Enshi Travel Guide

Discover the beautiful city of Enshi with this comprehensive travel guide. From culturally important attractions to outdoor adventures, where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around, we've got you covered.


Introduction to Enshi

Enshi is a city located in the southwestern part of Hubei province in China. Known for its stunning natural beauty, Enshi is home to multiple mountain ranges, lush forests, and serene rivers. This makes it a popular destination for tourists who are looking for outdoor adventures or simply wish to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. In this travel guide, we’ll explore some of the best things to do and see in Enshi, including culturally important attractions, natural wonders, and must-try cuisine.

List of Places to Visit in Enshi

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Enshi is rich in history and culture, and there are plenty of museums and historical places to visit. Some of the best ones include:

  • Tujia Customs Park: This park showcases the unique customs and traditions of the local Tujia ethnic group.
  • Enshi Grand Canyon: The Enshi Grand Canyon is a natural wonder, but it’s also home to many cultural artifacts and tribal villages. Visitors can learn about the history and culture of the Miao and Tujia people while enjoying the breathtaking scenery.
  • Enshi Museum: Located in the city center, this museum showcases the art, history, and culture of the region. Exhibits include ancient artifacts, artwork, and traditional costumes.

Natural Attractions of Enshi: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Enshi is known for its natural beauty, and there are plenty of outdoor activities and scenic spots to explore. Some of the best ones include:

  • Shiziguan Scenic Area: This area has many hiking trails and offers stunning views of the limestone cliffs and karst landscapes.
  • Enshi Tusi City: This ancient city was once the home of local chieftains and is now a popular destination for visitors. Its historical buildings and beautiful gardens make it an ideal spot for leisurely walks.
  • Tenglong Cave: This cave is one of the largest in the world and is home to many unique rock formations and underground rivers. Visitors can take a guided tour to explore its wonders.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Enshi

For those who love outdoor adventures, Enshi offers plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore. Some of the best ones include:

  • Lichuan Sidu River Valley: This scenic area is home to multiple hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the valley and mountains.
  • Xianfeng Caidian Greenway: This 8 km-long bike path takes riders through scenic rice paddies, forests, and riverbanks.
  • Xujiaping Grand Canyon: This canyon offers multiple hiking trails, including a popular one that follows the riverbed and passes through several waterfalls.

Best Things to Do in Enshi: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, there are plenty of other activities and tours to enjoy in Enshi. Some of the best ones include:

  • Rafting on the Qing River: The Qing River is a popular spot for rafting and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
  • Camping in the Mountains: Many of the outdoor areas in Enshi offer camping facilities. Visitors can sleep under the stars and wake up to breathtaking views of the sun rising over the mountains.
  • Visiting Local Villages: There are many small villages in Enshi that offer a glimpse into the local culture and way of life. Visitors can explore the streets, try local foods, and learn about traditional crafts and practices.

Week-Long Itinerary for Enshi

For visitors who want to experience all that Enshi has to offer, we recommend the following itinerary: Day 1-2: Explore the Enshi Grand Canyon and visit local museums and historical places. Day 3-4: Go hiking or biking on one of the many trails in Enshi, including Shiziguan Scenic Area and Xujiaping Grand Canyon. Day 5-6: Participate in outdoor activities like rafting or camping, or visit local villages to learn about the local culture and way of life. Day 7: Relax and enjoy the city of Enshi, visiting local restaurants and cafes, and shopping for souvenirs.

Food and Drink Scene of Enshi

Enshi is known for its rich and hearty cuisine, which is heavily influenced by the local Tujia and Miao cultures. Here are some of the best dishes and beverages to try:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tujia Bacon: This is a cured pork that’s been smoked and dried, giving it a unique flavor and texture. It’s often served in stews or with vegetables.
  • Maoxuewang: This spicy and sour soup is made with pig blood, vegetables, and chili peppers. It’s a favorite among locals and is sure to warm you up on a chilly day.
  • Tujia Rice Cake: This sweet cake is made with glutinous rice flour and is often flavored with nuts, fruits, or sesame seeds.

