Ankang

In Ankang’s mountain areas and by the lake, temperatures can vary quite a bit between morning and evening, so it is worth bringing a light jacket.

Ankang lies between the Qinling and Daba mountains, with the Han River running through the city. Yinghu Lake offers a lake-and-mountain landscape often described as the “Thousand-Island Lake of Northwest China,” while the lanes of the old town still retain a strong everyday local feel. Travel here is relaxed and relatively affordable, making it suitable for a short weekend break or a family trip.

Must-Try Local Foods in Ankang

Classic 2-Day, 1-Night Itinerary

• Day 1 Old-Town Flavors and Riverside Night Views: After arriving in Ankang in the morning, head first to the Gulou Street morning market to try steamed noodles and mala tang stuffed flatbread. In the afternoon, visit Ankang Museum to learn about local history, or go to Xiangxi Cave instead for an easy hike. In the evening, walk along the Han River Binjiang Avenue to enjoy the sunset, then have fish hotpot around Shuiximen or the Dragon Boat Cultural Park and enjoy the breeze by the river.
• Day 2 Boating on Yinghu Lake and a Return from the Hills: In the morning, go to Yinghu Lake Scenic Area, take a boat to tour the lake islands, then climb Luofeng Tower for a view over the water. For lunch, have a Yinghu fish feast and try the local fresh aquatic products. In the afternoon, return home with selenium-rich tea and a full stomach.

In-Depth 3-Day, 2-Night Trip with Nearby Areas

• Day 1-2: Follow the classic itinerary above to visit Ankang city and Yinghu Lake.
• Day 3: Drive or take a bus to Shiquan County to visit Shiquan Ancient Town and Houliu Water Town, and experience the slow pace of old-town life. In the afternoon, try Shiquan cured pork and pot stickers before returning.

Accommodation and Transport Tips

• Accommodation: Consider staying first around Daqiao Road or Gulou Street on the south bank of the Han River. Some hotels are right by the river, and it is convenient for reaching both attractions and food streets. If night views matter more to you, consider hotels near the Dragon Boat Cultural Park or Anlan Tower.
• Transport: From Xi’an, the high-speed train can take you directly to Ankang in as little as about 1 hour. Attractions within the city are fairly close to one another, and shared electric scooters and taxis are both convenient. To reach Yinghu Lake, you can take Bus No. 30 or go directly by taxi.

Travel Tips

• What to Wear: The temperature difference between morning and evening is noticeable in the mountains and by the lake, so bring a light jacket. Comfortable sports shoes are recommended for taking a boat at Yinghu Lake or heading into the mountains. Light-colored clothing is better for photos.
• Mosquito and Sun Protection: There are more mosquitoes in the mountains and by the lake, so bring insect repellent. The sun can be strong on the lake, so use sun protection while on the boat.
• Boat Schedule: Yinghu Lake sightseeing boats usually stop running around 3:30 to 4:00 p.m. It is best to visit in the morning or around noon so you do not miss the last boat.
• Food Choices: For steamed noodles and mala tang stuffed flatbread, prioritize areas locals often visit, such as Gulou Street and Peixin Street Night Market. There is no need to seek out famous online shops specifically; small roadside places with lines often give a better taste of the local flavor.