Xiangyang, a city that makes you want to "lie flat" yet can't resist "wandering the world with a sword"

Friend, if you're looking for a place where you can both feel the heroic spirit of battles and enjoy the slow breeze by the river, Xiangyang definitely counts! I just got back from there, and half of my heart is still wandering by the Han River. Don’t rush, let me tell you how to have the best time on this trip. Day 1: Be a "Guardian of the Ancient City" My suggestion is to dedicate the first day to the Xiangyang Ancient City Wall, one of the most complete ancient city walls still standing in China, with an authentic vibe! Wake up naturally in the morning, no rush. After a good meal, head straight to Linhan Gate. When you see the towering city gate tower and the thick bricks beneath your feet, wow, the feeling hits you instantly! You can almost hear the neighing of war horses from a thousand years ago. You must walk along the city wall, preferably to the section near Furen City. On one side is the vast Han River, on the other side the lively old streets inside the city. This blend of ancient and modern visuals is absolutely stunning! After the city wall, don’t miss Beijie Street. This street runs right under the city wall, with bluestone pavement and various snacks and specialty shops on both sides. Let me tell you, the Xiangyang brown sugar pancake is round and plump, fresh out of the oven and piping hot. One bite is crispy, with the brown sugar inside flowing like lava—sweet but not greasy. I could easily eat two by myself! Also try the old Xiangyang cold noodles and Kongming vegetables (a special type of pickled vegetable, perfect with rice). Walking and eating is the right way to enjoy Beijie Street. In the afternoon, if you have the energy, visit the Xiangyang Museum, located inside the ancient city’s Zhaoming Terrace. It’s free! Explore Xiangyang’s historical timeline, from prehistoric stone tools to weapons from the Three Kingdoms period, which will deepen your appreciation of the city wall you saw in the morning. If you get tired, just find a riverside teahouse, order a cup of tea, watch the boats on the river come and go, and daydream for the afternoon—that’s a heavenly day. Day 2: Dreaming of the Three Kingdoms, Encountering Tang Dynasty Splendor Coming to Xiangyang without visiting Gulongzhong is like coming for nothing. This is said to be where Zhuge Liang once farmed and studied, and where Liu Bei made his "three visits to the thatched cottage." It’s a bit far from the city center, so you’ll need to take a ride. Once inside, the scenery is beautiful with clear mountains and waters. Check out the Thatched Cottage and the Hugging Knee Pavilion. Take a photo under the ancient archway and you’ll feel a bit of the “Wolong” (Crouching Dragon) wisdom aura. Silently recite the "Memorial on the Dispatch of Troops," and the sentiment will instantly resonate. After soaking in the history of Gulongzhong, in the afternoon we’ll “time travel” to the prosperous Tang Dynasty! Xiangyang Tang City is where the movie "Legend of the Demon Cat" was filmed. The architecture is grand and detailed. The Zhuque Gate, Mingde Gate, and the Thousand-Step Corridor... you won’t stop taking photos, every shot looks like a masterpiece. I recommend staying until evening when the lights come on. The entire Tang City glows with golden splendor, and there are various live performances that make you feel like you’re witnessing the scene of nations paying tribute. This day, from the late Han and Three Kingdoms to the flourishing Tang Dynasty, this time-travel experience is worth every penny! Day 3: Han River Charm and Local Flavors On the last day, let’s relax a bit. In the morning, take a stroll by the Han River and enjoy the view of Yuliangzhou Island. The wide river opens your mind and refreshes your spirit. If you get the chance, take a Han River cruise. Seeing Xiangyang city from the middle of the river offers a different vibe, very healing. At noon, you must have a bowl of authentic Xiangyang beef noodles! This is the soul of Xiangyang cuisine. Unlike other beef noodles, it’s made with beef tallow in a red broth, rich and flavorful. The noodles are alkaline noodles, very chewy. Paired with big chunks of beef and a plate of raw garlic, oh, it’s incredibly satisfying! If you can’t handle spicy food, remember to tell the owner “less spicy.” After this bowl of noodles, your Xiangyang trip is basically complete. If you still have time, visit the Mi Gong Shrine (a must for calligraphy lovers) or Xijia Pool (the pioneer of Chinese suburban gardens), both peaceful and elegant places. Summary Tips: · Stay: It’s recommended to stay in Xiangcheng District, close to the ancient city, convenient for eating, drinking, and shopping. · Transport: Taxis and buses are very convenient within the city. For Gulongzhong and Tang City, you might need a ride-hailing car or a tourist shuttle. · Eat: The essentials are beef noodles, brown sugar pancakes, Xiangyang fried sauce noodles, various river delicacies (legally farmed, of course), and authentic farmhouse dishes. Xiangyang is not flashy but has deep roots. It’s not as noisy as some trendy cities. You can feel the ancient charm on the city wall and enjoy the slow life by the Han River. Spend two or three days slowly savoring it, and the flavor will come through.