Taining's appeal is built around its Danxia landscape — the red sandstone formations, gorges, caves, and lake that form the UNESCO Global Geopark — and the small-town character that most visitors overlook in their rush to the scenic sites. The boat journey on Jinhu Lake, the hike through Zhaixia Grand Canyon, and the Ganlu Cliff Temple are the three experiences worth organising the visit around. The Shangshudi Mansion in town is the best single example of domestic architecture in the region.