Top 20 Best Things to Do in Yan'an
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Top 20 Best Things to Do in Yan'an

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Trip.Best is a collection of travel rankings that takes into account the travel choices and genuine preferences of hundres of millions of Trip.com users. It is updated monthly based on real data.
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  • Hukou Waterfall tourist area of the Yellow Rivertop_1
    󰺂8.2
    10.85
    Yichuan.Hukou Waterfall Scenic Area>100 km from downtown
    trip best TravelHotspot logoFrozen Spectacle Unveiled at Shaanxi Hukou Waterfall | Dec 2025-Feb 2026
    Highlights:
    Feel waterfall's power up close
    󰋄Hukou Waterfall panoramic view
    󱨠Saved by 242 users󱨠9337 positive reviews
    4.6/5
    M26***62M26***62

    Generally speaking, the main waterfall is best viewed from the west side of Hukou Waterfall, offering a more direct and beautiful view. On the Shaanxi side, there are steps leading down from a height halfway down the waterfall, which also provides a good vantage point for photos. The shuttle bus takes 15 minutes one way, but departures are infrequent due to the off-season. When I visited in early December, there were fewer visitors and lower water levels, so the Yellow River wasn't yellow. Some sections of the riverbank were frozen.

  • The Mausoleum of Yellow Emperortop_2
    󰺂7.1
    Huangling>100 km from downtown
    Highlights:
    󱓊National ceremony during Qingming Festival
    󰋄Yellow Emperor's sacred mausoleum
    󱨠2398 positive reviews
    4.5/5
    Anonymous userAnonymous user

    It's spectacular, and the scenic area is very large, divided into the building complex at the foot of the mountain and the mausoleum on the mountain. It is also the birthplace of Chinese civilization, a place for tracing roots and paying homage to ancestors, all of which ultimately come together as one.

  • Ganquan Canyontop_3
    󰺂7.0
    14.35
    Ganquan40.8 km from downtown
    trip best TravelHotspot logoGanquan Grand Canyon's Early Winter Light and Shadow Spectacle | Dec 2025-Dec 2025
    Highlights:
    󱓊Antelope Canyon & Birch Valley
    󰋄Antelope Valley & wild peonies
    󱨠Saved by 457 users󱨠2052 positive reviews
    4.7/5
    东篱把酒@东篱把酒@

    On a crisp autumn morning, I once again stepped into the Ganquan Grand Canyon. The morning light slanted into the Birch Gully, making the ochre and dark green veins on the rock walls resemble ancient verses ablaze. As a seasoned visitor, I've witnessed its transformation from a pristine, hidden paradise into a place that blends wildness and warmth. Compared to my last visit, I noticed the scenic area has made significant efforts to enhance the experience: 1. Cultural revitalization, breaking the monotony. The lively and enthusiastic Shaanxi folk dance in front of the visitor center, and the skillful finger movements of the inheritors at the intangible cultural heritage paper-cutting stalls—these added a cultural touch, allowing the geological wonders to be heard before they were seen; 2. Concrete services, ensuring peace of mind. Clear signage and staff on key routes reduced the anxiety of exploring the diverse canyons like Longba Gully and Mudan Gully, allowing for a more relaxed experience; 3. Inclusive policies, demonstrating sincerity. The free admission policy, covering children, the elderly, journalists, and other groups, along with the rise of guesthouses and farmhouses run by villagers, such as "Fengmeizi Courtyard," allows tourists to experience the Loess Plateau's charm more deeply and has genuinely boosted the income of local villagers. Travel Tips: If time is limited, Birch Valley is a must-see, especially the 300-meter stretch of scenery that is particularly classic, with its streams, green moss, and ever-changing light and shadow. It's recommended to avoid the morning rush on holidays to better appreciate the valley's tranquility. Based on my observation, weekdays are a better time to visit. You can also try the guesthouses run by local villagers or sample local delicacies such as potato pancakes and mixed noodles to experience authentic Shaanxi flavors. A small suggestion for operators: Currently, tourism products are still somewhat monotonous, with "valley sightseeing" dominating the market. Consider combining resources such as Laoshan National Forest Park to develop in-depth products like ecological health and wellness and geological research to extend tourists' stay. There is still room for improvement in tourism infrastructure; for example, road congestion and parking difficulties still occur during holidays. The cultural significance of the valley has not yet been fully explored. Beyond the natural scenery, consider adding brief explanatory signs about the formation of Danxia landforms and the ecological protection of the canyon at suitable locations to enhance the depth of the visit. The beauty of Ganquan Grand Canyon lies not only in its breathtaking natural landscape, but also in its efforts to make this beauty more inclusive and approachable. If the attractions and experiences can be further enriched and deepened, this "Chinese Antelope Canyon" will undoubtedly offer travelers an even more profound experience.

