Things To Do
in Ankang
Ankang sits amid the Qinling range in southern Shaanxi, framed by forested slopes and rushing rivers. The city blends mountain scenery with cultural heritage, from ancient temples to bustling market streets. It serves as a gateway to Taibaishan and other Qinba landscapes, offering hiking, hot springs, and scenic drives.
Expect varied elevation and a climate that shifts with the seasons, making every visit feel different.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day at the Ankang Museum, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history of the region. After exploring the exhibits, stroll through the picturesque streets of the old town, admiring the traditional architecture and vibrant local life. Don’t forget to stop by a local tea shop to sample some fragrant green tea before heading out for the afternoon.
Head to the Ankang Confucian Temple, a serene place filled with ancient trees and beautiful courtyards. Wander through the temple grounds, taking in the intricate carvings and statues that tell stories of Confucian teachings. After your visit, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, savoring local specialties like spicy fish and handmade noodles.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk along the river promenade, where you can enjoy the reflections of the city lights on the water. Find a cozy café to relax in and taste some traditional Ankang desserts, such as sweet rice cakes. End your evening by attending a local cultural performance, showcasing regional music and dance.
Set out early for a day trip to Huashan Mountain, one of China's Five Great Mountains, known for its breathtaking views and challenging trails. Upon arrival, take the cable car to save time and energy, and start your hike along the various trails that lead to stunning viewpoints. The crisp mountain air and beautiful scenery will invigorate you as you ascend.
Continue exploring Huashan's iconic peaks, including the famous Plank Walk in the Sky, which offers an adrenaline-pumping experience and unforgettable vistas. Stop for lunch at one of the mountain teahouses, where you can enjoy simple yet hearty local dishes. After lunch, take a leisurely hike down to soak in more of the natural beauty surrounding you.
Return to Ankang in the evening, where you can unwind at a local hot pot restaurant, indulging in a delicious meal after a day of hiking. Share stories of your adventures with fellow travelers over a bubbling pot of flavorful broth. As the night deepens, stroll through the lively night market, sampling street food and picking up local handicrafts.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🍽️Restaurant meal (mid-range) | $12-25 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $2-5 |
| 🛏️Hotel (mid-range, per night) | $30-60 |
| 🚌Local transit ride | $0.5-1.5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning mountain scenery and fresh air
- Friendly locals and affordable prices
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Language may be a barrier outside main towns
- "你好 (Nǐ hǎo)" - Hello
- "谢谢 (Xièxiè)" - Thank you
- "请问厕所在哪儿？(Qǐngwèn cèsuǒ zài nǎr?)" - Where is the bathroom?
- "多少钱？(Duōshǎo qián?)" - How much?
- "可以刷卡吗？(Kěyǐ shuākǎ ma?)" - Can I pay by card?
- "我不吃辣或可以不要辣？(Wǒ bù chī là huò kěyǐ bù yòng là?)" - I don't eat spicy, can you make it not spicy?
- "请给我一份地图。(Qǐng gěi wǒ yí fèn dìtú)" - Please give me a map.
- "厕所在哪儿？(Cèsuǒ zài nǎr?)" - Where is the toilet?
Places to Visit in Ankang
Visit one of these nice places.
High-elevation vantage points with cloud inversions and sweeping valley views.
Golden hour skies reflecting on the river with historic bridges and riverside pines.
Narrow lanes and traditional architecture ideal for atmospheric street photography.
Food in Ankang
Ankang Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Wide, hand-pulled noodles tossed in a spicy, garlicky sauce with chili oil and vinegar.
Must-Try!
Crumbled flatbread in lamb broth with shredded meat—comfort food across Shaanxi.
Slow-simmered mountain lamb with a bold, hot pepper profile typical of Qinba cuisine.
Fresh fish with chili, garlic, and a savory sauce reflecting mountain river flavors.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A hub for noodles, dumplings, grilled skewers, and seasonal snacks.
Riverside stalls offering quick bites, bao, and local specialties in the evenings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; remove hats and speak softly.
Use polite phrases, avoid loud arguments; greeting with a simple 你好 is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Ankang
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in everyday restaurants, but you may leave small tips for exceptional service; in guided tours or for high-end services, a 5-10% tip is appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted; mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) dominate in shops and markets; carry cash for rural or small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming flowers; showers possible; great for greenery and city parks.
Warm and humid with afternoon rains; fog can roll in mountains; ideal for waterfalls and lush forests.
Comfortable temperatures and golden foliage; clear air and long daylight hours.
Cool to cold with occasional snowfall at higher elevations; warm interiors and hot springs are appealing.
Ankang at Night
Hiking in Ankang
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
High elevation trails with panoramic views and forest scenery.
Dense forests and diverse flora; challenging hikes.
Airports
How to reach Ankang by plane.
Major international hub; fly here then take a train or bus to Ankang.
Smaller regional airport closer to Ankang; provides connections from some domestic cities.
Major gateway in Sichuan; viable option with onward land travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group in Ankang.
Small communities including Hui and other groups in rural areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Common in community centers and schools; pickup games in parks.
Popular pastime in clubs and tea houses.
Popular outdoor activity in the Qinling/Qinba mountains.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ankang.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Shaanxi dishes rely on meat for flavor, but you can still enjoy wheat noodles, eggplant dishes, tofu and mushrooms; ask for vegetable-based broths and sesame oil-heavy flavors.