Things To Do
in Shiyan
Shiyan is a mid-sized city in northwestern Hubei province best known as the gateway to the sacred Wudang Mountains and as an automotive manufacturing center. The city mixes modern industry with rural and mountainous landscapes—temples, forested peaks and reservoir shoreline are all within easy reach. Visitors come for Daoist culture, Wudang martial arts heritage and outdoor activities such as hiking, boating and scenic photography.
Shiyan offers an off-the-beaten-path experience compared with Hubei’s larger cities, with friendly local life and fewer international tourists.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the historic center of Shiyan, where ancient architecture meets modern life. Visit the Shiyan Museum to learn about the rich history and cultural heritage of the region. Don’t forget to capture photos of the beautiful old buildings that tell stories of the past.
After lunch at a local restaurant, head to the nearby Zhangwan District to explore local artisan shops and markets. Here, you can find unique handicrafts and traditional Chinese goods, perfect for souvenirs. Take a break at a teahouse to enjoy some traditional Chinese tea while soaking in the local atmosphere.
As the sun sets, enjoy a delightful dinner at a well-known local restaurant specializing in Hubei cuisine. Try the famous Wudang Mountain tofu and other local delicacies. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the riverside to experience the vibrant nightlife of Shiyan.
Wake up early and prepare for an adventurous day in the Wudang Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Start your hike at the Golden Hall, where you can admire stunning views and ancient Taoist temples. The crisp mountain air and scenic landscapes will invigorate your spirit.
Continue your exploration by trekking to the Purple Cloud Temple, one of the most prominent Taoist temples in the area. Participate in a Tai Chi class offered by local masters, experiencing the harmony of body and mind in this serene environment. Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the majestic mountains, surrounded by nature's beauty.
As the day winds down, descend the mountain and visit a local hot spring for relaxation. Unwind in the soothing waters while enjoying the beautiful natural surroundings. Conclude your day with a hearty dinner at a local eatery featuring mountain specialties.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a cafe | $2-5 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (5–10 km) | $4-8 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $35-70 |
| 🚌Intercity bus to nearby city (e.g., to Wuhan) | $8-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Gateway to the historic and scenic Wudang Mountains and Daoist culture
- Authentic local life with fewer international tourists
- Good outdoor activities—hiking, boating and photography
- Affordable prices and plentiful local food options
- Limited English spoken widely outside tourist areas
- Public transport to rural sights can be slow or infrequent
- Nightlife and international dining options are limited
- Summer humidity and seasonal rains can impact outdoor plans
- "你好 (Nǐ hǎo)" - Hello
- "谢谢 (Xièxiè)" - Thank you
- "多少钱？ (Duōshǎo qián?)" - How much does it cost?
- "卫生间在哪里？ (Wèishēngjiān zài nǎlǐ?)" - Where is the bathroom?
- "我不要辣 (Wǒ bù yào là)" - I don't want spicy
- "我是素食者 (Wǒ shì sùshí zhě)" - I am a vegetarian
- "请帮我拍照 (Qǐng bāng wǒ pāizhào)" - Please take a photo for me
- "武当山在哪儿？ (Wǔdāng Shān zài nǎr?)" - Where is Wudang Mountain?
Places to Visit in Shiyan
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic sunrise and panoramic shots of temple ridgelines and misty forested peaks; great for landscape and cultural photography.
Detailed temple architecture, carved eaves and ceremony scenes—ideal for close-ups and cultural storytelling.
Long water vistas, fishing boats and dramatic reflections—best at dawn or dusk for calm water and soft light.
Rural scenes of terraced fields, old courtyard houses and daily life provide candid portrait opportunities and seasonal color.
Food in Shiyan
Shiyan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A delicate, soft tofu specialty often served steamed or braised in light sauces near Wudang temples; try it in village restaurants around the mountain.
Must-Try!
Freshwater fish braised with soy, ginger and aromatics — common along the reservoir and riverside eateries.
Although more famous in Wuhan, versions of this sesame noodle dish appear in local breakfast stalls—mix of sesame paste, soy and pickles.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market selling fresh produce, river fish and street snacks; great for trying grilled skewers, fried dumplings and steamed buns.
Evening stalls offering local snacks such as stinky tofu, spicy skewers, and sweet pancakes—ideal for sampling inexpensive bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, speak quietly, remove hats and follow signs—photography may be restricted in certain halls and always respect monks and worshippers.
A simple nod or handshake is fine in the city; accept and hand items with both hands when appropriate. Avoid political topics and public criticism.
Chopsticks are standard—do not stick them upright in rice. Sharing dishes is common; try a bit of everything to show appreciation.
Safety
Tipping in Shiyan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not widely expected in everyday situations; small tips may be appreciated for exceptional service in higher-end hotels or by private guides, but are usually discretionary.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) dominate in urban areas and many vendors; carry some cash (RMB) for remote markets, small stalls and mountain vendors. Credit cards are accepted at larger hotels and restaurants but not universally.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming vegetation make hiking pleasant, but expect occasional rain—bring a light rain jacket and layered clothing.
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; ideal for water activities on Danjiangkou Reservoir but pack sunscreen, insect repellent and hydration.
Clear, comfortable weather and excellent visibility—arguably the best time for hiking and photography as foliage colors develop.
Cool to cold and often damp; higher elevations on Wudang can be frosty. Some temples are quieter and easier to visit, but bring warm layers and waterproof shoes.
Shiyan at Night
Hiking in Shiyan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A classic hike through forested slopes and temple complexes up to Golden Peak (Jinding) with excellent viewpoints and cultural stops.
Shorter loops connecting major temple sites—good for half-day hikes and accessible to moderately fit visitors.
Gentler coastal trails and country roads along the reservoir offering peaceful walks, birdwatching and sunset views.
Airports
How to reach Shiyan by plane.
The local airport serving Shiyan and Wudang scenic area with regional flights to major Chinese cities; convenient for direct access to the city and mountain areas.
Major international airport approximately 3–4 hours by car or high-speed rail from Shiyan; offers many domestic and international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The overwhelming majority of residents are Han Chinese, forming the cultural and linguistic mainstream.
Around Wudang, you will find Daoist priests, monks and students who maintain temples, traditions and martial arts schools.
Surrounding areas include villages and farming communities with older populations and traditional lifestyles.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Traditional internal martial arts and tai chi are practiced and taught widely around Wudang—both as cultural practice and physical activity.
Common community sports with many local leagues and school teams; public courts are widely used.
A popular leisure and competitive sport across China, with local clubs and recreational play common.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shiyan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common around Wudang temples (temple cuisine) and many restaurants will serve tofu and vegetable dishes; carry a note in Chinese explaining you are vegetarian for markets and street vendors.
Vegan options are available but less guaranteed—ask about fish stock or lard. Gluten-free needs caution: soy sauce is common. Use a translation card for specifics and consider self-catering where possible.