Shangzhou

What are the most recommended things to do in Shangzhou?

Visit the historical sites, including ancient temples and cultural landmarks in Shangzhou.
Explore the local scenic areas, particularly the mountains and natural parks surrounding the city.
Experience the rich history of Shangzhou at the local museums and historical exhibitions.
Take part in traditional folk performances or festivals, which showcase the region's cultural heritage.

Introducing Shangzhou

Shangzhou District is a district within the jurisdiction of Shangluo City, Shaanxi Province. Its predecessors were Shangzhou City, Shangxian County, Shangzhou, Luozhou, Shangluo Marquisate, Shangluo County, Shangluo, Shangyu, and Yufang. [1-2] Its government and administrative seat were located in the present-day Shangluo City and the ancient Shangluo of Shangzhou (Xiaoyi Ancient City Village in Hanchuan Buddha Birthday Park), respectively. Located on the southern slopes of the Qinling Mountains in southeastern Shaanxi Province, it borders Xi'an to the west and Hubei and Henan to the east. The district governs 30 townships and towns, covering an area of 2,672 square kilometers. The total population was 566,200 (2016), making it the economic, political, and cultural center of Shangluo City.

Humans have been living and multiplying here for 7,000 years. It was a Ruofang State in the Western Zhou Dynasty, Shangyu and Shangluo in the Spring and Autumn Period (Jin and Wei), and Shangluo was established in the Qin, Han, Sui, Tang and Song dynasties.

The region boasts 5 million mu (approximately 1.5 million hectares) of suitable forest land, 2 million mu (approximately 1.5 million hectares) of forested land, and 610,000 mu (approximately 1.5 million hectares) of usable grasslands and slopes. Over 160 economic tree species, primarily walnuts, persimmons, and chestnuts, are cultivated. Shangzhou walnuts and Xiaoyi persimmons are renowned throughout China. Production of edible and medicinal fungi, such as Gastrodia elata and Auricularia auricula, leads the province. Over 140 species of wild Chinese medicinal herbs are native to the region, making it a major producer of valuable medicinal herbs in Shaanxi Province, including Gastrodia elata, Platycodon grandiflorum, Astragalus membranaceus, and Erhua. 21 proven minerals, including gold, silver, lead, zinc, and molybdenum, have been discovered in 65 locations. Water reserves total 6.46 million kilowatts. Over 50 species of wildlife are found, including 12 species under national second and third category protection.

In December 2017, it was selected as the first batch of Shaanxi Province National Fitness Demonstration Area

Climate and best time to travel

Shangzhou enjoys a warm temperate, semi-humid monsoon mountain climate. Located in mid-latitudes, Shangzhou is protected by the natural barrier of the Qinling Mountains to the northwest, making cold air difficult to penetrate. The mountainous terrain, open to the southeast, facilitates the influx of warm, moist air, resulting in a monsoon, semi-humid mountain climate in the southern transition zone of the warm temperate zone. This climate is characterized by distinct seasons, with longer winters and springs, shorter summers and autumns, and the same warm and cold seasons. However, the climate experiences significant interannual variability in temperature and precipitation, and is prone to droughts, floods, wind, and hail. Due to the mountainous terrain, the temperature decreases with increasing altitude.

All seasons are suitable for travel.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Confucian Temple, Shangzhou City Wall, Erlang Temple, Shangzhou City God Temple, Longshan Twin Pagodas, Puyu Ecological Park;

It is recommended to play for about 3 hours.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

Most Popular FAQs for Shangzhou

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Shangzhou, located in Shaanxi Province, is an area with rich historical significance, especially during the Tang Dynasty. It has been an important cultural and political hub, with numerous ancient temples, historical buildings, and landmarks that reflect its long-standing cultural heritage.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Shangzhou is located in the southern part of Shaanxi Province. You can reach it by taking a train or bus from Xi'an, which is about 2 hours away. Once in Shangzhou, local buses and taxis are available for transportation within the city.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Shangzhou is open year-round for tourism. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant and the natural landscapes are at their most beautiful.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fees for various attractions in Shangzhou vary, but on average, they range from ¥30 to ¥100 depending on the site. Tickets can be bought at the entrance of most attractions or online through ticket platforms for some popular spots.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is not mandatory to book tickets in advance, but it is recommended during peak seasons or for specific events. Booking a few days in advance should be sufficient for most attractions.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You will need at least 2 to 3 days to fully explore the main attractions in Shangzhou, especially if you're interested in exploring the historical and natural sites.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The ancient temples and historical buildings like the Dahe Temple and the old city walls.
Shangzhou's scenic parks, such as the Qianling Park, known for its natural beauty.
The local museums that display the rich history and culture of the region.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available at most attractions, primarily in Mandarin. Audio guides in English may be available at some popular tourist sites like the museums and parks.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Views from the top of the Dahe Temple offer panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.
The natural landscapes in Qianling Park provide great opportunities for nature photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with a visit to the historical temples and city center in the morning. In the afternoon, explore the natural parks and take a leisurely stroll through the city to appreciate local architecture.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

There are no major night visits or light shows in Shangzhou. However, the city is peaceful in the evening, offering a great atmosphere for quiet walks and visits to lit-up cultural landmarks.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Shangzhou is generally not overcrowded compared to larger cities. The least crowded times to visit are weekdays during the off-peak seasons (spring and autumn).

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Public toilets are available at most attractions.
There are various restaurants and food stalls offering local Shaanxi cuisine in the city center and around popular tourist areas.
Rest areas and shops are also found at key tourist sites.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Most of the main attractions in Shangzhou are accessible to elderly and children. However, some mountainous areas or historical sites with ancient structures may have limited accessibility for disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted. Cash is still needed for smaller purchases in some local shops, though most larger attractions and restaurants accept cards.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Local restaurants offering traditional Shaanxi dishes, such as biangbiang noodles and mutton skewers.
Cafes and teahouses serving local teas and light snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan food options are available in the city. Halal food can be found in some restaurants catering to Muslim visitors.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several mid-range hotels near the city center, including boutique hotels and guesthouses.
Budget options are available, particularly in the outskirts or near transportation hubs.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

The ancient city of Xi'an, famous for the Terracotta Army, is about 2-3 hours away by train.
The Qinling Mountains, offering hiking and nature exploration, are also nearby and can be included in a day trip.