Things To Do
in Taoyang
Taoyang is a quiet inland city set along the fertile valleys of the Loess Plateau. It blends Han, Hui, and local minority influences, creating a distinctive mix of architecture, markets, and flavors. Modern boulevards sit beside centuries-old mosques, temples, and alleyways that wind through traditional neighborhoods.
With nearby rivers and foothills, Taoyang serves as a gateway to varied day trips and outdoor adventures.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the ancient Taoyang Old Town, where cobblestone streets and traditional architecture transport you back in time. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local tea house, sipping on fragrant oolong tea while sampling freshly baked baozi. Afterward, explore the intricacies of the Taoyang Cultural Museum, which showcases the rich history and art of the region.
In the afternoon, wander through the vibrant local market, sampling delicious street food and picking up unique handmade crafts. Visit the picturesque Taoyang River, where you can take a scenic boat ride and enjoy the serene views of the surrounding landscape. Conclude your afternoon with a visit to the historic Taoyang Confucius Temple, learning about the significance of Confucianism in Chinese culture.
As night falls, savor a traditional dinner at a local restaurant, where you can indulge in signature dishes like braised pork belly and stir-fried greens. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the riverside promenade, where lanterns illuminate the path and local artists display their work. Wrap up your evening with a performance of traditional Chinese opera, immersing yourself in the cultural heritage of Taoyang.
Begin your day early with a hike at the nearby Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, renowned for its towering sandstone pillars that inspired the world of Avatar. Enjoy a packed breakfast amidst nature, surrounded by the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves. Explore various trails that lead to stunning viewpoints, offering breathtaking panoramas of the unique rock formations.
After your morning hike, take a break at a local café near the park entrance for a refreshing drink and light lunch. In the afternoon, embark on a thrilling cable car ride to Tianmen Mountain, where you'll be greeted with incredible vistas and a winding glass walkway that gives you a bird's-eye view of the valley below. Spend time exploring the mountain's various attractions, including the temple and the natural rock arch.
As evening approaches, return to Taoyang and enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant that specializes in local mountain cuisine, featuring fresh ingredients from the surrounding area. After your meal, take a leisurely walk through the beautifully landscaped Taoyang Park, where you can relax and enjoy the tranquility of nature. Conclude your day with a visit to a local bar, where you can unwind with a drink while mingling with friendly locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-4 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🧾Local SIM data plan | $10-20 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural blend of Han and Hui influences
- Delicious Northwest cuisine
- Affordable stays and lower crowds than major cities
- Scenic mountain and river landscapes
- Limited English coverage in some areas
- Public transport to remote sights can be infrequent
- Hot summers and cold winters
- Fewer luxury options compared to larger cities
- "您好" - Hello
- "请问洗手间在哪儿？" - Where is the toilet?
- "多少钱？" - How much is this?
- "谢谢" - Thank you
- "可以刷卡吗？" - Can you accept card payments?
Places to Visit in Taoyang
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide river views at sunrise and sunset with reflections on calm water.
Narrow lanes, traditional courtyards, and daily life framed by stone walls.
Panoramic overlook of the city and surrounding valleys.
Ancient walls bathed in golden light as the city settles for the night.
Food in Taoyang
Taoyang Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Thin hand-pulled noodles in a clear beef broth with tender slices of beef, fresh cilantro, and chili oil.
Must-Try!
Cumin-scented skewers grilled over charcoal, often served with flatbread and peppers.
Crumbled flatbread soaked in lamb or beef broth with shredded meat; a hearty regional staple.
Chilled mung bean starch noodles tossed in sesame oil, peppers, and refreshing greens.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub after sunset with noodle stalls, dumplings, and skewers.
Indoor market offering fresh produce, spices, nuts, and local snacks.
Rows of small shops serving various Northwest noodle dishes and soups.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A light nod or handshake; address people by family name when possible and use polite phrases.
Keep voices low in public, especially in religious sites; remove shoes when entering homes or certain temples; avoid pointing with feet.
Wait for elders to begin eating; use chopsticks properly; avoid sticking chopsticks upright into rice.
Safety
Tipping in Taoyang
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most places; you may round up at guided tours or small services if you wish.
Cash is widely accepted; mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat) are ubiquitous; credit cards are accepted at hotels and major restaurants.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with occasional thundershowers; hydrate, plan indoor or shaded activities in the afternoon, and enjoy evening street life.
Mild temperatures with colorful foliage; ideal for walking tours, markets, and outdoor photography.
Cold with occasional snowfall and strong winds; layer up and seek indoor cultural venues and warm noodle spots.
Moderate temperatures with blooming trees; expect windy days and occasional dust; carry a scarf or mask when needed.
Taoyang at Night
Hiking in Taoyang
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular trail with forested sections, temples, and city panoramas.
Rugged paths along a scenic gorge with rock formations and a river crossing.
Airports
How to reach Taoyang by plane.
Nearest major gateway with domestic and limited international flights; about 60-90 minutes by road from Taoyang depending on traffic.
Regional hub with connections to other Chinese cities; travel time by road is longer but feasible for multi-city itineraries.
Major hub offering extensive connections; convenient for longer trips with rail or air links.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest group with a robust urban culture and family networks.
Significant presence; influences in cuisine and mosques; respectful behavior at religious sites is appreciated.
Young population fueling cafes, cultural events, and nightlife in central districts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools and public courts; casual pick-up games are common in parks.
A staple in community centers and teahouses; often played in the evenings.
Popular in surrounding mountains and along the Loess Plateau edges.
Common in indoor gyms and clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Taoyang.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for items labeled 素 or ask for 清汤 without meat stock; many vegetable dishes can be prepared without meat, but verify no lard or meat stock.