Use Baota Mountain as your first city stop
Baota Mountain works well as an opening stop after you arrive in Yan'an. Allow about 1.5-2.5 hours. The main scenic area is free, but real-name reservation and ID checks still apply.
Walk up if your group can handle it
The hill is not very high, and walking up by the steps and slopes gives you a better sense of the Yanhe River, the city streets, and the hillside setting.
See the pagoda first, then the hillside sites
Use the Yan'an Pagoda as the main anchor, then continue to the cliff inscriptions, the former Japanese Workers and Peasants School site, and other nearby stops.
Save the viewpoint for the end
Zhaixing Tower or the upper viewing platform is better for looking over Yan'an city, the Yanhe River, and the surrounding hills.
✦Morning entry is easier, with fewer tour groups and less heat on the climb.
✦Bring your passport or another ID document that can be checked on site.
✦Pagoda climbing, shuttles, and guiding services may involve separate fees or temporary changes.
✦Wear shoes with grip, especially after rain.
✦If you only want night photos of the pagoda, consider viewpoints below the hill or along the Yanhe River.
陕西黄河壶口瀑布
All Ages
Admission
Shaanxi-side adult entry is commonly listed as CNY 80; scenic shuttle is usually purchased separately. Confirm same-day price and shuttle rules before travel.
Typical Visit
1.5-3 hours on site; allow most of a day from Yan'an with road time
甘泉大峡谷
All Ages
Admission
Adult ticket plus scenic shuttle is commonly sold as a combined package around CNY 168 on ticketing platforms.
Typical Visit
3-5 hours
黄帝陵
All Ages
Admission
Peak-season adult ticket is commonly CNY 75; off-season adult ticket is commonly CNY 50. Sightseeing vehicle and guiding services cost extra.
Typical Visit
About 3 hours for both Xuanyuan Temple and the mausoleum area
黄帝陵轩辕庙
All Ages
Admission
Usually covered by the Yellow Emperor Mausoleum main ticket: peak-season adult ticket commonly CNY 75 and off-season adult ticket commonly CNY 50.
Typical Visit
1-1.5 hours for the temple alone; about 3 hours with the mausoleum area
清凉山
All Ages
Admission
CNY 40 adult ticket is commonly listed on current booking pages; discounted tickets may be available for eligible students or children.
Typical Visit
1.5-2 hours
杨家岭革命旧址
All Ages
Admission
Free entry; same-day reservation or ID checks may apply.
Typical Visit
1.5-2.5 hours