Jiaozuo 5-Day Tour: Scenic Area & Chongdu Valley

Morning tour, walking along Jinji River and Dicui River to see bamboo forests and waterfalls; at noon, taste wild vegetable farmhouse meals, and in the afternoon, stroll through villages in western Henan, enjoying the coolness typical of Jiangnan water towns.

Attraction introduction: Today's itinerary includes 2 attractions, 2 of which belong to 1 global geopark. Red Stone Gorge features red cliffs and clear waters, Tanpu Gorge has cascading waterfalls and flowing springs, and Zhuyu Peak presents a sea of clouds and sunrise. They are a comprehensive representation of the essence of the Taihang Mountains. My understanding is that when climbing, it is essential to go according to your ability; use cable cars whenever possible, but people with knee problems should not force themselves to hike. The scenery is not worth overexerting yourself.

Warm tips: Many mountain paths are slippery, especially on downhill sections, so pay attention to shifting your center of gravity backward and slowing your pace. Knee protectors can be prepared. Visitors generally feedback that most people think 2 is worth visiting specially. It is recommended to slow down, follow the guide for explanations, and leave time for the details that move you most and for the best photo spots. Considering actual conditions, the biggest problem with group tours is rushing through. Listening to the guide brings out the essence. The cultural stories behind each attraction are often more unforgettable than photos. If there is something you don’t understand, ask the guide on the spot.

Early in the morning, take the first cable car to reach the Golden Summit, check in at the Taoist temple cluster, and enjoy the sea of clouds and sunrise; in the afternoon, slowly descend along the Ten-Mile Painting Screen, changing scenery with each step, and return in the evening.

Attraction introduction: This stop is Chongdugou, located in Luanchuan. Chongdugou is famous for its vast bamboo forests, cascading waterfalls, and Henan western rural farming charm. It is a rare 'Watertown in Jiangnan' style summer retreat and leisure destination in this area. The scenic area is divided into two districts: Jinji River and Dicui River. Jinji River is known for its waterfall clusters, with splashing water creating a cool and pleasant atmosphere; Dicui River features continuous bamboo forests, making for a lush green walk. Visitors can stay in farmhouses, try wild mountain vegetables, and experience authentic life in the western Henan mountain villages. The pace is relaxing, ideal for family slow trips and summer vacations. In my opinion, slow down and don't rush to see the attractions—walk in the bamboo forest, sit by the stream, that’s the proper way to enjoy Chongdugou; visiting in summer is most comfortable, so refreshing that you won't want to leave.

Tips: The waterside paths in the canyon are slippery, so be sure to wear anti-slip creek shoes or sports shoes, and waterproof your valuables like your phone. Visitors generally feedback that most people consider Chongdugou worth a special trip. It is recommended to slow down, listen to the tour guide, and leave time for the details that touch you the most and the best photo spots. Depending on your needs, to eat authentic local food, head deeper into the alleys; the queues at the main gate are long and the taste is just average. For local specialties, compare prices first, as local supermarkets often have more genuine products.

Today's theme is Sui-Tang Luoyang City. Avoid peak crowds by visiting the park during off-peak hours and follow the recommended route for an in-depth tour; have local specialties for lunch nearby, spend the afternoon on free activities or join the guide for additional sightseeing, and stay in a hotel in the evening to rest.

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, retired for cultivation. The group of temples at the Golden Summit stands atop a peak over 2,000 meters above sea level. With golden tiles, red walls, and rolling clouds, it is renowned as "a remarkable feast for the eyes in the human world, a glimpse of the grand appearance of mankind." The Ten-Mile Painting Screen is the highlight of the tour: a high-altitude walkway suspended on a cliff allows visitors to take in the peaks, sea of clouds, and sunrise. Visitors can take a two-stage cable car up the mountain. On clear days, the summit offers views of the sunrise over the clouds; in winter, it is a very popular snow-viewing spot in Central China. My understanding is that it is essential to take the cable car up early to secure good lighting at the Golden Summit and the Ten-Mile Painting Screen; it is windy and cold at the top, so a windproof jacket and a thermos are must-haves. Those afraid of heights should avoid the glass observation deck.

Tips: The temperature difference between morning and evening in the mountains is large, and the summit can be very windy, so a windproof jacket and warm inner layers are necessary. Visitors generally agree that the main attractions are the cloud sea and sunrise at the Golden Summit; many even stay at the summit overnight to catch dawn. Be aware of the large temperature differences at the summit and long queues for the cable car, and make sure to go early in peak season. Based on your condition, manage your energy wisely: tackle the main highlights in the morning when you are fresh, slow down in the afternoon, and don't exhaust yourself on the first day, or you won't have energy for the following days.