  • Baota Mountain
    4
    󰺂6.6
    Yan'an.Baota Mountain/Wanda Plaza779m from downtown
    Highlights:
    Experience the charm of Song Dynasty architecture at Baota Mountain
    󱨜Yan'an Pagoda witnessed the course of revolutionary history
    󱨠1006 positive reviews
    4.4/5
    如水谈潭如水谈潭

    This revolutionary shrine, engraved on the RMB, is well worth a visit. There are cave-dwelling guesthouses halfway up the mountain, with shuttle service available at any time. Climb to the summit in the morning to admire the scenery along the Yan River and reminisce about the glorious past. At night, the vibrant lights shimmer, showcasing the joys of life in the new era.

  • Yangjialing Revolutionary Site
    5
    󰺂6.1
    Yan'an.Zaoyuan/Yan'An University4.3 km from downtown
    Highlights:
    Visit the Western-style Airplane Building
    󱨜Visit the Former Site of the CPC Central Committee, a cultural and historical landmark
    󱨠306 positive reviews
    4.8/5
    博😘😘肖博😘😘肖

    From a historical perspective, both Yangjialing and Zaoyuan were important locations for the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) during the Yan'an period, carrying profound historical memories. However, they differ in details. Yangjialing is renowned as the cradle of revolutionary spirit and a witness to many important historical events; while Zaoyuan is known for its garden-like environment and its status as an important base for national revolutionary tradition education. Furthermore, Yangjialing and Zaoyuan differed in the location of their administrative offices and the revolutionary tasks they undertook. Yangjialing was the former site of all the CPC Central Committee's administrative offices, undertaking the important tasks of commanding the anti-Japanese war and the War of Liberation behind enemy lines, leading the Great Production Movement and the Rectification Movement; while Zaoyuan was the former site where the Secretariat of the CPC Central Committee moved from Yangjialing, primarily undertaking tasks such as leading the entire Party in the Rectification Movement and the Great Production Movement in the liberated areas, and preparing for the Seventh National Congress of the CPC.

  • Yanchuan Yellow river Qiankun Bay Scenic Area
    6
    󰺂5.9
    8.51
    Yanchuan82.9 km from downtown
    Highlights:
    󱓊Yellow River & mountain exploration
    Surrounded by water & fortified
    󱨠675 positive reviews
    4.6/5
    WH1962WH1962

    The Yanchuan Yellow River Qiankun Bay Scenic Area is a national AAAAA-level tourist attraction built around the Yellow River. The river meanders majestically within the park, and Qiankun Bay itself, with its unique grandeur and scenery, was named one of China's ten most beautiful canyons by *China Geography Magazine*. The Yellow River, flowing for millennia, uniquely forms the "First Bend of the Yellow River"—Qiankun Bay—with a magnificent 320-degree arc within the Qin-Jin Grand Canyon of Yanchuan, Shaanxi. Here, the Yellow River changes its turbulent course, meandering like a dragon, perfectly blending the grandeur of the Loess Plateau with the philosophical concept of Yin and Yang, forming a naturally formed "Tai Chi diagram."

