Key Takeaways:
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Xinyang offers a rare mix of tea culture, sacred mountains, and river adventures in one peaceful city.
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The region is best known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and laid-back lifestyle that feels authentic in every season.
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From exploring waterfalls to sipping freshly brewed Maojian tea, there’s something for everyone year-round in Xinyang.
Tucked in the southern part of Henan Province, Xinyang is often called the “southern gateway” to central China. With the Dabie Mountains rolling in from the south and the Huai River slicing through the city, Xinyang’s geography is as dynamic as its culture. Known for producing the world-renowned Xinyang Maojian green tea, this city has long blended nature, agriculture, and heritage into a distinctly relaxed way of life.
Visitors are drawn to Xinyang not just for its beautiful landscapes but also for its welcoming community and strong ties to tradition. Whether you’re trekking to mountain temples, sipping local tea in a garden, or discovering historical wartime sites, Xinyang offers an experience rooted in serenity and depth.
Table of Contents
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Hike and Unwind at Jigong Mountain Scenic Area
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Visit the Xinyang Maojian Tea Plantation and Museum
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Cruise the Calm Waters of Nanwan Lake
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Explore the Revolutionary Spirit of Martyrs’ Memorial Park
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Walk the Tea Trail at Dabie Mountain National Forest Park
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Discover the Cultural Life of the Shihe River Promenade
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Attend the Spring Tea Picking Festival
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Explore the Historic Village of Yishan
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Watch the Sunset from Baiyun Temple Viewpoint
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Sample Local Delicacies at Xinyang Night Markets
1. Hike and Unwind at Jigong Mountain Scenic Area
Jigong Mountain, named for its rooster-shaped peak, is one of Xinyang’s most beloved natural and cultural landmarks. Nestled in the Dabie Mountain range, it combines lush forest trails, Buddhist temples, and stone villas once used by foreign diplomats and missionaries in the early 20th century.
Visitors can hike to multiple viewpoints for panoramic shots of the surrounding mountains and valleys, or simply take a cable car for a more relaxed journey. The air is fresh, the trails are peaceful, and the scenery changes with each season—from green bursts in spring to snow-capped pines in winter. It’s the perfect nature-meets-history retreat.
2. Visit the Xinyang Maojian Tea Plantation and Museum
Xinyang is globally recognized for producing Maojian tea, a fragrant and slightly nutty green tea harvested in the surrounding hills. A visit to one of the tea plantations—especially during spring harvest—offers a behind-the-scenes look at tea picking, drying, and tasting.
The Xinyang Maojian Tea Museum, located nearby, dives deeper into the cultural and economic impact of tea on the city. With interactive exhibits and live demonstrations, it’s both educational and sensory-rich. Sampling a fresh cup while overlooking a tea terrace is a must-do experience for any tea enthusiast.
3. Cruise the Calm Waters of Nanwan Lake
Nanwan Lake, also known as South Bay Lake, is a sprawling reservoir surrounded by rolling hills and forest. It’s a favorite among locals for weekend picnics, light boating, and waterside walks that feel far removed from city noise.
You can rent a paddleboat, take a guided cruise, or simply enjoy the lakeside gardens and pavilions built for quiet contemplation. In summer, the lake becomes a hub for water sports and lotus viewing, while fall paints the shoreline in gold. It’s a year-round destination for slow travel and nature appreciation.
4. Explore the Revolutionary Spirit of Martyrs’ Memorial Park
Martyrs’ Memorial Park pays tribute to those who sacrificed their lives in China’s revolutionary struggles, especially during the Anti-Japanese War and the Chinese Civil War. The park features a grand monument, quiet wooded paths, and plaques detailing the history of Henan’s resistance movements.
Though somber in theme, the park is also a serene green space where families gather, students relax, and veterans reflect. Visiting this site offers not just history but a deeper understanding of the local pride and resilience embedded in Xinyang’s culture.
5. Walk the Tea Trail at Dabie Mountain National Forest Park
Dabie Mountain National Forest Park is a sprawling nature reserve with streams, waterfalls, and forest trails that wind through tea-growing regions and mountain ridges. It’s a cooler escape during the hot summer months and offers fantastic hiking in spring and fall.
One of the highlights is the “Tea Trail,” which connects small villages, scenic viewpoints, and resting stations serving fresh Maojian. Birdsong, misty vistas, and the scent of brewing leaves accompany you throughout the trek. Whether you’re an avid hiker or a casual explorer, this park offers a balanced experience of activity and peace.
