Sanmenxia Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in Apr)

Shanzhou Underground Courtyard

Shanzhou Underground Courtyard is worth a visit. You see trees but not the village, enter the village but not the houses, go inside but not see doors, only people. The Sanmenxia Underground Courtyard, also known as the Skywell Courtyard, is a remnant of the ancient human dwelling lifestyle, known as the 'underground quadrangle' of northern China, with a history of about 4000 years.

Shanxian Underground Courtyard in Sanmenxia, distinctive and unique

The Shanxian Underground Courtyard, located in Beiyin Village, Zhangbian Township, Shanxian District, Sanmenxia City, Henan Province, is an ancient and magical residential style. Rich in culture, it is the only underground ancient residential architecture in the country and even the world, known as 'the ancient village beneath the horizon, a living fossil in the history of residential buildings,' and is one of the four unique ancient residential architectures in China. 'Seeing trees but no village, entering the village but not seeing houses, entering a home but not seeing doors, hearing sounds but not seeing people' is its true portrayal. The Dikeng Cultural Park mainly consists of 22 interconnected underground courtyards, each with different themes, comprehensively displaying the historical evolution of the underground courtyards and the lifestyle and folk skills of the people in the Shanxian region. At the same time, the scenic area also preserves many undeveloped underground courtyards for tourists to visit, searching for the lost underground ancient villages along the loess of Shan Plateau, allowing the traditional culture of the underground courtyards to be passed down for a long time. The folk performances and intangible cultural heritage displays in the courtyard, such as grass beating and printing, Shanxian paper-cutting, gong and drum books, Chengni inkstones, puppet shows, shadow puppetry, sugar painting, red song performances, and Shanxian special wedding customs performances, are highly interactive and rich in culture, and have been well received by tourists since the opening.

Check in at 'Shanzhou Dikengyuan', I really learned a lot after watching

Check in at Shanzhou Dikengyuan, I really learned a lot after watching. Read thousands of books, travel thousands of miles. 'An ancient village below the horizon, a living fossil in the history of residential houses.' You see trees but not the village, enter the village but not the house, enter the house but not the door, hear voices but not people, I really learned a lot after watching. Navigation: Shanzhou Dikengyuan, after a scenic road, you will arrive. The scenic area has a parking lot, convenient for parking. Parking fee is 10 yuan. Ticket: 68 for adults, half price for children 1.2 meters to 1.5 meters, free for children under 1.2 meters. Food: There is a snack street along the exit, and you can also experience the local special 'Shanzhou Ten Bowls Banquet'. 22 Dikengyuan are connected to each other, like walking in a maze. The courtyard displays folk performances and intangible cultural heritage displays, such as grass hammer printing, Shanzhou paper cutting, gong and drum books, Chengni inkstones, shadow puppetry, sugar painting, red song performances, Shanzhou special wedding customs performances, etc. I experienced grass hammer printing and witnessed how the juice of flowers and plants is printed into a beautiful picture. It costs 20 yuan to experience printing and dyeing a small bag, and the price is not expensive. I watched how the old lady spun a ball of cotton into silk thread, and the thread into cloth. One of the courtyards has a mountain stove, the stove hearts are connected, according to the principle of hot air rising, nine stove holes are opened in turn, placing nine pots, and the stove temperature decreases upwards. The first fire of the mountain stove is the most vigorous, suitable for steaming and boiling. As the fire gradually weakens, it is stewing, stewing, and keeping warm in turn. The function is simply too powerful. Curious babies tiptoe to open each pot lid to see what's inside. (Of course there is no food inside) Key points: The Dikengyuan, also known as the 'Underground Siheyuan', is a unique local residential form of 'digging pits on the flat ground and chiseling kilns on the four walls'. The construction art has been included in the third batch of national intangible cultural heritage list. Distribution of Dikengyuan: It is distributed in Shanzhou District of Sanmenxia, Henan, Yuncheng, Shanxi, Qingyang in Longdong, Gansu, and some areas of Shaanxi. The Dikengyuan was mostly built in the late Qing Dynasty and the early Republic of China. The earliest existing courtyard that still has people living in it has a history of more than 200 years and has been lived in by more than six generations. The building quality is simply top-notch. Architectural features: The construction cost is low, the method is unique, the shape and decoration are beautiful, and the living is comfortable. The construction process does not cost a brick or a tile; in order to prevent rainwater from pouring into the cave, a seepage well is dug in the middle of the Dikengyuan for storing seepage rainwater; in order to prevent the accumulated water around the Dikengyuan from flowing into the courtyard, there are horse-stopping walls and green tile eaves around, and at the same time prevent people from falling into the Dikengyuan.

