Best places to appreciate snow in Henan province

Most areas in Henan province in Central China have snow in winter. However, where are the best places to enjoy the snow-covered landscapes? Following are some exceptionally beautiful places for you to choose from.

Yuntai Mountain

The ice cascade of Yuntai Mountain in Henan province [Photo / Nanyang Daily]

Yuntai Mountain is located at the junction of Xiuwu county in Jiaozuo, Henan, and Lingchuan county in Shanxi province. The whole scenic spot is 240 square kilometers and its main peak has an altitude of 1,314 meters. The Yuntai Sky Fall, with a height of 314 meters, is the biggest in Asia. When winter arrives, the ice cascade and snow-covered landscape seem to carry people into a fairy tale world. The mountain was selected as one of the first group of World Geoparks by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) on Feb 13, 2004.

Jigong Mountain

Xinyang is the southernmost city of Henan province. Due to its location, the city may not be a very good choice for tourists to appreciate snow. However, Jigong Mountain, in the southeast of the city, won't let visitors down in winter. The snow here is crystal clear. After a snowfall, the mountain is clad in silvery white and its main peak looks like a cock in a white hat. The mountain has more than 200 villas built in the styles of different countries, adding color and charm.

Shennong Mountain

The snow-covered landscape of Shennong Mountain in Henan province [Photo / Nanyang Daily]

Shennong Mountain is a national 5A level scenic spot, located at Ziling town, Qinyang. In the 102-square-kilometer scenic area, tourists can visit 136 scenic spots in eight regions. Viewing snow-covered landscapes, watching photo exhibitions, teasing macaques, admiring old pines and climbing the Keel Great Wall are the must-dos at Shennong Mountain in winter.

Guoliang

The snow-covered landscape and sea of clouds of Guoliang in Henan province [Photo / Nanyang Daily]

Guoliang is located at the core area of the Taihang Mountains. It has a unique rock, named Chiye Rock. The red rocks covered by snow seem not only beautiful but also grand. The place is also famous for its wall highway. Looking out from inside the skylights of the wall highway to the outside when it's snowing is a unique poetic experience.

Edited by Peter Nordlinger