs along the avenue.
9. Xihu Lake
Relax and enjoy the tranquil beauty of Xihu Lake, a picturesque natural lake in Fenghuang Ancient Town.
- Natural Beauty: Xihu Lake offers a peaceful and picturesque setting for relaxation.
- Boat Rides: Take a boat ride along the lake to appreciate the scenery.
- Local Culture: Surrounded by traditional Miao architecture and local culture.
10. Moon Hill
Marvel at the unique moon-shaped hill, a popular attraction in Yangjiaje Scenic Area.
- Unique Landscapes: Moon Hill is known for its distinctive moon-shaped hill.
- Hiking Trails: Offers various hiking trails suitable for backpackers of all levels.
- Photo Opportunities: Ideal for capturing unique photographs of the moon-shaped hill.
11. Golden Summit
Experience the awe-inspiring views from the Golden Summit, located at Tianmen Mountain.
- Panoramic Views: Golden Summit offers breathtaking panoramic views of Tianmen Mountain and surrounding areas.
- Cableway Ride: Reach the summit via the scenic cableway ride.
- Hiking Trails: Offers hiking trails for more adventurous visitors.
12. Yangjiaje Scenic Area
Explore the unique landscapes and breathtaking views at Yangjiaje Scenic Area within Zhangjiaje National Forest Park.
- Unique Landscapes: Yangjiaje is known for its unique rock pillars and picturesque scenery.
- Hiking Trails: Offers various hiking trails suitable for backpackers of all levels.
- Cableway Ride: Enjoy the scenic cableway ride offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
13. Xiangjiang River
Relax and enjoy the stunning scenery along Xiangjiang River in Fenghuang Ancient Town.
- Natural Beauty: Xiangjiang River offers a peaceful and picturesque setting for relaxation.
- Boat Rides: Take a boat ride along the river to appreciate the scenery.
- Local Culture: Surrounded by traditional Miao architecture and local culture.
14. Jinbianhu Village
Experience the charming Jinbianhu Village, a typical Dong ethnic minority village in Xushan.
- Dong Ethnic Minority Culture: Jinbianhu offers insights into the unique Dong ethnic culture.
- Traditional Architecture: Marvel at the intricate wood and rattan structures characteristic of Dong villages.
- Festival Celebrations: Witness the vibrant Dong cultural festivals, such as the Dragon Boat Festival.
15. Kaili Miao and Dong Museum
Learn about the rich Miao and Dong cultures at Kaili Miao and Dong Museum.
- Cultural Insights: Gain valuable insights into the history, traditions, and artistry of the Miao and Dong peoples.
- Artifacts and Exhibits: View a vast collection of cultural artifacts, including traditional costumes, musical instruments, and household items.
- Interactive Experiences: Enjoy interactive experiences, such as trying traditional Miao and Dong clothing.