Touring the Dikengyuan in Shan State after the snow

The Dikengyuan in Shan State District, Sanmenxia City, Henan Province, is the hometown of Chinese Dikengyuan culture. The Dikengyuan is the cradle of the ancestors on both sides of the Yellow River, and it is also one of the symbols of the living culture in western Henan. The Dikengyuan is also known as the "underground Siheyuan" in northern China, which is a way of living in caves in the early years, and this kind of residence contains a deep cultural accumulation and rich cultural connotation. The Dikengyuan in Shan State is a project set up by Sanmenxia City to excavate this special living culture and for the construction of large-scale tourism. It is a key project of the "Hometown of Chinese Dikengyuan Culture". The project was established and the overall planning design was completed in August 2012, and the construction officially started in October. It began to receive tourists in 2014. After the snow, we toured the Dikengyuan in the cold wind. At the right time, the courtyard was decorated with lights, the red lanterns were hung high, the stage was well decorated, the sound was being debugged, and the staff warmly invited: starting tomorrow (the 23rd of the twelfth lunar month), "the New Year's Lantern Festival" will be held until the fifteenth of the first lunar month. Looking at this lively scene, I really want to celebrate the New Year in the Dikengyuan.

Apart from Luokun, there are also the Swan Lake in Sanmenxia around Luoyang!

The first time I visited Sanmenxia, the reputation of the City of Swans was definitely not an overstatement! On the way to the wetland park, the entire route along the Yellow River was filled with beautiful scenery. The position of the Yellow River Bridge's piers is absolutely the C position! The endless extension of the bridge piers gives a sense of infinity, filling the composition with imagination.

Swan Lake around Xi'an

Every year from mid-October to March of the following year, about 16,000 geese from Siberia migrate here to overwinter. During the New Year, there may be too many people coming to see the big swans, and the park is limited in the afternoon. Everyone can navigate to the location, parking is very convenient, and you can also feed the swans at a close distance. You can bring your own corn kernels or buy them along the way, one yuan per small bag

Swan Lake in the Children's World around Xi'an

Sanmenxia Swan Lake Wetland Park Every year from November to March of the following year Swans from Siberia will come here to overwinter Sanmenxia City is also Known as the 'City of Swans' Xi'an North Station-Sanmenxia South Station The Swan Lake Wetland Park is particularly large If you just want to see the swans, you can enter directly from the north gate As soon as you enter, it is the largest swan gathering area in the park Buy some small snacks for the swans Then you can take crazy photos

Let's go see the swans!

Every year, the Jin and Yu sections of the Yellow River attract awe-inspiring swans, and the Sanmenxia National Wetland Park is their first choice! This mysterious park is not only famous for the arrival of thousands of swans, but is also known as the 'City of Swans'! The design of the wetland park is perfect, and its geographical location is excellent, making it a must-visit place! In addition to the traditional Sanmenxia Wetland Park, there is a little-known treasure place for swan viewing - Pinglu. This hidden corner on the opposite side of the Yellow River is definitely a great choice you can't miss! Here, you will be immersed in the original beauty of the Yellow River, have close contact with cute swans, and it only takes a short ten-minute drive from Sanmenxia. Moreover, it is close to the majestic Longmenguan Mountain, which will give you a wider view and the natural scenery is even more beautiful!

