Things to do in Qinling Mountains
Discover the best attractions and experiences Qinling Mountains has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore ancient monuments carved into Shaanxi's history along the Qinling range, from royal tombs to surviving fortifications.
Terracotta Army at the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor
The life-sized figures guard the mausoleum of China's first emperor, an iconic archaeological site near Xi'an.
Huaqing Palace and Hot Springs
An ancient imperial retreat at the foot of Mount Li with historic pavilions and scenic springs.
Xi'an City Wall
One of the oldest and best-preserved city fortifications in China, offering city views from its ramparts.
Museums
Learn about Shaanxi’s long and layered past through its major regional museums and archaeology collections.
Shaanxi History Museum
Exhibits spanning China’s ancient dynasties with impressive Shaanxi archaeology.
Xi’an Museum
A comprehensive collection of local artifacts and historical displays.
Baoji Bronze Museum
Artifacts from the Zhou and Qin eras highlighting Shaanxi’s bronze-age culture.
Religious Monuments
Religious sites dot the Qinling foothills, reflecting centuries of Buddhist and Taoist traditions.
Famen Temple
Ancient Buddhist temple renowned for its sacred relics and centuries of history.
Huashan Taoist Temples
Temple complexes along Mount Hua, set within the dramatic mountain landscape.
National & Theme Parks
The Qinling mountains shelter protected parks and scenic areas offering dramatic peaks, forests, and canyons.
Mount Hua Scenic Area
Stunning cliffside trails, cable cars, and panoramic views from China’s sacred mountain.
Taibai Mountain Nature Reserve
High-altitude forested refuge in the Qinling range, famed for alpine scenery.
Qinling National Nature Reserve
Protects diverse flora and fauna across the northern Qinling slopes.
Neighborhoods
Towns and districts around the mountains offer gateways to the trails and encounters with local life.
Xi’an Old City / Muslim Quarter
Historic neighborhood with vibrant markets, street foods, and ancient alleyways.
Lintong District
Rural foothills area known for archaeological sites and scenic drives.
Baoji City Center
Regional city core offering local culture and access to Qinling trails.
Free Things to Do
Many scenic spots are accessible for free, inviting you to hike, stroll, and admire views.
Hike Mount Hua trails
Explore scenic paths and viewpoints; some sections may require a ticket.
Stroll in Qinling foothill forests
Enjoy shaded trails, streams, and wildlife along easier routes.
Sunrise or sunset viewpoints in Taibai range
Catch dramatic skies over the peaks from designated overlooks.
Gastronomy
Savor Shaanxi flavors that accompany mountain air and rural landscapes.
Biangbiang noodles
Long, hand-popped noodles with bold Shaanxi flavors.
Roujiamo
Crusty flatbread sandwich filled with seasoned meat.
Yangrou Paomo
Crumbled flatbread served with savory mutton broth.
Nightlife
Evening scenes around Xi’an’s old town provide nightlife options within reach of the mountains.
Xi’an Bell Tower at night
Iconic tower with nearby lights and city ambiance after dark.
Night markets in Xi’an's Muslim Quarter
Vibrant lanes offering snacks, crafts, and live street performances.
Entertainment
Cultural shows and themed parks around Xi’an celebrate the region’s Tang-era heritage.
Tang Paradise
Large theme park featuring traditional performances and gardens.
Tang Dynasty Music & Dance Show at Tang Paradise
Colorful performance blending ancient songs and modern staging.
Daming Palace Night Show
Evening spectacle exploring the historic palace site and its legends.
Sports
Active travelers can hike, climb, and trek across the Qinling range.
Mount Hua hiking and ropeway
Challenging climbs with panoramic viewpoints and optional ropeway access.
Taibai Mountain hikes
High-altitude trails through alpine forests and sweeping vistas.
Qinling valley trekking
Trail routes that traverse diverse flora and rugged landscapes.
Off the Track
For offbeat experiences, seek wildlife reserves and remote valleys beyond the main trails.
Foping Nature Reserve
Remote nature reserve known for wildlife habitats and scenic routes.
Remote Qinling foothill villages
Explore traditional village life and quiet rural lanes away from crowds.