Jiaozuo 6-Day Tour: Laojun Mountain & Erlitou Site

Early in the morning, take the two-stage cable car to reach the Golden Summit, check in at the Taoist temple complex, and enjoy the sea of clouds and sunrise; in the afternoon, slowly descend along the Ten Li Painting Screen, changing scenery step by step, and return in the evening.

Attraction introduction: A highlight of the itinerary is Laojun Mountain, Laojun Mountain is located in Luoyang Luanchuan County, and is the main peak of the Funiu Mountains as well as a famous Taoist mountain. It is said to be the place where Laozi, the founder of Taoism, once retired to cultivate. The Golden Summit Taoist temple complex stands atop a peak over 2,000 meters above sea level, with golden tiled roofs, red walls, and rolling clouds, earning it the reputation of 'a spectacular feast for the world, a glimpse of earthly magnificence.' The Ten Li Painting Screen is the essence of the route—a high-altitude plank road hanging on a cliff that offers changing views of peak forests, clouds, and the sunrise. You can take the two-stage cable car to the summit; on sunny days, you can enjoy the sea of clouds and sunrise, while in winter, it is a highly popular snow-viewing spot in the Central Plains. My understanding is that it is essential to take the cable car early to secure the best light at the Golden Summit and the Ten Li Painting Screen; the mountain top is windy and cold, so a windproof jacket and thermos are standard. If you are afraid of heights, do not force yourself on the glass observation deck.

Tips: Many parts of the mountain path are slippery, especially going downhill, so keep your center of gravity back, slow down, and consider knee protection. Visitors generally agree that the sea of clouds and sunrise at the Golden Summit are the main attractions, and many stay overnight at the summit to watch the dawn. Note that the temperature difference is large, and cable cars may have long queues, so go early in peak season. Depending on actual conditions, for good photos, aim for early morning or late afternoon—mornings have fewer people and soft light, while evenings offer golden highlights. Midday light is harsh and crowded, so it is better to rest then.

Today the theme is Erlitou. Avoid peak crowds by visiting the park off-peak, follow the recommended route for an in-depth exploration; have a nearby local-style lunch at noon, enjoy free activities in the afternoon or join the guide for additional visits, and stay at a hotel in the evening to rest.

Attraction Introduction: Today's itinerary includes Erlitou attractions. The Erlitou site is located in Luoyang Yanshi and is acclaimed by scholars as 'the earliest China.' It is a large urban site from the middle and late Xia Dynasty and has yielded important artifacts such as turquoise dragon-shaped objects, bronze jue (wine cups), and bronze ding (tripod vessels), revealing the appearance of the first royal capital of China. The turquoise dragon-shaped object is inlaid with over 2,000 pieces of turquoise and is hailed as 'China's first dragon,' serving as an important evidence of dragon worship in China. The Erlitou Site Museum presents the archaeological site in an immersive way and is an essential stop for studying the origins of Chinese civilization. My understanding is that gaining background knowledge on the academic controversies regarding the 'Xia capital' before visiting the exhibits can lead to a deeper comprehension; the museum's display is thoughtfully arranged and worth viewing carefully.

Tips: The hiking sections have many steps and steep slopes; it is essential to wear non-slip sports shoes. Those with mobility issues are advised to take the cable car up and down. Visitors generally feel that most tourists consider Erlitou worth a special visit, so it is recommended to slow down, follow the guide, listen to explanations, and leave time for the details that touch you the most and the best photo spots. Considering practical situations, long trips are prone to dehydration, so carry a water bottle and sip water frequently. On the first night in the plateau or mountainous area, avoid washing your head or taking a long bath to give your body some time to adapt.

Morning tour: along the Jinji River and Dicui River to see bamboo forests and waterfalls; at noon, try wild vegetables and farmhouse meals; in the afternoon, stroll through villages in western Henan and enjoy the coolness reminiscent of Jiangnan water towns.

Attraction introduction: This stop is at Chongdugou, which is located in Luanchuan. With tens of thousands of acres of bamboo forests, cascading waterfalls, and the farming culture of western Henan, it is a rare 'Jiangnan water town' style summer resort in Henan. The scenic area is divided into Jinji River and Dicui River sections. Jinji River is famous for its waterfalls, with splashing water and a refreshing atmosphere; Dicui River features continuous bamboo forests, where walking through gives a vision full of green. Here, you can stay at farmhouse accommodations, taste wild vegetables, and experience authentic western Henan village life, with a relaxed pace, making it especially suitable for family leisure tours and summer vacations. My understanding is to slow down your pace and not rush through the attractions—walking in the bamboo forest and sitting by the stream is the proper way to enjoy Chongdugou; coming in summer is most comfortable, with such coolness that you won’t want to leave.

Friendly tips: The canyon trails are close to water and cliffs, so do not climb over railings or play in dangerous areas, and keep an eye on accompanying children. Visitors generally report that most believe Chongdugou is worth a special trip. It is recommended to slow your pace, follow the guide for explanations, and leave time for the details and photo spots that move you most. Based on actual conditions, be punctual, arrive five to ten minutes early for gatherings; it is better for people to wait for the vehicle than for the vehicle to wait for people, so as not to hold everyone up.