Things To Do
in Xinyingheyan
Xinyingheyan is a windswept town on the edge of the Gansu loess plateau, where ancient lanes meet modern cafes and markets. The town blends Hui mosques, Han street culture, and hillside trails that reveal a diverse regional heritage. Narrow river valleys and terraced slopes create scenic viewpoints around every corner.
Visitors come for hearty northern flavors, serene sunsets over the river, and easy explorations of nearby countryside and markets.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Xinyingheyan and settle into your accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll around the local area to soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy a traditional Chinese breakfast at a nearby eatery to kickstart your adventure.
Visit the Xinyingheyan Cultural Park to learn about the rich heritage of the region. Engage with local artisans who showcase their crafts and traditions. Explore the beautiful gardens and take pictures of the scenic landscapes.
Have dinner at a local restaurant, featuring delicious Hunan cuisine. Take part in a local tea ceremony to experience the traditional hospitality. Wrap up the day with a peaceful walk along the riverbanks, enjoying the tranquil night sky.
Visit the Xinyingheyan Museum to delve deeper into the region's history and cultural evolution. Participate in interactive exhibits that allow for a hands-on learning experience. Enjoy a local breakfast dish, such as dumplings or rice noodles.
Take part in a cooking class where you’ll learn to prepare authentic Hunan dishes. Afterwards, enjoy the meal you’ve created and connect with fellow travelers. Spend some time browsing through local markets to find unique souvenirs.
Attend a cultural performance showcasing local music and dance. Savor a cup of locally sourced tea while enjoying the show. Conclude your evening by mingling with locals at a popular night market.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🚌Local transit fare (one ride) | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-80 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $2-4 |
| 🛍️Souvenir item | $5-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, scenic surroundings with approachable city-center hubs
- Rich cultural mix and approachable cuisine
- Limited nightlife and some language barriers in more rural pockets
- Public transport outside the town center is lighter than in bigger cities
- "你好" - Hello
- "谢谢" - Thank you
- "请问厕所在哪儿？" - Where is the bathroom?
- "多少钱？" - How much is this?
- "能不能帮我点菜？" - Can you help me order?
- "我需要帮助" - I need help
Places to Visit in Xinyingheyan
Visit one of these nice places.
A riverfront overlook at dusk with golden light reflecting off the water and the loess hills providing a dramatic backdrop.
A narrow, lantern-lit alley of traditional storefronts ideal for moody evening shots and candid street photography.
First light over the ancient bridge, with soft colors and long shadows that highlight stone textures.
Quiet courtyard scenes with intricately carved woodwork and hanging lanterns, perfect for detail shots.
Food in Xinyingheyan
Xinyingheyan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Signature Lanzhou-style hand-pulled beef noodle soup: clear broth, tender beef slices, and neatly rolled noodles. Found in many eateries around Xinyingheyan.
Must-Try!
Charred lamb skewers seasoned with cumin and chili, perfect as a street-food snack after sunset.
Chilled peppery noodles tossed with sesame sauce, cucumber, and shredded vegetables—great for warm days.
Tangy noodles in a peppery broth with fresh herbs, a regional favorite from nearby Linxia influences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling evening stalls offering noodles, skewers, dumplings, and refreshing beverages; great for sampling a range of bites.
Daily market with fresh produce, pickled vegetables, and small eateries; ideal for a casual lunch or picnic supplies.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite nod or light handshake is common. Address people with appropriate titles and avoid loud public displays of emotion. Queue patiently and respect personal space; avoid pointing with your feet or touching someone's head.
Safety
Tipping in Xinyingheyan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most everyday settings in China, including Xinyingheyan. In high-end hotels, for tour guides, or exceptional service, small tips are acceptable but not expected.
Mobile payments are widespread. WeChat Pay and Alipay are the most common methods, with cash accepted widely in markets and smaller eateries. Some larger hotels and chains may take credit/debit cards; carry cash for rural or smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with strong sun. Stay hydrated, wear a hat, and carry sunscreen. Afternoon thunderstorms are possible in some years; pack a light rain layer.
Mild days with cooler evenings. Clear skies and excellent visibility for photography and hiking. Bring layers for temperature swings.
Cold and dry, with occasional frost or light snowfall on higher slopes. Layered clothing and warm footwear are essential.
Windy with variable temperatures. Blooming trees and fresh scenery make it a good time for outdoor walks; carry a light jacket.
Xinyingheyan at Night
Hiking in Xinyingheyan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic ridge route offering expansive valley views and striking geological features.
A canyon hike with shaded paths, waterfalls, and natural rock formations.
Airports
How to reach Xinyingheyan by plane.
Major gateway to Gansu; typically the easiest access point for international and domestic travelers visiting Xinyingheyan. A 1.5–2.5 hour drive, depending on traffic.
Regional hub in Qinghai; a longer drive from Xinyingheyan but useful for multi-city itineraries in the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority population with a broad mix of regional cuisines and crafts.
Significant Hui community with mosques and distinctive culinary influences.
Smaller communities contribute to local crafts and celebrations.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools and parks; frequent pickup games in evenings.
Commonly found in community centers and clubs; a favorite pastime for all ages.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Xinyingheyan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in many places. Request dishes labeled 素菜 (sùcài) or 清汤 (qīngtāng, clear/broth-less options) and avoid meat-based broths. In larger eateries, staff can tailor a vegetable-forward meal.