https://https://uk.trip.com/toplist/tripbest/recommend/mizhi/summer-outings/10070001895120
Water Fun Attractions
Top 50 Water Fun Attractions near Mizhi [2025]
Show All Photos
Whistling Dune Bay
4.3
/5
4611 reviews
8.3
From £12.43
Based on 81 reviews
Xiangshawan | >100 km from downtown
Phone +864008785550
Address: Dalad, Ordos, Inner Mongolia, China
Recommended sightseeing time: 0.5-1 day
Saved by 286 users2933 positive reviews
Verified user reviews
Xiangshawan is the desert I most want to visit when I go to Inner Mongolia. Because I need to bring children, there are food for sale there, which is a bit commercialized. But it’s my first time in the desert, and I still feel good.
A good trip. The tour guide Xiaolong was very considerate to remind us of the weather forecast the day before yesterday, so we added clothes in time to prevent the risk of catching a cold. The tour items were explained in detail and attentively. 5-star praise
Show All Photos
The Wave Valley Scenic Area
4.6
/5
1512 reviews
7.4
From £57.63
>100 km from downtown
Phone +8609124830101
Address: Longzhou Township, Jingbian County, Yulin City
Recommended sightseeing time: 2-4 hours
Saved by 372 users1162 positive reviews
Verified user reviews
Wave Valley is the most impressive scenic spot in Yulin. It takes 4 hours to walk and rest. The scenery is good, but I can't take pictures of it. Yixiantian is good, but it is far behind Ganquan Grand Canyon.
Yulin Wave Valley, a Danxia landform natural landscape located in Longzhou Town, Jingbian, Shaanxi Province, was formed 96 million years ago during the Cretaceous period. Formed by vast sand dunes eroded and carved by water and wind over countless centuries, the resulting landscape is known as the "Chinese version of Antelope Valley" and the "Earth's Rings."
Wave Valley is approximately 160 kilometers from Yulin city, a two-hour drive. We chose a nearby B&B (Jingbian Rancheng Hotel), which leads to the Wave Valley ticket office just over a small hill. Full-price tickets cost 90 yuan per person. Upon entering the main gate, there's a glass bridge (50 yuan per person for a separate fee). If you prefer to avoid walking, this bridge leads directly to the Flame Danxia formation, which otherwise requires a long descent and a long climb. The wooden staircases are well-maintained, but the slope is steep in some areas, making the hike quite tiring. The scenic area is divided into three main sections: Flame Danxia, Chibi Danxia, and Earth's Core Danxia. While each has its own distinct characteristics, I feel they form a cohesive whole, a masterpiece of nature's uncanny craftsmanship. Layers of sandstone, sculpted by wind and water, create wonders and works of art resembling flowing water, clouds, and waves. The interplay of light and shadow, shimmering brightness and darkness, makes the colors even more vibrant and dazzling. Wandering through the area, the path twists and turns, offering new surprises with every step. Sometimes narrow enough for only one person (a narrow gap in the sky), flanked by towering rock faces, it feels like entering a mysterious time tunnel. Other times, the path opens up, revealing a vast expanse with breathtaking views, completely relieving the pain of the climb and leaving you wanting to exclaim, "This is stunning!" The area is overflowing with photo spots, and any shot is a true masterpiece. It's a truly worthwhile natural wonder, a place you'll never want to leave and never forget.
A few more notes:
1. Protect the environment: This is an extremely precious and fragile geological relic. Please do not step on or scratch the rocks! Stay on the designated plank paths and be a civilized traveler.
2. Weather and Equipment:
• We went in late August, and the temperature was pleasant, with occasional breezes, which was quite comfortable. However, sunny weather can be very hot, so sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses) is crucial. My husband never gets any plastic surgery, and the next day his entire face and neck were red 🤭.