  • Nanniwan
    7
    󰺂5.7
    Yan'an28.3 km from downtown
    Highlights:
    365 sq mi lush valley
    󱓊History & cultivation preserved
    󱨠32% positive reviews
    4.5/5
    咪咪2023咪咪2023

    The scenery is very good, there is also a memorial hall, and there are many contents to see at the old site of the artillery school. From Yan'an Railway Station, the tourist bus is directly accessible, and the one-way fare only costs ten yuan.

  • Yan'an Revolution Memorial Hall
    8
    󰺂5.5
    Yan'an.Zaoyuan/Yan'An University2.9 km from downtown
    Highlights:
    󰀆Interactive Red Army Long March
    Three-level steps symbolize the revolutionary course
    󱨠368 positive reviews
    4.8/5
    峰一样的好男子峰一样的好男子

    ## Yan'an Revolutionary Memorial Hall: A Spiritual Torch in the Corridor of Time Deep within the folds of the Loess Plateau, the Yan River flows quietly, yet it tells the story of a period of turbulent times. The Yan'an Revolutionary Memorial Hall is more than just a building; it serves as a spiritual bridge across time and space, connecting us closely to those turbulent years. Entering the memorial hall is like stepping into a corridor of time. From 1935 to 1948, this loess land served as a beacon for the Chinese revolution. The oil lamp in Mao Zedong's former residence, the spinning wheel used by Zhou Enlai, the kerosene lamp Zhu De used to review documents... Each artifact is more than a cold exhibit; it bears witness to history with warmth. They quietly recount the sleepless nights in the cave dwellings, the arduous struggles on the Loess Plateau, and the unwavering belief that "a single spark can start a prairie fire." The memorial hall's exhibition weaves a magnificent picture of revolution, weaving history as its warp and spirit as its weft. Here, you can see the simple outfit of the Red Army as they arrived in Yan'an during the Long March, feel the historical choices made during the formation of the Anti-Japanese National United Front, appreciate the ideological transformation of the Yan'an Rectification Movement, and experience the glorious moments of the Seventh National Congress of the Communist Party of China. Particularly moving are the ordinary yet remarkable stories: the soldiers' self-made efforts to cultivate wasteland and ensure adequate food and clothing, the intellectuals' arduous journey to Yan'an in pursuit of truth, the selfless dedication of ordinary people who nurtured the revolution with millet... These vivid historical details imbue the grand narrative with a human touch. The Yan'an Revolutionary Memorial Hall not only records history but also carries on a spirit—the Yan'an spirit of seeking truth from facts, hard work, and wholehearted service to the people. This spirit transcends time and space, still shining brightly today, inspiring those striving in the new era. As you step outside the memorial hall and gaze back at the Loess Plateau, you may understand: Yan'an is not just a geographical location but a spiritual symbol. It reminds us that no matter how far we travel, we must never forget why we set out; no matter how times change, the power of faith never fades. What is on display here is history, what is passed on is faith, and what is awakened is the original intention. The Yan'an Revolution Memorial Hall awaits every visitor to find their own spiritual answers on this red land.

  • Zaoyuan Revolutionary Site
    9
    󰺂5.5
    Yan'an.Zaoyuan/Yan'An University7.8 km from downtown
    Highlights:
    󱨜Get a closer look at the former residences of revolutionary leaders
    Revisit the "Serve the People" speaking platform
    󱨠368 positive reviews
    4.8/5
    西格玛 123西格玛 123

    The former site of Zaoyuan Revolution is a national scenic spot, located in the northwest of Yan'an City, Shaanxi Province. It is a garden-style revolutionary memorial site. It was originally a landlord's manor. After the CPC Central Committee settled in Yan'an, it was renamed as the station of the Central Ministry of Social Affairs and was renamed "Yanyuan". From 1944 to March 1947, members of the Secretariat of the CPC Central Committee moved to this place from Yangjialing, where they led the whole Party to carry out the rectification movement and the large-scale production movement carried out by the military and civilian forces in the liberated areas, and prepared the "Seventh National Congress" of the Communist Party of China.