6. Discover the Cultural Life of the Shihe River Promenade
The Shihe River winds gently through the heart of Xinyang, and the riverside promenade has become one of the city’s most vibrant public spaces. Lined with lanterns, gardens, and stone pathways, it’s a popular spot for locals who gather for dancing, singing, tai chi, and leisurely walks.
The area comes alive in the evening as the river reflects the soft glow of street lights and the city slows down. You’ll find vendors selling snacks, kids flying kites, and couples strolling hand-in-hand. It’s a free, people-centric experience that offers a glimpse into Xinyang’s daily rhythms and warm community life.
7. Attend the Spring Tea Picking Festival
Held annually in April, the Spring Tea Picking Festival is one of Xinyang’s signature cultural celebrations. It marks the beginning of the Maojian tea harvest, with ceremonies, performances, and contests that showcase tea culture and local traditions.
Visitors are invited to dress in traditional attire, pick tea leaves in the hills, and watch demonstrations on ancient brewing methods. Folk music, calligraphy, and tea-themed art make the festival a full sensory experience. It’s a joyful, community-driven event that highlights the city’s agricultural pride and deep-rooted connection to tea.
8. Explore the Historic Village of Yishan
Located just outside central Xinyang, Yishan Village is a beautifully preserved settlement known for its Ming and Qing dynasty architecture. Stone-paved lanes, wooden houses with curved roofs, and timeworn courtyards make it a picturesque and peaceful destination.
You can visit ancestral halls, small temples, and traditional workshops where local artisans continue crafts like paper-cutting and calligraphy. The village is especially charming during spring, when blossoms line the old stone paths. It’s a window into rural life and an ideal half-day trip for history lovers.
9. Watch the Sunset from Baiyun Temple Viewpoint
Perched on a hill overlooking the city, Baiyun Temple offers not only spiritual peace but also one of the best panoramic views of Xinyang. The temple complex includes prayer halls, stone statues, and incense-filled courtyards that exude a tranquil energy.
As the sun sets behind the Dabie Mountains, the sky turns gold and pink, casting a magical light over the landscape below. The gentle chime of bells and rustle of trees make it a reflective and almost meditative experience. It’s a must-visit in any season, particularly in autumn for the crisp mountain air and vivid sunsets.
10. Sample Local Delicacies at Xinyang Night Markets
When the sun goes down, Xinyang’s night markets burst to life with the sights, smells, and sounds of sizzling street food. From grilled skewers and stir-fried noodles to local specialties like river snail soup and Xinyang-style tofu, the variety is impressive and budget-friendly.
In addition to food, you’ll find street performers, games, and pop-up shops selling everything from tea sets to handmade jewelry. The night market scene is lively year-round and offers an authentic taste of local flavor and culture. It’s the perfect way to end a day of exploring.
What to do if you have kids?
Xinyang is a family-friendly destination that offers both outdoor fun and cultural learning. Kids can enjoy boat rides at Nanwan Lake, easy trails through Jigong Mountain, or interactive exhibits at the Maojian Tea Museum. Parks along the Shihe River provide safe places to play, while seasonal festivals bring music, games, and storytelling.
Many restaurants are child-friendly, and locals are warm and welcoming to families. With its laid-back atmosphere and variety of low-key adventures, Xinyang is a great city for traveling with children of all ages.
Where can I find free events in Xinyang China taking place this weekend?
To discover free things to do in Xinyang this weekend—such as open-air performances, temple fairs, tea-picking demos, or cultural parades—check out PlanMyWeekend.ai. The platform is updated regularly with local happenings, including free events, workshops, and park-based gatherings. Whether you’re a traveler or a resident, you’ll find plenty of ways to enjoy Xinyang without spending a yuan.
Final Thoughts
Xinyang is a city where mountains, tea, and tradition meet in a calming, unforgettable way. Whether you’re trekking through forests, tasting fresh Maojian, or watching lanterns glow over the river, you’ll feel the city’s gentle pace and deep sense of place. It’s a destination that rewards those who linger—and one you’ll want to return to in every season.
Author: Dejon Brooks
Dejon Brooks is an entrepreneur who founded Trend Watchers with his life savings. Aged 24, Dejon has turned Trend Watchers into a successful business. After reaching over 150M+ people on his personal accounts, he now spends his time growing Planmyweekend.ai