• Be sure to wear comfortable running shoes. Although the entire trail is about 6 kilometers, the Wave Valley is actually quite large, combining water, canyons, and highlands. You'll have to go down to the valley floor and then climb to the top. I personally think the distance was probably more than double (we skipped some spots because we couldn't walk anymore). The entire trail took 6 hours. 3. Suitable crowd: I personally think that the elderly (over 65 years old), people with poor legs and feet, and those with heart problems should consider it carefully. Although there are rest areas in the scenic area, going up and down the stairs in the canyon is not as easy as you think.
Show All Photos
Ganquan Canyon
4.8
/5
2160 reviews
7.1
From £17.40
>100 km from downtown
Phone +8609114562018
Address: Zhangjiagou, Xiasiwan Town, Ganquan County, Yan'an City
Recommended sightseeing time: 2-3 hours
Saved by 384 users1980 positive reviews
Verified user reviews
Very satisfied. The Grand Canyon is worth visiting. I really love it. Go on a sunny day. I hope the park opens more canyons. We only had three open that day. The scenery was so captivating! Keep going, Mom.
What, there is no natural scenery on the Loess Plateau? If you don't come to Yucha, you will definitely miss out on a billion. The Ganquan Grand Canyon is really worth visiting, especially in summer, the valley is beautiful and the temperature is low. This trip is very enjoyable.
No.
4
Show All Photos
Laoniuwan Yellow River Grand Canyon Tourist Area
4.4
/5
407 reviews
7.0
From £2.08
>100 km from downtown
Phone +8604717914669
Address: Lao Niuwan Village, Shantaizi Township, Qingshuihe County, Hohhot City
Recommended sightseeing time: 1-2 hours
Saved by 208 users270 positive reviews
Verified user reviews
Laoniuwan has two main parking lots: Chengwan and Niuzhuanqiankun, about a dozen kilometers apart.
Most drivers park at Chengwan, then take a boat to Tieniu Square (the scenic area directly adjacent to Niuzhuanqiankun). From Tieniu Square, you can see the first bend of the Yellow River, then take a bus back to Chengwan to pick up your car.
However, every year in mid-to-late August, flood discharges cause the Yellow River water level at Laoniuwan to be very low, even drying up in some sections. Boat service is suspended, forcing you to go to Niuzhuanqiankun. From there, take a shuttle bus to the terminal, then walk 1.1 kilometers to Tieniu Square. This walk is lined with farmhouses and B&Bs, making it convenient for dining.
During flood discharges, the water level is low and yellow, severely impacting the landscape. I personally think the scenic area should offer discounted admission during this period.
Families, went to the Yellow River Grand Canyon of Laoniu Bay, really amazing! As soon as you get there, you can see the intersection of the Yellow River and the Great Wall. This unique landscape is really worthy of being the "first bay of the Yellow River in the world". Sitting on a cruise ship shuttled in the canyon, the cliffs on both sides of the bank towered, the mountains and rivers reflected, like a natural ink painting. There is also Taiji Bay, a 270-degree large loop, from a height like a natural Taiji map, so shocking! Walking on the ancient Great Wall, touching the ancient masonry, as if you can hear the echo of history. I really recommend everyone to feel it!
No.
5
Show All Photos
Mianshan Scenic Spot
4.5
/5
2347 reviews
6.6
From £16.57
Based on 170 reviews
Mian Mountain Scenic Aera | >100 km from downtown
Phone +8603547055111
Address: Yijiazhuang Village, Jiexiu City, Jinzhong City
Recommended sightseeing time: 1 day
1167 positive reviewsRecently viewed by 1,000+ people
Verified user reviews
Mianshan is unique in its blend of natural and cultural landscapes, serving as a spiritual haven where diverse cultures converge. In Mianshan, Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism are no longer abstract concepts, but become tangible through concrete figures, stories, and landscapes.
Mianshan has a long tradition of religious tolerance, with Buddhist and Taoist temples coexisting side by side, and monks and Taoists living in harmony. This coexistence of religions is rare among famous mountains throughout China, and reflects the inclusiveness and diversity of Chinese culture.
