Hanzhong
Hanzhong (汉中; Hànzhōng) is a city in Shaanxi Province，nestled between the Qinling and Bashan mountain ranges, and situated in the Han River basin. Hanzhong is a popular tourist destination, with famous attractions such as the Wuhou Shrine, Dingjun Mountain, and the South Lake Scenic Area.
Understand
[edit]It has a long history and was an important military and political center during the Western Han Dynasty and the Three Kingdoms period. Hanzhong enjoys a mild climate and beautiful environment, earning it the nickname "Little Jiangnan of the Northwest."
Rich in natural resources, the region has a prosperous agricultural sector, known for producing rice, tea, and other crops.
With the development of transportation, Hanzhong has strengthened its connections with cities like Xi'an and Chengdu, becoming a major transportation hub in southern Shaanxi.
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History
Shaanxi's Hanzhong is a historically rich region located in the southern part of the province, in the Han River basin. Human activity in Hanzhong dates back to the pre-Qin period, and it was known as "Hanzhong Commandery" during the Zhou Dynasty. As one of the birthplaces of the Qin state, Emperor Qin Shi Huang engaged in military and political activities there. During the Western Han Dynasty, Hanzhong became an important transportation and economic hub.In the Three Kingdoms period, Hanzhong was particularly significant. In 217 AD, Liu Bei captured Hanzhong after a fierce battle, making it a strategic stronghold.During the Qing Dynasty, Hanzhong remained an important administrative area of Shaanxi. In modern times, Hanzhong's economy has gradually developed while retaining its rich natural scenery and cultural heritage.
Climate
Hanzhong, located at the northern foot of the Qinling Mountains in Shaanxi, has a temperate monsoon climate with distinct seasons. Spring is warm and humid, summer is hot and rainy with temperatures reaching up to 35°C, autumn is mild with reduced rainfall, and winter is cold, with temperatures dropping to as low as -5°C. Due to the climatic differences between the mountains and the basin, temperatures in the mountainous areas are lower. Hanzhong's climate is favorable for agriculture and tourism development.
Get in
[edit]By plane
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By rail
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2 Hanzhong Railway Station (汉中站). Hanzhong has both a train station and a high-speed train station, connecting it to major cities like Xi'an, Chengdu, and Chongqing. The Xi-Cheng High-Speed Railway has reduced travel time from Xi'an to Hanzhong to about 1.5 hours, making it very convenient.
- From Xi’an: It takes about 1.5 hours by high-speed train to reach Hanzhong.
- From Chengdu: The train ride is around 2 hours.
In addition to high-speed rail, Hanzhong is also served by regular train lines, such as the Yang’an Railway and the Baocheng Railway. These lines connect Hanzhong to nearby provinces and are suitable for travelers with more flexible schedules.
By bus
[edit]3 Hanzhong's long-distance bus station (汉中长途汽车站). provides services to surrounding counties and attractions, making it ideal for visiting more remote natural sites like Leping National Forest Park and Qingmichuan Ancient Town.
There are long-distance buses from other cities in Shaanxi Province (like Xi’an and Baoji) as well as from neighboring provinces like Sichuan. Hanzhong has several long-distance bus stations that provide convenient road transportation.
By car
[edit]You can take the G5 Beijing-Kunming Expressway or the G7011 Shiyan-Tianshui Expressway, both of which connect Hanzhong to cities like Xi’an and Chengdu. The roads are in good condition and offer scenic views, making it a pleasant option for those who enjoy sightseeing along the way.
Get around
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When traveling in Hanzhong, it’s essential to know how to get around conveniently. Hanzhong has a well-developed transportation system, offering various options whether you want to explore the historical and cultural attractions in the city or venture to the surrounding natural scenery.
Walking: Hanzhong's city center is relatively small, and many main attractions are concentrated there. Visitors can opt to walk, especially when the weather is nice.
Hanzhong offers convenient transportation options, with flexible public transport and taxis in the city. For trips to the suburbs or surrounding attractions, self-driving or taking tourist buses are also excellent choices.
- Buses: Hanzhong has a comprehensive bus network that covers nearly all major attractions and commercial areas. The fares are affordable, making it suitable for short trips within the city.
- Taxis and ride-hailing services: Taxis in Hanzhong and ride-hailing platforms like Didi are convenient for those unfamiliar with bus routes or who need to reach their destinations quickly.
- Shared bicycles: Many places in the city offer shared bicycle rentals, which are especially suitable for those who enjoy cycling and want to explore the city freely.
Attraction transportation
[edit]- Shuttle buses: During peak tourist seasons, some popular attractions such as the Wuhou Shrine and Shimen Zhandao may have dedicated shuttle buses running from the city center directly to the sites, making it easy for visitors to get back and forth.
- Self-driving: If you prefer a more flexible travel option, renting a car for self-driving is a great choice since the road conditions around Hanzhong are good. This allows you to easily explore several natural attractions, like Nanhu Scenic Area and the Source of the Han River.
