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Shanzhou Silo-cave
No. 15 of Family-friendly Attractions in Henan

Shanzhou Silo-cave

6.2
4.4/5
3k reviews
The Shanzhou Cave Dwellings are located in the south of Shan County in Sanmenxia. The site is easily accessed by road or rail. The cave dwellings kept residents cool in summer and warm in winter, and provided excellent shelter from wind and earthquakes. In addition to spending the night in renovated dwellings, visitors can relax in the hot springs, taste local cuisine, and watch traditional cultural performances.Sanmenxia · 10.7 km from downtown
Hangu Pass Tourist Area
No. 2 of Best Things to Do in Sanmenxia

Hangu Pass Tourist Area

5.5
4.3/5
670 reviews
Hangu Pass, located in Lingbao, Sanmenxia City, Henan Province at the golden triangle junction of Henan, Shaanxi, and Shanxi provinces, is a national AAAA-level cultural attraction blending military history with Laozi philosophy. Spanning over 300 acres, the site features more than 30 attractions including the Hangu Pass watchtower, ancient Hangu trail, arrow storage wall ruins, Laozi statue, Dao De Tian Shu scripture, Dao Island, Virtue Hall, Taichu Palace, Great Dao Temple, Lingfu ruins, Cockcrow Platform, and a forest of steles. Hangu PassThis sacred valley is where Laozi, the great ancient Chinese philosopher, composed the foundational Taoist text "Tao Te Ching," marking the birthplace of Taoist culture. Strategically located along the historic route connecting Chang'an (now Xi'an) to Luoyang, it served as a vital crossroads where Central Plains culture met Qin-Jin traditions. For centuries, this fortress witnessed pivotal military conflicts and inspired legendary tales like "Purple Air from the East" and "Rooster Crows at Hangu Pass."Lingbao · 13.1 km from downtown
Sanmenxia Dam Scenic Area
No. 5 of Fall Viewing Attractions in Sanmenxia

Sanmenxia Dam Scenic Area

4.6
4.5/5
316 reviews
The Yellow River has a total length of 120 kilometers in Sanmenxia City, forming a magnificent scene of vast water, among which the Yellow River Dam is the most spectacular. The main dam of the dam is a concrete gravity dam with a length of 713.2 meters and a height of 106 meters; the auxiliary dam is a reinforced concrete core wall with a length of 144 meters and a height of 24 meters. The powerhouse of the power station is of the type behind the dam, with a total length of 223.88 meters. The ancient plank road of the Yellow River: It is located on the steep cliff on the north bank of the lower reaches of the Sanmenxia Dam, close to the Yellow River. There are two. One is higher from the river level and the other is lower from the river level. It can be seen from the relics that the ancient plank road of the Yellow River is a narrow stone road cut out at the impact of the river water on both sides of the Yellow River close to the Sanmen Canyon, and then at the road break. A row of deep square holes was chiseled, and then wooden stakes were plugged to form a trail for boatmen to pull fibers up. It is still clearly visible today. There are about 800 or 900 of these square holes scattered on the stone walls of the entire plank road. In ancient times, people drove wooden stakes into the cave to climb to the rock wall. The bull nose allows the tracker to tie a rope to climb, and when encountering wind and waves, the boat can be tied nearby. Mainstay: Located in the rapids below the Sanmenxia Dam. The scorpion on the Yellow River also called it "come to me". When the water is shallow in winter, it is about 7 meters above the water surface; in the flood season, it only shows a spire, and it looks as if it will be engulfed by the flood immediately, which is extremely dangerous. For thousands of years, regardless of the invasion of heavy rain or the scouring of stormy waves, it has been turning the tide and standing majestically in the Yellow River. It has been hailed as a symbol of the spirit of the Chinese nation since ancient times. When Emperor Taizong Li Shimin came here, he also wrote the poem "Looking up on the main pillar, looking at the Dragon Gate in the north, the vast Yuji, and the vast Changchun". In addition, there are Zhanggong Island, Dresser, Dayu Park, Yingbin Pavilion, Yellow River Sanmenxia Exhibition Hall, China-Japan Friendship Orchard and other attractions.Sanmenxia · 14.5 km from downtown
Sanmenxia Swan Lake Resort

