2025 Tongbai Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

💦 At the foot of Tongbai Mountain, by the source of the Huai River, "By the Water"—the first retreat of "Secluded Country Living" in southern Henan—officially opens its doors. 💦 Where the Huai meets Yue River, moored like a celestial raft, this is our new home and your newfound utopia. —————— 🏠 Highlights ✅ Nestled below Tongbai Mountain, at the origin of the Huai River 👉 The thousand-mile Huai River flows from Tongbai to Huai'an, merging into the sea and nourishing the land. 👉 The homestay sits at the mountain's base, with the Huai River right before its gates—the very inspiration for its name. 👉 Located at the Henan-Hubei border, it blends natural beauty with rustic charm. ✅ Poetic Countryside, Ideal Retreat 👉 Channeling the Huai waters into courtyards adorned with quirky rocks, bamboo, and cypress; raw wood furnishings and floor-to-ceiling windows blur the line between nature and dwelling. 👉 The design preserves southern Henan’s traditional architecture while embracing modern minimalism—white walls, gray tiles, and a return to simplicity. 👉 Life here is vibrant: cozy reading nooks, whimsical photo sculptures, and dreamy evenings under droplet-shaped lights. ✅ Meticulous Care, By the Water 👉 The property features 12 scenic guestrooms and a riverside restaurant, plus a café, pool, library, and viewing decks. 👉 Rooms boast beyond-five-star amenities: custom essential oil diffusers, Edifier speakers, Pang Donglai premium water, sanitizers, luxury toiletries, ora² toothpaste, and kids' care kits. 👉 Extras include welcome fruits, minibars, Aoka coffee, and bedtime snacks—ensuring each day feels refined. 👉 The coveted soaking tub rooms offer private outdoor spaces with oversized double massage tubs, perfect for summer relief. —————— 🧭 Guide 【Homestay】Secluded Country Living · By the Water 【Address】Laojie Village, Yuehe Town, Tongbai County, Nanyang, Henan 【Rooms】5 soaking tub rooms, 7 scenic view rooms 【Transport】Navigate to "Secluded Country Living · By the Water" by car. —————— 🚗 Nearby Attractions 🌈 *Journey to the West* Rafting: A 9km adventure retracing the pilgrimage route. 🌈 Huai River Bamboo Raft: Drift between two provinces amid stunning landscapes. 🌈 Tongbai Mountain (Huai River Source): Cool off at Water Curtain Cave or visit the mountaintop Yuntai Temple. 🌈 Oriental Sacred Wood Garden: Masterful wood carvings and a diverse ebony forest. 🌈 Henan Buddhist College: A zen art space with the world’s only ebony arhat collection.

⛰️"The Huai River flows gently, its vast misty waves reflecting the moon." In the Tongbai Mountains, the source of the Huai River, at the border of Henan and Hubei, such an exquisite B&B has unexpectedly opened. ⛰️Tongbai County. It's likely that 80% of people in Henan haven't heard much about this place, and even people in Hubei have rarely heard of it. But this place is actually China's North-South dividing line: the source of the Huai River. —————— 🏠 Yinju Xiangli · Zai Shui Yi Fang Countryside Vacation Area 📍Homestay Location: Laojie Village, Yuehe Town, Tongbai County, Nanyang City, Henan Province 🚗 Transportation: Drive directly using GPS navigation, or take Yuzhou Xing from Zhengzhou to the county town. 🏠 Homestay Room Types: 5 King Rooms with Hot Tubs, 7 Rooms with Courtyard Views 🪵 Amenities: Outdoor swimming pool, Book Bar, Coffee Shop, Restaurant ------ 🏡 Homestay Highlights ✅Border of Henan and Hubei provinces, headwaters of the Huai River 👉 The guesthouse is located on the border of Henan and Hubei provinces, right next to the Huai River. Cross the bridge, and you'll be in the neighboring province! 👉There are plenty of fun places to visit nearby, including the Shennong Tribe Scenic Area in Hubei and the Tongbai Scenic Area in Henan. 👉This homestay is located right by the water - the Huai River, which serves as China's North-South dividing line. • ✅ Beautiful New Countryside, Reviving Rural Beauty 👉 Yuehe Town in Tongbai County, where the homestay is located, is one of Henan's few Beautiful Village projects. 👉Here you'll find tea mountains, lotus ponds, wheat fields, as well as "Red Revolutionary Memorial Sites". 👉Right beside the guesthouse lies one of the sources of the Huai River. In summer, enjoy 10,000 meters of bamboo rafting. • ✅ Light luxury stay with a soaking pool, vacation stay with a private courtyard. 👉The guesthouse features a Southern Henan folk house design, with gray tile roofs and whitewashed walls that evoke a sense of nostalgia. The design also incorporates elements inspired by the Tongbai Mountains and the Huai River, with ice delicately placed within the courtyard. 