5 Must-See Tourist Spots in Hanzhong, Shaanxi Province for History Fans – From Liu Bang to the Romance of the Three Kingdoms!

Hanzhong, with its historical heritage related to the Three Kingdoms and scenery so beautiful that it is even nicknamed "Little Jiangnan of the Northwest," is a perfect destination for both history and nature lovers.

Located in Shaanxi Province and close to Chang’an (present-day Xi’an), the former capital during the Tang Dynasty, Hanzhong boasts many historical tourist spots. Some ruins remain as they were in ancient times, while on other occasions you may uncover traces through steles and ancient writings. The discovery and the awe you feel when you find them will be even more impressive.

Now, let us introduce the tourist attractions of the Shaanxi city “Hanzhong”.

1. Hanzhong Museum

Hanzhong Museum was established in 1958 as the comprehensive history museum of Hanzhong City. It is counted as one of the top ten museums in Shaanxi Province and is known for its extensive exhibits. For example, there is a stone inscription recorded by Cao Cao. Through such exhibits, you can learn about the side of Cao Cao who also demonstrated literary talent. Other exhibits include religious artworks and cultural relics related to the modernization of Hanzhong.

One of the famous tourist spots is “Guhan Tai,” the palace ruins of the Han emperor Liu Bang. It stands about 1 meter tall facing south and is divided into three platforms. The structures follow the typical Qin-Han court style.

In addition, the “Baoxia Road Stone Gate and Cliff Inscriptions,” which the State Council of China designated as a nationally important cultural relic, is another popular attraction. “Baoxia Road” is a path carved into the mountain, which many travelers headed toward Shu during the Three Kingdoms period used.

And “Shimen” is a tunnel opened during the Han Dynasty—the world’s oldest man-made tunnel. Furthermore, the 178 types of stone statues carved by itinerant scholars into the Shimen tunnel, known collectively as “Shimen Thirteen Exhibits,” attract the attention of many tourists.

2. Baijiang Platform

There are three Baijiang Platforms in China; one of them is in Hanzhong City, Shaanxi Province. (The other two are located in Hubei and Jiangxi Provinces.) A Baijiang Platform is built to commemorate the achievements of military generals. Hanzhong’s Baijiang Platform features a statue of Han Xin, the general who supported the founder Liu Bang of the Han Dynasty. Han Xin is also the origin of the phrase “Guoshi Mushuang” (meaning “peerless among the nation”), famous in association with the game of mahjong. His extraordinary martial prowess and military strategy have been depicted in many novels.

The Baijiang Platform in Shaanxi is located at the south gate of Hanzhong City and is also called the “General Worship Altar.” There are two square platforms arranged north and south; it is said that these were erected by Liu Bang, the founding emperor of Han. On the southern platform stands the stone stele of the “Han Xin General Worship Altar,” and on the northern platform the “Tai Ting Pavilion” is constructed, making this site one of the must-see tourist spots.

Because these are both valuable historical sites, it is advisable to acquire some background knowledge before visiting.

3. Shimen Boardwalk

In Chinese dramas and movies set in Hanzhong, the boardwalk (or plank road) almost always appears. It is renowned as a distinctive Hanzhong landscape, so you certainly want to tour it. If you are well-versed in the stories of Xiang Yu and Liu Bang or the Three Kingdoms, this spot will be even more enticing.

The boardwalk is built along the cliff surrounding the dam lake, allowing you to walk while admiring the view of the lake. Because you are walking high above, you can experience a thrilling sense of height. When you think that Liu Bang and Zhuge Liang might have walked along similar paths, a romantic feeling arises. Also, do not miss the “Shimen Thirteen Exhibits” stone sculptures located within the Hanzhong Museum—a great complement to your visit there.

Additionally, nearby, there is a large mural depicting the Hanzhong Siege of the Three Kingdoms, featuring brave generals like Xiahou Yuan of Wei. Seeing these and understanding the story will further enrich your visit. There are also impressive statues of Liu Bang, Han Xin, and Zhuge Kongming, so history fans will find this site irresistible.

4. Million Mu Rapeseed Blossoms

Hanzhong is surrounded by the Qinling Mountains and Bashan, and lies in a basin where the Han River flows. With its warm and humid climate, agriculture flourishes, and the land is rich and green. The abundance of the area is often compared to the famed Jiangnan region.

One way to experience Hanzhong’s charm is to visit the expansive rapeseed field known as the “Million Mu Rapeseed Blossoms.” In April, the entire field blooms a brilliant yellow. “Mu” is a Chinese unit of area—1 mu is about 2668 hectares—so the area is extremely vast.

5. Hutou Bridge

Hutou Bridge is a tourist attraction located in Liujia Xiang in Hanzhong City, Hantai District. According to legend, this is the place during the Three Kingdoms period where Ma Dai of Shu Han killed Wei Yan. Although the bridge is already broken, a stone stele has been erected with the inscription “Ancient Hutou Bridge.”

Wei Yan was a military general of Shu who appears in the Romance of the Three Kingdoms. After Zhuge Liang’s death, Wei Yan, who defied the policies of Shu, was killed by another Shu general, Ma Dai—a glimpse into the chaotic period following Zhuge Liang's passing.

In addition, a short distance from the bridge, ornamental stone statues of people and horses remain. If you are interested in the Three Kingdoms, be sure to include this in your sightseeing plans. It is located near the center of the town, close to Hanzhong Station, so it is easily accessible.

◎ Summary

We have introduced historically valuable tourist spots such as Hanzhong Museum and the Shimen Boardwalk. When you hear “Hanzhong,” you might not immediately recognize which province in China it is in, but for history enthusiasts—especially those interested in the relics of the Three Kingdoms—it is an ideal destination.

Also, speaking of Hanzhong’s local specialty cuisine, you must try “Roumi Pi” (熱米皮)! Made from rice dough seasoned with chili oil, it would be a true waste to visit the region without tasting it. Enjoy Hanzhong not only with your eyes, but also with your stomach!

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5 Must-See Tourist Spots in Hanzhong, Shaanxi Province for History Fans – From Liu Bang to the Romance of the Three Kingdoms!