See
[edit]In late April or early May the canola (rapeseed) fields around Hanzhong burst into bloom, covering the countryside in a blanket of yellow flowers. Going into the fields and taking photos is a popular activity and people from throughout the region visit Hanzhong for this very purpose.
- 1 Wuhou Temple.: Wuhou Temple (武侯祠) (in Mianxian County near the 108 National Highway). Built in memory of Zhuge Liang, the Prime Minister of the Shu Kingdom during the Three Kingdoms period, this shrine is a nationally protected historical site. Its ancient and solemn architecture showcases Zhuge Liang's life and accomplishments, making it a must-visit for fans of the Three Kingdoms culture.
- 2 Cai Lun Paper Culture Museum. Cai Lun Paper Culture Museum (蔡伦纸文化博物馆) (in the Yangxian County Dragon Town). Cai Lun paper culture museum and papermaking inventor Cai Lun fiefs and Cemetery Mausoleum only wall, Cai Lun.
- 3 Zhang Qian Memorial Hall. Zhang Qian Memorial Hall (张骞纪念馆), Chenggu County. This hall commemorates Zhang Qian, a famous diplomat of the Han Dynasty and pioneer of the Silk Road. The memorial offers insight into his life and the history of the Han Dynasty’s foreign relations.
Do
[edit]Natural scenery
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- 4 Hanjiang River Source Forest Park（汉水源森林公园）.: Known for its scenic mountains and rivers, this park is a fantastic spot for nature lovers to hike, bird-watch, and experience the beautiful source of the Han River.
- 5 Liuba Zibaishan (Mount Zibai) 紫柏山.: Famous for its high mountains, cliffs, and unique cypress trees, Zibaishan is a beautiful place for hiking and photography. The mountain also features numerous ancient structures and Taoist temples for visitors to explore.
Seasonal flower festivals
[edit]- Rapeseed Flower Festival: From March to April each year, Hanzhong hosts a Rapeseed Flower Festival. During this time, vast fields of golden rapeseed flowers cover the land, creating a vibrant scene perfect for photography and sightseeing,where visitors can feel the vitality of spring.
Folk culture
[edit]- Hanzhong hosts many traditional folk activities, such as Shehuo performances, temple fairs, and Han opera during the Spring Festival. Visitors can experience Hanzhong's cultural heritage and customs by attending these local celebrations.
Hot springs
[edit]- 6 Mianxian Hot Springs（勉县温泉）.: Located near the Mianxian Scenic Area, this hot spring resort is an excellent place for relaxation and rejuvenation, especially in autumn and winter. Enjoy a warm soak while appreciating the surrounding natural beauty.
Hanzhong has unique scenery throughout the four seasons, combining historical culture and natural beauty, making it a truly worthwhile destination to visit.
Buy
[edit]Hanzhong offers a variety of local handicrafts, specialty products, and souvenirs, making it easy to bring home a piece of its charm or share with family and friends. Here are some of the unique items you can purchase in Hanzhong:
Specialty products
[edit]- Hanzhong Xianhao Tea： Hanzhong’s humid climate is perfect for tea cultivation. Hanzhong Xianhao Tea is known for its fresh, delicate aroma, vibrant green leaves, and mild, fragrant taste, making it a cherished local green tea.
- Yangxian Black Rice: Black rice from Yangxian has a soft, sticky texture and is rich in nutrients. It can be used for rice dishes or various desserts, making it a healthy choice for food lovers.
- Hanzhong Red Rice: With a purplish-red color, this red rice is rich in protein and minerals. The cooked rice is fragrant and slightly sweet, making it an excellent gift.
Local delicacies
[edit]- Chenggu Bacon: Chenggu bacon is made from local pork and preserved through smoking or drying, giving it a rich flavor and tender texture. It’s perfect for cooking or enjoying slowly at home.
- Hanzhong Noodle Seasoning Pack: Hanzhong noodles (Mianpi) are a local specialty. If you enjoy this snack, you can purchase seasoning packs to recreate the authentic flavor at home.
Traditional handicrafts
[edit]- Mian County Paper-Cutting: Mian County is known for its exquisite paper-cutting with diverse designs, including flowers, animals, and traditional motifs. These paper-cuttings make great decorations or gifts.
- Zhenba Embroidery: With a history spanning hundreds of years, Zhenba embroidery is known for its bright colors and intricate patterns, often used on clothing, bags, and other items. Each piece reflects rich local culture.
- Shimen Plank Road Souvenirs: Hanzhong’s ancient Shimen Plank Road inspires many souvenirs, such as small ornaments and hanging decorations, representing the area's historical and cultural heritage.
Herbal medicine
[edit]- Tianma (Gastrodia)： The high-quality Tianma from Hanzhong’s mountains is a prized herbal medicine known for relieving pain and boosting vitality. It can be used to make medicinal wine or soups.