Sanmenxia Swan Lake Resort

4.5
5.0/5
119 reviews
Sanmenxia Swan Lake Resort is located in Sanmenxia City, Henan Province, adjacent to the Yellow River and situated in the cultural and tourism core area of the Yellow River Golden Triangle. Covering an area of approx. 30.87 km², the resort boasts a pleasant climate and excellent ecological environment. It uniquely blends ecological cultural resources represented by the Yellow River with leisure resources centered around hot springs, creating a distinctive national attraction. This is China's premier destination for viewing the Yellow River, where the spectacular contrast between clear and turbid waters has nurtured brilliant regional cultures like Yangshao, Guo State, and Shanzhou. As the country's largest inland urban swan habitat, it hosts two-thirds of China's whooper swan population. The resort also features the rare underground ancient dwellings of Shanzhou Yaodong, hailed as "an ancient village below the horizon and a living fossil of residential architecture." Its exceptional self-flowing hot springs—rare in China for being both drinkable and bathable—are widely distributed, high-yielding, and of superb quality, ranking among China's five famous springs in ancient times. Leveraging its abundant tourism resources, the resort has carefully curated a series of themed products. Stroll through Yellow River Park, cycle along the Yellow River Greenway, or cruise on the river to witness the spectacular sight of towering gorges giving way to serene lakes. Explore the Miaodigou Archaeological Site Park, Sanmenxia's Guo State Museum, Baolun Temple Pagoda, and Sanmenxia Museum to experience the timeless ballad of the Yellow River that has echoed for millennia. Wander through Swan Lake Wetland Park, where graceful white swans, shimmering Yellow River waters, and diverse educational activities paint a beautiful picture of harmony between humans and nature. Stop by Shanzhou Underground Courtyard Dwellings to savor Yellow River delicacies like the "Ten Great Bowls," admire intangible cultural heritage displays including construction techniques, folk performances, paper-cutting, tea ceremonies, and wedding customs, and immerse yourself in traditional Shanzhou lifestyles. Cultural arts like Shanzhou Bangzi opera, Yanggao opera, and Luogu storytelling will enrich your vacation experience.Sanmenxia · 5.7 km from downtown
Swan Lake National Urban Wetland Park
No. 1 of Fall Viewing Attractions in Sanmenxia

Swan Lake National Urban Wetland Park

4.5
4.8/5
521 reviews
Swan Lake National Urban Wetland Park starts from Jinchang Overpass in the east and ends at the intersection of Shanzhou Avenue and Yanguan Road in the west. To the south, it connects to Shaanxi Avenue and it expands to the Yellow River Wetlands in the north. The scenic spot consists of three parts, including the Shuanglong Lake White Swan Watching Area, the Shaanzhou Old City and the Yellow River Ecological Forest Belt. Swan Lake is also known as Qinglong Lake. Every October, there are tens of thousands of white swans, which will remain for the winter. Canglong Lake has many aquatic plants, including reeds, cattails and lotuses. On Zhaogong Island is a colorful peony garden and various peony varietals are planted here. Yingxiang Pavilion is an imitation Tang Dynasty building erected to commemorate Heshanggong, the river god. Standing on the Yingxiang Pavilion, visitors can behold the beautiful panoramic view.Sanmenxia · 4.9 km from downtown
Yangshao Xianmen Mountain Scenic Area
No. 4 of Fall Viewing Attractions in Sanmenxia

Yangshao Xianmen Mountain Scenic Area

4.3
4.9/5
259 reviews
The Xianmen Mountain Tourism and Leisure Resort of Yangshao Winery is located in Mianchi, the birthplace of Yangshao culture and the world's fine wine production area. The total area of ​​the scenic area is 40 square kilometers, and the tourist area is 10 square kilometers. It has the advantage of time: 1,347 meters above sea level, overlooking the winding Yellow River, the mother river, and the Qinling Mountains and Taihang Mountains converging here; it has the advantage of location: Xianmen Mountain is located in the fortress of Henan leading to Guanzhong, Shaanxi and Shanxi. The Attraction has convenient transportation, the entrance is adjacent to National Highway 241, 6 kilometers away from the exit of Mianyuan Expressway, and 1 hour's drive from Mianchi High-speed Railway Station, with convenient access; it has the advantage of people: the Yangshao culture under the rule of the ancestor of human civilization, Huangdi, was brilliant and splendid. It originated in Mianchi and was passed down at home and abroad, unveiling the dawn of Chinese civilization.Mianchi · 19.3 km from downtown
Guo State Museum