In history, there was even a trend toward the "Three Religions in One," where Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism borrowed from and integrated their teachings and practices, forming the unique religious culture of Mianshan.
The scenery is stunning, the authentic architecture is breathtaking, and the culture is rich, making it a worthwhile visit. However, it's too demanding on your legs, so you can only explore selectively and not explore the entire area. It's too tiring to walk or climb, making it a true paradise for hikers.
Daluo Palace: A crowning achievement of Chinese Taoist architecture, built atop the Lion Rock cliffs, it's truly breathtaking! The structure boasts 13 layers, reminiscent of the Potala Palace, earning it the nickname "Little Potala Palace."
Yunfeng Temple: The main attraction is the Buddhist temple nestled beneath the cliff's grottoes, as well as Tiesuo Ridge and a zigzagging suspended staircase and plank road built on the sheer cliff face, a truly breathtaking experience. This area is also a landmark of Mianshan and perfect for breathtaking aerial photography.
Zhengguo Temple: Home to over a dozen living Bodhisattvas, unseen elsewhere, experts have called it a "world wonder." Lingying Pagoda is accessible for ascent, and aerial photography is truly breathtaking! Jiegong Ridge: Jie Zitui's retreat, cremation site, and place of worship. The Jie Temple on the mountain is located in a giant cave and is the largest cave temple in my country.
No.
6
Show All Photos
Hongjiannao Wetland
4.2
/5
716 reviews
6.5
From £5.70
Based on 3 reviews
>100 km from downtown
Phone +8609128482009
Address: Hongjiannao, China
Recommended sightseeing time: 4-5 hours
452 positive reviewsRecently viewed by 1,000+ people
Verified user reviews
The ticket I bought online at Ctrip was the same as the one I bought on site, 85 yuan for a round trip. When I went to Haisha Peninsula, the boarding terminal was a bit chaotic. Tourists rushed to the boarding gate wherever the boat arrived, so that the tourists in the front of the line could not get on the boat, while the tourists in the back of the line got on the boat early. I hope the scenic area pier can manage it to prevent the elderly and children from being squeezed and in danger.
It is rare to find such a scenic spot in China that includes deserts, grasslands, and lakes. Hongjiannao is located in Yulin, northern Shaanxi. The parking lot is a bit small and there is no one to direct the flow of cars. At noon, the parking lot was full of cars. Later, the cars did not know and were all circling around in it. Hongjiannao has beautiful scenery and many water activities. It is worth a visit.
No.
7
Show All Photos
Luya Mountain Scenic Area
4.1
/5
806 reviews
6.3
From £6.22
Based on 20 reviews
>100 km from downtown
Phone +8603504785318
Address: Ningwu, Xinzhou, Shanxi, China
Recommended sightseeing time: 2-3 hours
371 positive reviews10K views in last month
Verified user reviews
Coming from Datong, it takes 6 hours to drive back and forth, and the scenic area bus takes about 1.2 hours. I almost felt tired sitting there, it's really far. But walking on the grassland was still very pleasant. The weather was sunny and the strong wind was very comfortable. There were not many people when I came. However, the free Lover's Valley felt average, so I walked a little further and returned the same way. I also saw a lot of cattle on the way hhh
Let go of your worries this weekend and head to Luya Mountain ⛰️ to find your breath in the breeze.
"Life is like the sea, like mountains and rivers, nothing more than that." I used to think this sentence was just literary, but one day, I received a "special gift" from fate and truly understood its significance. At that moment, I suddenly wanted to escape everything. I came to Luya Mountain, it was a paradise on earth! ☁️
No.
8
Show All Photos
Mount Yun Scenic Area
4.4
/5
874 reviews
6.3
From £9.30
>100 km from downtown
Phone +8603576034567
Address: Within Dahe Village, Baner Shang Village, Guanwangmiao Township, Ning County, Linfen Township
Recommended sightseeing time: 1-2 days
Saved by 108 users523 positive reviews
Verified user reviews
The Yunqiu Mountain Ice Caves are one of the world's three greatest ice cave wonders, formed during the Quaternary glacial period and boasting a history of over three million years. Entering the caves is like stepping into a crystal fairytale world, a truly breathtaking experience. The scenic area boasts a tranquil and quaint ancient village, and vibrant performances.
