Things To Do
in Ankang
Ankang is a picturesque prefecture-level city situated in the southern part of Shaanxi Province, China, nestled within the Qinling mountain range, which endows it with stunning natural landscapes and a rich biodiversity. Known for its pleasant climate and abundant rainfall, the region supports a thriving tea cultivation industry and is famous for the Ankang Bai Cha, a high-quality white tea.
Ankang also serves as an important cultural and historical hub, with numerous ancient sites and ethnic minority groups, offering visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, traditional Chinese culture, and historical significance.
- "Ni hao" - Hello
- "Xie xie" - Thank you
- "Zao an" - Good morning
- "Zai jian" - Goodbye
- "Shen me" - What?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $25 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Ankang River, enjoying a peaceful walk along its banks. Capture the beautiful scenery as the sun rises over the water.
Explore the local market and sample delicious regional foods like dumplings and noodles. Take the time to chat with locals and learn about their culture.
Head to a riverside restaurant for a lovely dinner with views of the river. Enjoy traditional Ankang dishes as the city lights start to twinkle.
Visit Baotashan Nature Reserve for a morning hike. The fresh air and beautiful surroundings will invigorate you.
Picnic at one of the scenic spots in the reserve, surrounded by the sounds of nature. Afterward, continue exploring the hiking trails.
Return to the city and unwind at a local tea house. Enjoy a relaxing evening sipping on traditional Chinese tea and reflecting on your day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with historical significance.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and rivers.
- Less crowded compared to major cities, allowing for a more relaxed lifestyle.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger urban areas.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
- Limited job opportunities and economic growth compared to larger cities.
- Less access to modern amenities and services.
- Public transportation options may be limited.
- Fewer entertainment and recreational options.
- Language barrier for non-Mandarin speakers.
Best Activities in Ankang
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Ankang City is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, making it an ideal location for hiking in the nearby mountains. The Shimen Mountain and the Taibai Mountain are popular destinations for outdoor enthusiasts.
Visitors can enjoy various water activities such as boating, fishing, and riverside picnics along the Hanjiang River, which flows through Ankang. The picturesque scenery and pleasant weather make it a great place to relax and unwind.
Cycling is a popular outdoor activity in Ankang, offering the opportunity to explore the picturesque countryside and rural areas. There are designated cycling routes and rental services available for visitors to enjoy a leisurely ride.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ankang with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ankang
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of Ankang and the surrounding area, popular for photography and sightseeing.
Scenic park with picturesque spots for photography, including the lake and gardens.
Food in Ankang
Ankang Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tender chicken cooked in a spicy and aromatic broth, a signature dish of Ankang. It can be found in various local restaurants, especially in Yangxian county.
Must-Try!
Cold noodle dish made from wheat or rice, dressed in a tangy and spicy sauce, perfect for a refreshing local taste. Look for it in small eateries and food stalls around Ankang.
A hearty soup with diced flatbread and tender lamb, offering a satisfying and comforting meal. Local eateries and specialized Paomo restaurants are the best places to savor this dish.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ankang better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant hub of street food offering a variety of local delights such as grilled skewers, spicy hotpots, and freshly made dumplings. You will find it bustling with energy along Renmin Road, Ankang.
This bustling market is teeming with fresh produce and local street food stalls. From fragrant barbecue to traditional snacks, it's a great place to experience authentic Ankang flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Ankang, it is important to greet others with a polite phrase such as 'ni hao' (hello) or 'nin hao' (formal hello) as a sign of respect.
In Chinese culture, personal space is valued, so it's important to avoid standing too close to others and to be mindful of personal boundaries.
When dining in Ankang, it's customary to wait for the host to initiate the meal, use chopsticks appropriately, and show appreciation for the food provided.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ankang with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Ankang
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Ankang, China. It is not expected or customary to tip in restaurants, hotels, or for most services.
Cash is widely used for payments in Ankang, China, especially in smaller establishments and markets. However, larger businesses and popular tourist areas may accept credit cards and mobile payment apps such as Alipay and WeChat Pay.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Ankang.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Ankang when the weather is mild and comfortable. The city comes alive with blooming flowers and lush greenery, making it a beautiful time to explore the natural scenery and outdoor attractions.
Summer in Ankang brings hot and humid weather, but it's also the best time to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, river rafting, and exploring the region's stunning canyons and waterfalls. Be prepared for high temperatures and occasional rain showers.
Autumn is another fantastic time to visit Ankang as the weather starts to cool down, and the landscapes are painted with vibrant autumn colors. It's an excellent time for outdoor adventures and enjoying the picturesque foliage.
Winter in Ankang can be cold, with occasional snowfall in the surrounding mountains. It's a quieter time for tourism, but the city's proximity to the Qinling Mountains provides opportunities for winter sports and activities like skiing and snowboarding.
Ankang at Night
Hiking in Ankang
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located just outside Ankang, this park features lush forests, scenic trails, and stunning views of the Hanjiang River.
Known for its beautiful landscapes and diverse flora and fauna, Wangdian offers several hiking trails suitable for all levels.
This mountain area provides challenging hikes with breathtaking vistas and unique geological formations.
A popular spot for hikers, offering various trails that lead to panoramic views and tranquil spots for rest and reflection.
Known for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque surroundings, the hiking trails here are perfect for nature lovers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Ankang through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Ankang by plane.
The main international airport serving the city of Xi'an, located approximately 200 kilometers northwest of Ankang.
One of the largest airports in Western China, located around 450 kilometers southwest of Ankang.
An international airport serving Wuhan, located about 600 kilometers east of Ankang.
The main airport serving Lanzhou, situated approximately 500 kilometers northwest of Ankang.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Ankang, making up a significant percentage of the population.
An ethnic minority group native to the region, known for their unique culture and traditions.
Another ethnic minority group present in Ankang, recognized for their rich cultural heritage and festivals.
A smaller ethnic group in Ankang, known for their distinct linguistic and cultural characteristics.
Includes various smaller ethnic and demographic groups living in Ankang.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is one of the most popular sports in Ankang, with many local teams and a strong youth participation.
Badminton enjoys widespread popularity in Ankang, with numerous recreational and competitive clubs available to players.
Table tennis, or ping pong, is a favorite pastime among locals, with facilities readily available in community centers.
Soccer has a significant following in Ankang, with many youth and amateur leagues, as well as school competitions.
Running is a common activity in Ankang, with parks and urban areas providing suitable environments for both leisure and competitive events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ankang.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat-based dishes dominate the local cuisine, some eateries are beginning to cater to vegetarians and vegans. Look for restaurants that offer stir-fried vegetables, tofu dishes, and meat substitutes.
Navigating gluten-free options may be a bit challenging due to the prevalent use of wheat-based products in the local cuisine. However, some places may offer rice-based dishes or gluten-free alternatives upon request.