Must Visit Atrraction in Anyang
City Walk
Wenfeng Tower to Gaoge Temple
- 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Wenfeng District, Anyang
Embark on a 1.5-kilometer journey through Anyang’s ancient heart, weaving past dynastic landmarks, bustling streets, and spiritual gems. Start from Tianning Temple, stroll along Cangxiang Street and Xianqian Street to enjoy the style of the ancient streets. Climb up the Kui Xing Pavilion to overlook the scenery of the ancient city. Finally, visit the Gaoge Temple to feel the charm of ancient religious culture
Why You’ll Love It
Timeless Contrast: Ancient pagodas meet vibrant markets, with hidden stories in every alley.
Local Flavors: Snack on street food, sip tea in a Qing-era courtyard, or hunt for handcrafted souvenirs.
Flexible Timing: Explore at dawn for quiet contemplation, midday for lively energy, or dusk for golden-hour magic.
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Bell and Drum Tower
- 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Wenfeng District, Anyang
Feel the iconic architecture of ancient cities at the Bell and Drum Tower, then take a walk along the Drum Tower on North Street to experience the charm of old Anyang.
Visitor Experience
- Step Back in Time: Imagine Ming-era officials announcing curfews or farmers pausing their work at the sound of the bell.
- Interactive Displays: Explore exhibits detailing the towers’ role in timekeeping, military coordination, and community rituals.
- Nearby Gems: Combine your visit with stops at Confucius Temple (500m east) or Anyang Old Street (300m west) for tea shops and artisan stalls.
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Must-Visit Sights
Youli Castle
- 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM
- Yindu District, Anyang
Youli Castle, also known as Youlicheng, is a historical site of great significance in Anyang. The castle dates back to the Shang Dynasty (1600-1046 BC) and is closely associated with the legendary tale of King Wen of Zhou’s imprisonment. According to historical records, King Wen of Zhou was imprisoned here by King Zhou of Shang. During his confinement, King Wen is said to have created the Eight Trigrams, which later became an integral part of Chinese philosophy and divination. Today, Youli Castle serves as an open-air museum, allowing visitors to explore the remnants of ancient Chinese fortification architecture. Key attractions within Youli Castle include:
1. The main gate and city walls 2. The King Wen Temple
3. The Eight Trigrams Pavilion 4. Archaeological exhibition halls
Visitors can walk along the ancient walls, explore the various pavilions, and learn about the site’s rich history through informative displays and guided tours.
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Yuefei Temple
- 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Hangzhou, Zhejiang
The Yuefei Temple in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, is dedicated to Yue Fei, a renowned military hero of the Song Dynasty. Famous for his loyalty and devotion to his country, Yue Fei became a symbol of patriotism in Chinese history. The temple, originally built in 1221 during the Southern Song Dynasty, honors his life and legacy. Key features of Yuefei Temple include:
Yue Fei’s Memorial Hall: A space dedicated to the memory of General Yue Fei, featuring statues and inscriptions reflecting his contributions.
The Yue Fei Stele: An iconic monument displaying poetry written by Yue Fei’s son, recounting his father’s noble deeds.
Historic Architecture: The temple complex combines ancient Chinese architecture with scenic landscapes, offering a glimpse into the Song Dynasty’s cultural significance.
Cultural Heritage: This temple serves as a place of reflection on loyalty, sacrifice, and the enduring values of Chinese civilization.
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Ma’s Manor
- Open 24 hours
- Xijiang Village, Anyang
Ma’s Manor is a grand historical residence that offers a rare glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of a wealthy Chinese family from centuries past. This sprawling estate is renowned for its exquisite architecture, featuring traditional courtyards, elegant wooden structures, and intricate carvings that showcase the artistry of ancient Chinese craftsmanship.
Walking through the manor, visitors can admire beautifully preserved rooms filled with antique furniture, calligraphy, and decorative elements that reflect the refined tastes of the past. The residence is designed according to the principles of Feng Shui, ensuring harmony between the living spaces and the surrounding environment. Each courtyard tells a story, revealing insights into the daily lives, traditions, and cultural values of the aristocracy.
Beyond its architectural beauty, Ma’s Manor serves as a valuable cultural site, preserving a way of life that has largely disappeared. Whether one is fascinated by history, architecture, or the elegance of traditional Chinese living, a visit to Ma’s Manor offers an immersive journey into a bygone era.
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Yunlin Temple
- Open 24 hours
- Anyang, Henan
Nestled amidst the serene landscapes of Anyang, Yunlin Temple is a revered Buddhist sanctuary known for its deep spiritual significance and architectural beauty. As one steps into the temple grounds, the air is filled with the calming scent of incense, and the sounds of chanting monks create a peaceful atmosphere, transporting visitors to a place of inner reflection and tranquility.
The temple complex is a blend of history, religion, and artistry. Its grand halls house intricate Buddha statues, ancient scriptures, and stunning murals that depict Buddhist teachings and folklore. The towering pagodas, with their elaborate carvings and golden rooftops, stand as symbols of enlightenment and devotion.
Yunlin Temple is not just a place of worship—it is a living testament to China’s rich Buddhist heritage. Over the centuries, it has served as a center for learning, prayer, and cultural preservation. Whether one seeks spiritual enlightenment, historical insights, or a moment of peace, Yunlin Temple offers a profound and memorable experience.
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Hiking and Nature trails
Red Flag Canal
- Open 24 hours
- Linzhou, Anyang
The Red Flag Canal is a monumental irrigation project carved into the Taihang Mountains by the people of Linzhou in the 1960s. Faced with persistent droughts and water shortages, thousands of workers, armed with simple tools and unwavering determination, constructed this canal to bring water to the region.