The Three Gorges Dam 🤩

The Three Gorges Dam is an impressive feat of engineering and a crucial part of China's effort to modernise its energy infrastructure. Visiting the damn os definitely a must. There are different tours to see different part of the infrastructure. The dam has had some positive effects, including reducing flooding risk and providing renewable hydroelectric power in the country. #china #ThreeGorgesDam

The first dam of the Yellow River - Sanmenxia Dam

The first dam of the Yellow River - Sanmenxia Dam Sanmenxia Dam tourist area is located in the northeast of Sanmenxia city, Henan province, bordering Shanxi province to the north and Shaanxi province to the west. It is known as the 'Golden Triangle' of western Henan. On the dam, you can step across two provinces. Sanmenxia Yellow River Dam is the first large-scale water conservancy hub project built on the main stream of the Yellow River in China, known as 'the first dam of the Yellow River'. After the completion of the Sanmenxia Dam, from October to June of the following year, when the reservoir area stores water, the Yellow River forms a beautiful lake in the Sanmenxia Valley, covering an area of about 200 square kilometers. From the Sanmenxia Dam to the Dayu Crossing in Ruicheng, Shanxi, 120 kilometers away, the lake is sparkling and boundless, like a heavenly pool and the Milky Way. The green mountains and trees on both sides are continuous, and the mountain and water scenery is picturesque. In the three seasons of spring, autumn and winter, wild ducks flock, geese line up, and precious white swans fly between the blue sky and clear water. And every year from June to October, when the dam discharges flood and releases water, the rapids roll, the valley roars, the water splashes, the rainbow hangs in the sky, which is spectacular. Standing on the Sanmenxia Dam, you can enjoy the majestic momentum of 'the endless rolling Yellow River'.

Sanmenxia Yellow River Dam

The dam is located at the junction of Sanmenxia in Henan and Yuncheng in Shanxi, majestic and spectacular, it is the first dam built on the main channel of the Yellow River in China, known as the first dam of the Yellow River. There is a stele on the dam that says 'Step into two provinces', which is a popular photo spot for tourists. The scenic area has an elevator, which can go through the tunnel to the viewing platform in the middle of the Yellow River for a visit, and experience the magnificent Yellow River. There is a parking lot at the entrance of the scenic area, and the parking fee is 5 yuan. The ticket is 30, and the elderly and children who meet the conditions are free.

Beautiful dam of modern China

#2024wish The Three Gorges Dam is a monumental engineering feat that reshapes both the landscape and the narrative of modern China. Its colossal scale and hydroelectric capabilities underscore its importance in addressing energy needs. However, the environmental impact and displacement of communities raise ethical considerations. The dam's sheer magnitude is awe-inspiring, but the ongoing discourse surrounding its consequences sparks reflection on the delicate balance between progress and preservation. ⚙️🌊 I wish to visit Germany in 2024

Hangu Pass! Located within the territory of Lingbao City, Henan Province, it is the throat passageway connecting the Central Plains and the Northwest

Hangu Pass! Located within the territory of Lingbao City, Henan Province, it is the throat passageway connecting the Central Plains and the Northwest. It is strategically located with dangerous terrain, overlapping mountains, and deep gorges, and has always been a place of military contention. Here, numerous thrilling historical events have taken place, such as the battles between Qin and Chu, Han and Xiongnu, all leaving deep historical marks.

