Things To Do
in Nanyang
Nanyang, located in southwestern Henan Province, is a historical city known for its ancient architecture and rich cultural heritage. The city sits amid rolling hills and fertile plains, offering scenic river views and mountainous landscapes nearby. Nanyang has been a cradle of Chinese astronomy and literature, with landmarks such as the Zhang Heng Memorial and ancient temples.
Today it combines modern urban life with traditional markets and local crafts.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a guided hike up the misty slopes of Wolong Mountain, where ancient pines and cascading waterfalls greet you at every turn. The fresh mountain air fills your lungs as you learn about local legends from your knowledgeable guide. Stop at a stone pavilion to savor tea brewed from wild mountain herbs and admire panoramic views of the valley below.
Descend to the base village for a rustic lunch of Nanyang-style noodle soup and locally foraged mushrooms. Spend the afternoon exploring hidden grotto trails and spotting endemic bird species in the dense forest canopy. Visit a small shrine tucked among the rocks to learn about the mountain’s spiritual significance to local villagers.
Return to your cozy guesthouse perched on the hillside and unwind in a traditional hot-spring bath. Share stories with fellow travelers over a hearty dinner of ginger-laced river fish and stir-fried mountain greens. As dusk settles, join a lantern-lit meditation session under the stars to connect with the mountain’s ancient tranquility.
Arrive early at the Nanle Thousand Buddha Caves to watch the sun’s rays illuminate centuries-old murals carved into sandstone cliffs. Your guide will point out hidden Buddhas and explain the stories behind each intricate relief. Capture photographs in the soft morning light before the crowds arrive.
Head to a nearby teahouse built into the cliff face and indulge in a tea-tasting flight featuring local jasmine and chrysanthemum blends. Then embark on a cliffside grotto walk, pausing at meditation alcoves where monks once chanted centuries ago. End your exploration with a visit to a small workshop where artisans demonstrate traditional stone-carving techniques.
Dine at a riverside restaurant serving hometown specialties like sizzling lamb skewers and stir-fried wild greens. Enjoy a cultural performance of folk music and dance under festoon lights by the riverbank. Before turning in, take a peaceful moonlit stroll along the canyon rim to reflect on the day’s discoveries.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Street food noodle soup | $2-3 |
| 🍺Local beer (0.5L) | $1.50-2.50 |
| 🚕Taxi start fare | $2 |
| ☕Coffee at café | $2-4 |
| 🎟️Museum entrance | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical sites and local culture
- Affordable food and accommodations
- Scenic nearby mountains and rivers
- Limited English signage
- Fewer international-standard amenities
- Summers can be very humid
- "你好" - Hello
- "谢谢" - Thank you
- "多少钱？" - How much is it?
- "在哪里？" - Where is …?
- "对不起" - Sorry/Excuse me
Places to Visit in Nanyang
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic pagoda offering views over the old city walls and river bends.
Forest trails and ancient temples ideal for sunrise landscape shots.
Dramatic cliffs and clear waters—best light in late afternoon.
Seasonal waterfall with a lush green backdrop, near the city outskirts.
Food in Nanyang
Nanyang Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Large steamed buns filled with pork and cabbage, best found at street stalls near the East Gate.
Must-Try!
Spicy beef or lamb soup with hand-pulled noodles and chilies, popular at small eateries around the train station.
Flatbread sandwich stuffed with braised pork, available at food courts and roadside vendors.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Open after dusk on Renmin Road, try stinky tofu, grilled skewers, and sugar-coated fruit.
Cluster of stalls offering fried dumplings, scallion pancakes, and mung bean soup.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A nod or slight bow is polite; handshakes are common in business settings.
Remove shoes before entering homes and some traditional teahouses.
Form orderly lines at bus stops and ticket counters—cutting is frowned upon.
Use communal chopsticks or serving spoons rather than personal chopsticks when sharing dishes.
Safety
Tipping in Nanyang
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in China; service staff generally do not expect it in restaurants or taxis.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) dominate; carry cash for small vendors and rural areas; credit cards are accepted at larger hotels.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming peach orchards—pack a light jacket and rain gear.
Hot and humid with afternoon thunderstorms—best for early morning outings and indoor museums.
Crisp air and colorful foliage on surrounding hills—ideal for hiking and photography.
Cold and dry with occasional frost—dress warmly and visit indoor attractions like tea houses.
Nanyang at Night
Hiking in Nanyang
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Well-marked paths through forested slopes, historic temple remains.
Circular route along riverbanks and through narrow canyons.
Flat, easy trail around a scenic lake with rural vistas.
Airports
How to reach Nanyang by plane.
Domestic flights to major Chinese cities; 20-minute drive to downtown.
International flights; about 3 hours by bus or train from Nanyang.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority population, engaged in agriculture, industry, and services.
Muslim community running halal restaurants and trade.
Seasonal workers in construction and manufacturing sectors.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools and community courts.
Local clubs and community centers offer open tables.
Indoor badminton halls are popular year-round.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nanyang.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include noodle soups with tofu, vegetable dumplings, and stir-fried greens; ask for no meat stock when ordering.
Several Hui-run restaurants serve halal lamb and beef dishes—look for the crescent moon logo.