Local Beverages

  • Tujia Rice Wine: This strong and sweet rice wine is a popular drink in Enshi and is often served during celebrations and special occasions.
  • Enshi Honey: Enshi is known for its high-quality honey, which comes from the local forests and is harvested by local beekeepers.

Where to Stay in Enshi: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Enshi has plenty of accommodation options for visitors, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Some of the best ones include:

  • Enshi Grand Canyon Forestry Hotel: This hotel is located within the Enshi Grand Canyon and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Guests can enjoy comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and easy access to hiking trails.
  • Enshi Marriott Hotel: This luxury hotel is located in the city center and offers spacious rooms, a spa, and multiple dining options.
  • Enshi Tujia Sweetome Vacation Rentals: These vacation rentals are located in the heart of Tujia village and offer a unique glimpse into local culture and way of life.

What to Buy in Enshi: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Enshi can find plenty of souvenirs and local products to bring home. Some of the best ones include:

  • Tujia Handicrafts: Tujia handicrafts, such as embroidered cloth shoes and batik fabrics, make great souvenirs and gifts.
  • Enshi Tea: Enshi is known for its high-quality tea, which is grown in the local mountains and forests.
  • Enshi Chili Peppers: Enshi is famous for its spicy cuisine, and visitors can take home dried chili peppers to add a kick to their meals.

Local Culture and Customs of Enshi

Enshi has a rich cultural heritage that’s heavily influenced by the local Tujia and Miao ethnic groups. Visitors can learn about local customs and practices by attending festivals or visiting cultural attractions like museums and historical places.

Best Time to Visit Enshi

The best time to visit Enshi is from April to November when the weather is mild and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Winter can be very cold and snowy, but it’s also a beautiful time to visit if you enjoy winter sports or want to experience the local culture and festivals.

Do’s and Don’ts of Enshi

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Enshi:

Do:

  • Learn about the local culture and customs.
  • Try local cuisine and beverages.
  • Respect the natural environment and follow conservation guidelines.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect local customs or practices.
  • Litter or damage natural areas.
  • Disrupt local wildlife.

Safety and Health

Safety in Enshi

Enshi is generally a safe destination for travelers, but it’s always a good idea to take common-sense precautions like locking valuables in a safe, watching your belongings in public areas, and avoiding unsafe areas or activities.

Health in Enshi

Visitors to Enshi should be aware of the risks of altitude sickness when traveling to the mountainous regions. It’s also a good idea to check with your doctor about recommended vaccinations and preventative measures before traveling.

Getting to Enshi: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Enshi

Enshi Xujiaping Airport is the main airport serving the city, with daily flights to major cities in China.

Bus Stations Near Enshi

Enshi Bus Station is the main bus station serving the city and has connections to major cities in the region.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Enshi by train, with regular services running from major cities like Wuhan and Chongqing.

How to Get Around in Enshi

Enshi has a comprehensive network of taxis and public transportation, including buses and trains. Visitors can also rent bikes or scooters to explore the city and surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Enshi: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some popular destinations and excursions from Enshi include:

  • Chongqing: This bustling city is just a few hours’ drive from Enshi and is known for its spicy cuisine and vibrant nightlife.
  • Wudang Mountains: This stunning mountain range is home to many temples and is a popular destination for hikers and spiritual seekers.
  • Three Gorges Dam: This engineering feat is one of the largest hydroelectric power stations in the world and is a marvel to behold.

Conclusion

Enshi is a beautiful and culturally rich destination that’s perfect for anyone who loves the outdoors or wants to experience the local culture and cuisine. With its stunning scenery, delicious food, and welcoming locals, Enshi is sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors.

The castle of the ''tu si'', local tribal leaders owing allegiance to the emperor The castle of the ''tu si'', local tribal leaders owing allegiance to the emperor