Stretching over 70 kilometers, the canal winds through rugged cliffs and breathtaking landscapes, blending human ingenuity with natural beauty. More than just a waterway, it represents the spirit of resilience, unity, and self-reliance, making it a lasting symbol of modern Chinese engineering and perseverance.
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Taihang Mountain
- Open 24 hours
- Anyang, Henan
Taihang Mountain, located in Linzhou, is a picturesque natural attraction that combines stunning landscapes with rich cultural heritage. The mountain area is renowned for its beautiful scenery, diverse flora and fauna, and historical significance. Key attractions at Tian Ling Mountain include:
1. Scenic Hiking Trails: Well-maintained paths that lead visitors through lush forests and offer panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
2. Ancient Buddhist Temples: Several historic temples are nestled within the mountain, including the famous Tian Ling Temple, which dates back to the Tang Dynasty.
3. Rock Carvings: The mountain is home to numerous ancient rock carvings and inscriptions, some dating back over a thousand years.
4. Geological Wonders: Unique rock formations and caves that showcase the area’s geological history.
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Taihang Grand Canyon
- 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
- Linzhou, Anyang
Carved over millennia by tectonic shifts and erosion, the Taihang Grand Canyon is a breathtaking stretch of jagged cliffs, emerald valleys, and cascading waterfalls in the heart of the Taihang Mountains. Known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” it offers adventurers and nature lovers a dramatic escape into raw, unspoiled landscapes.
Visitor Experience
Hiking Trails: Choose from leisurely walks along wooden boardwalks to challenging trails like the Cangxiang Ridge Path, offering heart-pounding drops and photo-worthy vistas.
Seasonal Magic: Visit in autumn for fiery foliage, spring for blooming wildflowers, or winter for frost-dusted cliffs and serene solitude.
Cultural Touches: Spot cliffside Taoist temples and rural villages where locals maintain traditional farming lifestyles.
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Shibanyan Town
- 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Shibanyan District, Anyang
Step into Shibanyan Town, a living museum of ancient China where cobblestone streets, weathered stone houses, and ornate wooden carvings whisper tales of merchants, scholars, and artisans from centuries past. Nestled in the foothills of the Taihang Mountains, this impeccably preserved Ming-Qing era town invites visitors to wander its labyrinthine alleys and savor the slow rhythm of traditional life.
Visitor Experience
- Hands-On Culture: Try your hand at crafting rice paper fans or shaping pottery with local artisans in their workshops.
- Seasonal Festivals: Visit during the Lantern Festival (February) for dragon dances or Autumn Harvest Fair (October) for folk music and market stalls.
- Scenic Views: Hike the Phoenix Hill Trail behind the town for sweeping vistas of tiled rooftops and terraced fields.
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Night Life in Anyang
Night Cruise on Huan River
- 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Wenfeng District, Anyang
In the evening, you can first go to the Yinxu Ruins to participate in the “Light up Yinxu” activity and feel the night view of the ancient capital. Then take a night cruise along the Huan River to enjoy the beautiful scenery along the river. Next, go to the Chinese Character Museum to experience the cultural atmosphere of the night opening. Finally, go to Anyang Ancient City to feel the charm of the ancient city at night.
Visitor Experience
Dinner Cruises: Upgrade to a VIP deck for a candlelit meal featuring Anyang delicacies like braised carp from the river or sesame-glazed tofu.
Photo Magic: Capture long-exposure shots of light trails or the perfect silhouette of pagodas against the twilight.
Seasonal Themes: Winter cruises feature festive lanterns; summer boats host breezy open-air jazz nights.
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Cangxiang Street, Xianqian Street & North Gate Inside
- Open All Day
- Anyang Ancient City, Wenfeng District
In the night of Anyang Ancient City, stroll along Cangxiang Street, Xianqian Street and North Gate Inside, enjoy the night view of the ancient streets, and taste the local snacks and special foods.
Visitor Experience
Morning Magic: Arrive early to watch the streets awaken—shopkeepers rolling up wooden shutters, tai chi practitioners in quiet courtyards, and the scent of fresh youtiao (fried dough) wafting from breakfast stalls.
Photo Ops: Capture the contrast of red lanterns against grey-brick walls, the play of light through lattice windows, or the North Gate’s ancient stones juxtaposed with modern city life.
Cultural Touchpoints: Join locals for a tea ceremony in a century-old shop or listen to storytellers recount legends of Anyang’s past at the Moonlit Pavilion.
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Plan Your Visit
Travel Tips
- Best time to visit: April to October for pleasant weather
- Book guided tours in advance for a more informative experience
- Allow at least 2-3 days to fully explore Anyang's main attractions
- Consider purchasing a multi-attraction pass for discounts
- Try local Henan cuisine for an authentic taste of the region
- Wear comfortable shoes as many sites involve walking
Getting Around
Public Transportation
Anyang has a well-developed bus system that covers most attractions. Key routes include:
- Bus 1: City center to Wenfeng Tower
- Bus 16: Anyang Railway Station to Youli Castle
- Bus 30: Connects major attractions including the Chinese Character Museum
Guided Tours
For a more comprehensive experience, consider booking a guided tour. Many tour operators offer packages that include:
- Transportation between attractions
- Expert guides with in-depth knowledge of Anyang's history
- Skip-the-line access to popular sites
- Customizable itineraries to suit your interests