Most of Northern Shaanxi’s travel attractions are centered around the cities of Yan’an and Yulin, so these two cities are the main choices for accommodation. You can opt to stay in the bustling areas of these cities to enjoy convenient transportation and lively streets, or try the region’s unique yaodong (cave) accommodations for a truly distinctive travel experience.
Where to Stay in Yan’an
The area around Baota Mountain and the Central Street is often favored by travelers. Located at the confluence of the Yan and Nanchuan Rivers, this area is one of the busiest parts of Yan’an. Central Street and Wanda Plaza are always bustling pedestrian streets and shopping areas. Both Baota Mountain and the Revolutionary Memorial Hall, two of Yan’an’s landmark attractions, are within walking distance.
Yan’an Dongsheng Hotel
Situated at the prime location where the two rivers meet, this hotel enjoys a bustling area and convenient transportation. Wanda Plaza is just across the river, and the train station is only 15 minutes away by car. Backed by Qingliang Mountain and near Baota Mountain, it offers guests both city and natural scenery. The hotel itself is high-quality, with spacious, well-arranged rooms and smart in-room systems that enhance the stay experience.
Reference price: from 300 CNY per night
Yan’an Shengxin Hotel
Located on the south bank of the Yan River, Shengxin Hotel also occupies the heart of the city’s CBD. Wanda Plaza is right downstairs, and major attractions like Qingliang Mountain and the Yangjialing Revolutionary Site are within walking distance. The hotel provides premium bedding and features simple, stylish interior decor, making it an excellent choice for travelers staying in Yan’an.
Reference price: from 250 CNY per night
What’s It Like to Stay in a Yaodong (Cave Dwelling)?
When traveling to northern Shaanxi, staying in a yaodong is a must. As a key symbol of the Loess Plateau, yaodongs are deeply ingrained in local culture. This unique living space, showcasing the ingenuity of the local people, is definitely worth experiencing.
Old Yan’an Yaodong Guesthouse
Located about 10 km from downtown Yan’an, this guesthouse is easily accessible by car or taxi. The surroundings may seem unremarkable, but the interior is a hidden gem. The courtyard features exquisite decorations, and guests can wear traditional northern Shaanxi attire for photos. The room entrances are colorful and full of local charm, while the interior has been modernized on the basis of traditional yaodong structures. Rooms feature traditional kang beds and clean, private bathrooms. Nearby, the Jin Yan’an Cultural Tourism Industrial Park is a popular spot, allowing guests to enjoy the vibrant night scenery just steps from the yaodong.
Reference price: from 280 CNY per night
Where to Stay in Yulin
The Erjie/ Century Plaza area is the liveliest district in Yulin. Here, you can enjoy life along the Yuxi River, convenient access to restaurants and shopping centers, and attractions like the Drum Tower and Yulin Old Street within walking distance. Famous sights slightly further away, such as Zhenbeitai and the Hongshixia Ecological Park, are also less than a 20-minute drive.
If arriving by train, staying near Yulin Railway Station is also a good option. Many hotels around the station are comparable in quality to those in the city center, and a taxi to downtown costs under 10 CNY.
White Magnolia Hotel (Yulin Railway Station, Wenhua Road Branch)
Located less than 2 km from Yulin Station, the hotel offers convenient access to food and shops, and the Yuxi River is within walking distance for a glimpse of local life. The hotel itself is refined, with spacious, comfortable rooms and a fresh, minimalist artistic decor.
Reference price: from 200 CNY per night
Yulin Xinbang International Hotel
Situated in a prime location in Yulin, this hotel is surrounded by major commercial areas and large shopping centers, with easy access to nearby attractions.
Reference price: from 200 CNY per night