It is worthy of being a 5A-level scenic spot, it is very, very beautiful. Shenxianyu, Talpo Ancient Village, and the ice cave group are definitely worth visiting. I think it is the most fun place in Linfen, and the cost-effectiveness is also very high.
No.
9
Show All Photos
Ancient Qikou Town
4.3
/5
340 reviews
6.2
54.9 km from downtown
Phone +8603584467001
Address: Qikouzhen, Linxian, Lvliang, Shanxi, China
Recommended sightseeing time: 1-3 hours
129 positive reviewsRecently viewed by 1,000+ people
Verified user reviews
Qikou Ancient Town is located 48 kilometers south of Linxian County, Luliang City, Shanxi Province. It is located in the middle of the Yellow River Jinshan Gorge. It is named after the Datong Qi of the Yellow River. It is an important commercial town on the Yellow River waterway and enjoys the reputation of "the first town of the nine-bend Yellow River".
The prosperity of Qikou Ancient Town began in the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Due to the dangers of the Datong Qi of the Yellow River, it became a transit station for the waterway on the northern mainstream of the Yellow River. In its heyday, there were as many as 150 ships coming and going at Qikou Wharf every day, and more than 300 service shops of various types.
The ancient town is one of the birthplaces of Shanxi merchants. It preserves a large number of buildings from the Ming and Qing Dynasties, including commercial buildings such as warehouses, ticket houses, pawnshops, as well as temples, houses, docks, etc. These ancient buildings show the artistic charm of Ming and Qing architecture.
The ancient town is located on the Luliang Mountain and borders the Yellow River. The Yellow River and the Qiushui River meet here, forming a magnificent picture of "tiger roaring in the Yellow River and dragon chanting in Qikou".
The Black Dragon Temple is one of the landmark buildings of the ancient town. The temple is built on the mountain and integrates nature and humanities. In addition, Lijiashan Village is known as the "Potala Palace on the Loess Plateau". Its three-dimensional and integrated vernacular architecture makes people feel like they are in a painting.
The national intangible cultural heritage - Linxian Dasuona will bring you an auditory feast. The large-scale live-action drama "Dream Qikou" combines history with reality, allowing you to feel the inheritance and development of the spirit of Shanxi merchants.
Tickets: Free.
Opening hours: All day.
Highlights and Features
Profound Historical Heritage
The ancient town of Qikou rose in the Ming and Qing Dynasties. It was once an important wharf for Shanxi merchants to "go west", with many merchants and shops. Today, a large number of ancient buildings from the Ming and Qing Dynasties are still preserved, such as escort agencies, bill exchanges, warehouses, etc., witnessing the prosperity of the Yellow River's commercial culture.
Unique Architectural Style
The ancient town is built by the mountains and rivers. The streets and courtyards are mostly cave-style buildings with blue bricks and gray tiles, which are staggered and full of the rustic feeling of the Loess Plateau. The main street "Crouching Tiger Lane" is winding, and the stone slabs and mottled old walls reveal the vicissitudes of life.
Blending Nature and Humanities
Black Dragon Temple: The commanding height of the ancient town, overlooking the magnificent scenery of the Yellow River, the stage in the temple is well preserved, and it was once a place for merchants to pray for blessings.
Yellow River Scenery: The Yellow River rushes by, frozen in winter and turbulent in summer, and the riverside landscape is different in four seasons.
Lijiashan and Xiwan Village: The surrounding ancient villages are famous for their cave dwellings, which are praised by the painter Wu Guanzhong as the "Han Tomb Museum" and are suitable for photography and sketching.
Original Ecological Atmosphere
The commercial development level is low, and there are relatively few tourists. It retains the simple folk customs and quiet life atmosphere, which is suitable for slow travel experience.