👉Room amenities meet standards exceeding 5 stars, featuring an aroma diffuser and sound system, bespoke bath amenities, and natural wood furniture paired with panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows that allow ample natural light to fill every corner of the room. 👉5 guest rooms with a courtyard and a double soaking tub, more suitable for couples; 7 guest rooms in the courtyard area, with king/twin bed options, more recommended for families —————— ⛰️ Nearby Attractions 1⃣️ Tongbai Mountain Huaiyuan Scenic Area: Spans two provinces, featuring Shuilian Cave and Taibai Peak 2️⃣Henan Buddhist Academy: Part of the Tongbai Mountain Longtan River Scenic Area, free admission 3️⃣ Huaihe River Source Bamboo Rafting: One raft connects two provinces, total length 6 km 4️⃣ Shennong Tribe: Located in Hubei, free admission with the annual tourist pass • ❤️Transportation Tips 🚗 A 3.5-hr drive from Zhengzhou, located 10 mins from the highway exit 🚗 Only a 2.5-hour drive from Wuhan, closer than Zhengzhou. 🚗The guesthouse is in Nanyang City, but it's just a 1-hour drive from Suizhou.

| In-depth tour of Laojieling and Tongbai Mountain. Walk into the mountains and rivers of Nanyang, avoid the crowded conventional attractions, go deep into the primeval forests of Laojieling and the source of the Huaihe River in Tongbai Mountain, and feel the natural wildness and historical heritage of this city. The following is a nanny-level guide to make your trip to Nanyang easy and fulfilling! 1. Laojieling: A Summer Resort on the Top of Funiu Mountain Introduction to scenic spots: Laojieling is the main peak of Funiu Mountain, famous for its natural landscape like "Palace on the Cloud". The average temperature in summer is only 21℃, and the misty peaks and canyons with waterfalls and springs make you feel like you are in a fairyland. This place is not only a summer resort, but also a paradise for flora and fauna. You can encounter rare plants and wild animals while hiking. Transportation: Self-driving: Starting from Nanyang city, navigate to "Laojieling Scenic Area", which is about a 2-hour drive with picturesque scenery along the way. Public transportation: Take the bus from Nanyang Bus Station to Xixia County, and then transfer to the scenic area special bus. Ticket reservation: Tickets are 60 yuan/person. It is recommended to book a package (including round-trip cableway) in advance on the Ctrip APP to save queuing time during peak season. Photography tips: Sunrise and sea of ​​clouds: Check into the mountaintop hotel in advance, and go up to the "Watershed Observation Deck" in the morning to photograph the sunrise and the rolling sea of ​​clouds. Playing in the waterfalls: Use a slow shutter speed to shoot the silky flowing water at the "Xianren Valley" waterfall group, which is more artistic when paired with Hanfu. Check-in points: The glass plank road and the popular swing are suitable for shooting exciting perspectives. Remember to use a wide-angle lens. Food recommendations: Stewed chicken with wild vegetables and fried bacon with wild mushrooms are must-try. The "Lin Jian Xiao Zhu" restaurant in the scenic area is recommended. Accommodation recommendation: If you have enough budget, you can choose "Genting Mountain Villa" (you can see the sea of ​​clouds when you open the window). If you have a limited budget, you can stay in a B&B at the foot of the mountain and experience starry sky camping. Tips for avoiding pitfalls: The mountain roads are slippery after rain, so wear non-slip shoes when hiking; the last cable car bus leaves at 17:00, so plan your return time in advance. 2. Tongbai Mountain Huaiyuan Scenic Area - Cultural tracing of the source of the Huaihe River Introduction to scenic spots: Tongbai Mountain is the source of the Huaihe River. It has natural wonders such as the "Water Curtain Cave" and integrates Buddhist and Taoist culture. Wandering in the mountains, you can visit the thousand-year-old "Yuntai Zen Temple", climb to the top of "Taibai Peak" to overlook the mountains, and feel the tranquility of "asking for the source of the Huai River". Transportation: Self-driving: Depart from Nanyang via G40 Expressway to Tongbai Exit, about 1.5 hours. Public transportation: Take the bus from Nanyang Bus Station to Tongbai County, and then transfer to the scenic area bus. Ticket reservation: 70 yuan/person, Ctrip can buy combined tickets (including Water Curtain Cave + Taibai Peak), and there are discounts during certain periods. Photography tips: Shuiliandong Waterfall: Take the photo after the rain when the water is abundant. It is more stunning when shot from a drone. Taibai Peak Sea of ​​Clouds: Climb the mountain in the early morning or after rain, and take photos of the ancient temples and mountains in the clouds, just like an