Jiaozuo 4-Day Tour: Erlitou Site & Longtan Grand Canyon

Today, with Erlitou as the theme, avoid peak crowds and enter the park during off-peak hours, follow the recommended route for an in-depth visit; enjoy local cuisine nearby at noon, and in the afternoon, you can either have free activities or join the guide for additional touring. In the evening, stay at the hotel 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 mid to late Xia dynasty, where significant artifacts such as turquoise dragon-shaped objects, bronze jues, and bronze ding were unearthed, 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 vividly and is an indispensable destination for researching the origins of Chinese civilization. My understanding is that visiting with prior knowledge of the academic debates surrounding the "capital of Xia" and then viewing the exhibits will provide a deeper understanding; the museum's exhibition is carefully curated and worth examining slowly.

Tips: There is a large temperature difference in the mountains between morning and evening, and it is windy at the top, so a windproof jacket and warm inner layers are very necessary. Visitors generally report that most feel Erlitou is worth a dedicated visit. 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 the practical situation, long trips are most prone to dehydration, so carry a water bottle and drink small amounts frequently; on the first night at high altitudes or in the mountains, avoid washing your head or taking a long bath to give your body some time to adapt.

Morning tour Longtan Grand Canyon, walk along Liubu Pool and One-Line Sky Trail close to the water, observing the wonder of Hongyanzhang Valley and water flowing uphill; have a light meal in the scenic area at noon, continue exploring in the afternoon, and return in the evening.

Scenic Spot Introduction: This stop is at Longtan Grand Canyon. Longtan Grand Canyon, located in Xin'an, is a canyon famous for wonders such as Hongyanzhang Valley and water flowing uphill, enjoying the reputation of "the best canyon" and "a natural museum of ancient oceans." Trails like Liubu Pool and One-Line Sky offer strong water-related fun. The red rock cliffs and clear ponds complement each other. It is especially cool in summer and is a family-friendly water destination not far from Luoyang city center. The canyon stretches for several kilometers, with waterfalls, deep pools, and strange rocks along the way, offering different scenery at each step. My understanding is that wearing anti-slip creek shoes or sneakers is the most suitable, and waterproof your mobile phones and other valuables; families with children should slow down the pace, take the gentler boardwalk sections, and not rush to complete the entire route.

Warm Tips: The signal may be weak inside the canyon, so arrange a meeting point with the guide in advance and do not go alone. Feedback from visitors generally indicates that most believe Longtan Grand Canyon is worth a special trip. It is recommended to slow down, follow the guide’s explanations, and leave time for the details that move you most and the best photo spots. Based on the actual situation, be punctual, arrive five to ten minutes early for gatherings, it is better to have people wait for the vehicle than the vehicle waiting for a person, and do not let everyone wait for you.

Set off early from the hotel straight to Wanxian Mountain, first listen to the tour guide explain the background and highlights, then explore freely at your own pace and retake photos according to your interests; after lunch, take a short rest, return to the hotel in the evening, and recharge for the next day.

Attraction Introduction: One of the highlights arranged in the itinerary is Wanxian Mountain. The Wanxian Mountain Scenic Area is located deep in the Taihang Mountains in Huixian. Guoliang Hanging Road and Nanping Danfeng Valley are both inside it. The red cliffs and cascading waterfalls intertwine, making it one of the most representative landscapes of the Taihang Mountains. It is famous for being a filming location for many movies and TV dramas. Attractions such as Guoliang Village, Tianchi, and the watchtower form an impressive Taihang hiking route. The average summer temperature is pleasant, making it a place to experience the Taihang mountains and waters not far from Zhengzhou and Luoyang. My understanding is that the hiking involves a large distance and many steps, so it is essential to wear non-slip shoes; on the hanging road section, pay attention to passing vehicles, and take photos of the red cliffs in the early morning or evening light for the best results.

Tips: The mountain trails have many steps and steep slopes; it is essential to wear non-slip sports shoes. Those with mobility difficulties are recommended to use the cable car. Tourists commonly report that the hanging road (Guoliang Tunnel) is the most thrilling and photogenic, while the mountain roads can cause car sickness; it is advised to bring motion sickness medicine and walk slowly while enjoying the viewpoint. Considering safety, when taking photos, don’t only focus on getting good shots; pay attention to your feet and surroundings, and make sure to stand securely at the edges of viewing platforms or walkways.

Transfer to the station/airport per your departure, ending a pleasant journey.

Friendly tips: Pack the night before and keep ID, power bank and souvenirs together; allow extra time for the station/airport; bring your ID and stay with your guide, noting the meeting time and place. Traveler feedback — Return-day travelers remind: pack ID and souvenirs the night before; allow extra time. Practical note — Return-day tip: pack ID, power bank and souvenirs the night before; allow extra time—mountain roads are unpredictable.