Hangu Pass, the Pillar in the Midstream of History's Long River

Hangu Pass is an ancient pass in China, located southwest of the old city of Lingbao, named for its deep and perilous valley resembling a box, hence the name. It is one of the four great ancient passes of China, along with Yanmen Pass, Xianxia Pass, and Jianmen Pass. During the Warring States period, the six states other than Qin united to resist Qin, but Qin successfully defended against the allied forces at Hangu Pass. Controlling Hangu Pass meant Qin could protect the gateway to Guanzhong and the eight hundred li of Qin territory from loss; advancing, they could deploy troops to the east of Yu, vying for supremacy over the world. Since then, the strategically important Hangu Pass has often been the object of military contention through the ages. Another unique aspect of Hangu Pass is that it is considered a sacred site by Taoism, as it is believed that Laozi composed the 'Tao Te Ching' here. Today (the 15th day of the second lunar month) coincides with the 2595th anniversary of Laozi's birth, and we are fortunate to witness and participate in the grand celebration held at Hangu Pass by Lingbao City. Nowadays, Hangu Pass no longer sees the flames of war or smells of gunpowder; instead, the scenic area is filled with beautiful landscapes, lush vegetation, and blossoming peach, plum, and apricot flowers, creating a delightful scene. Even the continuous spring rain cannot dampen everyone's enthusiasm for visiting!

Henan | The sacred place of Laozi's writing of the Tao Te Ching

❤Recommended reason: Hangu Pass is the intersection of Central Plains culture and Qin and Jin culture. Hangu Pass is not only a military stronghold, but also the sacred place of Laozi's writing of the Tao Te Ching. 👍Most recommended: The main attractions of Taoist culture in Hangu Pass Scenic Area include: Taoist altar, De Hall, Laozi Culture Square, Laozi Statue, Tao Te Ching, Taichu Holy Palace, Da Dao Yuan, Cock Crow Terrace, Stele Forest, etc. The idioms 'Purple Qi from the East' and 'Cock Crow and Dog Steal' happened here. 🌟Highlights: During the Eastern Zhou Dynasty, the commander of Hangu Pass, Yin Xi, observed the celestial phenomena and saw the purple qi lingering in the east. Not long after, Laozi came from the east riding a green ox, and Yin Xi stayed here to write the Tao Te Ching. During the Warring States Period, the guests of Mengchang used the methods of 'dog stealing' and 'cock crowing' to open the gate of Hangu Pass to help him escape from Qin State.

Hangu Pass, Henan

Hangu Pass is located in Wangduo Village, Hangu Pass Town, Lingbao City, Sanmenxia City, Henan Province. The pass is situated on a plateau in the west, overlooking a cliff in the east, connected to the Qinling Mountains in the south, and blocking the Yellow River in the north. Because it is located on the 'Two Capitals Ancient Road', close to the bank of the Yellow River, the pass is in the valley, deep and dangerous like a letter, hence the name Hangu Pass. It is the earliest established stronghold in Chinese history. Laozi wrote the famous Tao Te Ching here, and many idioms, such as 'Purple Qi Comes from the East', originate from here. Hangu Pass was once an ancient battlefield where war horses neighed. The ancient Chinese thinker and philosopher Laozi wrote the 5,000-word 'Tao Te Ching' here. Hangu Pass is not only a military stronghold, but also a key point for cultural and economic exchanges between the ancient Central Plains and the northwest region. Around this famous city, there are historical stories and legends such as 'Purple Qi Comes from the East', 'Cock Crowing and Dog Stealing', 'Gongsun's White Horse', and 'Xuanzong's Change of Era'. Ticket price: 70

In the hot summer, this scene is cool. Peach Blossom Valley is one of the important components of Shuanglongwan Scenic Area in Lushi County, Henan Province. The scenery in the valley is very unique. Don't miss the small partners who like to shoot water. It is best to wear a pair of upstream shoes, you will find out what is really enjoying outdoor travel in the canyon jungle.

Henan is really a good mountain, located in the Shuanglongwan Scenic Area of Lushi, Sanmenxia City, Henan Province. It is named after the two peaks of the big faucet and the small faucet. The scenic area is beautiful, with rich trails and trees, and there is a very fun shouting spring, a thrilling glass bridge across the Luo River. The bridge is 200 meters long and 180 meters high. When you walk on it, it will appear. Torn pieces of glass. If you are brave enough to take risks, come here and challenge.