7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Xi'an

As a digital nomad living in Xi'an, you have the unique opportunity to blend the ancient with the modern in your daily life. While the city itself is steeped in history, boasting the famous Terracotta Army and the ancient city walls, the surrounding region offers a plethora of weekend getaways that cater to all tastes. From popular tourist spots to hidden gems off the beaten path, here are seven destinations that promise to rejuvenate your spirit and satisfy your wanderlust.

Huashan Mountain

One of the most popular weekend getaways from Xi'an is Huashan Mountain. Known for its breathtaking cliffs and challenging hiking trails, Huashan offers an adrenaline-pumping experience for adventure seekers. The mountain is also home to several Taoist temples, providing a spiritual dimension to your visit. Whether you're there for the sunrise at East Peak or exploring the infamous Plank Walk, Huashan is a must-visit for those seeking both thrill and beauty.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Huashan Mountain is by high-speed train from Xi'an North Railway Station, which takes about 30 to 40 minutes.

Travel Tip: Make sure to catch the cable car for a less strenuous ascent or descent, and don't miss the chance to witness the stunning sunrise or sunset from the mountain peaks.

Where to Stay: Consider staying at Huashan Inn, which offers comfortable accommodations and easy access to the mountain trails. For a more luxurious experience, the Huashan Wuyunfeng Hotel provides excellent facilities and views.

Where to Eat: After a day of hiking, enjoy local Shaanxi cuisine at the Huashan Yu Jia Ao Restaurant, known for its delicious hand-pulled noodles and savory lamb dishes.

Louguantai National Forest Park

For a serene escape, head to Louguantai National Forest Park, a lesser-known destination where tranquility and nature abound. This park is considered the birthplace of Taoism and is home to the ancient Louguan Terrace. Surrounded by lush forests and wildlife, it's an ideal spot for meditation, leisurely walks, and picnics. The park also features several historical sites, including the Zhaoyin Temple and the Daoist Scripture Stone Tablets.

How to Get There: Louguantai National Forest Park is accessible by bus from Xi'an, which takes approximately 1.5 hours.

Travel Tip: Visit the Taoist temples and take part in a traditional tea ceremony to fully immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of the park.

Where to Stay: The nearby Louguantai Ecological Hotel offers a peaceful retreat with traditional Chinese architecture and modern amenities.

Where to Eat: Enjoy a meal at the park's vegetarian restaurant, which serves fresh and flavorful dishes using local ingredients.

Hancheng Lake

Escape the city buzz and discover the tranquility of Hancheng Lake, a hidden gem that offers a peaceful retreat with its picturesque scenery and cultural significance. The lake area is dotted with ancient architecture, including the Hancheng Confucian Temple, and provides a glimpse into traditional Chinese life. It's a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone looking to unwind by the water.

How to Get There: Hancheng Lake can be reached by taking a long-distance bus from Xi'an, which takes about 3 hours.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to take a boat ride on the lake for a unique perspective of the surrounding historical buildings and landscapes.

Where to Stay: The Hancheng Lake Hotel offers comfortable accommodations with stunning views of the lake and nearby mountains.

Where to Eat: Sample local Shaanxi dishes at the Hancheng Lake Restaurant, where the fish is always fresh and the flavors are authentic.

Zhangye Danxia Landform Geological Park

For a weekend getaway that feels like stepping onto another planet, the Zhangye Danxia Landform Geological Park is a must-see. Located in the Gansu Province, this UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its colorful rock formations, which are a result of mineral deposits and erosion over millions of years. The park offers several viewing platforms to witness the rainbow-like hills, making it a photographer's paradise.

How to Get There: The most convenient way to visit Zhangye Danxia is by taking a flight from Xi'an to Zhangye, followed by a short drive to the park.

Travel Tip: Visit during sunset or sunrise when the colors of the rocks are most vibrant, creating a truly magical experience.

Where to Stay: The Danxia International Youth Hostel is a popular choice for travelers, offering a cozy stay and the chance to meet fellow adventurers.

Where to Eat: Try the local Gansu cuisine at a nearby restaurant, such as the Zhangye Danxia Restaurant, where you can enjoy dishes like roasted lamb and Lanzhou beef noodles.

Foping Panda Valley

For wildlife enthusiasts and those seeking a unique nature experience, Foping Panda Valley is an off-the-beaten-path destination that offers the chance to see giant pandas in their natural habitat. The reserve is part of the larger Qinling Mountains, which are known for their biodiversity. In addition to pandas, you might spot golden monkeys, takins, and a variety of bird species. The valley also provides beautiful hiking trails through the lush forest.

How to Get There: Foping Panda Valley is accessible by bus from Xi'an, with a journey time of around 4 hours.

Travel Tip: Plan your visit during the spring or autumn months for the best chance to see pandas being active in the cooler weather.

Where to Stay: The Foping Panda Valley Hotel is a convenient option for visitors, offering comfortable rooms and a chance to stay close to nature.

Where to Eat: Enjoy a meal at the reserve's restaurant, which serves local dishes with ingredients sourced from the surrounding mountains.

Yan'an Revolutionary Memorial

Yan'an is not only a city with a rich revolutionary history but also a place of stunning natural beauty. The Yan'an Revolutionary Memorial is a significant site where visitors can learn about the Chinese Communist Party's history during the 1930s and 1940s. The surrounding loess plateau landscape and the Date Garden, where Mao Zedong once lived, add to the area's allure. Yan'an offers a unique blend of education and scenic exploration for a fulfilling weekend trip.

How to Get There: Yan'an can be reached by high-speed train from Xi'an, taking about 2 to 3 hours.

Travel Tip: Attend the nightly lantern show at the Date Garden for a captivating performance that brings history to life.

Where to Stay: The Yan'an Hotel provides a comfortable stay with modern amenities and is centrally located for easy access to historical sites.

Where to Eat: Sample traditional Yan'an cuisine at the Red Sun Restaurant, known for its authentic flavors and historical ambiance.

Taibai Mountain National Forest Park

Taibai Mountain National Forest Park, located in the Qinling Mountain Range, is the highest peak in Eastern China and offers a refreshing escape for nature lovers. The park is a haven for biodiversity and features a variety of flora and fauna, as well as stunning landscapes ranging from dense forests to alpine meadows. Hiking trails cater to all levels, and the clear mountain air is a welcome respite from the city.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Taibai Mountain is by bus from Xi'an, which takes approximately 3 to 4 hours.

Travel Tip: Visit during the summer to enjoy the cool mountain climate and the blooming of rare alpine flowers.

Where to Stay: The Taibai Mountain International Hotel offers a comfortable base for exploring the park, with stunning views of the surrounding peaks.

Where to Eat: Dine at the hotel's restaurant, which serves a variety of Chinese dishes, including local specialties made with fresh mountain ingredients.