Things To Do
in Yan’an
Yan'an is a historic city in Shaanxi Province that served as the Communist Party's revolutionary base during the 1930s. Nestled in the Loess Plateau, it blends rugged landscapes with a deep sense of heritage and memory. Today it offers a compact urban core around Baota Mountain, museums, and nearby countryside for exploration.
Visitors can trace the footsteps of history while enjoying hearty Shaanxi flavors and scenic viewpoints in the surrounding hills.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey at the Yan'an Revolutionary Memorial Hall, where you can delve into the rich history of the Communist Party's early years. Spend some time exploring the exhibits, which include photographs and artifacts that tell the story of Yan’an's vital role in Chinese history. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the surrounding park, enjoying the serene atmosphere and beautiful gardens.
In the afternoon, visit the Yangjialing Revolutionary Site, where Mao Zedong and his comrades lived during the years of revolution. The site features preserved buildings that give insight into the daily lives of revolutionary leaders. Take a guided tour to learn more about the significant events that occurred here and their impact on modern China.
As the sun sets, head to the Yan'an Night Market, a bustling hub of local culture and cuisine. Sample a variety of street foods, from spicy lamb skewers to sweet pastries, while mingling with locals and fellow travelers. The vibrant atmosphere, filled with laughter and music, will offer a memorable end to your first day.
Start your day with a hike up Baota Mountain, where you’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Yan’an and the surrounding countryside. The trail is lined with lush greenery and offers several lookout points perfect for photography. As you ascend, take a moment to appreciate the historical significance of the site, which has been a symbol of the city for centuries.
After descending, visit the nearby Baota Temple, an ancient site with beautiful architecture and tranquil gardens. Spend time exploring the temple complex and learning about its history through informative displays. The peaceful ambiance invites reflection, making it a perfect spot for some quiet contemplation.
In the evening, treat yourself to a traditional Shaanxi dinner at a local restaurant specializing in regional dishes. Try the famous ‘Yangrou Paomo,’ a hearty bread and lamb soup that’s a local favorite. Enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals as you dine and immerse yourself in the culinary traditions of the area.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🥟Street food snack | $2-4 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-5 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (1 night) | $20-40 |
| 🚎Public transport (one-way) | $0.8-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich revolutionary history and museums
- Scenic rural landscapes and hiking nearby
- Smaller nightlife and fewer international dining options
- Weather can be harsh in winter
- "你好" - Hello
- "谢谢" - Thank you
- "请问厕所在哪儿？" - Where is the restroom?
- "多少钱？" - How much is this?
- "可以刷卡吗？" - Can I pay by card / Do you accept mobile payments?
Places to Visit in Yan’an
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic city overlook and stair climbs offering panoramic views, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Impressive architecture and surrounding streets that capture the historical ambiance of the era.
Historic cave dwellings and hillside layouts tied to the revolutionary base; dramatic light and shadows for photography.
Historic walls, traditional alleyways, and local life scenes ideal for candid and architectural shots.
Food in Yan’an
Yan’an Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Very long, thick noodles tossed in spicy-chili oil, garlic, and fragrant sauces; best found at street stalls and local noodle shops in Baota District.
Must-Try!
Crumbled flatbread served in a rich mutton broth, often with shaved lamb and chili; a staple Shaanxi comfort dish found in many eateries.
Grilled lamb skewers seasoned with cumin, chili, and pepper; popular at street stalls and night markets.
Succulent meat filling inside a warm flatbread; a simple, satisfying street option widely available.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for local snacks, skewers, breads, and small dishes; great for sampling a variety of street foods and grabbing a quick bite.
Evening stalls offering regional snacks, fried foods, and warm drinks; ideal for a casual food stroll after sundown.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be respectful at revolutionary sites and museums; avoid loud or disruptive behavior.
Queue in lines, do not push; keep noise to a minimum in public spaces.
Greet with a nod or simple Mandarin greeting; exchanging small talk is common but avoid sensitive topics when first meeting people.
Safety
Tipping in Yan’an
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not typically expected in most establishments; if service is exceptional in tourist areas, a small tip may be appreciated but not required.
Cash is widely used; mobile payments via WeChat Pay and Alipay are ubiquitous; credit cards are less common in smaller shops and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes; bring a light jacket and plan for a mix of sunny and cloudy days.
Hot days with occasional afternoon rain; carry water and sun protection; humidity can be moderate in some areas.
Cool, pleasant weather with crisp air and clear skies—great for photography and outdoor walks.
Cold and dry with possible snowfall; layers are essential and some outdoor sites may see reduced access.
Yan’an at Night
Hiking in Yan’an
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forested ridges and rivers near Nanniwan; moderate hikes with scenic viewpoints.
City-accessible hiking with rewarding views of Yan'an and the surrounding hills.
Airports
How to reach Yan’an by plane.
Regional airport serving Yan'an with domestic flights to major Chinese cities; straightforward facilities; access to the city center by taxi or bus.
Major international hub about 350-400 km away; connects to global destinations; best reached by train or long-distance bus from Yan'an.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The overwhelming majority in Yan'an.
Smaller numbers of Hui and other groups are present in some neighborhoods.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools and communities; frequent pickup games in parks.
Common in clubs and community centers; popular pastime.
Played in gyms and outdoor courts across neighborhoods.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Yan’an.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes are meat-based, but vegetarian options include vegetable dishes, tofu, mushrooms, and egg dishes. Ask for no meat stock and request dishes labeled as vegetarian (qing dan or su Cai).