  • Hong Show Yanan
    10
    󰺂5.2
    26.04
    Yan'an.Zaoyuan/Yan'An University7.5 km from downtown
    trip best small logoNo. 2 of Family-friendly Attractions in Yan'an
    Highlights:
    󱨜360° panoramic recreation of historical scenes from the Long March
    Participate in a realistic war performance in a military uniform
    󱨠65% positive reviews
    4.7/5
    阳光下的世界好精彩阳光下的世界好精彩

    The performance was great. The actors were very serious and dedicated. They performed every day and repeated the same thing without any perfunctory attitude. Every sentence they recited was sonorous and passionate. Every move of the dance and aerial acrobatics reflected the hard training behind it. It is rare. Thank you for your hard work and for carrying forward the precious Yan'an spirit.

Best things to do in Yan'an (2025)

Looking for the ultimate experiences in Yan'an? From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, Yan'an offers an exceptional collection of activities and attractions that cater to every type of traveler.

Whether you’re here for sightseeing, adventure, or cultural exploration, these top-rated activities promise unforgettable memories.

Top-rated things to do in Yan'an

If you want to make the most of your trip, these activities deliver the full Yan'an experience. Expect popular attractions, unique local experiences, and must-see spots that capture the essence of the city.

Hukou Waterfall tourist area of the Yellow River

• Yichuan.Hukou Waterfall Scenic Area | >100 km from downtown

• : Feel waterfall's power up close,Hukou Waterfall panoramic view

The Mausoleum of Yellow Emperor

• Huangling | >100 km from downtown

• : National ceremony during Qingming Festival,Yellow Emperor's sacred mausoleum

Ganquan Canyon

• Ganquan | 40.8 km from downtown

• : Antelope Canyon & Birch Valley,Antelope Valley & wild peonies

Things to do for unique experiences

These activities provide memorable experiences beyond the ordinary. Enjoy cultural tours, adventure sports, guided excursions, and immersive local experiences designed for all interests.

Things to do near Yan'an

If you want to explore attractions just outside Yan'an, there are plenty of activities that combine scenic surroundings with convenient access to the city, perfect for day trips or short excursions.

Each of these activities offers a unique escape within 1–3 hours of Yan'an, ideal for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with local experiences.

What makes things to do in Yan'an special

• Iconic landmarks: Visit must-see sights that define the city.
• Local experiences: Engage in culture, crafts, and unique activities.
• Accessible adventures: Easily reachable attractions for all travelers.
• Diverse options: From relaxing experiences to adventurous outings.

Tips for booking things to do in Yan'an

1. Plan ahead for popular attractions to avoid long queues.
2. Book early for guided tours or seasonal events.
3. Compare prices and packages on Trip.com for exclusive deals and bundled experiences.
4. Consider weekday visits for a quieter and more personalized experience.

Experience the best things to do in Yan'an

Ready to explore the best of Yan'an? Discover Trip.Best's curated list of things to do and experience adventure, culture, and unforgettable memories.

Book your perfect activities on Trip.com today, where excitement and discovery awaits.

What Best Things to Do are there in Yan'an?
These are all Best Things to Do in Yan'an:Hukou Waterfall tourist area of the Yellow River, The Mausoleum of Yellow Emperor, Ganquan Canyon, Baota Mountain, Yangjialing Revolutionary Site
What are some highly-rated Best Things to Do in Yan'an?
Some highly-rated Best Things to Do in Yan'an include:Hukou Waterfall tourist area of the Yellow River:4.6, The Mausoleum of Yellow Emperor:4.5, Ganquan Canyon:4.7, Baota Mountain:4.4, Yangjialing Revolutionary Site:4.8
At what locations in Yan'an can Best Things to Do in Yan'an be found?
The Best Things to Do in Yan'an are mainly located in:Hukou Waterfall tourist area of the Yellow River:Yichuan, The Mausoleum of Yellow Emperor:Huangling, Ganquan Canyon:Ganquan, Baota Mountain:Yan'an, Yangjialing Revolutionary Site:Yan'an
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