Guo State Museum

4.3
4.8/5
159 reviews
The Guo State Museum in Sanmenxia City is a specialty museum built on the site of the Guo State cemetery from the Western Zhou period and a Major Historical and Cultural Site Protected at the National Level in China. The Guo State cemetery is a large-scale state cemetery from the Western Zhou period and the Spring and Autumn Period, that is large in size, complete at various levels, well-ordered and well-preserved presently discovered in China. Since the discovery, various relic sites have been uncovered and many cultural relics have been unearthed.Sanmenxia · 1.8 km from downtown
Grand Canyon in Western Henan

Grand Canyon in Western Henan

3.8
4.5/5
375 reviews
The Grand Canyon Resort is located in Guandaokou Town, Lushi County, Sanmenxia City connecting Henan, Shaanxi and Shanxi. The canyon runs from the east to the west. It is just like a strip extending to the east. The long, narrow and deep river down in the canyon has rapids consisting of multiple waterfalls in different shapes and a collection of ponds and pools. The canyon resort mainly boasts Dacongtan Waterfall, Zhuozu Pool, Yinma Groove, Sandie Canyon, Feishui Pond and other tourist spots.Lushi · 23 km from downtown
Yellow River Swan Cruise

Yellow River Swan Cruise

3.7
4.5/5
65 reviews
"Yellow River Swan" is a water cruise ship in the Yellow River Basin. Since its maiden voyage on March 25, 2017, it has received more than 100,000 domestic and foreign tourists.Sanmenxia · 5.4 km from downtown
Shuanglong Scenic Bay

Shuanglong Scenic Bay

3.4
4.3/5
114 reviews
Shuanglong Scenic Bay is located in Shuanglong Bay Town, Lushi County, Sanmenxia City, Henan Province, named after standing erect between two gorgeous peaks called Dalongtou and Xiaolongtou. The resources here are abundant and comprehensive, boasting both beautiful natural scenery of mountains and rivers and rich historical and cultural heritage. The integration of natural landscape and historical culture makes it a top-notched tourist destination.Lushi · 20.5 km from downtown

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What travelers say about Sanmenxia

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M63***07October 21, 2026
4.0
This is a cluster of traditional houses with a very distinctive local flavor. You enter the village but see no one, yet every household seems to be filled with voices. During the visit, there are occasional folk performances that incorporate local customs, which are quite interesting. The entire scenic area has a well-planned route, and you won't feel tired after walking through it all. There's a courtyard inside that sells huge steamed buns, especially the red date and sweet potato ones, which are particularly delicious.

Shanzhou Silo-cave

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Anonymous userSeptember 22, 2026
5.0
The Hangu Pass of the Qin Dynasty, relying on its natural defenses, blocked countless armies. Lao Tzu wrote the Tao Te Ching here, spreading culture with a long and rich history. The scenic area is vast and well-equipped, making it a great place for history buffs and well worth a visit!

Hangu Pass Tourist Area

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富得🥑油December 4, 2025
5.0
The Sanmenxia Dam spans Henan and Shanxi provinces. Standing on the viewing platform, one can see the Yellow River sometimes roaring and sometimes flowing calmly, with the Pillar Stone standing tall in the middle of the rapids, showcasing the grandeur of "the Yellow River's waters coming from the sky." If the dam is being released during flood season, the spray rises into the sky, sometimes creating rainbows, maximizing the visual impact. The Yellow River Exhibition Hall within the scenic area houses a large collection of old photos and artifacts, recreating the construction scenes of that time. The elderly will find it relatable, while children can intuitively understand the hardships of the project. Dayu Park, themed around water management culture, is shaded by trees and features sculptures, allowing visitors to experience the profound cultural heritage while relaxing.

Sanmenxia Dam Scenic Area

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M47***46April 7, 2026
5.0
Traveling during the Qingming Festival holiday wasn't too crowded. Buying tickets in advance on the platform according to your itinerary is more convenient and won't delay your trip! Because when we boarded, there were passengers next to us who had just bought tickets on-site and couldn't board immediately; they had to wait for the next departure. In the warm spring season, the scenery of the Yellow River from the boat is still very beautiful!