ink painting. Cultural check-in: The red walls and ginkgo leaves (autumn) of Yuntai Temple are a perfect combination for photography. Recommended food: Tongbai tofu banquet ("Huaiyuan Tofu Shop" is recommended), pecan stewed chicken soup. Recommended accommodation: "Huaiyuan Villa" (where you can soak in hot springs), or the "Starry Sky Tent Camp" at the foot of the mountain. Guide to avoiding pitfalls: The temperature difference in the mountains is large, so bring a jacket; the steps on some sections are steep, so wear comfortable hiking shoes; no noise is allowed in the temples, so respect religious customs. Must-try snacks in Nanyang: Fangcheng stewed noodles (with rich soup), Xinye flat noodles, and Nanyang yellow beef. Specialty restaurants: "Zhangji Hu La Tang" is a must-visit in the old city, and the night market recommends "Zhongjing Road Snack Street". Recommended comfortable accommodation in Nanyang: Nanyang Jianye Forest Peninsula Hotel (elegant environment, close to Laojieling). Nanyang accommodation value for money: Home Inn Hotel (Nanyang city center, convenient transportation). Tips to avoid pitfalls: Traffic pitfalls to avoid: It is recommended to use regular taxi platforms in Nanyang to avoid illegal taxis; Shopping reminder: The prices of jade and medicinal materials in the scenic area are inflated, so please be cautious when purchasing; Season selection: The best time to visit Laojieling is from May to October, and the scenery of Tongbai Mountain is best in spring and autumn. Itinerary suggestion (2 days and 1 night version) D1: Nanyang → Laojieling (cable car up the mountain → Fairy Valley → glass plank road → stay at the top of the mountain) D2: Sunrise at Laojieling → Tongbai Mountain (Shuiliandong → Yuntai Temple → Taibai Peak) → return to Nanyang. This ancient city, immersed in mountains and rivers, weaves a unique travel picture with the beauty of nature and the charm of history. Save this guide and discover your own secret place in Nanyang! 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A springtime rendezvous in a simple valley. This is a valley in the Tongbai Mountains, located in the southern border area of Nanyang. Apart from the local people, few tourists from afar know about it. There is an unassuming ancient temple in the valley. It does not have magnificent buildings, but only a simple courtyard. However, all of this does not affect the beauty of spring brought by the blooming spring flowers and ancient trees. Yes, there is an unassuming spring beauty here! Driving on the flat country roads, you will be greeted by the fragrance of peach and plum blossoms. The stream in the valley is already full of people who have come for barbecue and camping. When you see the gate of Yufeng Wild Tea Garden, you will enter the core scenic area. The scenic area has also developed a unique Zen tea culture around the ancient temple and tea garden. The ancient temple is called Heiming Temple. It was built in the Ming Dynasty, but the buildings no longer exist. Only the thousand-year-old osmanthus tree in the courtyard and the century-old trident maple in front of the gate tell of its long history. Not far away is the lake, and the B&Bs by the lake are ready for guests to check in. The mountain trails have also been installed. Hiking, taking kids out, and barbecuing are all great ways to spend a spring day in the suburbs. [Tips] ① Address: Heiming Temple Scenic Area, Chengwan Township, Tongbai County, Nanyang City ② Admission: Free ③ Featured product: Heiming Yunwu Tea ④ Facilities: There are farmhouses, B&Bs, and tea houses. You can bring your own camping cookware.

“I come to visit the Water Curtain Valley, where the flying spring is most refreshing.” This is a famous poem left by the Song Dynasty scholar Zhu Jia when he visited this place. Today, some ancient relics remain here for visitors to admire. Zhu Xi used a curtain to describe the waterfall because there is a cave behind the waterfall, also known as the Water Curtain Cave. According to historical records, the Water Curtain Cave is 13 meters high, 7 meters deep, and 5 meters wide. “A cave opens, and a waterfall hangs at the door.” The waterfall is 35 meters high, gushing down like a curtain. Before the summer heat arrives, go for a hike! The Water Curtain Cave is still relatively unknown. Navigate directly to Dongmao Mountain Water Curtain Cave. You can park in the village parking lot and hike 1 km to the waterfall. Although you can drive directly to the waterfall, the road is narrow and only allows one car to pass, so it is better to park in the parking lot. The road is very flat, with no climbing sections, so you can walk and breathe fresh air at the same time. Isn’t that a pleasure?

