Jiaozuo 4-Day Tour: Scenic Area & Taihang Grand Canyon

Today's theme is Mount Song. Avoid peak crowds by entering the park during off-peak hours and explore in depth along the recommended route; have local cuisine nearby for lunch, and spend the afternoon either on free activities or following a guide for additional sightseeing. Rest at the hotel in the evening.

Attraction Introduction: One highlight in the itinerary is Mount Song. Mount Song is the Central Peak of the Five Great Mountains, mainly located in Dengfeng City, divided into the Taishi and Shaoshi Mountains. The main peak, Junji Peak, has an elevation of approximately 1,492 meters. Its uniqueness lies in the coexistence of Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism on the same mountain for a thousand years: Songyang Academy was a key center of Neo-Confucianism during the Song Dynasty, and the well-known story of 'Standing in Snow at Cheng's Gate' happened here; the Zhongyue Temple is one of the largest and best-preserved temple complexes among the Five Great Mountains; the Guoxing Platform in Gaocheng Town was built under the supervision of Guo Shoujing during the Yuan Dynasty and is the oldest existing astronomical observatory building. In 2010, the historical building complex 'Center of Heaven and Earth,' represented by Songyang Academy, Zhongyue Temple, Songyue Temple Pagoda, Shaolin Temple Permanent Residence, Pagoda Forest, Chuzu Temple, and Guoxing Platform, was inscribed on the World Heritage List. My understanding is that there’s no need to rush on the first day—start with the academy and Zhongyue Temple to understand the ritual system of the 'Center of Heaven and Earth,' and save your energy for later climbing; if time allows, visiting the plank walkway at Sanhuang Fortress on Shaoshi Mountain at sunset provides the most photogenic segment of the trip.

Tips: The temperature in the mountains can vary greatly between morning and evening, and it can be windy at the summit. A windproof jacket and warm layers are very necessary. Visitors generally feel that most tourists believe Mount Song is worth a special visit. It is recommended to slow down, listen to the guide, and save time for the details that move you most and the most photogenic spots. Depending on the situation, the best times for photos are early morning or late afternoon—fewer people and soft light in the morning, golden glow at dusk; midday light is harsh, crowded, and flat, so it's better to rest.

Gather in the morning and set off for Taihang Grand Canyon. Follow the guide along the main route, visiting each key spot, allowing plenty of time for photos and rest. At noon, enjoy a local specialty meal, then continue exploring in the afternoon. Check into the hotel in the evening to rest and recharge for the next day's itinerary.

Attraction Introduction: One highlight of the trip is Taihang Grand Canyon. Taihang Grand Canyon spans the junction of Shanxi, Hebei, and Henan provinces, while Red Flag Canal runs through the mountains. Peach Blossom Valley, Wang Xiang Rock, and Taihang Sky Road connect grandeur with beauty, showcasing the essence of Taihang scenery. Peach Blossom Valley is famous for its cascading waterfalls and flowing springs, Wang Xiang Rock for its cliffside plank paths, and Taihang Sky Road offers scenic buses for a panoramic view of the canyon. In spring, mountains are full of blossoms; in autumn, forests are ablaze with colors. Each season has its highlights. My understanding is that the area is large and the attractions are scattered, so it’s important to plan your route and prioritize the core spots. Hold onto the railings at steep plank paths, and those afraid of heights should proceed according to their limits.

Tips: Signal may be poor inside the canyon, so arrange meeting points with the guide in advance and do not act alone. Visitors generally find that Peach Blossom Valley is serene and the water scenery is refreshing, while Taihang Sky Road is steep and dramatic—every step offers a new view. Remember to take the scenic bus; weather greatly affects the experience. Considering the actual conditions, long trips are prone to dehydration, so carry a water bottle and sip frequently in small amounts. On the first night in high-altitude or mountainous areas, avoid washing your hair or taking long baths to give your body some time to adjust.

Early in the morning, head to Red Flag Canal, first visit the memorial hall to learn about the history of the canal construction, then hike along the canal to Youth Cave, experiencing the resilient spirit of Linzhou; afternoon free activities, return in the evening.

Attraction Introduction: One highlight arranged in the itinerary is Red Flag Canal. Red Flag Canal is an 'artificial river' carved into the cliffs of the Taihang Mountains by the people of Linzhou in the 1960s. With a total length of over 1,500 kilometers, it involved leveling 1,250 mountain peaks, constructing more than 150 aqueducts, and tunneling through over 200 tunnels, taking nearly ten years to complete. It stands as a monument to the indomitable spirit of the Chinese nation. Youth Cave is the most dangerous part of the entire route, dug out on the cliff by 300 youth task force members; Fen Shui Garden and the Red Flag Canal memorial hall completely recount the arduous process of building the canal. This place combines red education with the magnificent scenery of the Taihang Mountains, and today it is also an awe-inspiring cultural attraction. My understanding is that visiting the memorial hall first to understand the background of the canal, then going through Youth Cave, can truly grasp the significance of this canal; when hiking along the canal, be mindful of your strength, wear anti-slip shoes, and watch your step.

Tips: The mountain trail has many steps and steep slopes, so be sure to wear anti-slip sports shoes. Those with mobility difficulties are advised to take the cable car up and down. Visitors commonly feedback that the 'artificial river' is a strong spiritual landmark, resonating more with middle-aged tourists; it is recommended to listen to the exhibition explanations to understand that period of history. Based on the actual situation, be punctual, arrive five to ten minutes early, it is better for people to wait for the bus than for the bus to wait for people, do not make everyone wait for you.

Transfer to the departure terminal per your booked train or flight; keep travel documents and tickets in your carry-on.