Shangqiu—A Treasure Hunt Journey Exploring Chinese Civilization Family! Can you imagine stepping into a city and instantly entering the 5,000-year-long river of history?

Shangqiu—A Treasure Hunt Journey Exploring Chinese Civilization Family! Can you imagine stepping into a city and instantly entering the 5,000-year-long river of history? Shangqiu, a low-key yet charming city, is exactly such a place where history and reality perfectly intertwine. It is an important birthplace of Chinese civilization, hiding countless fascinating stories unknown to many. Follow my guide and unlock the unique charm of Shangqiu together😎! 🗓️ Itinerary Day 1: Shangqiu Ancient City - Chen Family Courtyard - South City Gate Night Market ● Morning: Upon arrival in Shangqiu, head straight to Shangqiu Ancient City. This ancient city has a history of over 4,000 years and is currently the only large-scale ancient city site in the world that integrates the Bagua City, Water City, and City-on-City structures. Strolling along the ancient city streets, the stone slabs beneath your feet seem to tell stories of the past. Visit the Mu Family Courtyard inside the ancient city to experience the architectural style and lifestyle of wealthy families during the Ming and Qing dynasties🏠. ● Noon: Enjoy Shangqiu’s specialty cuisine at a restaurant inside the ancient city, such as Shaduo Lamb. The lamb slices are paper-thin, fatty but not greasy, lean but not dry, and incredibly fragrant🥩! ● Afternoon: Visit the Chen Family Courtyard, a building with typical northern siheyuan (courtyard house) style, displaying many precious cultural relics and historical materials that will deepen your understanding of Shangqiu’s history and culture. ● Evening: Explore the bustling South City Gate Night Market, full of various snacks. Try Shangqiu’s pickled fish, with tender fish meat, crispy bones, and an exceptional taste😋. Pair it with a steaming bowl of Shangqiu oil tea for ultimate comfort! Day 2: Mangdang Mountain Tourist Area ● Morning: Head to Mangdang Mountain Tourist Area, the site of Emperor Gaozu of Han, Liu Bang’s uprising by slaying a snake, rich in historical significance. First, visit the Han Liang King Tomb Cluster, the tombs of Liu Wu of the Han Dynasty’s Liang Kingdom and his family. The large-scale, complex structures feature exquisite murals and stone carvings that showcase the wisdom and craftsmanship of ancient people👍. ● Noon: Dine at a farmhouse restaurant near the scenic area and savor fresh and delicious local farm dishes. ● Afternoon: Visit the Liu Bang Slaying Snake Stele, which legend says reveals Liu Bang’s apparition under night lighting—very magical. Also, explore Mangdang Mountain Geological Park to admire unique geological landscapes and marvel at nature’s wonders🌄. ● Evening: If time permits, watch the live performance "Emperor Gaozu Welcomes Guests" in the scenic area. The spectacular show will transport you back to that turbulent era🎭. Day 3: Yingtian Academy - Yanbo Platform ● Morning: Visit Yingtian Academy, one of the four great ancient academies, holding an important place in Chinese educational history. Walking through the academy, you can almost hear the clear voices of ancient scholars reading aloud, feeling the rich cultural atmosphere📖. ● Noon: Have lunch at a nearby restaurant and try Shangqiu’s pan-fried buns, with golden crispy skin and juicy, flavorful filling—one bite is pure satisfaction🥟. ● Afternoon: Head to Yanbo Platform, one of China’s oldest existing observatories and the origin site of Shangqiu city. Climb Yanbo Platform to overlook Shangqiu’s cityscape and learn about its origins and development. If time allows, visit Yucheng County, the hometown of Hua Mulan, to experience the extraordinary spirit of this heroic woman. ● Evening: Conclude your delightful Shangqiu trip and head home with a heart full of memories! 🍜 Food Recommendations ● Shangqiu Huimian (Braised Noodles): The noodles are chewy, the broth fresh and flavorful, with ingredients like lamb, kelp strips, and tofu strips, making it nutritious🍜. ● Shangqiu Sugar Cake: Crispy on the outside, soft and glutinous inside, sweet but not greasy, a traditional favorite snack in Shangqiu🍰. ● Shangqiu Spicy Pepper Soup: Rich in flavor, spicy and tasty, paired with fried dough sticks, a classic Shangqiu breakfast combo🥣. 🛏 Accommodation Suggestions ● Inside Shangqiu Ancient City: Staying inside the ancient city lets you better experience its atmosphere and offers convenient travel. There are many unique homestays to choose from for a full immersive experience🏘️. ● City Center: For more accommodation options and convenient amenities, choose hotels in the city center, with easy access to transportation and shopping. 🚗 Transportation Guide ● External Transport: Shangqiu has an airport and train station, making travel convenient. Choose the best transportation mode based on your departure location. ● Internal Transport: The city offers buses, taxis, and shared bikes. To reach Mangdang Mountain Tourist Area, you can take a tourist shuttle bus or charter a car for convenience🚍. Family, Shangqiu’s wonders go far beyond this. Come explore it yourself! Save this guide and embark on a spontaneous Shangqiu adventure✈️!