- Jiaogulan (Gynostemma)： Known locally as “Southern Ginseng,” Jiaogulan has detoxifying, blood pressure-lowering benefits and is often brewed as a health tea.
These specialty products and crafts from Hanzhong are rich in local flavor, making them perfect for sharing Hanzhong’s heritage and culture, as well as for collection or gifting.
Eat
[edit]Hanzhong is famous throughout China for its "Mian Pi," cold rice noodles served with a spicy and sour sauce and usually served with vegetables such as cucumbers, carrots or sprouts.
There is a hot version of Mian Pi, which although not as good is also readily available.
Worth trying are "Rou Jia Muo" which are essentially Chinese hamburgers and "Niu Rou Mian," wheat noodles with beef. Both items are readily available from street vendors.
Culinarily, Hanzhong is part of Sichuan and sa such the food in the city is generally spicy.
Local delicacies
[edit]- Hanzhong Mianpi (Cold Rice Noodles): Mianpi is a local specialty, known for its smooth and chewy texture. Seasoned with various spices, it’s a popular cooling snack among locals, especially during the summer.
- Vegetable Tofu Soup: This traditional tofu dish is cooked with vegetable seeds and tofu, offering a mild yet unique flavor.
- Bangbang Pork: Made from pork trotters, this dish has a soft texture and rich flavor, making it a local specialty worth trying.
Drink
[edit]Hanzhong is located in the southwestern part of Shaanxi Province, China, known for its rich resources and diverse natural produce. In addition to its delicious local snacks, Hanzhong also offers a variety of drinks. If you’re visiting Hanzhong, here are some beverages you might want to try:
- Hanzhong Tea: Hanzhong, situated at the southern slopes of the Qinling Mountains with a humid climate, is ideal for growing tea. Hanzhong green tea, especially the renowned "Hanzhong Xianhao," stands out. This tea has a strong fragrance, a refreshing taste, and a bright green color. Tea culture is deeply rooted in Hanzhong, and many teahouses offer authentic Hanzhong green tea, allowing you to experience traditional tea rituals.
- Flower Teas: Besides green tea, Hanzhong offers a variety of flower teas, such as jasmine, chrysanthemum, and osmanthus tea. These flower teas can be enjoyed on their own or mixed with green tea, providing a fresh and fragrant flavor.
- Glutinous Rice Wine: Hanzhong also boasts a variety of traditional alcoholic beverages, with glutinous rice wine being a local favorite. Hanzhong’s rice wine typically has a lower alcohol content and a slightly sweet taste, making it ideal for casual sipping. Locals often add rice dumplings, dates, or other ingredients, creating a sweet, warming drink known as "jiuniang," which is especially popular in winter.
- Jujube Tea: Hanzhong is abundant in red dates, widely used in local beverages. Jujube tea, made from simmered red dates, is known for its nourishing qualities, helping boost energy and improve circulation. This sweet tea is a perfect winter beverage to keep warm.
- Hanzhong Beer: Some local beer brands have emerged. Although small in scale, they can be found in local restaurants and night markets. Hanzhong beer has a crisp taste, pairing well with bold dishes like barbecue or hotpot.
- Wild Plant Beverages: The mountainous regions surrounding Hanzhong are home to many wild plants, which locals use to make various beverages, such as buckwheat tea, honeysuckle water, and osmanthus syrup. These drinks not only quench thirst but also offer health benefits, making them quite popular.
Sleep
[edit]Budget
[edit]If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, clean, and comfortable place to rest, Hanzhong has several budget hotels and hostels, including chains like Home Inn, 7 Days Inn, and Jinjiang Inn. These hotels are reasonably priced with basic amenities, making them a good choice for backpackers and students.
Mid-range
[edit]Traditional inns: For travelers who enjoy local charm, Hanzhong has many inns with preserved historical architecture, especially in Mianxian, Liuba, and nearby ancient towns. You’ll find inns with unique decor and courtyard designs, such as the brick-paved guesthouses in Liuba, capturing the rustic feel of the Qinba Mountains.
Splurge
[edit]High-end hotels: If you prefer comfort and high-quality service, high-end hotels in downtown Hanzhong, such as the Tianhan Hotel and Jinlong International Hotel, are great options. These hotels are well-equipped with amenities like gyms, swimming pools, and business centers, offering a relaxing retreat after a long day of travel.
Boutique guesthouses: Hanzhong’s surrounding villages and scenic areas have many unique boutique guesthouses, especially near Baohe River, Huayang Ancient Town in Yangxian, and Qingmuchuan Ancient Town. These guesthouses often combine modern and traditional design, providing comfort and a local atmosphere, such as Hanfeng Inn and some distinctive guesthouses in Nanzheng District.
Unique scenic area accommodations: Hanzhong's natural scenic areas also offer some unique accommodation options, such as resorts or wooden cottages in places like Liping National Forest Park and Longtou Mountain. These lodgings let you experience nature directly, surrounded by mist and bird song—a perfect way to relax.