🌈Nanyang Tongbai Mountain, a tourist destination where natural scenery and cultural history intertwine🎇, offering tourists a wealth of exploration experiences😉！ 🌟Attraction address: Nanyang Tongbai Mountain is located in Tongbai County, Nanyang City, Henan Province🧐. Specific attractions such as Taibai Peak and Shuilian Cave are scattered throughout the mountain range😜. Each location boasts unique scenery✨, like hidden treasures waiting to be discovered🤩！ 🚗Attraction transportation: Tourists can take a train or bus to Tongbai County🚌🚂, then transfer to a local bus or taxi to reach the scenic area🚕. Tongbai County has convenient transportation, providing great convenience for tourists😎, allowing you to easily embark on a wonderful journey😜！ ✨Must-visit attractions: - Taibai Peak: As the main peak of Tongbai Mountain😃, Taibai Peak is known for its magnificent and majestic scenery, with clouds swirling around it😍. It's like a magnificent natural scroll painting🤗！This is a top choice for mountain enthusiasts🧗‍. When you stand on the mountaintop, overlooking the swirling sea of clouds, you will be amazed by the wonders of nature😎！ - Shuilian Cave: The cave entrance is covered by a waterfall, like a curtain😉. Inside the cave, there is another world🤩, like a mysterious world waiting to be explored🧐. Here, you can experience the unique charm of natural beauty😃, as if you are in a fairyland🤗！ - YunTai Zen Temple: Spanning the provinces of Henan and Hubei😮, the temple has a long history and is very popular🙏. Entering this temple, you can experience the rich Buddhist cultural atmosphere🤓, making it a great place to experience Buddhist culture😉. Here, you can calm your mind and experience peace and harmony😌. 🎫Ticket information: Ticket prices for various attractions in Nanyang Tongbai Mountain are moderate😯. It is recommended that tourists check official information or book tickets in advance through cooperative channels📱, to avoid affecting your itinerary due to on-site ticket purchases😉. This way, you can smoothly enter the scenic area and enjoy a wonderful time😜！ 💡Tips: - Comfortable clothing: Due to the complex terrain of Tongbai Mountain😯, it is recommended that tourists wear comfortable sneakers and suitable hiking clothes👟👚. This way, you can be more relaxed and comfortable during your exploration😉, and explore every corner freely😎！ - Safety first: During your visit, please follow the scenic area regulations🤓, pay attention to safety, and do not enter unauthorized areas🚫. After all, safety is the most important thing😜. Only by ensuring safety can we better enjoy the fun of travel😁！ - Eco-friendly travel: Please bring your own garbage bag🗑️, do not litter, and protect the scenic environment🌳. Let's all love this beautiful nature🤗, and let it forever maintain its charming charm😍！

Tongbai County Huaiyuan Scenic Area is located in the middle of Tongbai Mountain range at the junction of Henan Province and Nanyang City, with a total area of 108 square kilometers. It is the source of the ancient 'Four Du' Huai River and the natural boundary of the two major river systems of Jianghuai. Here, the natural landscape is unique, and the cultural landscape is gathered, divided into Huaiyuan, Peach Blossom Cave, Taibai Peak, and Water Curtain Cave, each with its own characteristics. There is the highest peak in southern Henan, Tongbai Mountain's main peak Taibai Peak, which is 1140 meters above sea level, the famous Buddhist Zen White Cloud System ancestral home Yuntai Zen Temple, and the Water Curtain Cave, one of the 'Thirty-Six Caves' in the world. One of the four famous temples in Henan, the Water Curtain Temple, and the mysterious source of the Huai River, etc., have made the scenic area around Tongbai County, which is mainly for cooling off, become a citizen. The Tongbai Mountain Huaiyuan Scenic Area is located in the transition zone between the North Subtropical and Warm Temperate zones, with a suitable climate and spring-like four seasons. The peaks and forests in the area are dense, with a forest coverage rate of 95%, mountain springs and waterfalls can be seen everywhere, and it has a complete transition zone forest ecosystem and excellent natural ecological environment. It is praised by experts as the natural biological gene bank and natural museum of the Central Plains region. The Tongbai Mountain Huaiyuan Scenic Area also attracts many tourists from inside and outside the province with its spring-like climate environment.