Travel Suggestions
Recommended Attractions
The main street of the ancient town: Experience the old sites of Ming and Qing shops, such as "Rongguang Store" and "Changxing Store".
Yellow River Gallery: Take a boat tour of the naturally formed rock wall reliefs on the Yellow River (need to confirm the opening status in advance).
Lijiashan Village: About 5 kilometers away from the ancient town, the cave dwellings are stacked up, which is very visually impactful.
Xiwan Village: The castle-style village layout cleverly combines defense and residential functions.
Best Season
The climate is pleasant in spring and autumn (April-May, September-October), suitable for summer vacation or autumn viewing; winter is cold but you can feel the vastness of the frozen Yellow River.
Transportation Guide
It is recommended to drive or take a bus from Taiyuan/Lüliang to Linxian, and then transfer to Qikou. You can walk around the ancient town, and you can charter a car to visit the surrounding villages.
Accommodation and Dining
There are many inns in the ancient town (such as "Qikou Inn"), which are simple but distinctive; the dining is mainly Shanxi noodles (sauerkraut noodles, oat noodles and kuoluoluo) and Yellow River carp. It is recommended to try local red date products.
Cultural Experience
Folk Activities: If you encounter traditional temple fairs or festivals, you can watch performances such as Jinbei Yangko and Yellow River Lantern Festival.
Handicrafts: Local paper-cutting, fabric art (such as cloth tigers) and other intangible cultural heritages are worth paying attention to.
Photography and sketching: The light and shadow of the ancient town, the sunset over the Yellow River, and the cave buildings are excellent themes for creation.
Notes
The roads in the ancient town are mostly stone steps, so it is recommended to wear comfortable non-slip shoes.
Some scenic spots have relatively simple facilities, so pay attention to sun protection in summer and keep warm in winter.
Respect local customs and avoid entering unopened old houses at will.
Check the water level of the Yellow River and the opening hours of cruise ships in advance, as the rainy season may affect the itinerary.
Summary
The ancient town of Qikou is suitable for tourists who like history, architecture and natural scenery, and is especially recommended for photography enthusiasts and cultural explorers. Although the supporting facilities are not as complete as those of mature scenic spots, its original Yellow River culture, Shanxi merchant relics and the style of the Loess Plateau can still make people feel the heaviness of time. If you are looking for a leisurely slow trip, this is a destination worth stopping by.
No.
10
Show All Photos
Yan'an Red Street
4.9
/5
305 reviews
6.1
Baota Mountain/Wanda Plaza | >100 km from downtown
Phone +8609112899888
Address: 陕西省延安市宝塔区科技城环湖路1号
Recommended sightseeing time: 2-3 hours
301 positive reviewsRecently viewed by 1,000+ people
Verified user reviews
The stay experience was great! The room was clean and tidy, the bedding was soft and comfortable, and the facilities were complete and new. The front desk service was warm and thoughtful, and the response was timely. The breakfast was rich and delicious, and the location was convenient. It was very cost-effective and highly recommended!
"Return to Yan'an" is a red historical stage play directed by Zhang Dong. The play unfolds from the perspective of an old Red Army soldier, telling what he saw and heard after returning to Yan'an, showing the enthusiasm of the local people and the folk customs of northern Shaanxi, and reviewing the struggle of the Communist Party of China in Yan'an.
The play adopts a narrative method that combines reality and fiction, interweaving history and reality, bringing a new viewing experience to the audience. The characters in the play are vivid, and the actors' performances are also excellent, vividly showing the firm belief and selfless dedication of the revolutionary predecessors.
In addition, the stage design of the play is also very distinctive. Through the ingenious combination of multimedia technology and stage settings, a strong atmosphere of the times is created, making the audience feel as if they are in that war-torn era.
In general, "Return to Yan'an" is a touching stage play. It tells the audience the glorious history of the Communist Party of China in an artistic form, conveys the spiritual connotation of red culture, and has strong educational significance and artistic value.
1
2
3