Sanmenxia Swan Lake Resort

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M52***87January 5, 2026
5.0
Sanmenxia Swan Lake Wetland So many swans! Swans that migrate from Siberia and Mongolia to spend the winter! It's so beautiful!!! Swans fly overhead every now and then! You can see swans taking off and landing just like in documentaries! You can buy noodles/beans from the swans, and they love it! But please be a respectful birdwatcher! Hopefully, the environment will become more beautiful and there will be more and more swans! Such beautiful scenery can actually be seen for free! (So I feel that Sanmenxia City has a tough time... The historically famous Hangu Pass and Shanzhou, although attracting many tourists to see the swans, actually spend very little, just buying some bird food...) Actually, Sanmenxia also has the Guo State Museum worth visiting, with many delicious foods (Guo State mutton soup, beef soup, various noodles, etc.), and good accessibility facilities. The overpass at Wanda Plaza has elevators, and there are even water dispensers inside! This is the first time I've ever seen a Wanda Plaza that provides hot water!

Swan Lake National Urban Wetland Park

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M28***77October 5, 2026
5.0
Xianmen Mountain boasts an elegant and tranquil environment with lush forests and excellent air quality. The climb is of moderate difficulty, with beautiful scenery along the way, making for a comfortable hike. Surrounded by verdant greenery and far removed from the hustle and bustle of the city, it's perfect for a relaxing weekend hike. A truly enjoyable experience and well worth a visit!

Yangshao Xianmen Mountain Scenic Area

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rookie菜鸟July 31, 2026
5.0
The Guo State Museum is well worth a visit. Built on the site of the Western Zhou Dynasty Guo State cemetery, it offers an immersive experience of Zhou Dynasty history from 3,000 years ago. The chariot and horse pit site is truly awe-inspiring, and the museum's prized possession, the "Number One Sword of China," along with exquisite jade and bronze artifacts, are breathtaking. The exhibition layout is clear, and the exhibits are abundant, allowing visitors to genuinely appreciate the ritual and music culture of the Zhou Dynasty. The ticket price is reasonable, offering excellent value for money. History buffs shouldn't miss it.

Guo State Museum

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关哇噻May 7, 2025
5.0
I missed the peak of May Day, so there were fewer people and it was not crowded. The group-purchased tickets were more cost-effective, but they had to be purchased two hours in advance. It was fun. I go rafting with my friends once a year. It feels relatively safe here.

Grand Canyon in Western Henan

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正在乘凉的挖掘机February 22, 2026
5.0
There were so many people during the Chinese New Year that we were practically pushed onto the boat. The management was so-so. Fortunately, the beautiful sunset at 5 pm and the cute red-billed gulls made up for it. I recommend going around 4 pm, but there are still so many people, hahaha!

Yellow River Swan Cruise

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lyn990929April 30, 2021
5.0
Shuanglongwan Scenic Area is located in Shuanglongwan Town, Lushi County, Sanmenxia City, Henan Province. It is named after two strange peaks, Big Dragon Head and Small Dragon Head. The most significant advantage of Shuanglong Bay Scenic Area is that it not only has the natural landscape of beautiful mountains and beautiful waters, but also has rich historical and cultural heritage. The natural landscape and historical documents are integrated and complement each other. The Peach Blossom Valley in the Shuanglong Bay Scenic Area is known as the "Little Jiuzhaigou" due to its Lingshan water attractions and clusters of waterfalls and pools. The clear water in the valley is surging, waterfalls and pools are connected, and there are more than ten waterfalls in various shapes and forms. Dozens of water pools are clear blue and sparkling, making you feel like you have really arrived in Jiuzhaigou.

Shuanglong Scenic Bay

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Frequently asked questions

What are the recommended tours and excursions in Sanmenxia?

When choosing a tour, start with how much time you have and the kind of experience you're looking for. Trending options right now include 1-day Tour to Sanmenxia Museum + Hangu Pass + Shan Zhou Silo-Cave in Henan with Chinese and English Services, 1-day tour to Sanmenxia Dam, Swan Lake, and Guo State Museum in Henan with Chinese and English services (admission ticket not included), and Luoyang, Henan: Longtan Grand Canyon & Red Rock Zhang Valley Geological Wonder Chinese Group Day Tour. Check the real-time availability and itinerary before you book.

As of October 24, 2026, the reference price for day tours and activities in Sanmenxia is around TRY 3,342.85 – TRY 10,285.69. Rates vary by duration, group size, transportation, tickets, meals, and any special admission requirements. Before you book, please confirm the billing currency and whether the price is quoted per person or per group.

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