Ankang

Ankang is a prefecture-level city in far southern Shaanxi, nestled in the Qinba Mountains along the Han River, the largest tributary of the Yangtze. Greener and wetter than northern Shaanxi, it lies within the protected headwaters of the South-to-North Water Diversion Project and prides itself on clean water and selenium-rich soils that yield prized green tea. The Han River, the scenic Ying Lake reservoir and forested peaks such as Nan'gongshan define the setting. For an international student, Ankang offers lush mountain-and-river scenery, a mild climate, healthful local produce and a quiet, affordable pace.